JOURNAL OF BIOENGINEERING, TECHNOLOGIES AND HEALTH

Carbon Footprint of Agave sisalana Leaf Processing

2026-10-23T20:37:53+00:00

The aim of this work is to carry out a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to quantify the carbon footprint of 1 ton of sisal fiber production, including the stages of decortication, sun drying, brushing, grading, and baling. Diesel consumption significantly contributes to the carbon footprint during the decortication stage of sisal leaf processing for fiber extraction. It was observed that diesel consumption is a main contributor to the carbon footprint in the sisal leaf processing in the decortication stage for fiber extraction. The mixtures of diesel and biodiesel in 86:14 and 80:20 (on a volumetric basis) can reduce 5% and 10% of the carbon footprint, respectively, highlighting the potential strategy to make sisal fiber production more sustainable.

Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) Husk Potential for Biogas and Biofertilizer Production

2026-10-23T20:37:37+00:00

In the context of the transition to renewable energy sources, the valorization of agro-industrial waste is fundamental. Cocoa husk, in particular, emerges as a promising biomass, whose utilization can mitigate environmental impacts and foster a circular economy. The objective of this work is, therefore, to evaluate the potential of cocoa husk for the generation of biogas and biofertilizers. Despite technical challenges, such as its high moisture content, the conversion of this residue into energy can contribute significantly to the diversification of the national energy matrix. The research was conducted based on physicochemical analyses of samples collected in the municipality of Presidente Tancredo Neves - BA, covering parameters such as the determination of moisture content, total solids, volatile solids, ash, pH, cellulose, lignin, and heating value. This study contributes to the implementation of sustainable solutions and highlights the relevance of waste valorization in the transition to a clean energy matrix.

Development of a 3D Model of a Prototype System for Geogas Capture Aiming at the Prospection of Light Hydrocarbons

2026-10-23T20:37:29+00:00

The prospection of light hydrocarbons in soils requires efficient systems for geogas capture; however, existing solutions often combine high cost, operational complexity, and low adaptability to variable field conditions. This study develops an innovative prototype to overcome these limitations, grounded in a critical analysis of patents that identified eight essential technical functions such as sealing against atmospheric contamination, clogging protection, and modular active collection. The methodology integrated a review of consolidated technologies (including Soil Gas Probe and Volatile Organic Compound Monitoring) with parametric CAD modeling, resulting in a modular system of six components interconnected by standardized threads. The design prioritizes constructive simplicity, enabling low-cost laboratory manufacturing, portability for remote areas, and adaptability to different depths and soil types. Compatible with analytical techniques such as gas chromatography via coupling with molecular filters, the prototype requires neither permanent infrastructure nor specialized consumables. Prepared for computational simulations of robustness and gas flow, the model ensures functional validation prior to physical prototyping, reducing risks and costs. As an intermediate solution between artisanal methods and complex industrial systems, it offers operational efficiency for small-scale geochemical prospection, with extended applications to environmental monitoring of VOCs and leak detection. It represents a strategic advance for national tools of sustainable exploration, with prospects for integration into in situ sensors and georeferenced mapping platforms.

Estimation of the Spatiotemporal Distribution of Soil Carbon Fluxes in the Conceição do Coité Region (Bahia, Brazil) Using Remote Sensing Data

2026-10-23T20:37:45+00:00

As climate change worsens, it is essential to seek efficient climate monitoring strategies and develop low-cost, broad-coverage models to assess carbon dioxide (CO₂) fluxes in semiarid ecosystems. This study proposed to estimate the spatiotemporal dynamics of carbon flux (CO₂flux) in soils of the semiarid region, in the municipality of Conceição do Coité (Bahia, Brazil), between 2020 and 2024. Data from Sentinel-2 satellite images were used, processed in Google Earth Engine, integrating the NDVI and PRI indices. The data were evaluated in two climatic periods: rainy period (RP) and dry period (DP). Overall, the average soil carbon flux indices between each climatic period, across the years studied, were 0.172 for RP and 0.112 for DP. The results revealed that CO₂flux is directly related to the rainfall regime, with higher values in wetter years, such as 2021, and a significant drop in 2023 and 2024. The Caatinga vegetation responded positively to the rainfall, resulting in higher rates of carbon sequestration in areas with vegetation cover. Adapted to the conditions of the semi-arid climate, the cultivation of Agave sisalana, widespread in the studied region, has the potential to contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the recovery of degraded areas. The study also showed that remote sensing data can be considered a low-cost strategic tool for environmental monitoring associated with CO2 fluxes in soils and for the implementation of actions aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In the context of the current climate crisis, reduced carbon flux in water deficit scenarios may contribute to a decrease in the carbon sink potential of soils, weakening their role as a climate regulator.

Experimental Characterization of Macrobending Fiber Sensor Coupled via Vibrating Membrane for Acoustic Detection

2026-10-23T20:37:21+00:00

This work investigates the application of a fiber-optic acoustic sensor based on macrobending loss for gas leakage detection, employing a membrane-coupled architecture to enhance acoustic sensitivity and directional selectivity. The proposed system integrates a single-mode fiber coiled inside a cylindrical structure sealed with thin membranes, which act as mechanical transducers by converting acoustic waves into localized perturbations along the fiber curvature. The experiments were conducted to evaluate the sensor’s response under controlled excitation conditions, varying frequency, sound pressure level, source distance, and angular orientation. Results demonstrate that tighter curvature yields significantly higher optical attenuation. Spatial sensitivity was characterized by a nonlinear increase in attenuation with distance, and directional behavior was confirmed by enhanced attenuation under oblique wave incidence. The practical applications of the findings are diverse, with particular emphasis on gas leak monitoring in industrial settings.

Model forPre-Design of Darrieus wind Turbine H-Type

2026-10-23T20:37:13+00:00

This work presents a simplified fluid-structure interaction model for pre-design of a Darrieus wind turbine. The modeling of Darrieus turbine is a challenging task due to the aerodynamic complexity associated with its operation. One challenge is determining the drag and lift coefficients for each position during the circular motion of the blades, due mainly to changes in Reynolds number and angle of attack. Structural calculations are also challenging, as the blades operate in a rotating bending regime and must withstand alternating loads. For the development of the mathematical model of this work, the main geometric and operating parameters of the turbine were considered, and can be used to estimate aerodynamic forces, torque, and blade structural deflections. To characterize the profile's aerodynamic behavior, lift and drag coefficient data obtained from the airfoil-tools website, based on data from the XFOIL software, were used. The mathematical model was implemented in a Scilab code, allowing simulation of the turbine operation under different conditions. The graphs presented were generated by the developed code. It was considered that the turbine operates at constant rotational velocity. The radial and tangential forces on the blades were determined from the lift and drag components, as a function of the instantaneous angle of attack. Subsequently, the torque was calculated during the movement, allowing estimation of the available power. The blade deflections were analyzed, considering the distributed loads and the cross-sectional moment of inertia, based on a simplified modeling of a bi-supported beam. The results obtained allow a preliminary assessment of the turbine aerodynamic performance and structural integrity. The model can provide initial design support, with low computational cost and good applicability in conceptual stages.

Pathways for Dispensing Upper Limb Prostheses in Bahia - Brazil

2026-10-23T20:37:05+00:00

Access to prostheses for amputees presents problems in terms of dispensing efficiency, whether due to budgetary issues or the lack of expansion of health care centers for people with disabilities. The Specialized Rehabilitation Centers are outpatient rehabilitation centers that diagnose, treat, prescribe, adapt, and maintain assistive technologies, such as prostheses, and serve as a reference for the healthcare network in the territory. However, in the state of Bahia, the procedures for dispensing upper limb prostheses contrast with those for lower limb prostheses. This article presents an overview of prosthesis dispensation in Bahia, as well as the paths that amputees take to obtain an upper limb prosthesis, and shows through documentary research the incompleteness of actions closer to the municipalities where amputees live, in addition to the time it takes to access the prosthesis.

Smart and Inclusive Cities: Challenges and Perspectives for Aging in Salvador, Bahia

2026-10-23T20:36:57+00:00

This article explores the intersection between smart cities and the challenges posed by global population aging, with a focus on the city of Salvador, Bahia. It addresses whether current smart city initiatives are genuinely inclusive and human-centered, especially for the elderly. Drawing on updated data from the United Nations, IBGE, and WHO, combined with a bibliographic review of recent studies, the methodology follows a documentary and exploratory approach that allows for the correlation between demographic indicators, smart city rankings, and the WHO age-friendly city framework. The study highlights demographic shifts and the accelerated aging process in Brazil, which demands urgent adaptations in public infrastructure, healthcare, and digital inclusion. The concept of age-friendly cities, guided by the WHO framework, is used to discuss strategies that support active aging, emphasizing mobility, accessibility, social participation, and technological access. The paper also examines the role of smartphones and wearable health-monitoring technologies in promoting digital inclusion and improving the quality of life for elderly citizens, even when direct interaction with devices is limited. Salvador ranks highly in national smart city indices, particularly among northeastern capitals, yet falls behind in key indicators for elderly support, such as health and accessibility. Although some efforts are underway — such as adapted public transport and metro systems — structural urban barriers persist. The analysis concludes that while Salvador has the potential to evolve into a model of an inclusive smart city, significant gaps remain in aligning technological innovation with the social and human dimensions of aging. Bridging this gap will require coordinated public policies, community engagement, and a redefinition of what “smart” truly means in a society increasingly shaped by its older population.

Bibliometric Analysis of Inhibitory Compounds in the Reduction of Enteric Methane in Ruminants: Trends, Advances and Sustainable Perspectives

2026-10-23T20:36:48+00:00

Enteric fermentation is a major agricultural source of methane (CH₄), accounting for about 32% of anthropogenic emissions and contributing significantly to global warming. Research increasingly investigates natural and synthetic inhibitory compounds in ruminant diets to reduce emissions without compromising digestion or productivity. This work presents a bibliometric analysis of studies published between 2005 and 2025, using the Web of Science (WoS) database and 20 keywords in four thematic categories combined with Boolean operators. Of 1,058 publications retrieved, 115 met the co-occurrence criteria. Analysis with VOSViewer® identified five key research areas, including rumen physiology, nutritional strategies, and bioactive compounds, with strong alignment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Climate Action. Publication trends show marked growth since 2020, underscoring the topic’s rising scientific and societal relevance. The results position methane mitigation in livestock as a research priority, supporting the development of sustainable production pathways.

Evaluation of Multiple Optimization Scenarios for Manual Parcel Handling Cells with a Focus on Increasing Productivity using FlexSim and Experimenter

2026-10-22T20:38:01+00:00

This article presents a systematic review of the literature on the use of simulation with FlexSim and Experimenter, focusing on manual parcel handling centers. The review aims to identify and analyze multiple simulation articles that address productivity improvement, idle time reduction, and process efficiency in manual operations. The methodology followed PRISMA guidelines, ensuring a structured process for study identification, screening, eligibility assessment and inclusion. The main literature findings indicate that simulation enables the evaluation of different scenarios and patterns, providing insights that, when combined with strategies such as Lean Manufacturing, lead to significant gains in productivity and efficiency. The studies reviewed reported productivity gains of up to 35% and reductions of up to 82% in operator travel time, demonstrating the potential impact of combining simulation with process improvement methodologies. It is concluded that the combined use of these tools not only allows the simulation of diverse scenarios but also facilitates decision-making and the development of innovative logistics solutions.

A Review of Computational Vision applied to Materials Selection

2026-10-22T20:37:37+00:00

This bibliographic review shows the increasing number of works in the field of computational vision applied to materials selection within the framework yolo. The results obtained with the search present studies from the years of 2021 to 2025, published in the platforms Dimensions, Google Scholar and Web of Science. It was observed that studies in that field are increasing, have increased from 2023. Researches in that field indicate that solutions for defects, classification and material properties are the most common fields of study. Architectures of Deep Learning and Convolutional Neural Networks are the most common used techniques, together with framework Yolo for integration in already built-in solutions.

Bibliographic Analysis of Compressive Sealants for Metal Supported Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and Electrolyzers

2026-10-22T20:37:26+00:00

Metal-supported solid oxide fuel cells (MS-SOFCs) and solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) stand out for high power density, fuel flexibility, and long-term stability. Their durability relies on compressive sealants that prevent gas crossover and maintain integrity under high temperatures. Mica- and vermiculite-based gaskets are widely used for compliance, easy assembly, and hermeticity without high-temperature processing. This work reviews compressive sealant materials, configurations, and hybrid strategies for MS-SOFC and SOECs. Emphasis is placed on the structural, thermal, and chemical behavior of phlogopite papers and Thermiculite® gaskets, which show superior stability, low porosity, and reduced leakage, especially with glass-ceramic layers. Hybrid approaches, such as transient liquid-phase bonding, are also considered for lowering operating temperatures while preserving strength. Finally, the availability of Brazilian phlogopite and vermiculite is highlighted as an opportunity for cost-effective, locally sourced sealants.

Energetic Use of Biomethane in Brazil

2026-10-22T20:37:10+00:00

Biomethane is a renewable energy source with great strategic potential for Brazil’s energy transition, especially due to its compatibility with the natural gas infrastructure. Produced through anaerobic digestion of organic residues, biogas mainly contains methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂). After purification, the resulting biomethane reaches a methane concentration of 90–98%, making it suitable for injection into gas distribution networks or use in transportation, industry, and residential sectors. This study aims to analyze the potential, challenges, and opportunities of biomethane in Brazil, considering its contribution to the decarbonization of the energy matrix and the sustainable use of organic waste. The research adopts an exploratory and descriptive approach, based on a bibliographic and documentary review of scientific publications, institutional reports, and updated sectoral data. The results indicate that biomethane, in addition to reducing dependence on fossil fuels, contributes to waste management and the generation of carbon credits. As an advance over the current state of the art, this study systematizes recent data on production, public policies, and practical applications of biomethane in Brazil, highlighting its growing role in the national energy transition.

Optimization of Water Supply in Smart Cities: An Integrated Approach to Data Management, Artificial Intelligence, and Smart Water Technologies

2026-10-22T20:36:55+00:00

Amid growing water scarcity and losses in distribution networks, it is crucial to find effective solutions that increase efficiency and ensure the sustainability of water management. This global demand is reflected in the regional scenario of the state of Bahia, especially in the capital, Salvador. Data from the Bahia State Basic Sanitation Regulatory Agency (AGERSA) points to recurring problems with water interruptions that are not sufficiently unpredictable. Based on this issue, this article presents a literature review on emerging technologies to improve water supply management in smart cities, with specific application to the capital of Bahia. The methodology employed involves a technical review of the main technologies currently applied in Smart Water Networks, including smart meters and advanced sensors for water quality monitoring, proposing an integrated model based on the Internet of Things (IoT) and Big Data analysis (AI; Machine Learning).The expected results include improved operational efficiency, greater accuracy in early detection and response to critical events such as leaks and supply interruptions, as well as greater transparency of water supply and treatment information for users and managers. The conclusion is that the implementation of the solution will significantly contribute to the technical, operational, and environmental sustainability of urban water systems.