Search Results (42)

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

Traditionally, drugs were obtained by extraction from medicinal plants, but more recently also by organic synthesis. Today, medicinal chemistry continues to focus on organic compounds and the majority of commercially available drugs are organic molecules, which can incorporate nitrogen, oxygen, and halogens, as well as carbon and hydrogen. Aromatic organic compounds that play important roles in biochemistry find numerous applications ranging from drug delivery to nanotechnology or biomarkers. We achieved a major accomplishment by demonstrating experimentally/theoretically that boranes, carboranes, as well as metallabis(dicarbollides), exhibit global 3D aromaticity. Based on the stability–aromaticity relationship, as well as on the progress made in the synthesis of derivatized clusters, we have opened up new applications of boron icosahedral clusters as key components in the field of novel healthcare materials. In this brief review, we present the results obtained at the Laboratory of Inorganic Materials and Catalysis (LMI) of the Institut de Ciència de Materials de Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC) with icosahedral boron clusters. These 3D geometric shape clusters, the semi-metallic nature of boron and the presence of exo-cluster hydrogen atoms that can interact with biomolecules through non-covalent hydrogen and dihydrogen bonds, play a key role in endowing these compounds with unique properties in largely unexplored (bio)materials. Full article

Yam production, processing, distribution, and marketing processes are underpinned by socio-cultural beliefs shaped by ritual practices and indigenous wisdom. We used semi-structured interviews, public meetings, keen observation, local informants, and a review of secondary materials to assess local indigenous understanding of interconnected perspectives of yam farming processes, socio-cultural perspectives, and livelihood practices in communities in southern Nigeria. Our findings revealed that over 90% of farmers depend on experiences of adjusting to seasonal challenges, storage practices, and fertility enhancement. Cultural beliefs and spiritual practices pervade farmers’ social attitudes to improving farming operations. Almost 70% of yam producers are aged 60 years and above and depend on crude tools and traditional methods of land management and production process, even though the modern and innovative farming methods and practices are limited. Farmers respond to the poor public support system of extension services by informal networking and local associational relationships with diverse schemes to support and encourage members. Government and organizations should take advantage of these informal structures to empower farmers through micro-credits, education, information, training, supervision, and mechanization. Different groups of actors organized into formal social structures like cooperatives will take advantage of bulk buying, selling, transportation, access fundings, information, education, and training from public and non-governmental institutions. The study findings have demonstrated that the socio-economic structure of the Obudu community has developed extensively on account of decades of yam production and processing, supporting chains of a livelihood network, entrepreneurship, and relationships of mutual cooperation and co-existence. Full article

Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are porous crystalline materials assembled from organic ligands and metallic secondary building blocks. Their special structural composition gives them the advantages of high porosity, high specific surface area, adjustable pore size, and good stability. MOF membranes and MOF-based mixed-matrix membranes prepared from MOF crystals have ultra-high porosity, uniform pore size, excellent adsorption properties, high selectivity, and high throughput, which contribute to their being widely used in separation fields. This review summarizes the synthesis methods of MOF membranes, including in situ growth, secondary growth, and electrochemical methods. Mixed-matrix membranes composed of Zeolite Imidazolate Frameworks (ZIF), University of Oslo (UIO), and Materials of Institute Lavoisier (MIL) frameworks are introduced. In addition, the main applications of MOF membranes in lithium–sulfur battery separators, wastewater purification, seawater desalination, and gas separation are reviewed. Finally, we review the development prospects of MOF membranes for the large-scale application of MOF membranes in factories. Full article

In recent years, environmental pollution has become more serious, especially the organic pollutants. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising materials used to degrade pollutants recently. Among them, Materials Institute Lavoisier frameworks (MILs) have been widely engaged due to their good stability and unique structural characteristics. This paper systematically analyses and summarizes the progress of MILs in degradation of organic pollutant by Fenton reaction in recent years. The MILs, especially four types of MILs, including MIL-100, MIL-101, MIL-88, and MIL-53, are first described and classified. Then, the common synthesis methods (hydrothermal synthesis, steam-assisted synthesis, and microwave-assisted synthesis) of MIL are summarized and compared. Modification and activation of MILs to obtain good degradation effect are also introduced and discussed. Finally, the applications of MILs in Fenton reaction are reviewed and their future development is prospected. Full article

Society is immersed in a process of demographic transformation of great relevance: the ageing of the population. During the ageing stage, relevant changes occur, such as age-related losses, lack of formal and informal support or changes in social roles, which can cause situations of isolation or loneliness in older people. After the Spanish government decreed a state of alarm throughout the national territory in response to the arrival of SARS-CoV2, the confinement of the entire population was established, and only essential services and authorized persons could continue to carry out their daily activities and professional tasks. In addition, since the beginning of the pandemic, older people were considered high-risk people, a circumstance that increased their isolation situation. Objective: Understand, organize and systematically analyse the scientific evidence generated in relation to the impact that the COVID−19 pandemic has had on the processes and feelings of isolation and loneliness of the elderly population, from the beginning of the health crisis until the date of search. Materials and methods: a scoping review was conducted using the methodology of Arksey and O’Malley, which included a review of the studies available in the online databases Proquest, Scopus and WOS. From the search, information related to the isolation and collective of elderly people during the pandemic was extracted. Results: a total of 32 articles were included, from which three fundamental areas of analysis emerged and three issues emerged: older people and institutionalisation during the pandemic, ageism and hospitalisation of the elderly during the pandemic, and loneliness and isolation of older people throughout the pandemic. Discussion: the lack of material resources and infrastructures to be able to face the problem of isolation in institutions was evident. The importance of acquiring, on the part of the elderly, competences, knowledge and skills in new technologies in order to continue with contact with their peer group and family was also observed. Conclusions: this study identifies areas already understood, as well as knowledge gaps, that allow for determining opportunities for future research and thus the ability to improve in situations similar to the one that occurred. Full article