Search Results (47)

The overall knowledge structure, developmental context, and research frontiers in the field of bronze cultural relic corrosion and protection are lacking. This study employs bibliometric methods to comprehensively analyze 2614 relevant publications from 1906 to 2025 in the Web of Science Core Collection, utilizing the software Citespace 6.2.R3 to construct a knowledge map. The research results based on the number of publications and keyword statistics indicate that the research in this field has undergone a temporal evolution of research trends. Since 2010, the annual number of publications has grown rapidly, peaking in 2024, which reflects the continuously increasing academic attention given to the subject. Globally, China, Italy, and the United States are the leading contributors, forming a closely knit international cooperation network. Among these, China leads in total publications, though there remains room for improvement in its centrality within the collaborative network. Major research institutions are primarily large scientific organizations, such as the National Research Council of Italy and the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Keyword analysis demonstrates that research hotspots have long centered on “corrosion mechanisms and control” and “innovative protection materials and technologies”. Temporal evolution analysis further indicates that the research paradigm is shifting: from the early investigations of mechanisms, through a middle phase focused on material development, to the current emphasis on the development of preventative and intelligent protection systems via multidisciplinary integration. This study systematically reviews the field’s evolutionary trajectory, collaboration networks, and thematic dynamics, providing a comprehensive reference for research planning and future development. Full article

This systematic review aimed to examine recent advances (2021–2025) in the conversion of agricultural biomass into biomaterials, biofertilizers, and bioproducts. Studies were included when addressing biomass types, pretreatment methods, conversion technologies, or resulting applications. Non-agricultural biomass, non-original research, and works outside the defined timeframe were excluded. Literature was identified in Scopus and Web of Science, complemented by Espacenet, Google Scholar, and institutional databases (USDA, FAO, IRRI, ABARES, UNICA, and CONAB, among others), totaling 108 documents referenced in this work. Risk of bias was minimized through predefined eligibility criteria and full-text assessment. Results were narratively synthesized, supported by figures and tables highlighting technological trends. Studies involving a wide range of agricultural biomasses (e.g., rice straw, corn stover, wheat straw, and sugarcane bagasse) were evaluated. Main outcomes included the development of bioplastics, biofoams, composites, hydrogels, bioceramics, biochar-based fertilizers, organic acids, enzymes, and green solvents. Evidence consistently indicated that pretreatment strongly influences conversion efficiency and that enzymatic and thermochemical routes show the highest potential for integrated biorefineries. Limitations included heterogeneity in biomass composition, variability in methodological quality, and scarcity of large-scale studies. Overall, findings underscore agricultural biomass as a strategic feedstock for circular bioeconomy models, with implications for sustainable materials, renewable energy, and low-carbon agriculture. Continued innovation, supportive policies, and improved logistics are essential for scaling biomass-based technologies. Full article

Biodiesel is an alternative, sustainable, renewable, and environmentally friendly energy source, which has generated interest from the scientific community due to its low toxicity, rapid biodegradability, and zero carbon footprint. Biodiesel is a biofuel produced by the transesterification of triglycerides or the esterification of free fatty acids (FFA). Both reactions require catalysts with numerous active sites (basic, acidic, bifunctional, or enzymatic) for efficient biodiesel production. On the other hand, since the late 1990s, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as a new class of porous materials and have been successfully used in various fields due to their multiple properties. For this reason, MOFs have been used as heterogeneous catalysts or as a platform for designing active sites, thus improving stability and reusability. This literature review presents a comprehensive analysis of using MOFs as heterogeneous catalysts or supports for biodiesel production. The optimal parameters for transesterification/esterification are detailed, such as the alcohol/feedstock molar ratio, catalyst amount, reaction time and temperature, conversion percentage, biodiesel yield, fatty acid and water content, etc. Additionally, novel methodologies such as ultrasound and microwave irradiation for obtaining MOF-based catalysts are described. It is important to note that most studies have shown biodiesel yields >90% and multiple reuse cycles with minimal activity loss. The bibliographic analysis was conducted using the American Chemical Society (ACS) Scifinder^® database, the Elsevier B.V. Scopus^® database, and the Clarivate Analytics Web of Science^® database, under the institutional license of the Universidad Veracruzana. Keywords were searched for each section, generally limiting the document type to “reviews” and “journals,” and the language to English, and published between 2000 and 2025. Full article

Certain metal powders used in the synthesis and processing of high-entropy alloys (HEAs) pose significant health hazards, as many of these metals are toxic substances with no biological role in the human body. These metals can mimic essential elements or interfere with metabolic processes (the chemical reactions in living organisms that sustain life), leading to detrimental health effects. While some metals, such as aluminum, can be eliminated from the body through natural biological processes, others tend to accumulate, causing chronic illnesses over time. This review examines the toxicity mechanisms and health impacts of metals used in HEA synthesis, focusing on laboratory-scale processing. It also identifies potential health risks associated with occupational exposure in laboratory environments, including the inhalation of toxic metal powders and nanoparticles. A simple risk scoring model is introduced to systematically assess and quantify these risks based on factors such as toxicity levels, exposure limits, and carcinogenic potential (the ability of a substance to cause cancer) as given by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) standards. The proposed model can be applied to evaluate the relative hazards of commonly used HEA constituent powders (e.g., Ni, Co, Cr, and Al), offering practical guidance for safer laboratory handling and material selection. By integrating this risk assessment framework, this review aims to enhance workplace safety, guide the development of better material handling practices, and assist researchers in mitigating health risks associated with HEA processing. Full article

Background: The U.S. Medicare Annual Wellness Visit (AWV) offers a structured opportunity for cognitive screening and personalized prevention planning among older adults. Yet, implementation of AWVs, particularly for individuals with cognitive impairment, remains inconsistent across primary care or other diverse care settings. Methods: We conducted a scoping review using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to explore multilevel factors influencing the implementation of the Medicare AWV’s cognitive screening component, with a focus on how these processes support the detection and management of cognitive impairment among older adults. We searched four databases and screened peer-reviewed studies published between 2011 and March 2025. Searches were conducted in Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, EBSCOhost, and CINAHL databases. The initial search was completed on 3 January 2024 and updated monthly through 30 March 2025. All retrieved citations were imported into EndNote 21, where duplicates were removed. We screened titles and abstracts for relevance using the predefined inclusion criteria. Full-text articles were then reviewed and scored as either relevant (1) or not relevant (0). Discrepancies were resolved through consensus discussions. To assess the methodological quality of the included studies, we used the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools appropriate to each study design. These tools evaluate rigor, trustworthiness, relevance, and risk of bias. We extracted the following data from each included study: Author(s), year, title, and journal; Study type and design; Data collection methods and setting; Sample size and population characteristics; Outcome measures; Intervention details (AWV delivery context); and Reported facilitators, barriers, and outcomes related to AWV implementation. The first two authors independently coded and synthesized all relevant data using a table created in Microsoft Excel. The CFIR guided our data analysis, thematizing our findings into facilitators and barriers across its five domains, viz: (1) Intervention Characteristics, (2) Outer Setting, (3) Inner Setting, (4) Characteristics of Individuals, and (5) Implementation Process. Results: Among 19 included studies, most used quantitative designs and secondary data. Our CFIR-based synthesis revealed that AWV implementation is shaped by interdependent factors across five domains. Key facilitators included AWV adaptability, Electronic Health Record (EHR) integration, team-based workflows, policy alignment (e.g., Accountable Care Organization participation), and provider confidence. Barriers included vague Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) guidance, limited reimbursement, staffing shortages, workflow misalignment, and provider discomfort with cognitive screening. Implementation strategies were often poorly defined or inconsistently applied. Conclusions: Effective AWV delivery for older adults with cognitive impairment requires more than sound policy and intervention design; it demands organizational readiness, structured implementation, and engaged providers. Tailored training, leadership support, and integrated infrastructure are essential. These insights are relevant not only for U.S. Medicare but also for global efforts to integrate dementia-sensitive care into primary health systems. Our study has a few limitations that should be acknowledged. First, our scoping review synthesized findings predominantly from quantitative studies, with only two mixed-method studies and no studies using strictly qualitative methodologies. Second, few studies disaggregated findings by race, ethnicity, or geography, reducing our ability to assess equity-related outcomes. Moreover, few studies provided sufficient detail on the specific cognitive screening instruments used or on the scope and delivery of educational materials for patients and caregivers, limiting generalizability and implementation insights. Third, grey literature and non-peer-reviewed sources were not included. Fourth, although CFIR provided a comprehensive analytic structure, some studies did not explicitly fit in with our implementation frameworks, which required subjective mapping of findings to CFIR domains and may have introduced classification bias. Additionally, although our review did not quantitatively stratify findings by year, we observed that studies from more recent years were more likely to emphasize implementation facilitators (e.g., use of templates, workflow integration), whereas earlier studies often highlighted systemic barriers such as time constraints and provider unfamiliarity with AWV components. Finally, while our review focused specifically on AWV implementation in the United States, we recognize the value of comparative analysis with international contexts. This work was supported by a grant from the National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health (Grant No. 1R01AG083102-01; PIs: Tzeng, Kuo, & Raji). Full article

This study reports a successful selective waste collection initiative led by UFSC’s Araranguá campus in a municipality without a recycling system. The initiative, named “Recicla UFSC Ara”, was structured around three main components: (i) the installation of color-coded bins for recyclable waste (including paper, plastic, metals, and polystyrene) and non-recyclable waste in indoor and common areas; (ii) the establishment of a Voluntary Delivery Point (PEV) to gather specific recyclable materials, such as glass, electronics waste, plastic bottles, writing instruments, and bottle caps; and (iii) the execution of periodic educational community-focused campaigns aimed at encouraging participation from both the university and the broader local community. Recyclables were manually sorted and weighed during regular collection rounds, and contamination rates were calculated. Quantitative data collected from 2022 to 2025 were analyzed using descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA to assess waste generation and contamination trends. Gathered recyclables were directed to appropriate partner institutions, including local “Ecoponto”, non-profit organizations, and corporate recycling programs. The study also conducted a literature review of similar university-led waste management programs to identify standard practices and regional specificities, providing a comparative analysis that highlights both shared elements and distinctive contributions of the UFSC model. Results demonstrate a significant volume of waste diverted from landfills and a gradual improvement in waste disposal practices among the university community. Targeted communication and operational changes mitigated key challenges, improper disposal, and logistical issues. This case underscores the role of universities as agents of environmental education and local sustainable development. Full article

Background: Right ventricular primary graft dysfunction (RV-PGD) is a rare but serious complication following heart transplantation, associated with a high morbidity and mortality. Temporary mechanical circulatory support is indicated when patients fail to respond to pharmacological therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of patients with RV-PGD who received RV mechanical support with the Impella RP Flex device at our institution. Methods: Medical records of patients with RV-PGD supported by the Impella RP Flex device between December 2022 and March 2024 were reviewed retrospectively to assess survival, procedural complications, duration of support, and end organ dysfunction. Results: Of the 20 patients reviewed, 5 met the inclusion criteria. All five patients demonstrated recovery of RV function after a mean support duration of 8.6 ± 3.05 days. One pump showed transient evidence of biologic material ingestion during a weaning trial. No cases of tricuspid valve injury were observed. The most common complications were hemolysis, bleeding, and acute kidney dysfunction, with all patients requiring hemodialysis. Conclusions: Impella RP Flex support is safe and effective for managing primary and isolated RV-PGD without the need for additional blood oxygenation. However, bleeding complications requiring intervention remain a significant concern, and further evaluation of renal recovery is warranted. Full article

Existing sustainability tracking frameworks primarily address water, energy, and material durability, with limited focus on factors driving zero-waste (ZW) initiatives. The current sustainability tracking tools especially lack comprehensive assessment mechanisms to evaluate organizational progress toward ZW, especially in higher education institutions (HEIs). This study reviews the global literature (2000–2023) on ZW indicators in organizations, focusing on HEIs, using databases such as Scopus and Web of Science, with an emphasis on waste reduction and sustainability practices. Institutional theory is used to explain the adoption of ZW programs in HEIs through normative, mimetic, and coercive isomorphisms. This study finds that ZW initiatives in HEIs are driven by shared professional norms (normative isomorphism), imitation of best practices (mimetic isomorphism), and compliance with regulatory policies (coercive isomorphism). Education, full-time staff, sustainability offices, and student advocacy play key roles, while collaboration within sustainability networks further enhances these efforts. This study emphasizes the complex interplay of these isomorphic forces across different levels of influence. Full article

This article reviews waste generation rates, waste composition and waste management practices in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) around the world, reporting on current management practices, waste prevention and diversion initiatives, separate collection at source and zero-waste approaches. The average waste generation rate was 0.19 ± 0.21 kg/d·person (median 0.093 kg/d·person). On average, organic waste reached 30 ± 19% of total waste, followed by paper and cardboard (23 ± 13%) and plastics (18 ± 11%). Common minority material components included glass and metals, with 3 ± 3% each. Yard waste, hazardous waste and electronics were only reported for some cases. The applied methodologies for the minimization of waste and the valorization of resources for a more circular campus were discussed. Key measures to reduce paper, packaging and food waste were reviewed, as well as examples of recommended good practices. Waste management in HEIs is considered a complex task, which requires multidisciplinary and experienced managers, stakeholder engagement, effective communication and collaborative research work. Collection at source of the organic, wet fraction separated from the rest of the waste is considered a basic and imperative requirement, while the separate collection of other materials will depend on the particular case, but the participation and awareness of the entire HEI community appears to be essential. Prevention measures also require acceptance by the community. Following the analyzed literature, a methodology was proposed for the sustainable management of waste in HEIs, taking as a reference the PDCA cycle (Plan, Do, Check/Analyze and Act/Adjust). Full article

Mycelium-bound composites (MBCs) represent a promising advancement in bio-based building materials, offering sustainable alternatives for engineering and construction applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current research landscape, production methodologies, and standardization ideas related to MBCs. A basic search on Scopus revealed over 250 publications on MBCs between 2020 and 2024, with more than 30% focusing on engineering and materials science. Key studies have investigated the physical and mechanical properties of MBCs, optimizing parameters such as substrate type, fungal species, incubation time, and post-processing to enhance material performance. Standardizing the inspection of MBC properties is crucial for ensuring quality and reliability. Various testing standards, including those from the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the Japanese Industrial Standard (JIS), European Standards (EN), Deutsches Institut für Normung (DIN), and the Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TIS), are utilized to evaluate density, water absorption, compression strength, tensile strength, insulation, and other critical properties. This review highlights the distinction between lab-scale and apply-scale testing methodologies, emphasizing the need for comprehensive evaluation protocols. Additionally, the production process of MBCs involves critical steps like substrate preparation, fungal species selection, and mycelium growth, necessitating the implementation of good manufacturing practices (GMPs) to ensure consistency and quality. The internal and external structures of MBCs significantly influence their performance, necessitating standardized inspection methods using advanced techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray computed tomography (CT) scanning, and surface profilometry. By establishing robust inspection protocols and production standards, the industry can enhance the reliability and adoption of MBCs, contributing to innovations in materials science and promoting environmental sustainability. This review underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, advanced characterization tools, and regulatory frameworks to address challenges and advance the field of MBCs. Full article

Introduction: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms can be effectively managed with the low FODMAP diet. However, its efficacy in reducing inflammation is not yet proven. On the contrary, the Mediterranean diet has anti-inflammatory properties with proven efficacy in treating chronic low-grade inflammation-related diseases. Aim: To publicly share our protocol evaluating the efficacy of the Mediterranean low-FODMAP (MED-LFD) versus NICE recommendations (British National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) diet in managing IBS symptoms and quality of life. Materials and Methods: Participants meeting the Rome IV criteria will be randomly assigned to MED-LFD or NICE recommendations and they will be followed for six months. Efficacy, symptom relief, quality of life and mental health will be assessed using validated questionnaires. In addition, fecal samples will be analyzed to assess gut microbiota, and to measure branched and short-chain fatty acids, and volatile organic compounds (metabolic byproducts from bacteria). Expected results and discussion: By publicly sharing this clinical study protocol, we aim to improve research quality in the field of IBS management by allowing for peer review feedback, preventing data manipulation, reducing redundant research efforts, mitigating publication bias, and empowering patient decision-making. We expect that this protocol will show that MED-LFD can effectively alleviate IBS symptoms and it will provide pathophysiology insights on its efficacy. The new dietary pattern that combines the LFD and the MED approaches allows for the observation of the synergistic action of both diets, with the MED’s anti-inflammatory and prebiotic properties enhancing the effects of the LFD while minimizing its limitations. Identifier in Clinical Trials: NCT03997708 Full article

Organic farming, which is deeply rooted in traditional agricultural practices, has witnessed a profound evolution over the last century. Transitioning from a grassroots initiative resisting the industrialization of agriculture to a global industry, organic farming now plays a pivotal role in addressing contemporary challenges related to environmental health, sustainability, and food safety. Despite the growing consumer demand for organic products and market access, organic farming has its challenges. This paper discusses the origin and evolution of organic farming with an emphasis on different types of organic fertilizers, benefits, and challenges. Nutrient variability and the slow-release nature of organic fertilizer often do not meet crop demands and can substantially reduce yield. Some organic fertilizers, like manure and biosolids, can provide a higher yield benefit, but there are environmental and health risks associated with them. Weed and pest management in organic farming can be labor-intensive and increase costs. Inefficient planning of organic farming and rapid transition can also create food insecurity. This paper also gives a brief account of the current certification process for organic fertilizers and their technicalities. It showcases how the holistic approach of organic farming extends beyond production, including strategies like reducing food waste and building self-sufficient farming communities. These practices contribute to a more sustainable agricultural system, reducing environmental impacts and supporting local economies. Future technological innovations, especially in precision agriculture and bio-physicochemical models, can help in formulating targeted organic fertilizers. Full article

Background and Objectives: Full-thickness trans anal local excision for tumors with favorable response following neoadjuvant therapy for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) is a common strategy for organ preservation, but it could be associated with a high rate of postoperative complications. We describe the incidence and pattern of submucosal involvement in surgical specimens following neoadjuvant therapy for LARC and whether limiting local excision of the residual tumor bed to only mucosal/submucosal layers of the rectal wall is sufficient for accurately predicting the ypT status of residual cancer, providing a pathological rationale to replace full-thickness local excision by endoscopic submucosal resection. Materials and Methods: This was a single-institution retrospective study conducted at a teaching community hospital. We reviewed clinical and pathological findings with slides of 82 patients diagnosed with LARC treated at our center between 2006 and 2020. Eligibility criteria mirrored our current organ preservation trials. Results: No tumor was found in surgical specimens in 28 cases (34%). Additionally, 4, 22, 27, and 1 cases were staged as ypT1, ypT2, ypT3, and ypT4, respectively. Residual malignant cells were found in the submucosal layer in 98% of cases with ypT+ stage, with ‘skip lesions’ in only 2% of cases. Conclusions: A very high incidence of submucosal involvement is noticed in residual tumors after neoadjuvant therapy, providing pathological rationale to study the role of endoscopic submucosal resection as a restaging tool for tumors with favorable response after neoadjuvant therapy when organ preservation strategy is pursued. This study was limited by its retrospective design and relatively small number of patients. Full article

Coal remains a very important source of energy for the global economy. Surface and underground coal mining are the two major methods of coal extraction, and both have benefits and drawbacks. Surface coal mining can have a variety of environmental impacts including ecosystem losses, landscape alteration, soil destruction, and changes to surface and groundwater quality and quantity. In addition, toxic compounds such as heavy metals, radioactive elements, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and other organic contaminants are released in the environment, ultimately affecting the health of ecosystems and the general population. Underground mining has large impacts on underground water supplies and water quality, but generally has less visual surface impacts such as leaving waste and tailings on the surface and subsidence problems. In response to the concern about these environmental issues, many strategies have been developed by scientists and practitioners to minimize land degradation and soil pollution due to mining. Reclamation laws passed in numerous countries during the past 50 years have instituted practices to reduce the impacts of soil pollution including burying toxic materials, saving and replacing topsoil, and vegetating the land surface. While modern mining practices have decreased the environmental impacts, many sites are inadequately reclaimed and present long-lasting soil pollution problems. The current review summarizes progress in comprehending (1) coal mining impacts on soil pollution, (2) the potential risks of soil pollution associated with coal mining, and (3) different types of strategies for remediating these contaminated soils. Research and prospective directions of soil pollution in coal mining regions include refinements in assessing pollutant levels, the use of biochars and other amendments, phytoremediation of contaminated soils, and the release of toxic elements such as mercury and thallium. Full article

During the last half-century, the CO₂ concentration in the world’s atmosphere has increased from 310 p.p.m. to over 380 p.p.m. This is due to the widespread usage of fossil fuels as a main source of energy. Modeling forecasts have shown that this trend will continue to rise and reducing CO₂ emissions is a challenging task for multi-stakeholders, including research institutions. The UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow (COP26) has stressed that stakeholders need to work together to achieve a NetZero target. Technologies involving absorbents for the capture of CO₂ from a gas mixture are energy-intensive. Carbon adsorption and conversion (CAC) approaches have been gaining attention recently since these technologies can mitigate CO₂ emissions. In this review, materials ranging from advanced carbon-based materials to natural resources-based materials will be reviewed. Adsorption and conversion capacities as well as the scalability possibility of these technologies for solving the CO₂ emission problem will be investigated. The review, therefore, is timely and meaningful concerning the net zero emission targets set by countries and developmental organizations worldwide. Full article