Search Results (4,677)

The depletion of natural resources and the increasing interest in reducing CO₂ emissions have heightened the demand for alternative materials in concrete production. A viable approach is to lower the clinker-to-cementitious materials ratio by partially replacing clinker with supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) and/or alternative materials such as aggregate mineral fillers (AMFs). As the availability of SCMs is expected to decline, AMFs have been increasingly explored, including those derived from aggregate processing and susceptible to alkali-aggregate reaction (AAR). However, the behaviour of AAR-reactive AMFs in concrete remains poorly understood. This paper summarizes the current state of the art and identifies knowledge gaps concerning the use of AAR-reactive AMFs, focusing on the roles of mineralogy, particle size, replacement content, and the test methods used to assess AAR-induced development and associated microscopic and mechanical deterioration. A consistent terminology is also proposed to support future research. Finally, a theoretical foundation to understand the role of AAR-reactive AMFs in mortar and concrete is provided, and the key knowledge gaps are discussed. Full article

Small ruminant production is increasingly affected by heat stress, with recent heat waves highlighting growing economic and welfare-related challenges. Chronic exposure to elevated temperatures disrupts thermoregulation, reduces feed intake, slows growth, compromises meat quality, and increases mortality. This study evaluated the effects of chromium-yeast supplementation at different doses and timepoints on physiological and molecular stress biomarkers in heat-stressed lambs. Forty-eight clinically healthy 6-month-old Katahdin lambs (average weight 20 ± 2.9 kg) were assigned to a 2 × 4 factorial design, with two ambient temperature conditions (heat stress [HS] and thermoneutral [TN]) and four levels of dietary Cr-yeast (0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.8 mg/kg of dry matter intake). Lambs were housed individually in pens (1.2 × 2.5 m), with ad libitum access to water, and fed a 50:50 corn silage and concentrate diet (excluding mineral premix) twice daily. Blood samples were collected at days 0, 30, and 60 to evaluate plasma cortisol and the expression of hsp60 and hsp70. Chromium bioavailability was assessed by blood levels using absorption chromatography, and glucose clearance was measured at the end of the experiment. Significant reductions in cortisol and hsp70 expression were observed after 30 days of Cr-yeast supplementation under HS conditions (p < 0.05), particularly at the highest dose. For hsp60, a significant reduction was observed at the highest dose on day 30 under HS (p < 0.05). These effects were not sustained on day 60 (p > 0.05). No significant differences were detected under TN conditions (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that Cr-yeast may offer short-term physiological and cellular protection against chronic heat stress in lambs. Full article

The growing demand for sustainable, nutritionally adequate plant-based foods has driven innovation in meat analogues. This study presents a novel approach to upcycling potato juice protein—a by-product of starch production—into plant-based gyros (PBG) enriched with iron and dietary fiber. Four formulations (PBG1-PBG4) were developed using a blend of potato, rice, wheat, and pea proteins, and fortified with either ferritin-rich sprout powder or ferrous sulfate. Comprehensive analyses were conducted to assess nutritional composition, mineral content, glycoalkaloid safety, antioxidant activity, texture, water mobility, sensory appeal, and microbiological stability. All variants met high-protein labeling criteria and exhibited favorable fiber and mineral profiles. In vitro digestion significantly enhanced antioxidant bioaccessibility, particularly phenolic acids. Sensory evaluations favored ferritin-enriched variants, which also demonstrated superior texture and consumer acceptance. Microbiological assessments confirmed safety for up to 10 days under refrigeration. These findings highlight the potential of potato juice protein as a sustainable, functional ingredient in next-generation plant-based meat analogues. Full article

The construction of prefabricated concrete houses in Ecuador poses significant challenges in terms of environmental and social sustainability, amid growing housing demand and the urgent need to mitigate adverse impacts associated with the construction processes and materials. In particular, the lack of a comprehensive assessment of these impacts limits the development of effective strategies to improve the sustainability of the sector. In addition, in rural areas, the design of flexible and adapted solutions is required, as evidenced by recent studies in the Andean area. This study conducts a comprehensive assessment of the impacts and sustainability indicators for prefabricated concrete houses, employing international certification systems such as LEED, BREEAM, and VERDE, to validate various relevant environmental and social indicators. The methodology used is the Hierarchical Analytical Process (AHP), which facilitates the prioritization of impacts through paired comparisons, establishing priorities for decision-making. Hydrological, soil, faunal, floral, and socioeconomic aspects are evaluated in a regional context. The results reveal that the most critical environmental impacts in Ecuador are climate change (28.77%), water depletion (13.73%) and loss of human health (19.17%), generation of non-hazardous waste 8.40%, changes in biodiversity 5%, extraction of mineral resources 12.07%, financial risks 5.33%, loss of aquatic life 4.67%, and loss of fertility 3%, as derived from hierarchical and standardization matrices. Despite being grounded in a literature review and being constrained due to the scarcity of previous projects in the country, this research provides a useful framework for the environmental evaluation and planning of prefabricated housing. To conclude, this study enhances existing methodologies of environmental assessment techniques and practices in the construction of precast concrete and promotes the development of sustainable and socially responsible housing in Ecuador. Full article

Osteoporosis is a common disease characterized by a reduction in bone mineral density (BMD), leading to an increased risk of pathological fractures and even mortality. Although menopause is a major risk factor, osteoporosis can also occur in premenopausal women. The aim of this study was to identify genetic variants associated with the development of osteoporosis in Korean premenopausal women. Subjects were recruited from the Anseong and Ansan cohorts of the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study (KoGES). Clinical and epidemiological characteristics were assessed, and participants were classified based on BMD values measured at the distal radius and mid-shaft tibia. Individuals with confounding risk factors such as low body weight, smoking, high alcohol consumption, steroid/hormone therapy, or relevant medical history were excluded. A total of 247 healthy controls and 57 osteoporosis patients were included. Genotyping was performed using the Illumina Infinium HumanExome BeadChip and the Affymetrix Axiom Exome Array. Data were analyzed using the SNP and Variation Suite and PLINK, with quality control thresholds set at MAF ≥ 0.05 and HWE p ≥ 0.01. Functional annotation and protein structure predictions were performed using PolyPhen-2, SIFT, and PROVEAN. Genome-wide association analyses identified 113 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 69 genes significantly associated with osteoporosis (p < 0.05) in both platforms, with 18 SNPs showing high cross-platform consistency (p < 0.01). Several of these genes were implicated in bone metabolism (e.g., ESRRG, PECAM1, COL6A5), vitamin D metabolism (e.g., NADSYN1, EFTUD1), skeletal muscle function (e.g., PACSIN2, ESRRG), and reproductive processes (e.g., CPEB1, EFCAB6, ASXL3). Notably, the CPEB1 rs783540 SNP exhibited the strongest association (p < 0.001) in both analyses. Our findings suggest that genetic polymorphisms in pathways related to bone metabolism, vitamin D signaling, muscle–bone interaction, and reproductive hormone regulation may contribute to the development of osteoporosis in Korean premenopausal women. These results provide a genetic basis for early identification of at-risk individuals and warrant further functional studies to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Full article

Phosphorus (P) stock scarcity is driving the need to develop alternatives to mineral fertilizers. The growing production of insects for high-protein feed results in significant amounts of residues (frass), which can be used as fertilizers. However, its efficiency as such a basic indicator for promoting the recycling of these residues has been rarely assessed. This work aimed to evaluate the efficiency of frass as a P fertilizer. To this end a study was conducted involving P fractionation of frass from two different species (TM: Tenebrio molitor and BSF: black soldier fly or Hermetia illucens) together with vermicompost and a 48-day pot experiment with lettuce (Lactuca sativa). In both frasses, water-soluble P and organic P accounted for more than 30% and 50% of total P, respectively. These P fractions explained the short- and long-term effects of frasses as P fertilizer, which showed a higher P use efficiency than mineral phosphate and vermicompost, with mineral fertilizer replacement values (MFRVs) of 150 and 180% for BSF and TM frass, respectively. Additionally, frass increased P bioavailability in soils more than superphosphate and boosted C and P cycling, thereby enhancing the soil P availability to plants. Therefore, frasses can be effective alternatives to mineral P fertilizers which also contribute to the enhancement of soil health indicators. Full article

Biochar (BC), derived from wood biomass through pyrolysis, exhibits properties that make it a promising additive in mortars for sustainable construction. This study investigated the influence of biochar produced at three pyrolysis temperatures (450 °C, 550 °C, and 700 °C) on the performance of cementitious adhesive mortars. The evaluation encompassed physicochemical characterization, mechanical and adhesive strength, volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions, leachability of contaminants, and a life-cycle assessment (LCA). The results demonstrate that biochar obtained at 700 °C has the highest carbon content, an alkaline pH, and increased porosity. In contrast, biochar produced at 450 °C exhibits better sorption capacity and a higher concentration of functional groups. Incorporating 1–5% BC (produced at any temperature) improves mortar performance; however, higher doses negatively affect adhesion to expanded polystyrene board (EPS) and concrete. Emissions of VOCs and leachable metals largely remained within environmental threshold values, with only isolated instances of exceedance. The LCA revealed that substituting mineral fillers with biochar could reduce the carbon footprint by up to 35% compared to the reference formulation. These findings confirm biochar’s potential as a safe and environmentally beneficial component in low-emission construction materials, aligning with the principles of the circular economy and climate-neutral goals. Full article

Introduction: Tertiary hyperparathyroidism following kidney transplantation is a well-recognized complication in patients with pre-existing mineral imbalances due to chronic renal failure. Parathyroidectomy remains the only definitively curative option for tertiary hyperparathyroidism. The optimal timing of parathyroidectomy, before or after transplantation, is debated in the literature. This study aims to assess whether parathyroidectomy timing affects the successful resolution of tertiary hyperparathyroidism in patients with a functional kidney transplant. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of the available literature collating the effect of pre- versus post-transplantation parathyroidectomy on the resolution of tertiary hyperparathyroidism. We compared the follow-up parathyroid hormone and calcium levels of patients subjected to either of these two approaches. Results: Three studies were identified, encompassing a total of 223 patients. The meta-analysis of available data yielded no statistically significant difference between pre- and post-kidney transplantation parathyroidectomy in terms of serum parathyroid hormone (SMD −0.19, 95% CI −0.92 to 0.55, p = 0.62) and calcium levels (SMD −0.75, 95% CI −2.30 to 0.80, p = 0.35). Conclusions: We demonstrated no significant difference between pre- and post-transplantation parathyroidectomy when it comes to the treatment of tertiary hyperparathyroidism. This meta-analysis is limited by the small number of studies included, reducing its statistical power. Therefore, additional studies are required to identify the optimal timing of intervention for the effective management of tertiary hyperparathyroidism in kidney transplant recipients. Full article

Background/Objectives: The relationship between dairy consumption and cardiovascular or bone health outcomes remains controversial, with inconsistent findings across existing meta-analyses. In this study, we aimed to systematically evaluate and synthesize the evidence from published meta-analyses on dairy consumption and cardiovascular and bone health outcomes in adults, and to conduct updated meta-analyses incorporating recently published prospective cohort studies. Methods: We performed an umbrella review following PRISMA guidelines, searching published and grey literature up to April 2024. Meta-analyses evaluating dairy intake and its impact on cardiovascular and bone health outcomes were included. Updated meta-analyses were conducted for cardiovascular outcomes, while bone health outcomes were synthesized qualitatively. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Random-effects models were applied, and heterogeneity, small-study effects, excess significance, and prediction intervals were evaluated. Results: We included 33 meta-analyses (26 on cardiovascular, 7 on bone health outcomes). Updated meta-analyses showed that total dairy (RR: 0.96), milk (RR: 0.97), and yogurt (RR: 0.92) were significantly associated with reduced CVD risk. Total dairy and low-fat dairy were inversely linked to hypertension (RRs: 0.89, 0.87), and milk and low-fat dairy were associated with reduced stroke risk. Small-study effects were absent for most associations. Credibility was rated as “weak” for most associations, with total dairy and stroke, and total dairy and hypertension showing "suggestive" evidence. For bone health, dairy—especially milk—was linked to higher bone mineral density (BMD). Evidence on osteoporosis risk was mixed, and while total dairy and milk showed inconsistent associations with fractures, cheese and yogurt showed more consistent protective effects. Limited evidence suggested milk may reduce bone resorption markers. Conclusions: This review suggests that dairy consumption, particularly milk and yogurt, is modestly associated with reduced cardiovascular risk, while dairy intake appears to benefit BMD and fracture prevention. However, further research is needed to confirm these associations. Full article

The present study explores the sustainable potential of volcanic ash sourced from the active Sakurajima volcano (Japan) as an eco-friendly alternative to Portland cement—a binder known for its high carbon emissions—in concrete and mortar production. The abundant pyroclastic material, currently a waste burden for the residents of Sakurajima and the Kagoshima Bay region, presents a unique opportunity for valorization in line with circular economy principles. Rather than treating this ash as a disposal problem, the research investigates its transformation into a valuable supplementary cementitious material (SCM), contributing to more sustainable construction practices. The investigation focused on the material characterization of the ash (including chemical composition, morphology, and PSD) and its pozzolanic activity index, which is a key indicator of its suitability as a cement replacement. Mortars were prepared with 25% of the commercial binder replaced by volcanic ash—both in its raw form and after mechanical activation—and tested for compressive strength after 28 and 90 days of water curing. Additional assessments included workability of the fresh mix (flow table test), apparent density, and flexural strength of the hardened composites. Tests results showed that the applied volcanic ash did not influence the workability of the mix and showed negligible effect on the apparent density (changes of up to 3.3%), although the mechanical strength was deteriorated (decrease by 15–33% after 7 days, and by 25–26% after 28 days). However, further investigation revealed that the simple mechanical grinding significantly enhances the pozzolanic reactivity of Sakurajima ash. The ground ash achieved a 28-day activity index of 81%, surpassing the 75% threshold set by EN 197-1 and EN 450-1 standards for type II mineral additives. These findings underscore the potential for producing low-carbon mortars and concretes using locally sourced volcanic ash, supporting both emissions reduction and sustainable resource management in construction. Full article

Background: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystemic disorder caused by CFTR gene mutations, leading to impaired protein function and affecting pulmonary, gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary, skeletal, and nutritional health. The advent of CFTR modulators—especially the triple therapy elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI)—has revolutionized clinical management, offering genotype-specific benefits beyond pulmonary outcomes. Pediatric gastroenterologists must now recognize and address emerging gastrointestinal and nutritional challenges introduced by modulator therapy. Methods: A narrative review was conducted to assess the impact of CFTR modulators on gastrointestinal function, nutritional status, bone health, and hepatobiliary involvement in pediatric patients. A structured literature search was performed using PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus databases. Filters included articles in English or Spanish. Following full-text review based on relevance and quality, 68 articles were selected for inclusion in this review. Results: CFTR modulators have demonstrated potential improvements in gastrointestinal function, nutrient absorption, weight gain, and bone mineral density. In pediatric populations, ETI therapy has been associated with early increases in lean mass, enhanced vitamin levels, and promising trends in bone microarchitecture. However, variable outcomes regarding liver function and bone mineral density highlight the need for careful monitoring. Conclusions: While CFTR modulators present novel opportunities for systemic improvement in CF, their long-term impact on digestive and skeletal health in children remains under investigation. Pediatric gastroenterologists play a pivotal role in monitoring nutritional and hepatobiliary outcomes, optimizing treatment plans, and guiding personalized care strategies in the era of CFTR modulation. Full article

The Tarim Large Igneous Province (TLIP) in NW China hosts abundant Fe–Ti–V oxide deposits associated with mafic–ultramafic intrusions. In the Xiahenan area, on the western margin of the TLIP, a distinct magnetic anomaly is linked to widespread surface accumulations of black sand. However, the genesis and origin of these black sand grains remain unclear. Based on mineral assemblages, this study classifies the grains of the black sand into three types: (i) plagioclase (An_10–90)–ilmenite–olivine–magnetite assemblage (Sand I), (ii) plagioclase (An_0–10)-fine-grained magnetite assemblage (Sand II), and (iii) hornblende–magnetite highly complex assemblage (Sand III). Mineral geochemical studies demonstrate that magnetite in Sand I and Sand II is of magmatic origin, with protolith being basaltic magma. Magnetite in Sand III was eroded from veins formed by hydrothermal processes at 300–500 °C. Ilmenite in Sand I contains a high FeTiO₃ component, representing basaltic ilmenite. Olivine in Sand I has a low Fo content (43.86–47.27), belonging to hortonolite olivine. Research indicates that Sand I and Sand II share similar mineral assemblages and mineral geochemical characteristics with basalts in the Xiahenan area, suggesting they are weathering products of Xiahenan basalts or their cognate magmas. In contrast, the veined magnetite of Sand III formed during post-magmatic hydrothermal events. Full article

This paper aims to study the potential of whey, a by-product in the dairy industry, to be used as a sustainable and health-promoting ingredient in baking. In this regard, whey powder (WhF) was produced and incorporated into three composite flours consisting of wheat flour and whey powder in proportions of 5% (WhWF5), 10% (WhWF10), and 15% (WhWF15). These composite flours were then used to produce bread. The nutritional properties (proximate composition, macro and microelement content) and bioactive compounds (total polyphenols and antioxidant activity) were assessed for both the composite flours and the resulting breads. In addition, the rheological behavior of the dough was evaluated using the Mixolab system, while the microstructural characteristics and physical properties of the composite flours were analyzed using Small/Wide Angle X-ray Scattering (SAXS/WAXS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Sensory evaluation of the breads was also performed. The results demonstrated a positive effect of the whey powder addition on the nutritional profile of both composite flours and bakery products, particularly through increased protein levels (25.24–37.77% in fortified flours vs. 11.26% in control; 16.64–18.89% in fortified breads vs. 14.12% in control) and enhanced mineral content (11.27–80.45% higher compared to white wheat bread), alongside a reduction in carbohydrate content. Bread fortified with 15% whey powder showed higher monolement with increases of 27.80% for K, 7.01% for Mg, and 28.67% for Ca compared to control bread without whey. The analysis of the Mixolab charts confirmed the progressive influence of whey powder on dough rheology. While water absorption remains high, other functional parameters, such as gluten quality, kneading capacity, and starch viscosity, were negatively affected. Nonetheless, the nutritional advantages and reduced retrogradation tendency may offset these drawbacks in the context of developing functional bakery products. Formulations containing 5–10% whey powder appear to offer an optimal balance between technological performance, nutritional quality, and sensory acceptance. Full article

This study developed a technology for restructured meat products (RMPs) from culled cow meat using the bioprotective culture Lactobacillus sakei (SafePro B-2, 10¹¹ CFU/g) and fortification with L-selenomethionine or zinc citrate. Four variants (Control, SafePro B-2, SafePro B-2 + Se, and SafePro B-2 + Zn) were produced under identical processing conditions and assessed for microbiological, physicochemical, textural, colorimetric, antioxidant, histological, mineral, and amino acid properties. Protein content remained high across all samples (up to 18.7%), while moisture increased by up to 1.4% compared to the control. The Zn-enriched sample showed the greatest cohesiveness and resistance to deformation (p < 0.05), with color stability under light exposure improving by up to 12.5%. Despite a reduction in FRAP antioxidant activity (up to 30.8% in buffer extract), the Zn-fortified product exhibited the highest levels of key essential amino acids, including leucine (12.9 mg/g) and lysine (12.6 mg/g). Microbiological analysis confirmed low total aerobic mesophilic counts (≤3.1 log CFU/g), with no detection of Salmonella spp. or Listeria monocytogenes. Histological evaluation revealed denser and more homogeneous protein matrices in fortified variants. Overall, L. sakei-driven bioprotection combined with Se/Zn fortification improved the safety and functional and nutritional characteristics of RMP from low-value beef, supporting sustainable and circular meat production. Full article

Bone defects remain a significant clinical challenge, creating a severe need for advanced biomaterials for tissue regeneration. This study addresses this issue by developing 3D-printed composite hydrogels containing alginate, gelatine, and resorbable calcium phosphates (monetite and brushite) for bone tissue engineering. The scaffolds were fabricated using extrusion-based 3D printing and evaluated for their morphology, porosity, mechanical strength, swelling, degradation, and in vitro mineralization, while their cytocompatibility was assessed using LIVE/DEAD cell viability assays. The key findings demonstrate that calcium phosphate incorporation enhanced the mechanical stability by 15–25% compared to the controls, and mineral deposition increased significantly in the composite scaffolds. The developed hydrogels are bioactive and represent promising, customizable scaffolds for bone regeneration. These results support their further investigation as viable alternatives to traditional bone grafts for clinical bone tissue engineering applications. Full article