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11 pages, 2582 KiB  
Article
Effects of Resveratrol on Redox Status, Jejunal Injury, and Mitochondrial Function in Intrauterine Growth-Retarded Weaned Piglets
by Kang Cheng, Jinxiu Yao, Zhihua Song, Jin Huang, Hongyue Zhao, Ranya Yang, Yao Meng, Jinrong Wang and Yong Zhang
Animals 2025, 15(3), 290; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15030290 - 21 Jan 2025
Viewed by 88
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of resveratrol (RSV) on redox status, jejunal injury, and mitochondrial function in intrauterine growth-retarded (IUGR) weaned piglets. In total, 12 male normal birth weight (NBW) newborn piglets and 24 male IUGR newborn piglets were selected. They were weaned [...] Read more.
This study investigated the effects of resveratrol (RSV) on redox status, jejunal injury, and mitochondrial function in intrauterine growth-retarded (IUGR) weaned piglets. In total, 12 male normal birth weight (NBW) newborn piglets and 24 male IUGR newborn piglets were selected. They were weaned at 26 days of age and then divided into three treatments in a three-week trial: (1) NBW piglets fed a basal diet; (2) IUGR piglets fed a basal diet; (3) IUGR piglets fed a basal diet supplemented with 300 mg/kg RSV. Compared with NBW piglets, IUGR piglets showed decreased growth performance, altered redox status, impaired jejunal morphology, tight junction protein expression, energy production, and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. RSV enhanced antioxidant defense capacity and improved jejunal morphology, ATP generation, and mitochondrial complex I content in IUGR weaned piglets. Dietary RSV supplementation alleviated the IUGR-induced jejunal injury in weaned piglets probably by improving redox status and mitochondrial function, suggesting that RSV has the potential to be a dietary intervention in the regulation of intestinal injury in IUGR piglets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pigs)
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14 pages, 3872 KiB  
Article
Pain, Function, and Elastosonographic Assessment After Shockwave Therapy in Non-Calcific Supraspinatus Tendinopathy: A Retrospective Observational Study
by Gabriele Santilli, Antonello Ciccarelli, Milvia Martino, Patrizia Pacini, Francesco Agostini, Andrea Bernetti, Luca Giuliani, Giovanni Del Gaudio, Massimiliano Mangone, Vincenzo Colonna, Mario Vetrano, Maria Chiara Vulpiani, Giulia Stella, Samanta Taurone, Federico Vigevano, Vito Cantisani, Marco Paoloni, Pietro Fiore and Francesca Gimigliano
J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(1), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10010039 - 21 Jan 2025
Viewed by 104
Abstract
Background: Non-calcific supraspinatus tendinopathy (SNCCT) is a frequent cause of shoulder pain, often associated with functional impairment and reduced quality of life. Recent advancements in diagnostic imaging, including shear wave elastography (SWE), provide quantitative data on tendon stiffness and thickness, facilitating more precise [...] Read more.
Background: Non-calcific supraspinatus tendinopathy (SNCCT) is a frequent cause of shoulder pain, often associated with functional impairment and reduced quality of life. Recent advancements in diagnostic imaging, including shear wave elastography (SWE), provide quantitative data on tendon stiffness and thickness, facilitating more precise evaluations. Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) has emerged as a minimally invasive and effective treatment for SNCCT, but its effects on tendon properties measured through SWE require further investigation. Objective: This retrospective observational study aimed to evaluate the impact of ESWT on supraspinatus tendon characteristics in patients with SNCCT by assessing tendon thickness, SWE velocity, and clinical outcomes. Methods: This observational study enrolled 39 patients with SNCCT, aged 30–75 years, who received three ESWT sessions over 3 weeks. The intervention was delivered using a Modulith SLK system at an energy level of 0.20 mJ/mm2 with 2400 pulses per session. SWE and conventional ultrasound were used to measure tendon thickness and SWEv at baseline (T0) and 6 months post-treatment (T1). Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Constant and Murley Score (CMS), and modified Roles and Maudsley scale. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and correlation analyses. Results: At baseline, affected tendons exhibited increased thickness (7.5 ± 0.9 mm) and reduced SWEv (3.1 ± 0.7 m/s) compared to healthy tendons (4.5 ± 0.7 mm and 6.9 ± 1 m/s, respectively; p < 0.05). Six months after ESWT, tendon thickness decreased significantly (6.2 ± 0.9 mm, p < 0.05), and SWEv increased (5.7 ± 1.8 m/s, p < 0.05), indicating improved elasticity. Clinical outcomes improved significantly, with the VAS scores decreasing from 6.5 ± 1.4 to 3.2 ± 2.1, the CMS score rising from 59.1 ± 17.3 to 78.2 ± 17.7, and the modified Roles and Maudsley scale improving from 2.3 ± 0.6 to 1.5 ± 0.8 (p < 0.05 for all). SWEv positively correlated with the CMS (r = 0.4) and negatively with the VAS and the modified Roles and Maudsley scale (r = −0.6 and r = −0.5, respectively). Conclusions: ESWT significantly reduces tendon thickness and enhances elasticity, correlating with improvements in pain and functional scores. SWE proved to be a reliable method for monitoring structural and clinical changes in SNCCT. Further research, including randomized controlled trials, is recommended to confirm these findings and explore longer-term outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Exercises in Musculoskeletal Disorders—7th Edition)
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21 pages, 2219 KiB  
Article
Selection of Production Strategies for New Energy Vehicles: An Analysis of the Impact of Government Intervention Policies
by Yingxi Ge and Kehong Chen
Systems 2025, 13(1), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/systems13010061 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 487
Abstract
The aim of this study was to analyze the strategic choices and profit variations of a monopolistic automobile manufacturer capable of producing both traditional fuel vehicles and new energy vehicles, with a particular focus on government interventions. Using a theoretical model, the research [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to analyze the strategic choices and profit variations of a monopolistic automobile manufacturer capable of producing both traditional fuel vehicles and new energy vehicles, with a particular focus on government interventions. Using a theoretical model, the research examined firm-level production decisions by incorporating consumer preferences and market competition under three policy scenarios: no government intervention, government subsidies, and tax policies. The key findings are as follows: (1) In the absence of government intervention, the firm’s production strategy is influenced by consumer preferences for new energy vehicles. Specifically, the firm prioritizes the production of new energy vehicles when consumer preference is high, fuel vehicles when preference is low, and both types when preference is moderate. (2) Government subsidies substantially reduce the production of fuel vehicles while promoting the production of new energy vehicles. However, excessively high subsidies may lead the firm to revert to fuel vehicle production. (3) Tax policies influence production strategies in a manner similar to subsidy policies. (4) When government intervention is weak and competition between fuel vehicles and new energy vehicles is intense, subsidy policies are more effective; however, when competition is less intense, tax policies may be more beneficial. Under strong government intervention, subsidy policies are found to be more effective. This research contributes to the literature by providing a theoretical foundation for government policymaking in the new energy vehicle sector, offering insights into firm-level production decisions under various policy environments. The originality of this study lies in its comparison of the effectiveness of subsidy and tax policies in promoting new energy vehicle production, which helps guide policymakers in designing optimal policy interventions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Supply Chain Management)
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17 pages, 714 KiB  
Article
Scientific Literacy to Address Sustainability: A Study on Deep-Sea Mining Education with Adolescents from a Social Care Institution
by Marta Paz and Clara Vasconcelos
Sustainability 2025, 17(2), 688; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17020688 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 422
Abstract
Pursuing sustainable development is increasingly urgent due to resource depletion and environmental degradation, compounded by the need for a green energy transition requiring significant mineral resources. Traditional mining practices result in several environmental impacts, prompting the exploration of alternatives, like mining the ocean [...] Read more.
Pursuing sustainable development is increasingly urgent due to resource depletion and environmental degradation, compounded by the need for a green energy transition requiring significant mineral resources. Traditional mining practices result in several environmental impacts, prompting the exploration of alternatives, like mining the ocean floor. This method offers a potentially less invasive way to obtain critical minerals. Notwithstanding, our understanding of the ocean ecosystem, which is crucial to Earth’s life support system, is still too limited. This study aimed to assess an educational intervention on sea mining for polymetallic nodules while improving scientific literacy and system thinking and supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 4, 13, and 14. A pre-/post-intervention design was implemented with 17 adolescents (aged 12–16 years) from an underprivileged non-formal context. The mixed-methods approach involved role-playing and modelling activities focused on the question: “Do you agree with mining polymetallic nodules in deep-sea waters”? The Wilcoxon test revealed that the intervention changed participants’ opinions about the theme, showing a statistically significant difference in student responses before and after the intervention (Z = −2.165; p = 0.030). A content analysis showed enhanced argumentation, understanding of Earth’s subsystems, and decision-making abilities. These findings suggest that the educational resource positively impacted students’ scientific literacy on the topic. This approach can be extended to other contexts and inform future investigations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends of Sustainable Environmental Education)
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25 pages, 1208 KiB  
Article
Barriers and Opportunities in Implementing Carbon Neutrality Goals in China’s Heavy Industries
by Bo Shao, Liang Zhang and Syed Ahsan Ali Shah
Sustainability 2025, 17(2), 674; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17020674 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 427
Abstract
The transition to carbon neutrality in China’s heavy industries is essential for mitigating global climate change, given the sector’s significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. This study systematically examines the multifaceted barriers and opportunities influencing decarbonization efforts in these industries. Employing expert-driven methodologies, [...] Read more.
The transition to carbon neutrality in China’s heavy industries is essential for mitigating global climate change, given the sector’s significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. This study systematically examines the multifaceted barriers and opportunities influencing decarbonization efforts in these industries. Employing expert-driven methodologies, including the Delphi method and the best-worst method (BWM), the research identifies and prioritizes critical challenges, such as the high upfront costs for renewable technologies, the technological dependency on coal, and the fragmented regulatory frameworks. It highlights transformative opportunities, emphasizing advancements in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), renewable energy integration, and strengthened carbon pricing mechanisms. The findings reveal the interaction between economic, technological, and policy dimensions, underscoring the need for coordinated interventions to overcome entrenched barriers. The study contributes to theoretical advancements by integrating expert insights with robust multi-criteria decision-making techniques and offers actionable pathways for policymakers and industry stakeholders to accelerate industrial decarbonization. These insights align with international climate objectives, providing a scalable framework for global sustainable transitions in energy-intensive sectors. Full article
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19 pages, 1530 KiB  
Review
Periocular Aging Across Populations and Esthetic Considerations: A Narrative Review
by Brendan K. Tao, Fahad R. Butt, Thanansayan Dhivagaran, Michael Balas, Navdeep Nijhawan, Georges Nassrallah, Ahsen Hussain and Edsel B. Ing
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(2), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14020535 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 482
Abstract
As the face ages, the skin, fat, muscle, and fascia descend, and the underlying bone, cartilage, and teeth may lose mass. Oculofacial aging is a multifactorial process that is influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. This review summarizes the patterns of oculofacial [...] Read more.
As the face ages, the skin, fat, muscle, and fascia descend, and the underlying bone, cartilage, and teeth may lose mass. Oculofacial aging is a multifactorial process that is influenced by genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. This review summarizes the patterns of oculofacial aging that are observed across populations, including variations in periorbital hollowing, eyelid ptosis, and skin elasticity. Evidence indicates significant variability in aging patterns between sex- and race-based subgroups. Nonetheless, there remains a paucity of research on the progression of aging in some under-studied demographic groups. Signs of oculofacial aging often become apparent to patients well before these changes reach full maturity in later years, leading many to seek early esthetic interventions. Others may present with more advanced signs of aging, motivating a diverse range of therapeutic options. We discuss minimally invasive esthetic interventions to mitigate the signs of aging, which may include botulinum toxin injections, dermal fillers, applied energy-based treatments (e.g., lasers), and emerging techniques such as micro-focused ultrasound and platelet-rich plasma therapies. We review evidence on outcomes related to patient satisfaction and quality of life following esthetic interventions for oculofacial aging. Finally, we outline ethical considerations and challenges faced with the delivery of esthetic surgery, including treatment complications and the influence of social media. This review provides a comprehensive overview of oculofacial aging patterns, its management, and important considerations for the provision of esthetic oculofacial treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery)
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19 pages, 1476 KiB  
Review
Sarcopenia and Cardiogeriatrics: The Links Between Skeletal Muscle Decline and Cardiovascular Aging
by Dimitrios Anagnostou, Nikolaos Theodorakis, Christos Hitas, Magdalini Kreouzi, Ioannis Pantos, Georgia Vamvakou and Maria Nikolaou
Nutrients 2025, 17(2), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17020282 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1738
Abstract
Sarcopenia, an age-related decline in skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function, is increasingly recognized as a significant condition in the aging population, particularly among those with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the interplay between sarcopenia and cardiogeriatrics, emphasizing [...] Read more.
Sarcopenia, an age-related decline in skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function, is increasingly recognized as a significant condition in the aging population, particularly among those with cardiovascular diseases (CVD). This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of the interplay between sarcopenia and cardiogeriatrics, emphasizing shared mechanisms such as chronic low-grade inflammation (inflammaging), hormonal dysregulation, oxidative stress, and physical inactivity. Despite advancements in diagnostic frameworks, such as the EWGSOP2 and AWGS definitions, variability in criteria and assessment methods continues to challenge standardization. Key diagnostic tools include dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and bioimpedance analysis (BIA) for muscle mass, alongside functional measures such as grip strength and gait speed. The review highlights the bidirectional relationship between sarcopenia and cardiovascular conditions such as heart failure, aortic stenosis, and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, which exacerbate each other through complex pathophysiological mechanisms. Emerging therapeutic strategies targeting the mTOR pathway, NAD+ metabolism, and senescence-related processes offer promise in mitigating sarcopenia’s progression. Additionally, integrated interventions combining resistance training, nutritional optimization, and novel anti-aging therapies hold significant potential for improving outcomes. This paper underscores critical gaps in the evidence, including the need for longitudinal studies to establish causality and the validation of advanced therapeutic approaches in clinical settings. Future research should leverage multi-omics technologies and machine learning to identify biomarkers and personalize interventions. Addressing these challenges is essential to reducing sarcopenia’s burden and enhancing the quality of life for elderly individuals with comorbid cardiovascular conditions. This synthesis aims to guide future research and promote effective, individualized management strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Geriatric Malnutrition and Frailty)
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17 pages, 1856 KiB  
Article
Effects of Short-Term Low Energy Availability on Metabolism and Performance-Related Parameters in Physically Active Adults
by Jana Nolte, Marius Kirmse, Markus de Marées and Petra Platen
Nutrients 2025, 17(2), 278; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17020278 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 481
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Low energy availability (LEA) can cause impaired reproductive function, bone health issues, and suppressed immune function, and may result in decreased performance and overall health status. The purpose of this study was to investigate adaptions of body composition, blood status, resting metabolic [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Low energy availability (LEA) can cause impaired reproductive function, bone health issues, and suppressed immune function, and may result in decreased performance and overall health status. The purpose of this study was to investigate adaptions of body composition, blood status, resting metabolic rate, and endurance performance to gain more comprehensive insights into the symptoms of LEA and the adaptive effects in the athlete population (active women (n = 11) and men (n = 11)). Methods: Three treatments were defined as 45 (EA45, control), 30 (EA30), and 10 (EA10) kcal/kg FFM/day and randomly assigned. Pre- and post-intervention measurements were performed through blood sampling, bioelectrical impedance analysis, resting metabolic rate measurement, the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and the incremental endurance test to exhaustion. Results: There was a significant reduction in body weight and fat mass in EA10 compared to EA45 (p ≤ 0.05). Blood serum levels were altered in triglyceride, uric acid, and creatinine concentrations in EA10 compared to EA45 (p ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, blood glucose was still accumulated after 120 min during OGTT in EA10 compared to EA45 (p ≤ 0.05). The respiratory exchange ratio was reduced during submaximal stages of the incremental treadmill test to exhaustion without influencing performance output after treatment EA10 (p ≤ 0.05). However, the resting metabolic rate did not change (p > 0.05). Conclusions: In conclusion, this short-term study indicates that energy restriction can lead to several metabolic-related adaptations, which suggests that the availability and regulation of glucose and fats are significantly influenced after only five days of LEA in physically active women and men. Future research should focus on longer exposures of LEA and sex-specific comparisons (including the menstrual cycle) on LEA symptoms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Nutrition and Public Health)
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35 pages, 545 KiB  
Article
Methodology for the Automatic Generation of Optimization Models of Systems of Flexible Energy Resources
by Lukas Peter Wagner, Felix Gehlhoff, Lasse Matthias Reinpold, Georg Frey, Julian Jepsen and Alexander Fay
Energies 2025, 18(2), 325; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18020325 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 411
Abstract
The integration of increasing shares of intermittent renewable energy necessitates flexibility in both energy generation and consumption. Typically, the operation of flexible energy resources is orchestrated through optimization models. However, the manual creation of these models is a complex and error-prone task, often [...] Read more.
The integration of increasing shares of intermittent renewable energy necessitates flexibility in both energy generation and consumption. Typically, the operation of flexible energy resources is orchestrated through optimization models. However, the manual creation of these models is a complex and error-prone task, often requiring the expertise of domain specialists. This work introduces a methodology for the automatic generation of optimization models for systems of flexible energy resources to simplify the modeling process and increase the use of energy flexibility. This methodology utilizes a modular, generic model structure designed to depict systems of flexible energy resources. It incorporates algorithms for model parameter derivation from operational data and an information model that represents the system’s structure and dependencies of resources. The efficacy of this methodology is demonstrated in two case studies, highlighting its relevance and ability to significantly streamline the optimization modeling process by minimizing the need for manual intervention. Full article
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18 pages, 300 KiB  
Review
A Narrative Review of the Interplay Between Carbohydrate Intake and Diabetes Medications: Unexplored Connections and Clinical Implications
by Mabitsela Hezekiel Mphasha and Rajesh Vagiri
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(2), 624; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26020624 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 377
Abstract
This narrative review examines the dynamic interplay between carbohydrate intake and diabetes medications, highlighting their combined molecular and clinical effects on glycemic control. Carbohydrates, a primary energy source, significantly influence postprandial glucose regulation and necessitate careful coordination with pharmacological therapies, including insulin, metformin, [...] Read more.
This narrative review examines the dynamic interplay between carbohydrate intake and diabetes medications, highlighting their combined molecular and clinical effects on glycemic control. Carbohydrates, a primary energy source, significantly influence postprandial glucose regulation and necessitate careful coordination with pharmacological therapies, including insulin, metformin, glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1) receptor agonists, and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors. Low-glycemic-index (GI) foods enhance insulin sensitivity, stabilize glycemic variability, and optimize medication efficacy, while high-GI foods exacerbate glycemic excursions and insulin resistance. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) offers real-time insights to tailor dietary and pharmacological interventions, improving glycemic outcomes and reducing complications. Despite advancements, gaps persist in understanding nutrient–drug interactions, particularly with emerging antidiabetic agents. This review underscores the need for integrating carbohydrate-focused dietary strategies with pharmacotherapy to enhance diabetes management. Future research should prioritize clinical trials leveraging CGM technology to explore how glycemic index, glycemic load, and carbohydrate quality interact with newer diabetes medications. Such studies can refine evidence-based recommendations, support individualized care plans, and improve long-term outcomes. Addressing systemic barriers, such as limited access to dietitians and CGM technology in underserved regions, is critical for equitable care. Expanding the roles of community health workers and training healthcare providers in basic nutrition counseling can bridge gaps, promoting sustainable and inclusive diabetes management strategies. These efforts are essential for advancing personalized, effective, and equitable care for individuals with diabetes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics)
25 pages, 6206 KiB  
Article
Comparative Study on Environmental Impact of Electric Vehicle Batteries from a Regional and Energy Perspective
by Ruiqi Feng, Wei Guo, Chenjie Zhang, Yuxuan Nie and Jiajing Li
Batteries 2025, 11(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/batteries11010023 - 11 Jan 2025
Viewed by 939
Abstract
Against the backdrop of the global goal of “carbon neutrality”, the advancement of electric vehicles (EVs) holds substantial importance for diminishing the reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating vehicular emissions, and fostering the transition of the automotive sector towards a sustainable, low-carbon paradigm. The [...] Read more.
Against the backdrop of the global goal of “carbon neutrality”, the advancement of electric vehicles (EVs) holds substantial importance for diminishing the reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating vehicular emissions, and fostering the transition of the automotive sector towards a sustainable, low-carbon paradigm. The wide application of electric vehicles not only reduces the dependence on non-renewable resources such as oil, but also concurrently effectuates a substantial reduction in carbon emissions within the transportation sector. In the realm of electric vehicles, ternary lithium batteries (NCM) and lithium iron phosphate batteries (LFP) are two widely used batteries. This study examines the resource utilization and environmental repercussions associated with the production of 1 kW ternary lithium batteries and lithium iron phosphate batteries, employing a life cycle assessment (LCA) framework. The importance of clean energy in reducing environmental pollution and global warming potential is revealed by introducing five different power generation types and the regional power generation structure in China into the power battery production process. The findings of the investigation indicate that lithium iron phosphate batteries exhibit pronounced superiority in terms of environmental sustainability, while ternary lithium batteries are more advantageous in terms of performance. The mitigation of environmental pollution associated with battery production can be significantly achieved by the holistic integration of clean energy sources and the systematic optimization of manufacturing processes. Specific interventions encompass enhancing the energy efficiency of the production process, incorporating renewable energy sources for power generation, and minimizing the utilization of hazardous materials. By implementing these strategies, the battery sector can advance towards a more environmentally benign and sustainable trajectory. Full article
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14 pages, 662 KiB  
Review
Hounsfield Unit Utilization in Cervical Spine for Bone Quality Assessment: A Scoping Review
by Riana Lo Bu, Rose Fluss, Yashraj Srivastava, Rafael De la Garza Ramos, Saikiran G. Murthy, Reza Yassari and Yaroslav Gelfand
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(2), 442; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14020442 - 11 Jan 2025
Viewed by 536
Abstract
Bone mineral density (BMD) is an essential indicator of bone strength and plays a crucial role in the clinical management of various spinal pathologies. Hounsfield units (HUs) calculated from computed tomography (CT) scans are a well-established, effective, and non-invasive method to determine bone [...] Read more.
Bone mineral density (BMD) is an essential indicator of bone strength and plays a crucial role in the clinical management of various spinal pathologies. Hounsfield units (HUs) calculated from computed tomography (CT) scans are a well-established, effective, and non-invasive method to determine bone density in the lumbar spine when juxtaposed to dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans, the gold standard for assessing trabecular bone density. Only recently have studies begun to investigate and establish HUs as a reliable and valid alternative for bone quality assessment in the cervical spine as well. In addition, multiple recent studies have identified cervical HUs as an accurate predictor of cage subsidence, an undesired complication of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) of anterior cervical corpectomy and fusion (ACCF) procedures. Subsidence involves migration of the spinal fusion cage into vertebral bodies, causing a loss of disk space, negatively altering spine alignment, and possibly necessitating further unwanted surgical intervention. Using the PRISMA-ScR checklist and the registered scoping review protocol (INPLASY2024100126), this review explores the current research on the use of cervical spine HU measurements as both a determinant of BMD and as a prognosticator of postoperative subsidence following cervical spine procedures (i.e., ACDFs and ACCFs) with the aim of improving clinical and surgical outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Orthopedics)
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40 pages, 3051 KiB  
Review
Navigating the Challenges of Sustainability in the Food Processing Chain: Insights into Energy Interventions to Reduce Footprint
by Orlando Corigliano, Pietropaolo Morrone and Angelo Algieri
Energies 2025, 18(2), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18020296 - 10 Jan 2025
Viewed by 1147
Abstract
This review paper examines the critical intersection of energy consumption and environmental impacts within the global food system, emphasizing the substantial footprint (including land usage, costs, food loss and waste, and carbon and water footprints) associated with current practices. The study delineates the [...] Read more.
This review paper examines the critical intersection of energy consumption and environmental impacts within the global food system, emphasizing the substantial footprint (including land usage, costs, food loss and waste, and carbon and water footprints) associated with current practices. The study delineates the high energy demands and ecological burdens of food production, trade, and consumption through a comprehensive bibliographic analysis of high-impact research papers, authoritative reports, and databases. The paper systematically analyzes and synthesizes data to characterize the food industry’s current energy use patterns and environmental impacts. The results underscore a pressing need for strategic interventions to enhance food system efficiency and reduce the footprint. In light of the projected population growth and increasing food demand, the study advocates for a paradigm shift towards more sustainable and resilient food production practices, adopting energy-efficient technologies, promoting sustainable dietary habits, and strengthening global cooperation among stakeholders to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. Investigations have revealed that the food system is highly energy-intensive, accounting for approximately 30% of total energy consumption (200 EJ per year). The sector remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels. Associated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which constitute 26% of all anthropogenic emissions, have shown a linear growth trend, reaching 16.6 GtCO2eq in 2015 and projected to approach 18.6 GtCO2eq in the coming years. Notably, 6% of these emissions result from food never consumed. While the water footprint has slightly decreased recently, its demand is expected to increase by 20% to 30%, potentially reaching between 5500 and 6000 km3 annually by 2050. Energy efficiency interventions are estimated to save up to 20%, with a favorable payback period, as evidenced by several practical implementations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Energy Efficiency and Environmental Issues)
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16 pages, 1926 KiB  
Review
Redox Metabolism and Autonomic Regulation During Aging: Can Heart Rate Variability Be Used to Monitor Healthy Longevity?
by Olha Yelisyeyeva, Danylo Kaminskyy, Marta Semen, Ilona Chelpanova and Khrystyna O. Semen
Biomedicines 2025, 13(1), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13010161 - 10 Jan 2025
Viewed by 448
Abstract
The functionality of redox metabolism is frequently named as an important contributor to the processes of aging and anti-aging. Excessive activation of free radical reactions accompanied by the inability of the antioxidant defense (AOD) mechanisms to control the flow of the reactive oxygen [...] Read more.
The functionality of redox metabolism is frequently named as an important contributor to the processes of aging and anti-aging. Excessive activation of free radical reactions accompanied by the inability of the antioxidant defense (AOD) mechanisms to control the flow of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) leads to the persistence of oxidative stress, hypoxia, impaired mitochondrial energy function and reduced ATP potential. From a long-term perspective, such changes contribute to the development of chronic diseases and facilitate aging. In turn, preconditioning of a biosystem with small doses of stressful stimuli might cause mobilization of the mechanisms of AOD and control an excessive flow of ROS, which supports optimal functioning of the redox reactions. Those mechanisms are of crucial importance for anti-aging and are also known as a eustress or hormetic response. To ensure continuous support of mild pro-oxidant activity in a metabolic system, close monitoring and timely corrections preventing the development of excessive ROS production are required. The paper introduces the potential of heart rate variability (HRV) as a biomarker of functional and metabolic reserves and a tool to measure stress resilience during aging. The practical approaches to interpretation of HRV are provided based on total power, changes in total power in response to an orthostatic test and activities of all spectral components. It is suggested that the complex of those parameters can reflect the depth of oxidative stress and may be used to guide lifestyle interventions and promote active longevity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Aging and Oxidative Stress)
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14 pages, 570 KiB  
Article
Interdisciplinary Oral Nutrition Support and Supplementation After Hip Fracture Surgery in Older Adult Inpatients: A Global Cross-Sectional Survey (ONS-STUDY)
by Jack Bell, Ruqayyah Turabi, Sissel Urke Olsen, Katie Jane Sheehan and Ólöf Guðný Geirsdóttir
Nutrients 2025, 17(2), 240; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17020240 - 10 Jan 2025
Viewed by 444
Abstract
Background: Malnutrition predicts poor outcomes following hip fracture, affecting patient recovery, healthcare performance, and costs. Evidence-based guidelines recommend multicomponent, interdisciplinary nutrition care to improve intake, reduce complications, and enhance outcomes. This study examines global variation in oral nutrition support for older (65+ years) [...] Read more.
Background: Malnutrition predicts poor outcomes following hip fracture, affecting patient recovery, healthcare performance, and costs. Evidence-based guidelines recommend multicomponent, interdisciplinary nutrition care to improve intake, reduce complications, and enhance outcomes. This study examines global variation in oral nutrition support for older (65+ years) hip fracture inpatients. Methods: A global survey was conducted as part of a broader program to improve interdisciplinary nutrition care. The protocol was based on evidence-based guidelines, reviewed by experts, and piloted for validity. Recruitment used snowball sampling to achieve diversity across income levels, countries, and healthcare roles. Results: The survey (July–September 2023) recruited 308 participants from 46 countries across five global regions. Respondents primarily worked in acute teaching (57.5%) and non-teaching (17.5%) hospitals, representing medical (48.4%), nursing (28.2%), and allied health (17.9%) roles. Findings revealed a global knowledge-to-practice gap in multicomponent nutrition care, across providing high-protein/energy food and fluids (median: “half the time”), post-operative provision of oral nutritional supplements (median: “half the time”) and continuation for one month with assessment (median: “not very often”), and nutritional education (median: “not very often”). Only 17.9% of respondents reported routine provision (“often” and “nearly always or always”) of high-protein/energy food, supplements, and education. Substantial regional variation showed Western Pacific respondents perceiving the lowest provision across multicomponent processes. Interdisciplinary, multicomponent interventions were seen as a potential opportunity requiring further exploration. Conclusions: Major gaps persist in implementing evidence-based, interdisciplinary, multicomponent nutrition care for older adults with hip fractures. A targeted implementation approach is the next step to addressing the knowledge-to-practice gap. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Geriatric Nutrition)
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