Innovative Practices Research Articles

Circular Economy and Digital Technology‐Enabled Innovation: Advances, Applications and Prospects

ABSTRACTThere is a major promise in the fusion of the circular economy (CE) principles with digital technologies—such as internet‐of‐things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain—in transforming innovation, sustainability, and industrial practices. This editorial article discusses this intersection and introduces a special issue dedicated to exploring how digital technologies enable the business transition towards the CE in a variety of ways. We initially provide an overview of the context, scope, and perspectives of this special issue. The discussions in the papers illustrate a breadth of theoretical perspectives and practical approaches considered by the academic community in addressing real‐world phenomena related to CE and digital technology‐enabled innovation. Furthermore, we propose a single integrative conceptual framework of the CE and digital technologies, encompassing both the multi‐level insights from the special issue and future research opportunities. This unified framework is structured along macro (ecosystem/supply chain), meso (organisational), and micro (individual/product) levels, highlighting key findings as well as open research avenues.

Development, hotspots, and trend directions of research on green production behavior of farmers based on CiteSpace and VOSviewer visual analysis

IntroductionPromoting the popularization of green production behavior among farmers is the key to achieving sustainable agricultural development, guaranteeing food security and protecting the ecological environment.MethodsBased on the Web of Science core database, this study used CiteSpace and VOSviewer to conduct a bibliometric analysis of 697 literatures on green production behaviors of farmers from 2000 to 2024, aiming to sort out the development history and characteristics of this research field.Results and discussionThe results show that the number of literature in this field continues to grow, and the studies are concentrated in the field of environmental sciences, and most of them are published in Sustainability journals; China is the largest contributor to the literature in this field, and it cooperates closely with the United States, and the research institutes and authors are mainly from the Chinese institutions of higher education; the studies are mainly focused on the three dimensions of the behavioral drivers, the development of the theoretical models, and the evaluation of the benefits of the implementation. The current research hotspots include behavioral implementation benefits, influencing factors of behavioral adoption, green production methods, and the impact of green revolution on behavioral adoption. This study systematically summarizes the research hotspots, challenges and future development directions in the field of farmers' green production behaviors, and provides an important reference for subsequent theoretical research and innovative practices.

A REVIEW OF PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS IN FOOD WASTE-TO-ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES: OPPORTUNITIES FOR ENHANCING SUSTAINABILITY IN THE UNITED STATES

Waste-to-Energy (WtE) technologies have gained momentum in the United States due to the urgent need for green waste management facilities. Predictive analytics is an innovative solution to optimize the efficiency and sustainability of WtE systems using effective waste collection, resource management, and energy production. This article outlines the application of predictive analytics in improving WtE technologies, including gasification, anaerobic digestion, and incineration plants. Using big data, machine learning, and real-time analytics, predictive models help stakeholders forecast trends in waste generation, maximize operating efficiency, and minimize environmental impact. Despite these advantages, data inaccuracy, regulatory issues, and complexity in integration are significant challenges to large-scale deployments. With the aid of a strict analysis of real-case studies, this review highlights proper applications of predictive analytics to improve WtE processes, waste segregation, and predictive maintenance. In addition, the article incorporates a graphical representation of data to depict significant trends in waste production, technological advancements, and the potential of AI-based models in circular economy practices. The findings emphasize the importance of public-private partnerships, investment in data infrastructure, and policy frameworks that facilitate the integration of predictive analytics into WtE systems. The review concludes with pragmatic recommendations to optimize sustainability, technological innovation, and waste management practices in the United States. Keywords: Predictive Analytics, Waste-to-Energy, Renewable Energy, Environmental Technologies, Circular Economy

Polar code construction by estimating noise using bald hawk optimized recurrent neural network model

Polar codes are making significant progress in error-correcting coding due to their ability to reach the limit of the Shannon capacity of communication channels, indicating great advancements in the field. Decoding errors are common in real communication channels with noise. The main objective of this study is to develop a recurrent neural network decoder for robust polar code construction with the Bald Hawk Optimization (RNN-based Decoder with BHO) model that can estimate the error in information bits. This research presents a practical and significant innovation by combining recurrent neural networks (RNNs) for noise estimation in polar coding with a Bald Hawk optimization approach. Moreover, this synthesis of RNN-based noise estimation with Bald Hawk optimization makes the polar coding system more flexible and adaptive, allowing for more accurate noise estimation during decoding. In terms of frame errors, the Bit Error Rate (BER), Binary Phase Shifting Key-BER (BPSK-BER), and Frame Error Rate (FER) achieve the lowest error values of 0.0000087, 0.01519, and 0.000182, respectively. Similarly, in a 4 dB SNR context, the BER, BPSK-BER, and FER achieve values of 0.0000073, 0.02065, and 0.000108, respectively. The results shows that the proposed RNN-based decoder with BHO model outperforms the existing decoders.

Rancang Bangun Alat Pendeteksi Kematangan Buah Durian

This study aims to design and develop a durian ripeness detection device based on an electronic nose system using an engineering design approach. The system employs the MQ-135 gas sensor as the primary detector to identify alcohol levels emitted by durian fruit, along with an ultrasonic sensor that automatically activates the system. An Arduino microcontroller functions as the control center, programmed in C language. When durian is detected by the ultrasonic sensor, the MQ-135 sensor measures the alcohol concentration; if it exceeds the 3% threshold, the system activates a green LED and buzzer to indicate ripeness, whereas levels below the threshold suggest the fruit is unripe. Experimental testing was conducted on durians at various ripeness levels, with data analyzed descriptively. Results indicate that the device can distinguish between ripe and unripe durians with an accuracy rate of 86.7%. The device is non-destructive, portable, and efficient, making it highly suitable for use by farmers, collectors, and traders in durian sorting and distribution processes. The study concludes that an Arduino-based electronic nose system offers a practical innovation for enabling the public to assess durian ripeness more accurately and conveniently.

“Being There”: An Empirical Logic Model for Family Presence During Resuscitation and Invasive Procedures

“Being There”: An Empirical Logic Model for Family Presence During Resuscitation and Invasive Procedures

‘Digitalisation + leadership’ = ? High innovation output? A mediating model based on environment

ABSTRACT Digital leadership (DL), as a crucial element of dynamic capabilities, exerts a significant influence on innovation performance (OIP). This study conducts an empirical analysis of survey data collected from 332 organisations in China to investigate the mechanisms by which digital leadership impacts innovation performance. The findings reveal that business model innovation (BMI) serves as a mediating factor between digital leadership and innovation performance, thereby providing theoretical support for the dynamic capabilities view (DCV). Furthermore, the study incorporates environmental dynamism (EnD) as a situational variable within the model, elucidating the boundaries of digital leadership's effectiveness. The results indicate that, irrespective of whether environmental dynamism is classified as high or low, it adversely affects the indirect relationship between digital leadership and innovation performance through business model innovation. This research offers practical implications for organisations seeking to enhance their innovation performance, underscoring the significance of digital leadership and business model innovation in the rapidly evolving digital economy. Additionally, it highlights the potential limitations that may emerge in highly dynamic environments concerning the facilitation of innovation performance through business model innovation in management practices.

Comparative evaluation of antimicrobial and biofilm inhibition effects of royal jelly, chlorhexidine, and calcium hydroxide – An in vitro study

Abstract Introduction: Pulp capping is a viable treatment option for management of deep carious lesions in pulp preservation with reduced remaining thickness of dentin. Traditionally, calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) and currently contemporary bioceramic pulp capping agents have been well researched in the dental domain and evidenced varying but promising success rates. However, there is a growing interest in exploring indigenous, innovative, alternative natural products derived from apiarian sources, which possess characteristics and properties which can potentiate predictable treatment outcome including antimicrobial properties. Hence, this study aims to compare the efficacy of indigenously developed apiarian products like royal jelly (RJ) with contemporary pulp capping agents in eradicating Streptococcus mutans biofilm, a predominant cariogenic microorganism. Materials and Methods: RJ was prepared at 4% concentration by dissolving 4 g of pure RJ in 100 mL dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Ca(OH)2 was prepared by mixing 2 g of Dycal (Dentsply) in 100 mL of sterile water. Chlorhexidine (CHX) was used as a 2% gel formulation (Gluco-Chex, Cerkamed). DMSO was used as a solvent to ensure proper dispersion. Agar diffusion results: RJ (97.89%), CHX (72.95%), and Ca(OH)2 (78.19%). Biofilm assay: RJ (97.89%), CHX (72.95%), and Ca(OH)2 (78.19%). Evaluation of the antimicrobial activity was conducted with various tests such as zone of inhibition and biofilm viability assay. Data collection was done and statistical analysis was done using G*Power (P < 0.05). Results: Agar diffusion: RJ showed the highest antimicrobial effect (97.89%), followed by CHX (72.95%) and Ca(OH)2 (78.19%). Biofilm assay: 4% RJ exhibited the highest inhibition (97.89%), outperforming CHX (72.95%) and Ca(OH)2 (78.19%). Conclusion: The findings of this comparative evaluation support the potential of the innovation of indigenously developed apiarian pulp capping agent as an effective antimicrobial agent against S. mutans cariogenic biofilm. Further research is warranted to explore the optimal inhibitory concentration against dental biofilm and further evaluate their long-term clinical efficacy of this indigenous innovation and safety in dental practice as a pulp capping agent.

Thick accountability in contemporary justice struggles: An actor-centered reappraisal of innovations in transitional justice practice

In the past decade, transitional justice (TJ) language and practices have increasingly been mobilized across a wide range of contexts that challenge foundational assumptions and approaches of the paradigm. This article draws on empirical insights emerging from a wide range of cases to explore this expansion, and notably the mobilization of TJ by grassroots justice actors. I argue that this expansion can partly be explained by the fact that, when TJ is understood not just as a set of institutional practices but as a more versatile language and practice, it can offer a genuinely multidimensional and encompassing approach to accountability, and that this aligns with the approaches and ambitions of many grassroots justice actors dealing with complex and multilayered injustices—also in contexts where no political transition took place. This “thicker” understanding of accountability includes more sites, actors, strategies, and objectives than a purely judicial approach. The examples in this article challenge the concept of TJ as a relatively self-contained set of practices, as TJ is mobilized as part of a broader justice ecosystem, which it impacts and is impacted by. Based on empirical findings, I explore how both the notion of TJ as a proto-theory of “thick accountability” and that of TJ as part of a broader justice ecosystem, offer starting points for reappraising what the language and practice of TJ can do to further contemporary struggles for justice and human rights, and how this can be further theorized.

A review of stimuli-responsive hydrogels for RNA delivery: From material innovations to clinical barriers.

A review of stimuli-responsive hydrogels for RNA delivery: From material innovations to clinical barriers.

Faculty experiences developing and directing a novel multi-campus medication therapy management introductory pharmacy practice experience.

Faculty experiences developing and directing a novel multi-campus medication therapy management introductory pharmacy practice experience.

Innovating Higher Education - A Case Study of Challenger Universities in Africa

Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 seeks to provide accessible and affordable higher education by 2030. While traditional universities in Africa evolve slowly to meet this goal, challenger universities are emerging to disrupt higher education. Examining the innovation practices of two of these institutions, this case study identifies four key practices: financial innovation, the Hub and Spoke model, competency-based online education, and the application of emerging technologies. Drawing on innovation management and higher education theories, the study draws new insights into how challenger universities address Africa’s unique challenges.

Self-mediation practices in Persian YouTube subtitling: An affective translation perspective

The rise of intralingual blogger subtitling on YouTube has introduced innovative practices in today's mediascape, particularly through the use of subtitles that include notes. These affective subtitles may enhance audience engagement and inclusivity by helping viewers better understand and connect emotionally with the content. Nonetheless, subtitling on YouTube, particularly from an affective labour angle, remains relatively unexplored. To fill this void, the study focuses on the popular Persian YouTube channel @Kouman, known for its entertaining content targeted at Persian-speaking audiences. Informed by theories of affect theory and affective self-mediation, this study examines how captions create a platform for materializing affective labour through subtitlers' notes, which convey their voice and inner thoughts to create a more personalized viewing experience. The findings suggest that these notes function as a form of affective labour, exhibiting subtitler's witty remarks and inner thoughts that shape how the video content is felt and understood. These affective and embodied strategies help build affective bonds with the viewers, creating a stronger connection between them and the channel. This study argues that translation theory should reconceptualise subtitles as dynamic, mood-shaping assemblages rather than mere conduits of dialogue.

Innovation in Sustainable Packaging in the US Market: A Case Study of Shenzhen Kindvast Paper Display Products Co., Ltd.

With the increasing global focus on environmental protection, sustainable packaging has become a significant trend in the packaging industry. The demand for sustainable packaging in the US market is continuously growing, driven by consumer preferences for eco-friendly packaging and relevant regulations. This paper takes Shenzhen Kindvast Paper Display Products Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “Kindvast”) as an example to explore how the company meets the sustainable packaging needs of the US market through innovative design and technology application. The study finds that Kindvast has successfully developed packaging solutions that meet both environmental standards and commercial demands by using recyclable materials, biodegradable materials, and developing patent technologies, such as “A High-Strength Paper Box with Moisture and Mildew Resistance” and “A Printing and Spraying Device for Paper Box Processing with Uniform Coating.” Through case analysis, this paper demonstrates the significant impact of Kindvast’s innovative practices in reducing environmental impact and enhancing customer satisfaction. Finally, the paper concludes the significance of Kindvast’s innovation practices in sustainable packaging for the US market and proposes future development directions for sustainable packaging and Kindvast’s potential contributions.

Aprendizaje Basado en Proyectos, una práctica educativa innovadora en el Bachillerato Técnico

Technical Baccalaureate (BT) education in public institutions in Ecuador is based on the development of competencies through the acquisition of theoretical and practical knowledge. This prepares students for their insertion in the labor market, to undertake personal projects, or to continue their higher education. In this context, the objective of this article is to apply Project Based Learning (PBL) as an innovative educational practice in the teaching-learning process of the third year students of the Technical Baccalaureate of the Consumer Electronics specialty of the Guillermo Mensi Educational Unit and that contributes to the strengthening of the competencies acquired by the students. This research is based on a mixed research approach, combining quantitative and qualitative methods for data collection and analysis. The sample included 38 students and 7 teachers, selected through non-probabilistic sampling. Academic performance, as well as student and teacher satisfaction, were evaluated before and after the implementation of PBL. The results revealed a positive impact of PBL in the following aspects: academic performance, teaching methodology in the BT, development of competencies, and educational resources. Finally, it is concluded that the implementation of PBL as an innovative educational practice in the BT positively influenced the strengthening of the competencies acquired by the students who participated in the Microprocessed Equipment and Systems module during the 2022 - 2023 school year.

IoT-Based Automated Waste Segregation System for Smart Cities: A Human-Centric Approach to Sustainable Waste Management

Abstract: Urbanization and a booming population are behind the global garbage challenge requiring innovative and sustainable solutions. The conventional way of waste management has deteriorated with disastrous results for the environment and society. In the context of smart cities, innovative practices in trash segregation automation using IoT technology are discussed in this study. This research critically analyzes the social, ethical, and environmental implications of these systems while also focusing on a human-centered perspective, rather than only technical considerations. Besides covering the inherent limitations and challenges, it also provides a comprehensive examination of the intelligent algorithms, field-level implementations, and technology background of IoT-based automated trash segregation. In this last chapter, we elaborate on future directions and policy suggestions for all stakeholders to create an enabling environment for the adoption of more sustainable waste management practices and, in turn, cleaner, healthier, and liveable urban environments.

A Review of SoTL Research Methodologies: A Guide to Conceptualizing and Conducting the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning

Research Methodologies: A Guide to Conceptualizing and Conducting the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning is a comprehensive and practical guide for educators, researchers, and graduate students engaged in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL), with relevance to those in engineering education. Authored by Michelle Yeo, Janice Miller-Young, and Karen Manarin, the book provides a structured approach to conceptualizing, conducting, and disseminating SoTL research. With a focus on both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, this resource addresses diverse research paradigms, from positivist and interpretive to transformative methodologies. It highlights a range of data generation methods, including quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, focus groups, and artifacts, ensuring a balanced approach for both the theoretical and practical aspects of SoTL. The authors emphasize the importance of research-based assessment and innovation in teaching practices, offering guidance on research design and analysis that directly relate to improving educational outcomes in engineering programs. Ethical considerations are woven throughout the text, ensuring that SoTL research in engineering education maintains a focus on social justice and inclusivity. With sections dedicated to theoretical frameworks, data generation, and the dissemination of research, this book provides the essential tools for advancing both theoretical understanding and innovative practices in engineering education. It serves as a vital resource for those seeking to enhance their teaching through research and contribute to the development of engineering education through evidence-based innovation and assessment. Hence, this book review evaluates the book’s key themes on methodological approach, theoretical foundations as well as implications for STEM Educators.

Curatorial Challenges In The Wave Of New Media：The Transformation And Innovation Of Contemporary Chinese Art

Chinese art has undergone significant transformation, blending traditional cultural elements with modern media and techniques. This evolution has sparked interdisciplinary dialogue and innovative practices, reshaping global perceptions of Chinese identity and heritage. This paper explores the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation in contemporary Chinese art, highlighting the critical role of curatorial practices in shaping artistic narratives. Drawing on recent research, it examines emerging trends in curating, focusing on technology integration, cultural heritage preservation, and audience engagement, with the aim of helping curators navigate challenges and contribute to the field’s growth.

The Future of Foreign Language Learning in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: A Critical Analysis of Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in foreign language education is transforming how languages are taught and learned. This study investigates the current trends, advantages, and challenges of AI applications in language acquisition. Employing a qualitative content analysis method, the research analyzes scholarly publications and practical innovations in AI-based tools, such as adaptive learning systems, intelligent chatbots, and automated writing feedback. The findings highlight AI's potential to enhance personalized instruction, boost learner engagement, and expand access to authentic language materials. Nonetheless, the study also reveals notable limitations, including concerns about data privacy, diminished human interaction, and ethical risks related to algorithmic bias. The paper concludes that AI can significantly enrich language learning when its use is guided by ethical principles and inclusive pedagogical strategies. These conclusions have practical implications for educators, curriculum planners, and developers aiming to design responsible and effective AI-supported language learning environments.

Mapping Eco-Labelling Research Trends with a Bibliometric Perspective

Eco-labelling has emerged as a vital tool in promoting sustainable consumption and production by informing consumers about the environmental impacts of products and services. Over the past two decades, the body of research on eco-labelling has expanded significantly across multiple disciplines, yet remains fragmented in terms of thematic focus and geographic collaboration. This study aims to systematically map the development of eco-labelling research using bibliometric analysis, with data sourced from the Scopus database covering the period 2000–2024. Using VOSviewer software, co-citation, co-authorship, keyword co-occurrence, overlay, and density visualizations were employed to analyze the intellectual structure, collaboration patterns, and evolving research themes. The findings reveal three major thematic clusters: consumer behavior and willingness to pay, sustainability and environmental performance, and institutional certification systems. Key contributors such as Teisl, Thøgersen, and Cashore were identified, along with leading countries including the United States, Italy, and France. The temporal analysis shows a thematic shift toward sustainable development, innovation, and climate change in recent years. This study offers a comprehensive overview of eco-labelling literature, highlights gaps in producer-side research and technological integration, and provides guidance for future scholarship and policy innovation in sustainable labeling practices.