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Phosphorus plays an essential role in the human body, supporting bone health, energy production, and many cellular processes. Under normal conditions, the kidneys maintain phosphate balance by removing excess phosphorus through urine. However, as kidney function declines, this balance becomes increasingly difficult to maintain, allowing phosphate to accumulate in the bloodstream. This condition, known as hyperphosphatemia, has become an important concern in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and kidney failure because of its close relationship with cardiovascular complications, bone disorders, and poorer clinical outcomes. A recent review published in Nutrients, titled “Hyperphosphatemia in Kidney Failure: Pathophysiology, Challenges, and Critical Role of Phosphorus Management”, discusses the biological mechanisms behind phosphate imbalance and the ongoing challenges of phosphorus control in clinical care. Figure 1. Hyperphosphatemia in Kidney Failure. Produced by MDPI academic video service (source: https://encyclopedia.pub/video/1810). 1. How Kidney Disease Disrupts Phosphate Balance In healthy individuals, phosphate levels are regulated through interactions between the kidneys, intestines, bones, and several hormones, including parathyroid hormone (PTH), fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23), and vitamin D. Among these systems, the kidneys play the primary role by filtering and excreting excess phosphate. As kidney function gradually declines, the body initially attempts to compensate. Levels of FGF-23 and PTH rise in order to increase phosphate excretion and maintain normal serum phosphate levels. Over time, however, these compensatory mechanisms become less effective, leading to phosphate retention and eventually hyperphosphatemia. The review also highlights the role of αKlotho, a protein involved in FGF-23 signaling. Reduced αKlotho expression in CKD appears to further impair phosphate regulation and may also contribute to cardiovascular complications and disease progression. 2. Why High Phosphate Levels Are a Concern One of the most significant concerns surrounding hyperphosphatemia is its association with cardiovascular disease, which remains the leading cause of death in patients with kidney failure. Elevated phosphate levels can contribute to vascular calcification, a process in which calcium-phosphate deposits accumulate within blood vessel walls. This gradually increases arterial stiffness and places additional strain on the cardiovascular system. Phosphate imbalance is also closely linked to chronic kidney disease–mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD). Elevated phosphate and PTH levels disrupt normal bone remodeling, increasing the risk of fractures and other skeletal complications. In addition, the review notes that elevated FGF-23 levels have been associated with left ventricular hypertrophy, heart failure, and increased mortality risk in CKD patients, further illustrating the broad systemic effects of phosphate dysregulation. 3. The Difficulty of Managing Hyperphosphatemia Although several treatment strategies are available, phosphorus management remains challenging in clinical practice. Dialysis can remove phosphate from the bloodstream, but conventional dialysis is often unable to fully control phosphate balance because much of the body’s phosphate is stored in bone and tissues rather than circulating in blood. As a result, phosphate levels can rise again relatively quickly after treatment. Dietary phosphate restriction is another key strategy, but maintaining adequate nutrition while limiting phosphorus intake is not always straightforward. Many protein-rich foods naturally contain phosphate, and processed foods frequently include phosphate additives that are highly absorbable. Phosphate binders are commonly prescribed to reduce intestinal phosphate absorption, but these medications can add substantially to pill burden and may affect long-term treatment adherence. The review also discusses newer therapeutic approaches, including intestinal phosphate transport inhibitors such as tenapanor, which may offer additional options for phosphate control. 4. Looking Forward While phosphorus management is widely considered an important component of CKD care, several questions remain unresolved. The optimal target range for serum phosphate is still debated, and evidence demonstrating that aggressive phosphate lowering directly improves long-term survival remains limited. Future research will likely focus on improving understanding of phosphate-related hormonal pathways, including FGF-23 and Klotho signaling, while also exploring treatment strategies that better balance phosphate control, nutritional needs, and quality of life. 5. Conclusion Hyperphosphatemia is more than a simple laboratory abnormality in kidney disease. It reflects a complex disruption of mineral metabolism that is closely associated with cardiovascular disease, bone complications, and increased mortality risk in patients with CKD and kidney failure. As research continues to evolve, a deeper understanding of phosphate biology may help support more individualized and effective treatment strategies for patients living with kidney disease.
Blog 20 May 2026
Encyclopedia MDPI is thrilled to announce significant enhancements to its Academic Video Service, which aim to improve its quality, accessibility, and functionality. Since its launch, our video service has enabled numerous scholars to present their research in a dynamic and visually engaging format, greatly enhancing its visibility and impact. Due to the overwhelmingly positive reception this service has received, we have reached a point where the number of orders we are receiving exceeds our current capacity. In order to maintain the quality of these videos and continue optimizing the service, we have made the decision to introduce a fee. However, to ensure that this service is still a cost-effective option, we have set our prices significantly below the market average. 1. Highlights of the Upgrades to the Service Although the service will now be fee-based, we are committed to providing even more professional and comprehensive support, including the following: One-on-one video production guidance Personalized assistance to ensure your needs are fully met. Scriptwriting and English editing Expertly crafted narratives and professional English editing to ensure your research is presented clearly, accurately, and with impact. High-quality animations Visually engaging animations are created to simplify complex research and captivate your audience. Whiteboard Animations: Clean and minimalist, using hand-drawn illustrations to explain ideas step-by-step. Motion Graphics (MG) Animations: Cartoon Style: Bright, colorful, and approachable, ideal for making technical or scientific content more accessible and engaging. Hand-Drawn Style: Unique and artistic, adding a personal touch to your research while maintaining clarity and professionalism. Customized infographics (optional) We can also create tailored infographics to visually summarize key data or findings, enhancing the clarity and appeal of your video. Native voiceover Native speakers provide voiceovers to enhance the accessibility and reach of your research. Multiple rounds of revision To ensure your video accurately represents your work. Social media promotion Expanding your research's visibility and impact. 2. Why Choose Us? The Proven Impact of Video Abstracts Research shows that a well-crafted video abstract can significantly enhance the visibility and impact of your work. It has been shown to do the following: Increase paper views by 120% (Source: 10.1007/ s11192-019-03108-w) Boost citations by 20% (Source: Wiley Online Library) Improve journal rankings by 33% (Source: Research Square) Raise Altmetrics scores by 140% (Source: Research Square) Our Expertise in Academic Research Backed by MDPI, our experienced production team combines deep academic knowledge with creative excellence. We understand the nuances of scholarly communication and ensure that every frame accurately conveys the value of your research, meeting the highest standards of quality and precision. Collaborations with SCI Journals We have partnered with over 60 SCI journals to create exclusive video series, enhancing the dissemination and impact of published research. For example, our collaborations with Entropy, Remote Sensing, Nanomaterials , Animals , Nutrients, Foods , Sustainability, Cancers, etc., have helped authors achieve greater visibility and recognition for their work. Global visibility The videos are linked to your paper's DOI for maximum exposure. Available Video Services and Their Pricing Video Abstract (up to 5 minutes long): Summarizes the key findings, methodology, and significance of your research paper. Regular Price: 600 CHF Short Take (up to 2 minutes long): Uses original animations to explain the specific aspects of your research. Regular Price: 500 CHF Scholar Interview: A face-to-face discussion offering deeper insights into your publication. Regular Price: 400 CHF Scholar Profile: A brief overview of a scholar’s career, highlighting education, research focus, and key achievements. Regular Price: 500 CHF 3. Video Production Service If you want to see some examples of our videos, please visit https://encyclopedia.pub/video. If you would like to apply for the video service, please click https://encyclopedia.pub/video_service. 4. Others If you have any other questions, please contact office@encyclopedia.pub.
Announcement 14 Apr 2026
The Encyclopedia platform, together with the journals Biology and Nutrients, launches the Best Video Abstract Awards to increase the visibility and reach of published research and to inspire researchers to explore the power of visual storytelling. Video abstracts have become an increasingly important medium for scientific communication. By integrating narration, visualizations, animations, and experimental footage, they make complex research more accessible, engaging, and memorable. This initiative recognizes video abstracts that are not only scientifically rigorous but also creatively compelling and educational, thereby promoting broader dissemination and deeper community engagement. To learn more about the awards or to participate directly, please visit the event page via the links provided below. https://encyclopedia.pub/best-video-abstract-award 1. Event Duration 9 February 2026 – 2 February 2027 2. Awards Biology Best Video Abstract AwardOpen to video abstracts based on papers published in Biology between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2025. This award will be granted to two video abstracts based on the evaluation of the Award Evaluation Committee. Nutrients Best Video Abstract AwardOpen to video abstracts based on papers published in Nutrients between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2025. This award will be granted to two video abstracts based on the evaluation of the Award Evaluation Committee. Prize For each journal award, the winner will receive: CHF 500 A voucher waiving the Article Processing Charges (APCs) for one journal submission (subject to peer review, valid for one year) A free Academic Video Service production (no matter where the paper is published), valid for one year. An electronic certificate Participant Incentive All participants will receive a CHF 100 discount voucher for the Encyclopedia Academic Video Service. 3. Participation The event will be conducted in three stages. Submission Stage 9 February 2026 – 31 August 2026 Independent Submission Authors may create and submit video abstracts independently using their own tools and creative approach. Professional Support Option Authors who do not currently have a video abstract but intend to apply for the award may opt for the Academic Video Service, which offers a one-stop, end-to-end solution covering script development, animation, voiceover recording, and editing. Please submit your video abstract here: https://encyclopedia.pub/user/video_add?activity=b57ab0910b456a5e4eebd960867ce205 Or place your video service order here: https://encyclopedia.pub/user/video_service_order All video abstracts will be assessed by the editorial team for editorial suitability and overall quality. Submissions that meet the guidelines will be assessed equally. Voting Stage 1 November 2026 – 31 December 2026 Public voting will be conducted during this period. Voting results and video performance metrics, including views, likes, shares, and collections, will contribute to the final evaluation. Winner Announcement 2 February 2027 Final winners will be determined based on a combined assessment of public voting results and a comprehensive evaluation by the Award Evaluation Committee, which carries the primary weight in the final decision. Winners will be announced on the Encyclopedia platform and journal websites. 4. Others If you have any other questions, please contact office@encyclopedia.pub
Announcement 09 Feb 2026
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Peer Reviewed
Encyclopedia 2026, 6(5), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/encyclopedia6050110

(1) Background: Climate change and inequality are topics of major interest in Mediterranean Archaeology. However, comparatively less attention has been dedicated to how these themes are interlinked in the literature. No scoping review has ever addressed this issue. This study aims to identify major research trends on inequality and climate change in the Mediterranean c. 4000 BC–AD 500. It also pinpoints current research gaps on the topic and nascent areas of enquiry. (2) Method: We performed a scoping review on JSTOR, Scopus, Google Scholar and PubMed in December 2025–January 2026. A modified version of the PRISMA-ScR protocol was followed. We sampled journal articles, book chapters, edited volumes and monographs published between 2015 and 2025 which matched the search and inclusion criteria. Additional searches were done on Google Scholar in February 2026 to expand upon emerging research trends relevant to our topic but largely absent from the scoping review. We manually extracted, charted, analysed and synthesised the data. (3) Results: A total of 154 studies were eligible for the scoping review. We identified six research trends prominent in the sampled literature: 1. the rise and fall of world systems, macroscale causal links, and collapse research; 2. inequality, subalternity, and marginality; 3. agriculture, crops, and diet; 4. natural resource management, and water supply; 5. epistemology and methodology; and 6. natural archives and climate proxy datasets. We also recognised the following research gaps or topics that were comparatively less addressed: collapse research applied to the microscale level and marginalised communities; isotope analysis applied to both climate change and inequality in the same study; biomedical approaches applied to both climate change and inequality in the same study; social marginality as a complex construct in human–climate interactions; and the environmental and climate dimensions of the early Roman expansion, especially regarding marginality and the microscale. Finally, we identified artificial intelligence (AI), Big Data, environmental and climate activism, and the perception of climate hazards by subaltern communities as nascent topics of interest that might rise to prominence in the future. (4) Conclusions: We identified major research trends and gaps on climate change and inequality in the ancient Mediterranean in literature published 2015–2025. We also recognised nascent or unexplored topics. The review is intended as a benchmark for developing novel research on the cutting-edge of Mediterranean Archaeology.

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