Focal Areas Research Articles

Ultrasound with Elastography versus MRI in Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy

Abstract Background tendinopathies and tendon injuries that are due to overload, are important and extremely widespread problem in musculoskeletal diseases. Real-time Sonoelastography (SE) is used to evaluate the tissue elasticity. Aim This study assessed the role of sonoelastography in evaluation of tendon stiffness in comparison to the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in diagnosis of patients with rotator cuff (RC) tendinopathy. Methods cross sectional study with 36 adult patients that were clinically suspected to have supraspinatus tendinopathy with no past history of trauma and performed MRI of the shoulder were selected for our study. SE images were taken and assessed for focal soft areas. The supraspinatus (SSP) tendinopathy was graded (Grade 0, normal; Grade I, mild tendinopathy; Grade II, moderate tendinopathy; and Grade III, marked tendinopathy). Results the examined population, by MRI examination of supraspinatus tendon findings categorized as 7 patients (19.4%) had grade 0, and 17 patients (47%) had grade 1, 11 (30.6%) had grade 2, and 1 (2.8%) had grade 3. On the other hand, by Sonoelastography, there was 8 patients (22.2%) had grade 0, and 18 patients (50%) had grade 1, 9 (25%) had grade 2, and 1 (2.8%) had grade 3. Perfect positive correlation (r = 0.83) was found between the MRI and Sonoelastography grading. The association between the two modalities was statistically significant (p < 0.01). Conclusions SE showed good correlation with MRI in identifying supraspinatus tendon intratendinous alterations.

A collaborative pharmacist-led intervention to prevent hospital readmissions among elderly patients discharged from the emergency department: a retrospective cohort study

Unplanned hospital readmission is a safety and quality healthcare measure, conferring significant costs to the healthcare system. Elderly individuals, particularly, are at high risk of readmissions, often due to issues related to medication management. Pharmacists play a pivotal role in addressing medication-related concerns, which can potentially reduce readmissions. This retrospective single-centre cohort study, conducted from November 2022 to February 2023 in an emergency department, aimed to determine if integrating emergency medicine pharmacists into Emergency Department care models reduces unplanned hospital readmissions within 28 days and to identify the interventions they employ. The inclusion criteria included patients aged ≥ 65, taking ≥ 3 medications, and presenting with falls, cognition changes, or reduced mobility and were planned for discharge to home from the emergency department. Collaborating with the Emergency Department Aged Care Service Emergency Team, a pharmacist provided comprehensive medication management consultations, discharge liaison services, and other pharmacy related interventions to eligible participants whenever the pharmacist was available. Patients who met the eligibility criteria but did not receive pharmacist interventions due to the pharmacist's unavailability served as the control group. This method was chosen to ensure that the control group consisted of comparable patients who only differed in terms of receiving the pharmacist intervention. The study included 210 participants, with 120 receiving pharmacist interventions and 90 acting as controls. The results revealed a significant reduction in unplanned hospital readmissions among participants who received pharmacist interventions (10.0%, n = 12) compared to controls (22.2%, n = 20), with a notable difference of 12.2% (95% confidence interval 2.4–23.4%, p = 0.01). A total of 107 interventions were documented, emphasising medication selection recommendations (28.0%) and identification of adverse drug reactions/drug-drug interactions (21.5%) as primary areas of focus. These findings suggest that integrating skilled pharmacists into Emergency Department Aged Care Service Emergency Team (ASET) lowered the rate of unplanned hospital readmission within 28 days resulting in improved hospital performance metric outcomes. This highlights the potential role of pharmacists in addressing medication-related issues and enhancing the quality and safety of healthcare delivery, particularly for elderly patients transitioning from the ED to home care settings.

An examination of global research trends for exploring the associations between the gut microbiota and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease through bibliometric and visualization analysis

BackgroundNonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasingly recognized as a significant health issue. Emerging research has focused on the role of the gut microbiota in NAFLD, emphasizing the gut-liver axis. This study aimed to identify key research trends and guide future investigations in this evolving area.MethodsThis bibliometric study utilized Scopus to analyze global research on the link between the gut microbiota and NAFLD. The method involved a search strategy focusing on relevant keywords in article titles, refined by including only peer-reviewed journal articles. The data analysis included bibliometric indicators such as publication counts and trends, which were visualized using VOSviewer software version 1.6.20 for network and co-occurrence analysis, highlighting key research clusters and emerging topics.ResultsAmong the 479 publications on the gut microbiota and NAFLD, the majority were original articles (n = 338; 70.56%), followed by reviews (n = 119; 24.84%). The annual publication count increased from 1 in 2010 to 118 in 2022, with a significant growth phase starting in 2017 (R2 = 0.9025, p < 0.001). The research was globally distributed and dominated by China (n = 231; 48.23%) and the United States (n = 90; 18.79%). The University of California, San Diego, led institutional contributions (n = 18; 3.76%). Funding was prominent, with 62.8% of the articles supported, especially by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (n = 118; 24.63%). The average citation count was 43.23, with an h-index of 70 and a citation range of 0 to 1058 per article. Research hotspots shifted their focus post-2020 toward the impact of high-fat diets on NAFLD incidence.ConclusionsThis study has effectively mapped the growing body of research on the gut microbiota-NAFLD relationship, revealing a significant increase in publications since 2017. There is significant interest in gut microbiota and NAFLD research, mainly led by China and the United States, with diverse areas of focus. Recently, the field has moved toward exploring the interconnections among diet, lifestyle, and the gut-liver axis. We hypothesize that with advanced technologies, new opportunities for personalized medicine and a holistic understanding of NAFLD will emerge.

Exploring the role of interaction in older-adult service innovation: insights from the testing stage

In the context of global aging trends, service innovation targeting older adults is becoming increasingly crucial. Because the traditional focus areas of service innovation have predominantly been design and implementation, a significant gap in the existing literature overlooks the criticality of the testing phase. This oversight is particularly notable in relation to the unique attributes of the older adult population and their interaction dynamics with technology teams in service innovation. To bridge this lacuna, this study introduces a comprehensive framework, meticulously crafted for the testing stage of service innovation tailored to older adults. To validate this framework, a rigorous, four-year empirical research project was undertaken with one of the foremost service providers for older adults in Beijing. The findings robustly support the efficacy of the proposed framework, revealing the indispensable role of the testing phase in ensuring service innovations are aptly aligned with the needs and preferences of the aging demographic. This research enriches the discourse in service innovation, thus underscoring the imperative to integrate the testing phase as a fundamental component in the holistic approach aimed at catering effectively to an aging population.

Exceptional Location of a Pleomorphic Leiosarcoma: Clinical Case

Pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma is a rare entity that is part of the pleomorphic sarcomas with a complex genome with a high metastatic capacity and a usually poor prognosis. The most common location remains the lower extremities but other sites have been reported in the literature, particularly in the chest wall. Leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is an exceptionally rare tumor in the chest wall. Classical LMS may exhibit focal areas of pleomorphic cells; however, the coexistence of a large pleomorphic component allows the tumor to be designated as pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma (PLMS). The first cases of pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma were reported in the literature by Brooks in 1985. The pleomorphic component of these tumors is often heterologous with either cartilaginous differentiation; bony or rhabdomyosarcomatous. Since pleomorphic myogenic sarcomas, including high-grade leiomyosarcomas and rhabdomyosarcomas, have a poorer prognosis hence the importance of an accurate and valid histological diagnosis. The thoracic location of a leiomyosarcoma remains exceptional or even extremely rare and management requires multidisciplinary consultation involving the surgeon; the oncologist and the radiotherapist with additional molecular study to properly detect genetic anomalies in order to consider possible targeted therapy.

Exceptional Location of a Pleomorphic Leiosarcoma: Clinical Case

Pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma is a rare entity that is part of the pleomorphic sarcomas with a complex genome with a high metastatic capacity and a usually poor prognosis. The most common location remains the lower extremities but other sites have been reported in the literature, particularly in the chest wall. Leiomyosarcoma (LMS) is an exceptionally rare tumor in the chest wall. Classical LMS may exhibit focal areas of pleomorphic cells; however, the coexistence of a large pleomorphic component allows the tumor to be designated as pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma (PLMS). The first cases of pleomorphic leiomyosarcoma were reported in the literature by Brooks in 1985. The pleomorphic component of these tumors is often heterologous with either cartilaginous differentiation; bony or rhabdomyosarcomatous. Since pleomorphic myogenic sarcomas, including high-grade leiomyosarcomas and rhabdomyosarcomas, have a poorer prognosis hence the importance of an accurate and valid histological diagnosis. The thoracic location of a leiomyosarcoma remains exceptional or even extremely rare and management requires multidisciplinary consultation involving the surgeon; the oncologist and the radiotherapist with additional molecular study to properly detect genetic anomalies in order to consider possible targeted therapy.

Bulk water services delivery challenges in the Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati district municipality in South Africa's North West Province

AbstractThis study thoroughly examines the difficulties in providing bulk water services in Dr. Ruth Segomotsi Mompati district municipality in the North West Province, with the end goal of giving comprehensive suggestions for operational and strategic improvements. The study adopted a qualitative research approach, employing semistructured interviews for gathering data from officials of various municipalities responsible for overseeing infrastructure within the geographical confines of the municipalities they serve. The findings identified themes indicative of the focus areas contributing to the bulk water services delivery challenges. These emphasized the importance of fostering a collaborative work environment, thus promoting organizational learning, and implementing effective change management to elevate service delivery standards. It identifies the necessity for heightened operational efficiency and advocates for a cultural shift within municipal operations. Strategic planning, marked by the creation and regular refinement of master plans, is highlighted alongside the implementation of robust project management practices. The study emphasizes the critical need for synchronizing municipal planning processes with statutory requirements and the changing demands of the local community. The research advocates for a flexible and responsive approach to master planning, which is indispensable for adapting to shifts in administrative frameworks and community needs. The study recommends the development of a dynamic master plan for water services, one that is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the evolving legislative landscape and community priorities. It also suggests that municipal authorities should ensure that the planning process remains inclusive and responsive to the residents' needs. Furthermore, training and capacity‐building initiatives for municipal officials could be instrumental in enhancing their ability to adapt to these changing demands and legislative environments.

The Influence of Academic Affairs on PIF

ObjectivesReferencing literature and professional experiences of multiple academic affairs deans in Doctor of Pharmacy degree granting programs, this commentary examines ways offices of academic affairs (OAA) play an integral part in the professional identity formation (PIF) of students, faculty, preceptors, and staff. Overlapping roles of academic affairs and other program and university offices are examined with a focus on approaches that impact student PIF. FindingsWhile size, organizational structure, and roles or responsibilities can vary among OAA within pharmacy education, five focus areas are identified as opportunities where most, if not all, OAA can positively impact PIF for students. These five areas include 1) curriculum design, delivery, and operations, 2) leadership, 3) professional development, 4) student support and progression, and 5) accreditation. SummaryOAA can help to shape PIF within pharmacy education in a variety of ways. Identifying and reflecting upon the five focus areas described in this paper may help individuals within OAA units recognize where PIF efforts may be developed, refined, or assessed within their program. By intentionally layering PIF strategies across these five focus areas, OAA personnel and those from other units within and outside of the university system may thoughtfully work together to develop graduates who have increased self-awareness, confidence, and ability to lead within the profession of pharmacy.

The Influence of Academic Affairs on PIF

ObjectivesReferencing literature and professional experiences of multiple academic affairs deans in Doctor of Pharmacy degree granting programs, this commentary examines ways offices of academic affairs (OAA) play an integral part in the professional identity formation (PIF) of students, faculty, preceptors, and staff. Overlapping roles of academic affairs and other program and university offices are examined with a focus on approaches that impact student PIF. FindingsWhile size, organizational structure, and roles or responsibilities can vary among OAA within pharmacy education, five focus areas are identified as opportunities where most, if not all, OAA can positively impact PIF for students. These five areas include 1) curriculum design, delivery, and operations, 2) leadership, 3) professional development, 4) student support and progression, and 5) accreditation. SummaryOAA can help to shape PIF within pharmacy education in a variety of ways. Identifying and reflecting upon the five focus areas described in this paper may help individuals within OAA units recognize where PIF efforts may be developed, refined, or assessed within their program. By intentionally layering PIF strategies across these five focus areas, OAA personnel and those from other units within and outside of the university system may thoughtfully work together to develop graduates who have increased self-awareness, confidence, and ability to lead within the profession of pharmacy.

An elusive search for skills: assessing debates, practices, and experiences in South Africa

ABSTRACT Planning and identifying skills need is mediated by pre-existing social relations and structures of power in the society. The South African state has explored various methods, policies, programmes, and systems to understand the skills needs of the country. The uneven success of these different attempts can be explained by understanding the complexity of undergoing the task of identifying skills priorities due to the contested nature of the notion of skill and varying ideas about what ought to be prioritized through these processes. The article has three focus areas: 1) assesses three sets of critiques of skills planning in South Africa; 2) shows why the process of identifying skills needs has become elusive; and 3) discusses two illustrative case studies that show examples of initiatives that are excluded from the skills planning processes but are crucial in understanding experiences of Black youth in marginalized communities in relation to education and skills.

Review on Nutritional Potential of Underutilized Millets as a Miracle Grain.

The current situation, which includes changes in eating habits, an increasing population, and the unrestricted use of natural resources, has resulted in a lack of resources that could be used to provide nourishing food to everyone. Natural plant resources are quickly being depleted, so it is necessary to consider new alternatives. In addition to the staple grains of rice and wheat, many other crops are being consumed that need to be utilized to their full potential and have the potential to replace the staple crops. Millets are one of the most important underutilized crops that have the potential to be used as a nutricereal. Millets have a high nutritional value, do not produce acids, do not contain gluten, and can contribute to a healthy diet. Due to a lack of awareness regarding the nutritional value of millets, their consumption is still restricted to the population that adheres to conventional diets and is economically disadvantaged even though millets contain a significant amount of nutrients. Millets are becoming increasingly unpopular due to a lack of processing technologies, food subsidies, and the inconvenience of preparing food with millets. Millets are a Nutricereal rich in carbohydrates, dietary fibers, energy, essential fatty acids, proteins, vitamin B, and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc. These nutrients help to protect against post-translational diseases such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and celiac disease, among others. Millets are beneficial for controlling blood pressure, blood sugar level, and thyroid function; however, despite these functional properties, millets consumption has declined. Utilizing millets and other staple food crops to develop alternative food sources has become a new area of focus for businesses in the food industry. In addition, millet consumption can help foster immunity and health, which is essential in strengthening our fight against malnutrition in children and adolescents. In this article, the authors examine the potential of millets in terms of their nutricereal qualities.

The new service development process of green FinTech innovation: A multi-case study

In light of increasing global challenges like climate change, carbon neutrality, and biodiversity loss, the need for sustainable solutions is essential. Green FinTech innovation, which combines financial resources, services, and technologies, has become a significant area of focus for addressing these issues. However, despite growing interest from various stakeholders, progress towards sustainable development remains slow due to fragmented academic knowledge. This study aims to bridge this gap by offering practical guidelines for those involved in green FinTech innovation. By examining the new service development process, including both the front-end and back-end stages, the study will identify key influencers such as customers, organizations, and partners. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with three green FinTech case studies in Thailand, specifically focusing on rental electric bike services, energy trading systems, and solar rooftop platforms. The research will investigate the concepts, methods, and critical success factors that drive the innovation processes of these projects through a comparative multi-case study. The findings will reveal different paths for B2B and B2C green FinTech innovation, emphasizing the importance of external factors. Successful innovation requires a thorough understanding of customer behavior, beyond just pro-environmental tendencies. These insights aim to accelerate green FinTech innovation in emerging economies and underscore the need for further quantitative research to validate these findings. This research will provide valuable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and innovators, supporting the advancement of sustainable development through green FinTech solutions.

Numerical study on the gas-solid diffusion characteristics of airflow and dust particles in metal mine blasting excavation under three hybrid ventilation modes

Dust pollution has long been a challenge in the blasting excavation of underground metal mines, and uncontrolled diffusion of dust particles seriously endangers the health and safety of workers as well as the environment in underground space. Most existing research on dust diffusion focuses on fully mechanized coal mining face or borehole drilling, where the dust source emission characteristics differ significantly from metal mine blasting excavation. Furthermore, it is still unclear how the ventilation modes of Far-Pressing-Far-Absorption (FPFA), Near-Pressing-Far-Absorption (NPFA), and Far-Pressing-Near-Absorption (FPNA) affect the mechanism of dust diffusion in the breathing zone. In this work, gas-solid flow characteristics in a typical metal mine blasting tunnel are numerically studied based on Euler-Lagrange method. The interphase forces between airflow and dust particles are comprehensively modeled, and the particle diffusion effect caused by fluid turbulence is described by the discrete random walk model. Five typical regions for airflow disorder phenomena in the working tunnel are predicted, including the jet development region, the return airflow core region, the airflow reversal region, the airflow recirculation region, and the secondary flow region. The spatial distribution of dust exhibits nonuniform characteristics under turbulent airflow transport. The time results of the monitored dust concentration reveal that the junction of the working tunnel and the return airway is a key area of focus for the prevention and control of dust pollution. Among the three ventilation modes, the Far-Pressing-Near-Absorption (FPNA) ventilation mode has the best dust removal efficiency. The supply vent further from the blasting face allows the jet to fully develop, while the exhaust vent closer to the blasting face allows dust particles to be drawn in and discharged earlier. Under the condition of fixed total power consumption for the supply and exhaust fans, a larger exhaust airflow velocity helps remove dust from the breathing zone.

The role of digital transformation in business and its impact on sustainable development goals (sdgs) in the tourism sector

Objective: The objective of this paper is to examine the role of digital transformation in enhancing sustainability within the tourism industry and its impact on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study aims to analyze how digital technologies can foster economic growth, social inclusivity, and environmental responsibility, thereby contributing to a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector. Method: The research employs a comprehensive literature review methodology, drawing on case studies, industry reports, and empirical evidence. Key areas of focus include the integration of digital tools in tourism operations, such as online booking platforms, customer relationship management systems, data analytics, and Internet of Things (IoT) applications. The study also explores the application of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), blockchain technology, and smart destination management in promoting sustainable tourism practices. Results: The findings indicate that digital transformation significantly enhances operational efficiency, customer experience, and overall competitiveness in the tourism industry. Digital technologies enable data-driven decision-making, efficient resource management, and real-time monitoring of environmental impacts. The integration of digital platforms promotes eco-friendly practices, supports financial inclusion through digital payments, and facilitates stakeholder engagement. Moreover, virtual tourism and AR/VR technologies provide immersive experiences that reduce the environmental impact of physical travel while educating tourists about conservation and sustainability. Conclusions: Digital transformation is a powerful tool for advancing sustainability in the tourism sector. By leveraging digital technologies, businesses can align their operations with the SDGs, promoting responsible consumption, reducing environmental impact, and fostering inclusive economic growth. The study underscores the importance of a balanced approach where digital transformation drives economic benefits while ensuring social and environmental responsibility. Collaboration among stakeholders, including businesses, governments, and local communities, is essential for creating a sustainable and resilient tourism industry. The ongoing commitment to innovation and responsible practices will play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future for the tourism sector.

Accessing Rehabilitation after Upper Limb Reconstructive Surgery in Cervical Spinal Cord Injury: A Qualitative Study

Objectives: To investigate the barriers and facilitators to rehabilitation experienced by individuals with cervical SCI after upper limb (UL) reconstructive surgery. Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study with a follow-up period of up to 24 months. Data collection occurred at two academic and two Veterans Affairs medical centers in the United States. Participants were purposively sampled and included 21 adults with cervical SCI (c-SCI) who had received nerve or tendon transfer surgeries and 15 caregivers. We administered semi-structured interviews about participants' experiences of accessing rehabilitation services after surgery. Results: Four themes emerged from the data: (1) participants encountered greater obstacles in accessing therapy as follow-up time increased; (2) practical challenges (e.g., insurance coverage, opportunity costs, transportation) limited rehabilitation access; (3) individuals with c-SCI and their caregivers desired more information about an overall rehabilitation plan; and (4) external support systems facilitated therapy access. Conclusion: Individuals with c-SCI experience multilevel barriers in accessing rehabilitation care after UL reconstructive surgeries in the United States. This work identifies areas of focus to mitigate these challenges, such as enhancing transparency about the overall rehabilitation process, training providers to work with this population, and developing, testing, and disseminating rehabilitation protocols following UL reconstruction among people with c-SCI.

New Technique to enhance Hybrid Renewable Energy Resources Operational Flexibility and Reliability

In this research four integrated strategies proposed and discussed for increasing the flexibility of hydropower operations. This initiative seeks to understand, enable, and improve the contribution of hydropower, including pumped storage hydropower (PSH) to reliability, resilience, and integration in the rapidly evolving U.S. electricity system. Hydropower’s flexibility is central to enhancing all these contributions. Four KFA (key focus areas) listed below to maintain and reliable operations. These KFAs will develop a suite of advancements that improve hydropower flexibility at multiple scales: improved components within the plant, improved hybridized capabilities at the plant interconnection, and improved operations across the fleet.[1],[2],[3] 1. HSE in Hydropower Hybrids 2. Reliable productivity 3. Technologies to Increase Flexibility 4. Operational Flexibility Key words. Novelty, Corrective Maintenance and Preventive maintenance and Intelligent module.

ОПЫТ РЕАЛИЗАЦИИ ПИЛОТНОГО ПРОЕКТА «ГРОДНЕНСКАЯ УНИВЕРСИТЕТСКАЯ КЛИНИКА» В АСПЕКТЕ ЭФФЕКТИВНОСТИ НАУЧНОЙ ДЕЯТЕЛЬНОСТИ

The development and prompt implementation of advanced medical methods of diagnosis, treatment and prevention, based on the latest achievements of science and technology is a healthcare focus area for any state. The purpose of this publication is to summarize the experience of the pilot project “Grodno University Clinic” implementation regarding the efficiency of scientific activities. 12 indices of the University clinic innovative development were included in the model for final results activities of the clinic’s departments. Significant growth in innovation has been achieved, 25 employees of the clinic participate in the educational process of the medical university, 15 theses are being carried out by the clinic staff and teaching staff, and 6 patents have been jointly received. 11 initiative research projects are planned and carried out at the clinic. In addition, funded projects are being implemented, the implementation of which made it possible to attract 209,850 BYN in 2022. Scientific and practical conference “Innovative achievements in the work of Grodno University Clinic” is held annually as a part of the “Perspective plan for the development of the health care institution “Grodno University Clinic” implementation regarding the increase of the efficiency of scientific activities and personnel of the highest scientific qualifications. The clinic conducts clinical trials of medicines and medical products; income for 2022 amounted to 523.88K BYN. The experience of this project implementation makes it possible to draw the following conclusions. The presented interim results of pilot project “Grodno University Clinic” implementation regarding the efficiency of scientific activities allow us to assess positively this initiative transformation of the model for organizing the functioning of a multidisciplinary medical healthcare institution. The marked tendencies in the dynamics of the main indices reflect the efficiency of scientific research in the applied healthcare areas of high priority. The positive influence on innovation impacted by this favorable environment under a new integration project of science and practice for national healthcare is shown. Further research on the role and place of university clinics in the Republic of Belarus under their contribution and influence on the training of highly qualified scientific staff for healthcare, the development and implementation of import-substituting and export-oriented innovative methods of diagnosis, treatment and prevention in practical medicine are considered to be relevant.

Transformation of the Three Pillars of Agri-Food Sustainability around the COVID-19 Crisis—A Literature Review

The COVID-19 crisis has disrupted economies and societies and the sustainability characteristics of agri-food due to a significant decline in turnover, difficulties in transportation, and changes in market and contact habits. An analysis was carried out using the PRISMA protocol and the Scopus, Web of Science, and Science Direct electronic databases. The aim of this research is to present the main research issues in agri-food sustainability (economic, environmental, and social issues) in the pre-COVID-19 period, to compare it with the research trends in the COVID-19 period, and to explore the influence of the epidemic. This research looks for research gaps and possible future research directions. Research before COVID-19 was primarily concerned with environmental and economic sustainability. The main focus areas were business development and environmental issues. During COVID-19, the focus shifted to economic sustainability. Survival was the primary issue. The main research areas were financial, inventory, waste management, and innovation issues. Food safety and digitalisation were highlighted. Precision agriculture, short food supply chains, and collaboration increased efficiency. The role of trust has increased. The COVID-19 experience is valuable for almost all disciplines. Policy, health, and economic decision-makers can apply better solutions to future crises.

An Innovative Approach in Gastronomy: Ultrasound Technology

Ultrasound, which uses high-frequency sound waves, induces significant physical and chemical changes in food products, making it a valuable tool for various applications. It enhances food safety, quality, and preparation efficiency by improving mass transfer, disrupting cellular structures, and accelerating chemical reactions. This review aims to explore the integration of ultrasound technology into gastronomy, emphasizing its potential impact on modern culinary practices. Firstly, ultrasound effectively reduces microbial loads and chemical residues on food surfaces, enhancing food safety. Secondly, in food processing applications, ultrasound accelerates marination processes and improves meat tenderness, with ultrasonic cutting providing precision in processing foods. Thirdly, ultrasound improves the stability of emulsions and the consistency of homogenized products. This technology's ability to create stable foams, accelerate gel formation, and extract aromatic compounds paves the way for new gastronomic discoveries. Additionally, in the realm of diagnostic and quality control, ultrasound enables rapid and non-invasive quality assessments. The primary focus areas of this review include the applications of ultrasound in decontamination, marination, tenderization, cutting, diagnostic analysis, homogenization, emulsification, dehydration, rehydration, and molecular gastronomy. This study demonstrates that ultrasound technology not only enhances the sensory and aesthetic qualities of food but also supports innovative culinary techniques in molecular gastronomy. Based on a comprehensive literature search and professional experiences, this review concludes that the integration of ultrasound in gastronomy has the potential to significantly enhance food preparation methods, contributing to more efficient, creative, and high-quality culinary experiences.

An Innovative Approach in Gastronomy: Ultrasound Technology

Ultrasound, which uses high-frequency sound waves, induces significant physical and chemical changes in food products, making it a valuable tool for various applications. It enhances food safety, quality, and preparation efficiency by improving mass transfer, disrupting cellular structures, and accelerating chemical reactions. This review aims to explore the integration of ultrasound technology into gastronomy, emphasizing its potential impact on modern culinary practices. Firstly, ultrasound effectively reduces microbial loads and chemical residues on food surfaces, enhancing food safety. Secondly, in food processing applications, ultrasound accelerates marination processes and improves meat tenderness, with ultrasonic cutting providing precision in processing foods. Thirdly, ultrasound improves the stability of emulsions and the consistency of homogenized products. This technology's ability to create stable foams, accelerate gel formation, and extract aromatic compounds paves the way for new gastronomic discoveries. Additionally, in the realm of diagnostic and quality control, ultrasound enables rapid and non-invasive quality assessments. The primary focus areas of this review include the applications of ultrasound in decontamination, marination, tenderization, cutting, diagnostic analysis, homogenization, emulsification, dehydration, rehydration, and molecular gastronomy. This study demonstrates that ultrasound technology not only enhances the sensory and aesthetic qualities of food but also supports innovative culinary techniques in molecular gastronomy. Based on a comprehensive literature search and professional experiences, this review concludes that the integration of ultrasound in gastronomy has the potential to significantly enhance food preparation methods, contributing to more efficient, creative, and high-quality culinary experiences.