Search Results (160)

Background/Objectives: Nutrition during the reproductive years shapes women’s immediate health, fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and long-term offspring well-being. This position paper narratively synthesizes and critically appraises evidence on how dietary patterns, macro-/micronutrients, and supplementation influence women’s health, female fertility, and reproductive outcomes, to inform practical recommendations. Methods: We narratively reviewed recent reviews, cohort studies, clinical trials, and public-health guidance on macronutrients, key micronutrients, dietary patterns (with emphasis on the Mediterranean diet), ultra-processed food (UPF) intake, and targeted supplementation relevant to menstrual, metabolic, cardiovascular, skeletal, and reproductive outcomes. Results: Balanced, diverse diets rich in whole and minimally processed foods support hormonal regulation, ovulatory function, healthy gestation, and chronic-disease risk reduction. Priority nutrients include iron, folate, calcium, vitamin D, zinc, vitamin B12, and long-chain omega-3s (DHA), with supplementation considered when dietary intake or bioavailability is inadequate. Evidence consistently links Mediterranean-style eating to improved metabolic health, insulin sensitivity, IVF success, lower gestational diabetes risk, and favorable neonatal outcomes. High UPF consumption is associated with poorer diet quality, inflammation, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and potential reproductive impairment, warranting a reduction in favor of nutrient-dense foods. Diet also influences cardiovascular and bone health through effects on lipids, glycemia, blood pressure, and mineral/vitamin status, with fiber-rich carbohydrates, unsaturated fats (notably olive oil), and adequate calcium–vitamin D emerging as central levers. Conclusions: For women of childbearing age, a Mediterranean-aligned, minimally processed dietary pattern—tailored to individual needs and complemented by prudent use of folate, iron, vitamin D, calcium, B12, and DHA when indicated—offers robust benefits across reproductive, metabolic, cardiovascular, and skeletal domains. Public-health actions should improve access to healthy foods, curb UPF marketing, and embed personalized nutrition counseling in routine care; further longitudinal research from preconception through postpartum is needed. Full article

Hypertension (HTN) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are significant global health burdens, with microalbuminuria (MA) serving as a key early marker of renal damage and cardiovascular risk. While nutritional interventions are pivotal for management, the evidence for specific nutrients is often complex and inconsistent, creating challenges for clinical guidance. This review critically evaluates current evidence on the interaction among macronutrients, micronutrients, and established dietary approaches and their influence on the development and course of HTN and MA. Strong consensus is present regarding sodium restriction, increased intakes of potassium, and the implementation of dietary patterns like Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) and the Mediterranean diet to improve blood pressure and renal outcomes. Evidence favors protein moderation (approximately 0.8 g/kg/day), especially from plant sources, and emphasizes carbohydrate quality (e.g., high fiber, low glycemic index) over absolute quantity. The role of micronutrients is more nuanced; maintaining vitamin D sufficiency is protective, but intervention trials for many supplements, including B vitamins and antioxidant vitamins (C and E), have yielded inconsistent results. Several minerals, such as iron and selenium, exhibit a U-shaped risk curve where both deficiency and excess are detrimental, highlighting the risks of unselective supplementation. Ideal nutrition care prioritizes holistic dietary patterns over a focus on single nutrients. Clinical guidance should be founded on sodium reduction and potassium-rich foods, with personalized recommendations for protein and micronutrient supplementation based on an individual’s specific cardiovascular and renal profile. Future research must target nutrients with conflicting evidence to establish clear, evidence-based intake guidelines. Full article

Sand-based thermal energy storage systems represent a paradigm shift in sustainable energy solutions, leveraging Earth’s most abundant mineral resource through advanced nanocomposite engineering. This review examines sand-based phase change materials (PCM) systems with emphasis on integration with human-powered energy generation (HPEG). Silicon-based hierarchical pore structures provide multiscale thermal conduction pathways while achieving PCM loading capacities exceeding 90%. Carbon-based nanomaterial doping enhances thermal conductivity by up to 269%, reaching 3.1 W/m·K while maintaining phase change enthalpies above 130 J/g. This demonstrated cycling stability exceeds 1000 thermal cycles with <8% capacity degradation. Thermal energy storage costs reach ~$20 kWh⁻¹—60% lower than lithium-ion systems when normalized by usable heat capacity. Integration with triboelectric nanogenerators achieves 55% peak mechanical-to-electrical conversion efficiency for direct pathways, while thermal-buffered systems provide 8–12% end-to-end efficiency with temporal decoupling between intermittent human power input and stable electrical output. Miniaturized systems target off-grid communities, offering 5–10× cost advantages over conventional batteries for resource-constrained deployments. Levelized storage costs remain competitive despite efficiency penalties versus lithium-ion alternatives. Critical challenges, including thermal cycling degradation, energy-power density trade-offs, and environmental adaptability, are systematically analyzed. Future directions explore biomimetic multi-level pore designs, intelligent responsive systems, and distributed microgrid implementations. Full article

Accurate phase identification is essential for characterising complex mineral systems but remains a challenge in SEM-based automated mineralogy (AM) for compositionally variable rock-forming or accessory minerals. While platforms such as the Tescan Integrated Mineral Analyzer (TIMA) offer high-resolution phase mapping through BSE-EDS data, classification accuracy depends on the quality of the user-defined phase library. Generic libraries often fail to capture site-specific mineral compositions, resulting in misclassification and unclassified pixels, particularly in systems with solid solution behaviour, compositional zoning, and textural complexity. We present a refined approach to developing and validating custom TIMA phase libraries. We outline strategies for iterative rule refinement using mineral chemistry, textures, and BSE-EDS responses. Phase assignments were validated using complementary microanalytical techniques, primarily electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS). Three Queensland case studies demonstrate this approach: amphiboles in an IOCG deposit; cobalt-bearing phases in a sediment-hosted Cu-Au-Co deposit; and Li-micas in an LCT pegmatite system. Targeted refinement of phases improves identification, reduces unclassified phases, and enables rare phase recognition. Expert-guided phase library development strengthens mineral systems research and downstream applications in geoscience, ore deposits, and critical minerals while integrating datasets across scales from cores to mineral mapping. Full article

CYP24A1, a mitochondrial cytochrome P450 enzyme, plays a critical role in the catabolism of active vitamin D metabolites and is a key regulator of local vitamin D signaling in the small intestine. While traditionally studied in the context of renal physiology, increasing evidence highlights its distinct regulatory mechanisms and functional significance within the intestinal epithelium. This review explores the molecular architecture, tissue-specific expression patterns, and multifactorial regulation of CYP24A1 in enterocytes, encompassing nuclear receptor signaling, epigenetic and post-transcriptional control, and environmental influences such as inflammation, diet, and the gut microbiota. We discuss how intestinal CYP24A1 modulates the expression of vitamin D target genes involved in transcellular calcium absorption and epithelial barrier function, and how its dysregulation contributes to gastrointestinal disorders including inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, microbiota dysbiosis, and colorectal cancer. In addition, we examine preclinical and translational evidence supporting CYP24A1 as a potential therapeutic target. Emerging strategies such as selective enzyme inhibitors, microbiota modulation, RNA-based technologies, and personalized supplementation approaches are considered in the context of restoring local vitamin D bioactivity and mineral homeostasis. Together, this review underscores the clinical importance of intestinal CYP24A1 and highlights novel opportunities for targeted interventions in vitamin D-responsive gastrointestinal pathologies. Full article

Background/Objectives: X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) is the most common form of inherited rickets, caused by pathogenic mutations in the PHEX gene (phosphate-regulating endopeptidase homolog, X-linked). These mutations increase fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) activity, resulting in renal phosphate wasting and defective bone mineralization. The disorder manifests with variable skeletal, dental, and extraskeletal involvement. Conventional therapy with oral phosphate and active vitamin D offers limited benefit, whereas burosumab, an anti-FGF23 monoclonal antibody, has transformed disease management. Methods: The index case, a 43-year-old woman, remained undiagnosed until adulthood, leading to severe deformities, osteoarthritis, chronic pain, and complete edentulism. Her 55-year-old sister presented with a milder phenotype. The 20-year-old nephew, diagnosed in childhood and intermittently treated with phosphate and alfacalcidol, developed short stature, genu varum, and early degenerative joint disease. Following genetic confirmation, he began burosumab therapy, which normalized phosphate metabolism, reduced pain, and improved mobility. Results: XLH demonstrates marked intrafamilial phenotypic variability despite identical PHEX mutations. In this series, delayed recognition in adults led to irreversible skeletal deformities, osteoarthritis, and dental loss, whereas earlier diagnosis in the younger patient allowed timely intervention. Conventional therapy only partially mitigated complications, while burosumab achieved rapid biochemical correction and symptomatic improvement. This contrast highlights the importance of early genetic testing, family screening, and prompt initiation of targeted treatment. Conclusions: This family cluster underscores the critical need for early diagnosis, genetic confirmation, cascade screening, and lifelong multidisciplinary care. Burosumab represents a therapeutic paradigm shift in XLH, capable of altering disease trajectory when initiated early. Full article

The persistent contamination of water bodies by organic compounds, heavy metals, and pathogenic microorganisms represents a critical environmental and public health concern worldwide. In this context, polymer composite materials have emerged as promising multifunctional platforms for advanced water purification. These materials combine the structural versatility of natural and synthetic polymers with the enhanced physicochemical functionalities of inorganic fillers, such as metal oxides and clay minerals. This review comprehensively analyzes recent developments in polymer composites designed to remove organic, inorganic, and biological pollutants from water systems. Emphasis is placed on key removal mechanisms, adsorption, ion exchange, photocatalysis, and antimicrobial action, alongside relevant synthesis strategies and material properties that influence performance, such as surface area, porosity, functional group availability, and mechanical stability. Representative studies are examined to illustrate contaminant-specific composite designs and removal efficiencies. Despite significant advancements, challenges remain regarding scalability, material regeneration, and the environmental safety of nanostructured components. Future perspectives highlight the potential of bio-based and stimuli-responsive polymers, hybrid systems, and AI-assisted material design in promoting sustainable, efficient, and targeted water purification technologies. Full article

Soil organic carbon (SOC) is a critical component of soil health, influencing soil structure, soil water retention capacity, and nutrient cycling while playing a key role in the global carbon cycle. Accurate SOC estimation over croplands is essential for sustainable land management and climate change mitigation. This study explores a novel approach to SOC estimation using multi-frequency synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data, specifically Sentinel-1 and ALOS-2/PALSAR-2 imagery, combined with advanced machine learning techniques for cropland SOC estimation. Diverse agricultural practices, with major crop types such as rice (Oryza sativa), finger millet (Eleusine coracana), Niger (Guizotia abyssinica), maize (Zea mays), and vegetable cultivation, characterize the study region. By integrating C-band (Sentinel-1) and L-band (ALOS-2/PALSAR-2) SAR data with key polarimetric features such as the C2 matrix, entropy, and degree of polarization, this study enhances SOC estimation. These parameters help distinguish variations in soil moisture, texture, and mineral composition, reducing their confounding effects on SOC estimation. An ensemble model incorporating Random Forest (RF) and neural networks (NNs) was developed to capture the complex relationships between SAR data and SOC. The NN component effectively models complex non-linear relationships, while the RF model helps prevent overfitting. The proposed model achieved a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.64 and a root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.18, demonstrating its predictive capability. In summary, our results offer an efficient approach for enhanced SOC mapping in diverse agricultural landscapes, with ongoing work targeting challenges in data availability to facilitate large-scale SOC mapping. Full article

A large-scale sandstone-type uranium deposit, recently discovered within the petroleum field of the Jingchuan area on the southwestern margin of the Ordos Basin, exemplifies a classic case of uranium exploration success achieved through the analysis of petroleum geological data including borehole logs. By synthesizing borehole radioactive logs and seismic surveys, we delineated target sandstone geometry, connectivity, and ore-controlling structures (e.g., paleochannels, redox interfaces). This study establishes a novel methodology for sandstone-type uranium exploration in petroliferous basins, unifying geophysical and geochemical datasets to define drill-validated targets. We integrated detailed core logging, petrography, and assay data to delineate the deposit’s geology. This included the host strata composition, ore-body morphology, mineralogy, and alteration assemblages. Our analysis identified the critical controls on mineralization: sandbody architecture, structural framework, and redox zonation. Based on these constraints, we constructed a genetic metallogenic model. Furthermore, we elucidated the mechanistic role of hydrocarbons in uranium mineralization and demonstrated the strategic potential of repurposing legacy oilfield data for synergistic uranium targeting. The Jingchuan uranium deposit provides both an exploration blueprint and theoretical foundations for uranium targeting in analogous sedimentary basins. Full article

Groundwater quality is a key factor and a critical determinant of public health, agriculture, and socio-economic development, particularly in regions where private wells and mineral springs constitute the primary water sources. This study presents an integrated hydrochemical, radiological, and toxicological assessment of groundwater in the Sângeorz-Băi area, Romania, a spa region where mineral waters hold both therapeutic and economic significance. Samples from mineral springs, the municipal supply system, and private wells were analyzed to evaluate compliance with national and international standards and to assess their suitability for drinking, therapeutic, and agricultural purposes. The results reveal distinct hydrochemical contrasts between sources. Mineral springs are characterized by elevated salinity, hardness, and Na–HCO₃ facies, whereas the municipal network and private wells are dominated by Ca–HCO₃ facies. More than half of the private wells exceeded permissible limits for NO₃⁻, NO₂⁻, NH₄⁺, Pb, and Fe, with one well posing a significant nitrite-related health risk. Trace metal analysis indicated localized enrichment in Cu, Fe, and Pb. Radon and radium activities generally complied with regulations, although radium occasionally exceeded the more stringent WHO guidelines. Seasonal variation was minimal, reflecting stable groundwater chemistry. Health risk and irrigation assessments suggest that municipal supply water is largely safe for consumption, while private wells require targeted monitoring and mitigation. Despite elevated Na⁺ and Cl⁻, mineral springs retain therapeutic value under controlled use. This study provides a replicable framework for groundwater quality assessment in spa regions and offers critical insights for public health protection, sustainable tourism, and agricultural resilience. Full article

Conventional separation methods often prove ineffective for complex, refractory high-phosphorus iron ores. Recent advances propose a coal-based direct reduction dephosphorization-magnetic separation process, achieving significant dephosphorization efficiency. This review systematically analyzes phosphorus occurrence states in high-phosphorus oolitic iron ores across global deposits, particularly within iron minerals. We categorize contemporary research and elucidate dephosphorization mechanisms during coal-based direct reduction. Key factors influencing iron mineral phase transformation, iron enrichment, and phosphorus removal are comprehensively evaluated. Phosphorus primarily exists as apatite and collophane gangue m horization agents function by: (1) inhibiting phosphorus-bearing mineral reactions or binding phosphorus into soluble salts to prevent incorporation into metallic iron; (2) enhancing iron oxide reduction and coal gasification; (3) disrupting oolitic structures, promoting metallic iron particle growth, and improving the intergrowth relationship between metallic iron and gangue. Iron mineral phase transformations follow the sequence: Fe₂O₃ → Fe₃O₄ → FeO (FeAl₂O₄, Fe₂SiO₄) → Fe. Critical parameters for effective dephosphorization under non-reductive phosphorus conditions include reduction temperature, duration, reductant/dephosphorization agent types/dosages. Future research should focus on: (1) investigating phosphorus forms in iron minerals for targeted ore utilization; (2) reducing dephosphorization agent consumption and developing sustainable alternatives; (3) refining models for metallic iron growth and improving energy efficiency; (4) optimizing reduction atmosphere control; (5) implementing low-carbon emission strategies. Full article

Background and Objectives: Breast cancer (BC) is a complex disease requiring a comprehensive treatment approach due to its diverse characteristics. Critical molecular determinants of BC have been identified using advanced genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic approaches. Assessing the biomarkers associated with the onset of early-stage BC may help identify the risk of metastasis and inform treatment decisions. A previous bioinformatic analysis using two large BC cohorts identified pumilio RNA binding family member 1 (PUM1) as a key gene in invasive BC. However, no study has yet examined the prognostic and predictive value of PUM1 in invasive BC and its correlation with aggressive tumor behavior. This study aimed to fill this need. Materials and Methods: Correlations between PUM1 expression and patients’ clinicopathological characteristics and outcomes were explored in publicly available BC transcriptomic data acquired using DNA microarrays (n = 10,872) and RNA sequencing (n = 4421) using BC Gene-Expression Miner v5.0. PUM1 expression in samples from 100 patients with invasive BC at King Abdul Aziz Specialist Hospital, Saudi Arabia, was assessed immunohistochemically. Correlations between PUM1 expression and patients’ clinicopathological characteristics (e.g., age, tumor grade, tumor size, and outcome) were assessed. The online platform ROC Plotter was also used to investigate the predictive significance of PUM1. Results: High PUM1 gene and protein expression correlated positively with aggressive features of BC, including high histological grade, high Ki-67 expression, negative hormone receptors, and the triple-negative BC molecular subtype. High PUM1 expression correlated with poor outcomes, and high PUM1 expression was associated with a lower pathological complete response to anti-endocrine treatment but a high response to chemotherapy. Conclusions: These results indicate that PUM1 may serve as a potential prognostic and predictive biomarker in patients with invasive BC. PUM1 may serve as a therapeutic target in BC cases with unfavorable prognoses. However, further validation in larger, multi-center cohorts and further functional assessment are required to deepen our understanding of PUM1’s role in BC. Full article

Iron detection is of growing importance in the critical minerals sector, where unwanted iron ions are typically removed during the processing of target critical metals. The ideal sensor should utilize inexpensive, scalable materials along with a low-cost, robust, and easy-to-use analysis platform. Here, we demonstrate a simple acid–base synthesis of luminescent iron-responsive carbon dots by reacting ethanolamine, phosphoric acid, and m-phenylenediamine. The carbon dots exhibit selective, iron-specific emission quenching, with the ability to detect part-per-billion levels of iron ions even in 0.1 M HCl. After benchmarking the purified materials using a commercial spectrometer, a “low-cost” process is demonstrated in which carbon dots with minimal purification are coupled with a portable fiber-optic spectrometer for analyzing iron content. Carbon dot-coated paper strips are also evaluated as another convenient platform for iron analysis. Taken together, the sensing material and platforms demonstrated here are well-suited for detecting trace quantities of iron in environmentally relevant conditions, with potential applications in tracking iron removal processes during critical mineral production as one exciting area of interest. Full article

Background/Objectives: While oral nutritional supplements (ONSs) are known to support general growth in undernourished children, their specific effects on body composition and bone health remain underexplored. This manuscript evaluates the impact of ONS combined with dietary counselling (DC) on these outcomes in Indian children aged 3 to 6.9 years at nutritional risk, within the framework of a larger randomized controlled trial assessing multiple growth parameters. Methods: This prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted among Indian children, both male and female participants with picky eating habits and at risk of undernutrition, aged 3 to 6.9 years (height-for-age and weight-for-height below the 25th percentile per WHO Growth Standards and Growth Reference). Participants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either ONS + DC or DC alone for 6 months. Body composition, bone mineral density (BMD), and bone mineral content (BMC) were measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) at baseline and after 6 months. Group differences were analyzed to evaluate intervention effects. Results: A total of 223 children were enrolled and randomized. At 6 months, the test group showed significantly greater improvements in BMD (0.023 g/cm²) compared to the control (0.017 g/cm²; p = 0.004), and a greater gain in BMC (36.60 g vs. 28.48 g; p =0.0007). Lean mass increased significantly more in the test group (926.33 g) versus the control (801.48 g; p = 0.0401). Fat mass showed a numerical reduction in the test group (−171.42 g) compared with the control group (−114.60 g), although this difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential of targeted nutritional interventions to favorably improve body composition and bone health during critical growth periods in undernourished children, offering a promising approach to address early-life nutritional deficits with lasting health benefits. Full article

The challenges of climate change require in-depth attention and targeted strategies for specific sectors, such as energy and mining. Within the mining sector, climate change imposes constraints on the sustainable extraction of minerals, thereby heightening the importance of several minerals in addressing these challenges. Chile emerges as a pivotal nation due to its substantial reserves of copper, lithium, cobalt, nickel, and graphite, which are essential for energy transition and decarbonization processes. Consequently, Chile must foster gradual processes to establish competitive advantages based on technological and innovative capabilities, thus projecting a competitive and sustainable mining industry. This endeavor should be accompanied by enhancements in policies and instruments to guide development, expanding local value creation. This study examines the global challenges faced by the mining sector in the context of the energy transition and evaluates Chile’s response through an assessment of public policies for mining development. It provides an analysis of the scope of various public policy instruments to establish the link between international agreements and development opportunities, subsequently proposing a series of indicators to assess policy progress. To this end, the Environmental Observatory of Mining Projects is developing indicators to evaluate compliance with these policies. In addressing the nation’s challenges related to green and sustainable mining, 20 indicators have been developed in collaboration with civil society and public and private stakeholders through a design thinking process. These indicators enable the evaluation of aspects such as air quality, water quality, and the surface area affected by tailings, among others. The initial section of the document outlines the global challenges in achieving the carbon neutrality goals set by the IPCC. The subsequent section elaborates on the theoretical framework of the research, addressing theories of economic development and sustainability, public policy approaches considered in recent years, as well as the governance of mining development, with an emphasis on its capacity to articulate industrial policies, promote environmental sustainability, and foster technological innovation. The third section details the research methodology and framework of the study. This study examines how Chile’s mining policies align with the global energy transition. Amid growing demand for critical minerals, climate change, and decarbonization, Chile faces both opportunities and socio-environmental risks. Addressing these challenges requires integrated sustainability strategies and an active state role to ensure inclusive, environmentally responsible, and innovation-driven mining development. Full article