Integrated System Research Articles

Energy-exergy and enviro-economic analysis of water-cooled brazed plate building-integrated condenser for cooling appliances in dwellings.

Globally, domestic refrigerators account for over 13% of the total energy consumption in residential buildings. The brazed plate water-cooled condenser (BPWCC) is compact in size and an attractive option to reduce the energy consumption of refrigerators using domestic water tanks. This study evaluated the performance of a household refrigerator with a secondary refrigerant calorimeter and BPWCC, using an appropriate experimental setup. Water storage tanks with capacities of 750l, 1000l, and 2000l supplied cooling water to BPWCC. The study evaluated how well the modified domestic refrigerator (MDR) worked with R134a and a blend of R290 and R600a (54.8:45.2), using 108g and 50g of charge, respectively. When the MDR was charged with the R290/R600a blend, its COP, exergy efficiency, per-day energy consumption, and total equivalent warming impact were 0.93-1.18, 24-24.8%, 1.28-1.4 kWh, and 5019, respectively. BPWCC's exergy efficiency went up by 25-55% when the condensing temperature went down, and it used 11.5-27% less energy per day than air-cooled condensers. Besides reducing the cost rate by 32-37%, the modified system showed a payback period below 3years. However, to mature the proposed system, future research must focus on several issues related to the integration of the domestic water system with the BPWCC.

Chemopreventive role of β-caryophyllene in DMBA-induced skin cancer: Modulation of apoptotic pathways and PI3K/Akt signaling in Swiss albino mice.

The skin, with its robust structural integrity and advanced immune defense system, serves as a critical protective barrier against environmental toxins and carcinogenic compounds. Despite this, it remains vulnerable to the harmful effects of certain hazardous agents. This study aimed to investigate the chemopreventive potential of β-caryophyllene (BCP) in mitigating 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced skin carcinogenesis, focusing on the modulation of apoptosis and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. Swiss albino mice were utilized to assess the preventive effects of BCP in DMBA-induced skin cancer. Skin carcinogenesis was initiated by topical DMBA application, followed by promotion using croton oil. To evaluate the chemopreventive efficacy of BCP, a 50 mg/kg oral dose was administered 3 times a week for 16 weeks. The BCP treatment in DMBA-induced skin cancer mice significantly reduced tumor incidence, tumor burden and the total number of papillomas compared to untreated DMBA-exposed mice. Notably, BCP administration (p < 0.05) resulted in a marked increase in body weight and improvement in antioxidant enzyme activity. Additionally, BCP treatment led to significant reductions in lipid peroxidation and enhanced detoxification enzyme function. Histological examination of DMBA-induced skin tissues revealed the presence of keratin pearls, well-differentiated tumor cells and neutrophil infiltration. In contrast, BCP-treated mice showed only mild hyperplasia, dysplasia and moderate keratosis, suggesting a lower degree of tissue damage. Furthermore, BCP demonstrated a protective effect on liver histology, counteracting the toxic effects of DMBA exposure. Gene expression analysis revealed that BCP treatment significantly (p < 0.05) upregulated the pro-apoptotic genes Bax, p53, caspase-3 and caspase-9, while downregulating the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 expression. Additionally, BCP treatment led to a marked reduction in the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), cyclin D1 and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, which are key regulators of cell proliferation and survival. This study provides compelling evidence that the antioxidant and pro-apoptotic effects of β-caryophyllene contribute to its chemopreventive properties in DMBA-induced skin carcinogenesis in mice. The modulation of key apoptotic signaling pathways and the suppression of the PI3K/Akt pathway by BCP underscores its potential as a therapeutic agent for preventing skin cancer. These findings pave the way for further exploration of BCP as a promising candidate for skin cancer prevention and therapy.

Recent developments in solar energy-based systems for essential oil extraction from aromatic and medicinal plants: an overview.

The present study summarises recent developments in solar-assisted extraction systems for distillation of essential oil from aromatic and medicinal plants. Various solar integrated essential oil extraction systems are compared based on performance parameters such as essential oil yield and system efficiency along with their potential effects on the domains of renewable energy. Solar steam distillation is an environmentally beneficial and energy-efficient technology of desalination that is especially ideal for areas with plentiful sun resources. Incorporating solar energy into the extraction process not only improves the sustainability of the production of essential oils but also presents a possible means of lowering carbon emissions. The study covers several new concepts aimed at enhancing the performance and application of solar steam distillation systems. Therapeutic properties of essential oils are also discussed. Among various plant species, maximum essential oil yield (2.2%) has been found for lemongrass grass and the system with the highest efficiency (60.25%) is the one with parabolic dish collector. Minimum essential oil yield (0.46%) is noted for rosemary and minimum system efficiency (8.37%) has been found for square parabolic trough collector.

Game-Based Personalized Learning in the Metaverse Computer Virtual Laboratory: Improving User Experience with a Learning Material Recommender System

Assembly learning is an important component in computer education in terms of emphasizing the understanding of computer components and their functions. This study explores the evolving learning methodologies and media to convey this knowledge, especially in today’s era of advanced technology characterized by online interactions. However, the real difficulty in the learning process is guiding students to relevant learning resources. Therefore, this study proposes the integration of Multi-Criteria Recommender System (MCRS) in metaverse, so that we can use the pretest as a reference and make appropriate learning material recommendations. The purpose of integrating the recommendation system into the virtual learning environment is to improve the computer assembly learning process so that students get the right materials and the best learning outcomes. The test results show that the recommender system can generate appropriate learning material recommendations for players, and the Metaverse-based Computer Virtual Laboratory (MCVL) also received a good usability rating.

Interface effect based nano-scale TiOxvertical synapse device for high-density integration in neuromorphic computing system.

To implement a neuromorphic computing system capable of efficiently processing vast amounts of unstructured data, a significant number of synapse and neuron devices are needed, resulting in increased area demands. Therefore, we developed a nanoscale vertically structured synapse device that supports high-density integration. To realize this synapse device, the interface effects between the resistive switching layer and the electrode were investigated and utilized. Electrical and physical analyses were conducted to comprehend the operational mechanism of the developed synapse device. The results indicate that oxygen ions from the resistive switching layer were absorbed by the electrode, forming metal-oxygen bonds. The Voconcentration in the switching layer that can change the total conductance of the device. To assess its potential as a synapse device in the neuromorphic system, the developed device was evaluated through pattern recognition simulation.

Concentrated Solar-Driven Catalytic CO2 Reduction: From Fundamental Research to Practical Applications.

Concentrated solar-driven CO2 reduction is a breakthrough approach to combat climate crisis. Harnessing the in-situ coupling of high photon flux density and high thermal energy flow initiates multiple energy conversion pathways, such as photothermal, photoelectric, and thermoelectric processes, thereby enhancing the efficient activation of CO2. This review systematically presents the fundamental principles of concentrated solar systems, the design and classification of solar-concentrating devices, and industrial application case studies. Meanwhile, key technological advances-from theoretical foundations to practical applications-are also discussed. At the microscopic level, a comprehensive analysis of multiscale reaction kinetics within the domain of photothermal synergistic catalysis has been conducted. This analysis elucidates the significance of catalyst design, further detailing the intricate regulatory mechanisms governing reaction pathways and active sites through nanostructured catalysts, single-atom catalysts, and metal-support interactions. However, the transition from laboratory research to industrial-scale application still faces challenges, including the complexity of system integration, energy density optimization, and economic feasibility. This review provides a theoretical framework and practical guidance through a complete investigation of current technological bottlenecks and future development directions, with the aim of driving key advances in concentrated solar-driven CO2 reduction catalysis.

Empowering African Expertise: Enhancing Safety Data Integration and Signal Detection for COVID-19 Vaccines Through the African Union Smart Safety Surveillance Joint Signal Management Group.

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated new vaccine development. Limited safety data necessitated robust global safety surveillance to accurately identify and promptly communicate potential safety issues. The African Union Smart Safety Surveillance(AU-3S) program established theJoint Signal Management (JSM) group to support identification of potential vaccine safety concerns in five pilot countries (Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya,Nigeria, South Africa), accounting for approximately35% of the African population. Our objective was to provide an overview of the JSM group's role in supporting signal management activities for the AU-3S program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Spontaneous, electronically reported COVID-19 vaccine adverse events following immunization (AEFI)from each country'ssafety data were integrated into the interim Data Integration and Signal Detection system. Statistical disproportionality methods were used to identify and review vaccine-event combinations (VECs) for potential safety concerns. The JSM group-which comprised pharmacovigilance and subject matter experts from National Medicine Regulatory Authorities, Expanded Programs on Immunization, and vaccine safety committees-conducted signal detection activities on cross-country safety data and provided recommendations. From April 2021 to December 2023, a total of 48,294 spontaneously reported AEFIwere analyzed for six COVID-19 vaccines (NRVV Ad [ChAdOx1 nCoV-19]; Ad26.COV2.S; Elasomeran; Tozinameran; Covid-19 vaccine [Vero Cell], Inactivated; NRVV Ad26 [Gam-Covid-Vac]) administered in Ethiopia (34.6%), Nigeria (30.3%), South Africa (16.9%), Ghana (13.5%), and Kenya (4.7%). Overall, 2,742 VECs were validated. A causal association between theCOVID-19 vaccines and thereported AEFIcannot be inferred, as data were reported spontaneously. JSM group recommendations included monitoring for further evidence, no immediate action required, engaging marketing authorization holder(s) for additional information, or sensitizing healthcare providers and/or the public about events. Although no new safety signals were identified, nine safety-related recommendations were issued, including patient and healthcare provider education. The JSM group established a scalable and replicable model for future signal management of other priority health products in low- and middle-income countries, fostering ongoing collaboration and capacity building. Knowledge and experience gained from this pilot initiative will guide stakeholders in future safety surveillance initiativeswithin the African continent.

Home-Based Intervention Tool for Cardiac Telerehabilitation: Protocol for a Controlled Trial.

Among cardiovascular diseases, adult patients with congenital heart disease represent a population that has been continuously increasing, which is mainly due to improvement of the pathophysiological framing, including the development of surgical and reanimation techniques. However, approximately 20% of these patients will require surgery in adulthood and 40% of these cases will necessitate reintervention for residual defects or sequelae of childhood surgery. In this field, cardiac rehabilitation (CR) in the postsurgical phase has an important impact on the patient by improving psychophysical and clinical recovery in reducing fatigue and dyspnea to ultimately increase survival. In this context, compliance with the rehabilitation program is a key element for the therapeutic benefits of the program. The increase of mobile health care devices and software has greatly extended self-care capabilities across the spectrum of health care activities. Moreover, the possibility of telemonitoring the progress of this self-care provides elements of empowerment and awareness of one's state of health. As a branch of telehealth, CR can be optimized and facilitated using remote telemedicine devices. The principal goal of the Innovation in Postoperative Rehabilitation Training and Monitoring (IPOTERI) study is to design, realize, and test a composite and integrated system for postsurgical rehabilitation therapies at home specialized for cardiac surgery. The secondary aims are to implement the system in a "real-life" context of postcardiac surgical rehabilitation, and to create a data set and a data collection methodology to prototype data analytics algorithms and artificial intelligence techniques for customizing the rehabilitation pathway. The IPOTERI method consists of a telemonitoring platform that guarantees continuity of postoperative care, an intelligent home station based on an Android app for the patient with a user-friendly interface to record vital signals (electrocardiogram, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and body weight) and access the planning of rehabilitation activities, and a decision support system that communicates with hospital medical records to transmit alerts and specific support information for the formulation and updating of the treatment and care plan. The pilot test started in June 2023 (protocol number 20406/2021) including 50 patients who will be monitored for 12-14 weeks using the developed platform, as described in the Procedures subsection of the Methods section. The IPOTERI approach, based on the processing of data recorded during the monitoring of telemedicine devices used at home during the postsurgical rehabilitation of a cardiac patient, together with clinical data from the perioperative and postoperative periods could have positive effects on adherence to the rehabilitation program and clinical improvement as well as result in overall improvement of quality of life. DERR1-10.2196/47951.

Bias-free solar-driven ammonia coupled to C3-dihydroxyacetone production through photoelectrochemistry.

Conversion of solar energy into value-added chemicals through photoelectrochemistry (PEC) holds great potential for advancing sustainable development but limits by high onset potential which affects energy conversion efficiencies. Herein, we utilized a CuPd cocatalyst-modified Sb2(S,Se)3 photocathode (CuPd/TSSS) to achieve an ultra-low onset potential of 0.83 VRHE for photoelectrochemical ammonia synthesis. Meanwhile, we achieved unbiased NH3 production by synthesizing major value-added C3-dihydroxyacetone (DHA) through glycerol oxidation on the BiVO4 photoanode with the loading Pd cocatalyst, instead of a traditional solar water oxidation reaction. The PEC integrated system stably produced 11.98 µmol cm-2 of NH3 and 201.9 mmol m-2 of DHA over 5 h with ~80% faradaic efficiency without applying additional bias. In situ analysis and theoretical calculations confirmed high catalytic activity for ammonia synthesis at the CuPd/TSSS photocathode and enhanced selectivity for DHA at the Pd/BiVO4 photoanode. This design represents a breakthrough in directly utilizing solar energy, nitrate-containing wastewater, and biomass waste for ammonia and highly value-added C3 production, which addresses increasing energy demands while decreasing environmental impact.

A single droplet dispensing system for high-throughput screening and reliable recovery of rare events.

Microfluidic droplet sorting has emerged as a powerful technique for a broad spectrum of biomedical applications ranging from single cell analysis to high-throughput drug screening, biomarker detection and tissue engineering. However, the controlled and reliable retrieval of selected droplets for further off-chip analysis and processing is a significant challenge in droplet sorting, particularly in high-throughput applications with low expected hit rates. In this study, we present a microfluidic platform capable of sorting and dispensing individual droplets with minimal loss rates. We demonstrate our direct transfer mechanism by placing selected droplets containing hybridoma cells into microwells, eliminating the need for manual and often lossy handling steps. Sorted droplets are dispensed via a novel 3D-printed dispensing nozzle, enabling precise and controlled placement of selected single droplets into individual wells without affecting the microfluidic sorting flow. The sorting and transfer process is monitored in real time, which provides feedback and quality control of the entire workflow. Our integrated microfluidic system holds great potential for applications requiring high-throughput droplet sorting with minimal sample loss and precise dispensing into microwells, such as screening for therapeutical antibodies or monoclonal cells.

Vestibular function in children with neurodevelopmental disorders: A neglected sense?

The study aimed to explore the vestibular function in children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). Twenty-eight participants with a NDD (6 girls, 22 boys; 6-13years; 9;3±2;4 years) were enrolled in this pilot study. Sixteen participants had a single NDD (Autism Spectrum Disorder: n=7, Developmental Coordination Disorder: n=3; Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: n=6), the remaining 12 had comorbid NDDs. The integrity of the peripheral vestibular system was evaluated using ocular and cervical Vestibular Evoked Myogenic Potentials (o/cVEMP), and a video Head Impulse Test (vHIT); motor competence was assessed with the Movement Assessment Battery for Children, and the KörperkoordinationsTest für Kinder. Results were compared to an age and sex-matched control group (n=28; 9;7±1;9 years). The NDD group exhibited significantly higher interpeak amplitudes on both VEMP tests compared to the control group (p<0.001). No significant differences were found between the groups on vHIT measurements (p>0.05). Among the children with NDDs, 11 (39%) showed atypical vestibular responses, including one child with vHIT correction saccades and three children with reduced or absent otolith responses (n=3). Additionally, eight children showed abnormally elevated otolith amplitudes (cVEMP > 4.00µV; oVEMP > 55.00µV). Clinicians are encouraged to recognize the overlap and consider the possibility of vestibular alterations in individuals with NDD. Incorporating vestibular assessments into routine clinical evaluations, particularly in children with NDD who exhibit delayed motor development, balance issues, hearing loss, or vestibular-related symptoms, is strongly recommended.

Analysis of challenges of lean six sigma and cyber physical system integration using CODAS

PurposeOrganisations are looking for a concept that can solve traditional as well upgraded production problems with current resources and technology, and this can be addressed by integration of lean six sigma (LSS) with Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies. This reduces complexity in the manufacturing process through digital technologies. Cyber physical system (CPS) is considered as primary I4.0 technology with which all other technologies are associated to extend. CPS can integrate with other prevailing manufacturing approaches like lean, LSS and so on. LSS, on the other hand, is a team-focussed performance improvement strategy which is widely used by the industries to identify problems, eliminate waste to meet customer requirements. The study aims at analysis of challenges for LSS and CPS integration.Design/methodology/approachIntegrating LSS and CPS will solve both traditional and modern manufacturing problems. To integrate these technologies, organisational requirements need to be assessed. These requirements are posed as challenges in this study. Their priority weights are analysed, and challenges are prioritised using fuzzy Combinative Distance-based Assessment (CODAS) method. Sensitivity analysis is employed to assess the robustness of the results.FindingsThe result of this study enables top management to integrate LSS and CPS. In this study, 20 challenges were identified, and they are assessed to compute their relative assessment score. Requirement of new tools and methods with 0.6 score ranks first followed by interplay with big data and requirement of new communication protocol. The result highlighted the need for integration of LSS and CPS, proper utilisation of information and communication technologies, and cyber security management as the main impediments that need to be addressed to implement CPS in an LSS environment.Originality/valueThe analysis of challenges of LSS and CPS integration using MCDM tool is the original contribution of the authors.

Integration of a Heterogeneous Battery Energy Storage System into the Puducherry Smart Grid with Time-Varying Loads

Integration of a Heterogeneous Battery Energy Storage System into the Puducherry Smart Grid with Time-Varying Loads

Global, regional, and national burden of major depressive disorders in adults aged 60 years and older from 1990 to 2021, with projections of prevalence to 2050: Analyses from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021.

To estimate the burden of major depressive disorder (MDD) among older adults and project its prevalence through 2050. Using data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, we calculated age-standardized rates (ASRs) for the incidence, prevalence, and years lived with disability (YLDs) of MDD among people aged ≥60 years from 1990 to 2021. Trends were analyzed using average annual percentage changes (AAPCs). Polynomial regressions were utilized to assess the relationship between economic levels and MDD burden. Prevalence of MDD was forecasted to 2050 using a mixed-effects model with Socio-demographic Index as the predictor. Globally, the ASRs for incidence, prevalence and YLDs of MDD in older adults increased annually by 0.24 % (95 % CI: 0.18-0.31), 0.25 % (0.19-0.30), and 0.24 % (0.18-0.30), respectively. The fastest growth was observed in adults aged 60-69 years. The burden of MDD among females was approximately 1.5 times higher than males, although rates grew faster among males. Lower-income countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, exhibited the highest burden and growth rates. By 2050, global MDD cases are projected to reach 97.04 million (95 % uncertainty interval [UI]: 71.27-129.85), with an ASR of 4.53 % (3.33-6.07). The global burden of MDD among older adults has increased since 1990 and its prevalence is projected to continue increasing through 2050. Increments were faster in males, younger-old adults and people living in lower-income countries. Comprehensive and integrated management systems at nation, community and individual levels for MDD among older adults are essential to mitigate this growing burden and promote healthy aging.

Medical Emergency Handling

Medical emergencies account for a significant num- ber of preventable deaths annually, especially in countries like India, where delays in treatment and lack of coordination among entities exacerbate the problem. This paper presents a novel, technology-driven approach to streamline medical emergency handling through an integrated system. Leveraging advance- ments in mobile applications, cloud computing, and real-time communication, the proposed solution addresses critical gaps in ambulance dispatch, hospital selection, blood bank notifications.The architecture employs a Client-Server Architecture with a frontend built using HTML,CSS, and JavaScript for user interaction.A backend powered by Node.js, Express, and Socket.IO for API handling and realtime updates, and a database json files for persistent storage.The system’s efficiency in reducing response times and improving outcomes demonstrates its potential to transform emergency medical services and contribute to achieving SDG 3: Good Health and

Cybersecuity Analysis of a Telemedicine Platform.

Background: The global shift toward telemedicine, accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has revolutionized healthcare delivery by enabling remote consultations and treatments. However, this rapid adoption has also introduced critical cybersecurity vulnerabilities, particularly in safeguarding sensitive medical data and ensuring the secure operation of telemedicine platforms. If not properly addressed, these vulnerabilities can compromise patient safety and the integrity of healthcare systems. As a result, implementing robust cybersecurity measures in telemedicine platforms is essential. Methods: The framework developed in this study allows for the assessment of a telemedicine platform's cybersecurity posture and provides concrete recommendations for improvement. In this context, the Security Framework for Telemedicine Platforms, developed as part of the study, serves as a valuable tool for evaluating platform security, identifying vulnerabilities, and pinpointing areas for enhancement. Conclusions: This framework empowers organizations to effectively strengthen their cybersecurity strategies, as demonstrated by a case study.

Using artificial intelligence tools for automating the assessment of future computer science teachers' work

This paper examines the problem of automated testing of modified programming tasks for future computer science teachers. It is recommended that GitHub Copilot be used to generate tests based on the code. This approach makes it possible to solve the following tasks: reducing the time and effort required for manual checking of programming tasks completed by students; promoting better assimilation of the material of the relevant disciplines by students; promoting the development and improvement of students' skills in algorithmisation and programming; compliance by students with academic integrity; effective use of GitHub Copilot to generate baseline tests to test modified programming assignments completed by students; ensuring the flexibility and scalability of the approach to the development of various training courses in programming; development of students' software product testing skills. In the process of research, we found the following disadvantages of using the GitHub Copilot system for generating basic tests: GitHub Copilot does not always generate perfect code or tests; for complex tasks, GitHub Copilot may require additional correction of the generated code. Therefore, it is important to check and refine the generated tests carefully, if necessary. Therefore, at the moment, we recommend using GitHub Copilot as a template generator for writing tests. The proposed approach is a promising solution for facilitating the verification of modified programming tasks and increasing the effectiveness of the education process of future informatics teachers. The conducted research opens up new prospects for effective improvement of the verification of modified tasks performed by students and the generation of tests for verification. In particular, the integration of the proposed system based on GitHub Copilot with learning management systems (LMS) and automated task verification systems. Another area of research could be exploring the possibilities of using other tools for generating tests instead of GitHub Copilot or combining them in order to obtain better results.

Study on the quality of drug vial recognition and grasping and opening for pharmacy intravenous admixture robot based on nanophotonic sensing.

With the continuous progress of medical technology, traditional medicine bottle identification and management methods have problems such as low efficiency and large errors, and innovative solutions are urgently needed. Due to its high sensitivity and rapid response characteristics, this study aims to develop a robot system for intravenous infusion based on nanophotonics sensing to realize accurate identification, grasping and opening of medicine bottles in a dynamic environment, so as to improve the safety and efficiency of intravenous infusion. In this paper, an intelligent robot system with nanophotonics sensor is designed, which uses nanomaterials to produce high sensitivity sensor, so as to realize the information recognition of medicine bottle labels. The robot arm is set up to grasp and open the medicine bottle automatically through visual recognition system and feedback control algorithm. We conducted several rounds of experiments in a simulated environment to evaluate the recognition rate, grab success rate, and opening speed of the system. The experimental results show that the recognition system based on nano photonic sensor in bottle of accuracy and grab the success rate is higher, open time is greatly shortened, compared with traditional methods, the new system in recognition and operation were showed a significant advantage. The study demonstrates the potential of nanophotonics sensing technology in intravenous infusion robots. By optimizing the process of bottle recognition, grasping and opening, the system not only improves the safety and efficiency of medical operations, but is also expected to play a role in future medical automation. Future work will focus on further perfecting the system integration and optimization algorithm, so as to adapt to more complex clinical environment.

Sustainable Business Models in Agritourism: an Opportunity For Achieving SDGS and Circular Economy

Introduction: Agritourism, combining agricultural with tourism, presents a unique opportunity for sustainable development. The business with its sustainable practices can raise awareness and impact the customer behaviour. Objective: This study explores sustanable business models (SBMs) in agritourism, focusing on their alignment with circular economy and sustanable development goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12, which focuses on responsible consumption and production. Theoretical Framework: Main concepts and theories support the importance of the system and how things are connected speaking about sustainability, providing a solid basis for supporting the investigation. Method: Analizing two case studies in the country (Albania), the agritourism “Mrizi i Zanave” (Mrizi) and the village Thethi, the research highlights the agritourism’s role in fostering local economic growth, conserving cultural heritage, and promoting community resilience. Results and discussions: By promoting resource efficiency, reducing waste, and enhancing local engagement, agritourism embodies SDG 12’s call for sustainability in production processes and consumption patterns. Key challenges, including infrastructure, are evaluated alongside opportunities such as fiscal incentives and the integration of local food systems. Findings emphasize the importance of tailored strategies, community engagement, and policy support to balance increasing tourist demands with environmental and cultural preservation. Research implication: This research underscores the transformative potential of agritourism as a model for sustainable development, offering valuable insights for similar regions worldwide. Originality/Value: Being Albania a small country, there is not much interest on narrowing research on it, but as SDGs imply, the system thinking is very important, no country, no place behind, there is just one Earth. The study can be interesting for other small regions, going on the same specifics as Albania, like other developing countries in the world.

Democratization in abdominal ablation therapies: The impact of percutaneous robotic assistance on accuracy-A systematic review.

Advances in medical technology have revolutionized minimally invasive procedures. This study aims to determine the status of intra-abdominal ablation therapies, focusing on outcomes regarding technique improvement and benefits related to the learning curve. A systematic search in four databases was performed in March 2024 to identify relevant studies. Endpoints included targeting accuracy, organ efficacy, safety, outcomes and technical advantages regardless of physician experience. A total of 40 studies were included. The robotic technique demonstrated significantly higher accuracy (median 1.75mm) compared to the freehand technique (median 4.50mm) (p < 0.05). RFA and MWA were the most frequently used ablation techniques, reaching a rate of 52.5% and liver was the main target organ in 77.5% of the studies. Subgroup analysis showed a median tumor size of 2.30cm, 1.40mm for the readjustments and 3.30mm for accuracy in the freehand technique. For robotic approach, the median tumor size was 1.95cm, readjustments were 0.55mm, and accuracy was 1.85mm, and no statistical difference was identified. Severe adverse events were lower with the robotic approach, and improvement in the learning curve was observed among novice physicians. Robotic-assisted ablation techniques improve accuracy and efficacy compared to freehand techniques and are easier for novices to use. This technology allows novices to achieve similar outcomes to experts, contributing to the democratization of ablation techniques. Nevertheless, more clinical trials and standardized studies are necessary to validate these findings and enable the integration of robotic systems into routine practice.