Search Results (2,869)

The rapid increase in e-waste has become a significant global concern, influenced by swift technological advancements, shorter product lifecycles, and rising consumer demand. This situation leads to considerable environmental and health hazards, primarily due to the presence of toxic materials, energy demands, and the inadvertent loss of valuable resources when waste is not adequately managed. This review synthesises contemporary theories related to sustainable e-waste management, featuring concepts such as principles of the circular economy, energy efficiency and innovative recycling technologies. The review explores a range of actions, including regulatory strategies, mechanical pre-treatment methods, focusing on reagent-free recovery techniques, and the utilisation of digital solutions to enhance traceability and operational efficiency. The findings indicate substantial improvements in formal e-waste collection rates in areas with strong legislative frameworks, enhanced metal recovery efficiencies through refined hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical techniques and minimised environmental footprints through reagent-free and energy-conserving practices. The review emphasises the importance of viewing e-waste recycling not just as a waste management issue but as a fundamental element of resource security and sustainable industrial practices. By assessing recent developments, this work advocates for closed-loop recycling as an essential driver in the global shift towards a resilient, low-carbon, energy-efficient and circular economy. Full article

Water represents the fundamental source of life for all human and animal populations; however, its consumption has become increasingly hazardous due to high levels of pollution. Modern agricultural practices rely heavily on pesticides, which significantly contribute to water contamination and imbalances in aquatic ecosystems. Moreover, another critical category of pollutants consists of pathogenic bacteria that proliferate in aquatic environments, mainly originating from hospital and urban wastewater because of human activity. Considering these major environmental and health challenges, the present study aims to develop an optimized method for water treatment by synthesizing magnetic silica-based aerogels using a microfluidic vortex chip and systematically varying synthesis parameters to enhance material performance. The physicochemical properties of the aerogels were characterized using XRD, FTIR, SEM, EDS, and BET. The pesticide adsorption capacity of the materials was evaluated using FT-ICR HR-MS analysis, which demonstrated the high efficiency of the aerogels in removing a complex mixture of pesticides. In parallel, antimicrobial efficacy was assessed against E. faecalis, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa isolated from surface water, hospital wastewater, and the influent of a well-known wastewater treatment plant in Bucharest, as well as against ATCC reference strains. Additionally, the study investigated the biocompatibility and biological responses of magnetic aerogels using MTT assays, nitric oxide production, lactate dehydrogenase release, intracellular ROS levels, and quantification of total protein, malondialdehyde, and reduced glutathione in HaCaT and HEK293 cell lines. The results confirm the efficiency and application potential of the developed materials and emphasize the importance of optimizing synthesis to achieve high-performance aerogels for effective decontamination of polluted waters. Full article

This study addresses the critical problem of barriers hindering Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) adoption in Egypt’s petrochemical sector, a major economic driver that produces approximately 4.5 million tons annually but generates significant GHG emissions and hazardous waste. The objective is to identify, rank, and analyze the hierarchical relationships among internal and external barriers using a mixed-methods approach. This study focuses on the full petrochemical supply chain in Egypt, encompassing upstream (raw material sourcing), midstream (manufacturing/refining processes), and downstream (distribution, waste management, reverse logistics), with an emphasis on emission/waste reduction practices. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire from 400 employees in Egyptian petrochemical firms and analyzed using Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM). The findings showed that internal impediments, such as a lack of corporate leadership and support (IB1), a critical shortage of resources (IB6), and the absence of green initiatives (IB5), serve as driving forces that exert a cascading influence over the external barriers, which include insufficient government support (EB1), a lack of markets for recycled materials (EB5), and human resources or expertise shortages (EB7). The study contributes to the existing literature on GSCM by incorporating international trends and specifically addressing Egyptian issues, including weak policies, difficult supply chains, high energy-intensive operations, and costly operations. The study suggests that sending clear messages from the top and providing financial incentives can help push the obstacles aside and guide the industry down the path of environmentally responsible operations. Full article

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a global healthcare problem, and post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) is a known predictor of long-term and societal outcomes. However, factors influencing PTA recovery during the inpatient rehabilitation phase remain underexplored, particularly in Asian populations. Objective: To identify factors associated with PTA duration and emergence during inpatient rehabilitation and examine their impact on functional outcomes. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective, single-center cohort study over a 7-year period among patients with acute TBI who were admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation hospital. Outcomes included PTA emergence and duration, discharge Functional Independence Measure (FIM), rehabilitation length of stay, and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) at ≥1 year. Results: A total of 100 patients were analyzed. In an adjusted Cox regression, age ≥ 55 years (Hazard Ratio [HR] 0.47) and non-infective medical complications during rehabilitation (HR 0.31) were associated with reduced likelihood of PTA emergence, while mild admission GCS (13–15; HR 4.80) and epidural hemorrhage (EDH) (HR 2.00) were associated with PTA emergence. PTA non-emergence was associated with approximately a 20-point lower discharge FIM total score (adjusted model, p < 0.001). A PTA duration of ≥90 days was associated with a lower total discharge FIM score by approximately 45 points compared with those with a PTA duration of <28 days (p < 0.001). PTA emergence was associated with better GOS at ≥1 year (odds ratio [OR] 3.92, p = 0.02). Conclusion: Both acute injury characteristics and intra-rehabilitation factors were associated with PTA recovery functional outcomes. PTA emergence, beyond PTA duration, was strongly associated with discharge functional status and long-term global outcome, supporting the clinical value of PTA in prognostication, rehabilitation planning, and goal setting. Full article

Nanopesticides are pesticide formulations in which intentionally designed nanoscale carriers shape how an active ingredient (AIng) is deposited, transformed, and released. These systems can improve retention and efficacy, but carrier complexity introduces challenges: nanomaterials can transform in real soil–water matrices, reshaping exposure and risk. These processes are hard to quantify because test protocols and risk assessment frameworks for nanopesticides remain underdeveloped. In this review, we relate design choices across major carrier families—including polymer and lipid particles, nanoemulsions, porous inorganic carriers, and bio-based nanomaterials—to transformations in soil–water systems. We then connect these transformations to ecotoxicological evidence across key non-target taxa. We also address a central “measurement gap” in current risk assessment. Many standard tests were developed for dissolved chemicals. As a result, they do not capture (i) particle stability in realistic matrices, (ii) particle-bound versus dissolved (and ion-released) forms, or (iii) time-resolved exposure. Finally, we propose a Safe-and-Sustainable-by-Design roadmap that prioritizes low-hazard materials, predictable degradation, life-cycle thinking, and staged data generation to enable scalable, field-relevant adoption. Full article

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to describe the clinical characteristics and survival outcomes of three representative complex karyotype soft tissue sarcoma (STS) subtypes—undifferentiated sarcoma (US, primarily undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS)), myxofibrosarcoma (MFS), and leiomyosarcoma of soft tissue (LMS-ST)—using data from a single-institution cohort. Materials and Methods: A retrospective review of 124 patients treated at a single tertiary referral center between 2002 and 2024 was conducted. Clinicopathologic characteristics and survival outcomes were analyzed. Kaplan–Meier methods were used to estimate overall survival (OS). Cox proportional hazards regression models were applied to identify independent prognostic factors for survival, incorporating variables such as age, sex, tumor stage, and treatment modality. Results: The cohort comprised 36 cases of US, 64 of MFS, and 24 of LMS-ST. OS and survival after cohort enrollment (S-NCC) were evaluated both by subtype and across the entire cohort to assess potential differences across tumor subgroups. In both univariable and multivariable analyses, US subtypes showed poorer survival than MFS and LMS-ST. FNCLCC grade 3 emerged as a significant adverse prognostic factor for survival across all three subtypes. For FNCLCC grade 3 patients, the presence of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) was significantly associated with an increased risk of death. Conclusions: Among the three subtypes, US demonstrated the most aggressive clinical course, MFS was notable for frequent local recurrence but relatively favorable survival, and LMS-ST showed intermediate outcomes. These findings highlight the clinical heterogeneity of complex karyotype STS and provide a foundation for future studies integrating molecular and multi-omics data to refine risk stratification and therapeutic strategies. Full article

In this study, phosphorus tailings sand (PTS) was ground into fine powder and incorporated with slag and fly ash to formulate a cementitious material composed solely of solid wastes. The current research aimed to promote the high-value utilization of local solid waste resources in Lianyungang and to explore their potential application in soil stabilization and ground improvement. Through optimization of component dosage and the proportions of alkaline activators, the effects on workability, mechanical properties, drying shrinkage, wet–dry cycles, microstructural evolution, and heavy-metal leaching behavior were comprehensively examined. The findings revealed that at the optimal ratio of PTS–slag powder–fly ash = 5:2.5:2.5, the developed cementitious material demonstrated a 28-day compressive strength of 33.8 MPa, along with 4.5 MPa flexural strength, and 168 mm flow spread. Moreover, the 28-day drying shrinkage reached a minimal value of 0.038%, with reduced mass loss of 6.7% after wet–dry cycling. Furthermore, under non-freezing conditions, the leaching content of Zn, Mn, Pb, and Cu from the PTS-based multi-solid-waste cementitious system remained below the permissible limits for non-hazardous discharge established by Chinese environmental regulations. These findings provide an innovative pathway for the resource-efficient application of phosphorus tailings sand and several solid wastes while offering technical guidance for silt stabilization and ecological restoration efforts in the Lianyungang region, highlighting promising engineering application prospects. Full article

To address the frequent faults (e.g., bird-related hazards, wind deviation) of transmission lines under extreme environments and the limitations of traditional insulating materials (insufficient dielectric properties, poor interface compatibility, etc.), this study synthesized a disulfide-containing polyurea (DPU) with dynamic covalent bonds and prepared Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) modified by aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES) to form the HNTs/DPU composite. Methods included characterizations like Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and performance tests such as contact angle measurement, breakdown strength, arc resistance, dielectric constant tests, and a tower gap breakdown test. Results showed that APTES modification enhanced interface compatibility, leading to a uniform and dense microstructure. Compared with commercial polyurea (CPU) and commercial insulating sheath (CIS), HNTs/DPU exhibited superior performance: higher glass transition temperature (Tg) and thermal stability, excellent hydrophobicity, improved breakdown strength and dielectric constant, longer arc resistance time by blocking microcrack propagation, and optimal insulation effect at 4 mm coating thickness in the tower gap test with a significantly higher breakdown voltage. In conclusion, HNTs/DPU provides a new technical solution for transmission line insulation protection under extreme conditions, with comparative data demonstrating advancements over existing materials. Full article

In this work, we evaluate the efficiency of a DNA purification protocol from gynecological samples using locally synthesized Fe₃O₄@SiO₂ magnetic microparticles and a low-cost, guanidinium thiocyanate (GITC)-free lysis buffer. The microparticles were characterized by SEM, EDS, FTIR, and magnetic measurements, confirming the formation of compact silica-coated aggregates with suitable magnetic responsiveness for rapid and complete capture. Using this material in combination with a simple, GITC-free lysis buffer, we achieved DNA extraction yields comparable to those obtained with standard methods based on chaotropic salts. The purified DNA showed high compatibility with molecular assays for the detection of Chlamydia trachomatis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Mycoplasma hominis, and human papilloma virus. Clinical validation demonstrated excellent diagnostic performance, with only a few discrepancies observed in samples near the detection threshold of qPCR, a limitation shared with commercial kits. Overall, the method represents a low-cost, safe, and sustainable alternative for routine clinical and epidemiological applications, compared to methods based on chaotropic salt buffers. Furthermore, it reduces reliance on imported commercial consumables and minimizes the handling of hazardous reagents. Full article

Nanoparticles (NPs) are gaining popularity due to their exceptional size-to-volume ratio, which enables them to efficiently perform a wide range of chemical reactions. The application of these particles has expanded rapidly in various sectors. However, the traditional methods for synthesizing NPs often involve the use of toxic chemicals. Although these toxic chemicals can produce useful target NPs, the production of hazardous byproducts is inevitable. Green synthesis processes always exclude toxic materials from the synthesis procedures and use supplementary materials that are natural or less harmful. This study focuses on the synthesis of these materials without the use of toxic chemicals and the production of NPs from natural resources, such as peels, leaves, petals of flowers, fruits, and roots. These starting materials are cheap and safe and may reduce the impact of waste on the environment. This study also focuses on the application of such NPs in a variety of industries. Some examples of these industries include agriculture, food, and pharmaceuticals. Full article

Graphene oxide (GO) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) have solidified their role as cornerstone nanomaterials in the pursuit of sustainable technology. This review synthesizes recent advances in harnessing the unique properties of GO and rGO such as their tunable surface chemistry and exceptional electrical conductivity for applications spanning environmental remediation and energy storage. In the environmental domain, they function as superior adsorbents and catalysts for the removal of hazardous pollutants. Concurrently, in the energy sector, their integration into supercapacitors and battery electrodes significantly enhances energy and power density. The adaptability of these materials also facilitates the creation of highly sensitive sensors and biosensors. However, the transition from laboratory research to widespread industrial application is hindered by challenges in scalable production, environmental health and safety concerns, and long-term stability. This review enhances the understanding of GO and rGO’s diverse applications and paves the way for future sustainable technologies in energy and environmental sectors. Full article

Background and Objectives: Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a leading cause of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Progressive renal cyst growth in ADPKD can exert mass effects, including compression of the inferior vena cava (IVC), a rare but clinically significant complication with implications for hemodynamic stability and renal outcomes. This study evaluated the prevalence of IVC compression in ADPKD and its impact on progression to ESRD, mortality, and overall survival. We aimed to provide quantitative measures to elucidate its prognostic significance. Materials and Methods: Using the TriNetX database, we conducted a retrospective cohort study of 658 ADPKD patients with IVC compression, comparing them to unmatched controls without compression. Outcomes included ESRD incidence, mortality, and survival. Kaplan–Meier curves and hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used for analysis. Results: ESRD Risk: IVC compression was associated with a higher risk of ESRD (77.4% vs. 29.7%, RR: 2.61, 95% CI: 2.49–2.73, p < 0.001). Survival Probability: 5-year Survival was significantly reduced in patients with IVC compression (42.6%) compared to controls (61.7%) (HR: 4.00, 95% CI: 3.45–4.63, p = 0.002). Mortality: Mortality was higher in the compression group (29.2% vs. 9.1%). Combined Impact: ESRD patients with IVC compression had a lower survival rate (11.9%) than ESRD patients without compression (28.5%) (HR: 5.60, 95% CI: 5.12–6.13, p < 0.001). Conclusions: IVC compression in ADPKD is associated with significantly worse outcomes, including increased ESRD risk, higher mortality, and reduced survival. These findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis and targeted management strategies. Full article

This study provides an integrated assessment of progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) by applying a multivariate, indicator-based framework to a comprehensive set of EU-27 performance metrics. Rather than proposing new indicators, the analysis advances SDG 12 monitoring by systematically integrating official indicators of material efficiency, circularity, waste generation, consumption-based environmental pressure, and environmental economic activity with key cross-sectoral drivers. Using harmonized statistical data, the study examines raw material consumption, circular material use rates, hazardous chemical consumption, consumption footprints, hazardous waste generation, and the economic value added of the environmental goods and services sector, complemented by energy productivity and average CO₂ emissions from new passenger cars. Through z-score normalization, correlation analysis, and exploratory factor analysis, the research identifies structural interdependencies and latent systemic regimes that characterize responsible consumption and production dynamics in the EU. The results reveal a persistent divergence between efficiency- and circularity-oriented improvements and ongoing material and waste pressures, highlighting structural constraints within current sustainability pathways. By offering a replicable and integrative analytical framework, the study contributes to the literature by supporting evidence-based policymaking and identifying priority areas for advancing resource efficiency and circular economy transitions. Full article

Steel pipes play a vital role in energy and industrial transportation systems, where undetected defects such as cracks and wall thinning may lead to severe safety hazards. Although ultrasonic guided waves enable long-range inspection, their defect imaging performance is often limited by dispersion, multimode interference, and strong noise. In this work, a multi-frequency fusion imaging method integrating time-reversal, topological derivative, and sparse Bayesian learning is proposed for guided wave-based defect detection in steel pipes. Multi-frequency guided waves are employed to enhance defect sensitivity and suppress frequency-dependent ambiguity. Time-reversal focusing is used to concentrate scattered energy at defect locations, while the topological derivative provides a global sensitivity map as physics-guided prior information. These results are further fused within a sparse Bayesian learning framework to achieve probabilistic defect imaging and uncertainty quantification. Dispersion compensation based on the semi-analytical finite element method is introduced to ensure accurate wavefield reconstruction at different frequencies. Domain randomization is also incorporated to improve robustness against uncertainties in material properties, temperature, and measurement noise. Numerical simulation results verify that the proposed method achieves high localization accuracy and significantly outperforms conventional TR-based imaging in terms of resolution, false alarm suppression, and stability. The proposed approach provides a reliable and robust solution for guided wave inspection of steel pipelines and offers strong potential for engineering applications in nondestructive evaluation and structural health monitoring. Full article

Recently, with concern for the environment and the request for sustainable materials, more researchers and manufacturers have focused on the substitute solution of synthetic fiber reinforcement composites in industry applications. Green hybrid composites with natural components can present excellent sustainability, possess superior mechanical behavior, and reduce hazards. Hybridization technology allows new materials to inherit their raw materials’ characteristics and generate new properties. The current study designed novel double-walled shell structures (DS1R4L, DS2R8L, and DS5R12L), containing two thin walls and different numbers of ring and longitudinal stiffeners, as unmanned maritime vehicle (UMV) components. A normal single-walled cylindrical shell was used as a control. These models will be made of hybrid kenaf/flax/glass-fiber-reinforced composites, GKFKG and GFKFG, created in the ANSYS Workbench. The mechanical responses (deformation, stress, and strain characteristics) of models were examined under three loading conditions (end force, end torque, and hydrostatic pressure) to evaluate the influence of both material change and structural configuration. Compared to the single-walled structure, the double-walled configurations display minimized deflection and torsional angle. Moreover, GKFKG-made structures are better than GFKFG-made ones. The research contributes positively to advancing the application of hybrid kenaf/flax/glass-fiber-reinforced composites in UMV structures and promotes the development of green sustainable materials. Full article