The study of how molecules adsorb, diffuse, interact, and desorb from imperfect surfaces is essential for a complete understanding of elementary surface processes under relevant pressure and temperature conditions. Here we use first-principles calculations to study the adsorption of benzene and naphthalene on a vicinal Cu(443) surface with the aim to gain insight into the behavior of aromatic hydrocarbons on realistic surfaces at a finite temperature. Upon strong adsorption at step edges at a low temperature, the molecules then migrate from the step to the (111) terraces, where they can freely diffuse parallel to the step edge. This migration happens at temperatures well below the onset of desorption, suggesting a more complex dynamical picture than previously proposed from temperature-programed desorption studies. The increase of the adsorption strength observed in experiments for Cu(443) when compared to Cu(111) is explained by a stronger long-range van der Waals attraction between the hydrocarbons and the step edges of the Cu(443) surface. Our calculations highlight the need for time-resolved experimental studies to fully understand the dynamics of molecular layers on surfaces.

Wound healing is a complex process, and propolis, a natural resin with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, emerges as a promising candidate for its treatment. This systematic review analyzed 26 studies on propolis-functionalized biomaterials. Great diversity was observed in materials and incorporation techniques, including direct blending, surface coating, and nanoencapsulation. Mostly based on polysaccharides like chitosan, pectin, and bacterial cellulose, these formulations showed biocompatibility, biodegradability, and promoted inflammation reduction and tissue repair. In vitro assays confirmed high biocompatibility (>80% cell viability) and antimicrobial activity, while in vivo studies validated regenerative benefits. Despite their potential, marked heterogeneity in propolis composition (intrinsically variable due to its botanical and geographical origin, and processing methods), coupled with diverse concentrations used and the lack of standardization in assessment methods and results reporting, significantly limits cross-study comparability and reproducibility. Overcoming these challenges requires promoting greater standardization in extraction, characterization, and evaluation protocols, including chemical fingerprinting and more detailed and consistent reporting of findings. Despite these limitations, propolis–polysaccharide systems hold strong clinical potential, with further standardization and well-designed preclinical studies being essential for their effective translation, especially in chronic wound management.