Search Results (91)

Extraintestinal manifestations (EIMs) significantly increase morbidity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. In this study, we examined clinical and genetic factors associated with EIMs in 414 Latin IBD patients, utilizing machine learning for predictive modeling. In our IBD group (314 ulcerative colitis (UC) and 100 Crohn’s disease (CD) patients), EIM presence was assessed. Clinical differences between patients with and without EIMs were analyzed using Chi-square and Mann–Whitney U tests. Based on the genetic data of 232 patients, we identified variants linked to EIMs, and the polygenic risk score (PRS) was calculated. A machine learning approach based on logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), and gradient boosting (GB) models was employed for predicting EIMs. EIMs were present in 29% (120/414) of patients. EIM patients were older (52 vs. 45 years, p = 0.01) and were more likely to have a family history of IBD (p = 0.02) or use anti-TNF therapy (p = 0.01). EIMs were more common in patients with CD than in those with UC without reaching statistical significance (p = 0.06). Four genetic variants were associated with EIM risk (rs9936833, rs4410871, rs3132680, and rs3823417). While the PRS showed limited predictive power (AUC = 0.69), the LR, GB, and RF models demonstrated good predictive capabilities. Approximately one-third of IBD patients experienced EIMs. Significant risk factors included genetic variants, family history, age, and anti-TNF therapy, with predictive models effectively identifying EIM risk. Full article

Spent coffee grounds (SCG) are produced in large quantities during coffee brewing, contributing to environmental concerns. Additionally, cationic dyes from textile, paper, and leather wastewater pose a major pollution issue. This study explores SCG as an adsorbent for methylene blue (MB) dye. A novel comparison of SCG cleaning methods with warm water, accelerated solvent extraction (ASE), supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), and ultrasound-induced cavitation (US) is presented. In addition, the chemical modifications of SCG using acetylation, acid (HNO₃), and base (KOH) treatment that have not been reported before are presented. ATR-FTIR confirmed the inclusion of functional groups, for example, the nitro group in SCG treated with HNO₃, and an increase in carboxylic groups in the samples treated with KOH and HNO₃. SEM analysis revealed a consistent porous texture across samples, with SCG-SFE, SCG-US, and SCG-HNO₃ showing smaller pores, and SCG-ASE displaying elongated cavities. Adsorption isotherm tests followed the Freundlich and Langmuir models, indicating favorable adsorption. The Langmuir maximum adsorption capacity (q_max) varied among cleaning methods from 65.69 mg/g (warm water) to 93.32 mg/g (SFE). In contrast, in base- and acid-treated SCG, a three- to four-fold increase in adsorption capacity was observed, with q_max values of 171.60 mg/g and 270.64 mg/g, respectively. These findings demonstrate that SCG washed with warm water and chemically treated achieves adsorption capacities comparable to other biosorbents reported in the literature. Therefore, SCG represents a promising, low-cost, and sustainable material for removing cationic dyes from wastewater, contributing to waste valorization and environmental protection. Full article

Nanochitin is a nanoscale form of chitin—a polysaccharide found in the exoskeletons of crustaceans, insects, and some fungal cell walls—that is newly garnering significant attention in the pharmaceutical space. Its good properties, such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, and an easily adjustable surface, render it attractive for various medical and pharmaceutical applications. Nanochitin, from drug delivery systems and wound-care formulations to vaccine adjuvants and antimicrobial strategies, has demonstrated its strong potential in meeting diverse therapeutic needs. This review covers the background of nanochitin, including methods for its extraction and refining and its principal physicochemical and biological properties. It further discusses various hydrolysis and enzymatic approaches for the structural and functional characterization of nanochitin and highlights some pharmaceutical applications where this biopolymer has been studied. The review also addresses toxicity issues, regulatory matters, and challenges in large-scale industrial production. Finally, it underscores novel avenues of investigation and future opportunities, emphasizing the urgent requirement for standardized production methods, rigorous safety assessment, and interdisciplinary partnerships to maximize nanochitin’s potential in pharmaceutical research, demonstrating the importance of chitin in drug delivery. Full article

Electrical power systems are crucial, yet vulnerable, due to their complex and interconnected nature, necessitating effective fault detection and diagnostics to ensure stability and prevent disruptions. Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) have transformed the ability to identify and resolve electrical system problems efficiently. Electrical systems operate at various scales, ranging from individual households to large-scale regional grids. In this study, we focus on medium-scale urban infrastructures. These environments present unique electrical challenges, such as phase imbalances and transient voltage fluctuations, which require robust fault detection mechanisms. This work investigates the use of AI with dynamic programming and a support vector machine (SVM) to improve fault detection. The data collected from voltage measurements in urban office buildings with smart meters over a period of six weeks was used to develop an AI model, demonstrating its applicability to similar urban infrastructures. This model achieved high accuracy in detecting system failures, identifying them with a performance greater than 99%, highlighting the potential of smart sensing technologies combined with AI to improve urban infrastructure management. The integration of smart sensors and advanced data analytics significantly increases the reliability and efficiency of energy systems, promoting sustainable and resilient urban environments. Full article

Background: Nutritional expectations have been shown to influence exercise performance via placebo and nocebo effects. The present study aimed to evaluate performance-enhancement expectations for coffee and energy drinks using the Stanford Expectations of Treatment Scale. Methods: A total of 402 participants (48.5% male) with an average exercise history of 4.53 years, engaging in average physical activity 3.91 times per week, were included in the study. Data collection was conducted through the Qualtrics platform. Results: Participants exhibited significantly higher positive expectations for coffee compared to energy drinks (p = 0.002), whereas negative expectations were more pronounced for energy drinks than for coffee (p < 0.001). Males and individuals engaging in anaerobic exercise expressed more positive expectations for energy drinks than females and those participating in aerobic or mixed exercise regimens. Additionally, high-frequency exercisers (≥4 sessions per week) reported greater positive expectations for both beverages and fewer negative expectations for coffee than low-frequency exercisers (≤3 sessions per week). Correlational analyses revealed weak but significant associations between expectations and variables such as exercise history, frequency, intensity, and age. Conclusions: The findings suggest that coffee is perceived as a more effective performance enhancer and exhibits greater placebo-inducing potential than energy drinks, which may elicit stronger nocebo effects. These group-specific perceptions should be considered by trainers, coaches, and researchers when addressing placebo–nocebo mechanisms in the context of sports and exercise. Full article

Spent coffee grounds constitute a waste product that has attracted potential interest as a rich source of secondary metabolites such as polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant properties. In this work, aqueous extracts from samples of different spent coffee grounds from Costa Rica were prepared and analyzed using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry using a quadrupole time-of-flight analyzer (UPLC-QTOF-ESI MS). This allowed for the identification of twenty-one compounds, including fourteen phenolic acids, three caffeoylquinic lactones, and four atractyligenin diterpenes. In addition, using UPLC coupled with a diode array detector (UPLC-DAD), we quantified the levels of caffeine (0.55–3.42 mg/g dry weight [DW]) and six caffeoylquinic and feruloylquinic acids (0.47–5.34 mg/g DW). The highest value was found for the fine-grind sample (EXP), both for phenolic acids and for total polyphenols (9.59 mg gallic acid equivalents [GAE]/g DW), compared to 2.13 and 1.70 mg GAE/g DW for the medium-grind (GR) and coarse-grind samples (PCR), respectively. The results obtained from the antioxidant evaluations using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl assay (IC₅₀ 0.0964–6.005 g DW/L), the ferric-reducing antioxidant power (PFRAP) analysis (0.0215–0.1385 mmol FeSO₄/g DW), the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assessment (45.7–309.7 μmol Trolox/g DW), and the Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) assay (3.94–23.47 mg Trolox/g DW) also showed the best values for the fine-grind sample, with results similar to or higher than those reported in the literature. Statistical Pearson correlation analysis (p < 0.05) indicated a high correlation (R ≥ 0.842) between all antioxidant analyses, the total polyphenols, and the phenolic acid quantification using UPLC-DAD. These results show the potential for further studies aiming to exploit this waste product’s bioactive properties, constituting the first detailed study of spent coffee grounds from Costa Rica. Full article

The sublingua is an anatomical structure located under the tongue. This rare organ can be present in some animals as a rudimentary structure, but among prosimian primates, such as lemurs and lorises, it is fully developed. In addition to the sublingua, prosimians have modified lower incisors and canines called “dental comb”. The anatomy of sublingua has been studied macro and microanatomically since the early 19th century. Most authors argue that the sublingua is an oral morphological adaptation to develop a toothbrush’s role in cleaning the dental comb. However, others assert that the functional role has yet to be established. Comparative studies of macro and microanatomy are scarce or incomplete for primates; thus, the putative function remains unclear. To better understand the functional significance of the sublingua, we studied this structure in Lemur catta and Varecia variegata specimens using histochemical staining techniques and scanning electron microscopy with microanalysis. The new data obtained provide a fuller picture of the role assigned to sublingua so far, which could be more complex. In light of the morphological findings, we should consider additional roles/functions of the sublingua, including but not limited to food processing, grooming or social behavior. Full article

This study focuses on the extraction of phenolic compounds from the fermentation of Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Gloeophyllum trabeum. The main goal was to synthesize phenol/chitosan microspheres and PVA films and characterized using FTIR, TGA, DSC, SEM, and mechanical tests to evaluate their physical, chemical, and mechanical properties for antimicrobial packaging applications. Homogeneous chitosan microspheres loaded with lignin-derived phenols were obtained, showing controlled release of antimicrobial compounds. The incorporation of phenolic microspheres into PVA/chitosan films resulted in significant improvements in mechanical properties: the films exhibited an elastic modulus of 36.14 ± 3.73 MPa, tensile strength of 12.01 ± 1.14 MPa, and elongation at break of 65.19 ± 5.96%. Thermal tests revealed that chitosan-containing films had enhanced thermal stability, with decomposition temperatures (T10) reaching 116.77 °C, compared to 89.28 °C for pure PVA. In terms of antimicrobial activity, PVA/chitosan/phenol films effectively reduced Lactobacillus growth and milk acidity, maintaining quality for up to 96 h at room temperature, outperforming controls with acetic acid and H₂O₂. The films also inhibit yeast growth for one week. In conclusion, phenols can be effective antimicrobial agents in dairy, but their use should be monitored. Additionally, PVA/chitosan-phenol films offer biodegradability, antimicrobial properties, and sustainability for diverse applications. Full article

Saquinavir is a drug used as an HIV treatment, with recent reports of new uses. It has poor aqueous solubility and very low oral bioavailability. However, when prepared in a eutectic mixture with the natural bioenhancer, piperine, it demonstrated improvements in these drawbacks. Therefore, considering that EMs can be easily produced and scaled-up, it could potentially be used in new pharmaceutical formulations. For this purpose, an analytical method capable of quantifying SQV in the presence of PIP is required for quality control purposes. In this context, UV–Vis equipment is simpler to use and cheaper than HPLC, and it is commonly available in most laboratories. Therefore, a derivative spectrophotometry method at 245 nm was developed and validated to quantify SQV. The method showed good linearity from 0.5 to 100.0 mg/L, with a limit of detection and limit of quantification of 0.331 mg/L and 0.468 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, it was precise, accurate, and demonstrated good specificity up to a 1:4.3 SQV:PIP ratio. Consequently, the results demonstrate that the method can be employed for SQV quantification in the presence of PIP as an economical and simple technique. This contribution could be the basis for a quality control technique for these types of products. Full article

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic profoundly disrupted the epidemiology of respiratory viruses, driven primarily by widespread non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) such as social distancing and masking. This eight-year retrospective study examines the seasonal patterns and incidence of influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and other respiratory viruses across pre-pandemic, pandemic, and post-pandemic phases in Jalisco, Mexico. Weekly case counts were analyzed using an interrupted time series (ITS) model, segmenting the timeline into these three distinct phases. Significant reductions in respiratory virus circulation were observed during the pandemic, followed by atypical resurgences as NPIs were relaxed. Influenza displayed alternating subtype dominance, with influenza A H3 prevailing in 2022, influenza B surging in 2023, and influenza A H1N1 increasing thereafter, reflecting potential immunity gaps. RSV activity was marked by earlier onset and higher intensity post-pandemic. Other viruses, including human rhinovirus/enterovirus (HRV/HEV) and parainfluenza virus (HPIV), showed altered dynamics, with some failing to return to pre-pandemic seasonality. These findings underscore the need for adaptive surveillance systems and vaccination strategies to address evolving viral patterns. Future research should investigate the long-term public health implications, focusing on vaccination, clinical outcomes, and healthcare preparedness. Full article

The study and improvement of the corrosion resistance of materials used in concentrated solar power plants is a permanent field of research. This involves determining their chemical stability when in contact with heat transfer fluids, such as molten nitrate salts. Various studies indicate an improvement in the corrosion resistance of iron-based alloys with the incorporation of elements that show high reactivity and solubility in molten nitrate salts, such as Cr and Mo. This study analyzes the kinetic and thermodynamic aspects of the beginning of the corrosion process of ferritic steels immersed in Solar Salt at 400, 500, and 600 °C. The analysis of the kinetic data using the Arrhenius equation and the Transition State Theory shows that an increase in the Cr/Mo ratio reduces the activation energy, the standard formation enthalpy, and the standard formation entropy. This indicates that its incorporation favors the degradation of steel; however, the results show a reduction in the corrosion rate. This effect is possible due to a synergistic effect by the formation of insoluble Fe-oxide layers that favor the formation of a Cr oxide layer at the Fe-oxide-metal interface, which limits the subsequent oxidation of Fe. Full article

Aim: To determine the clinical association between periodontal disease and diabetes mellitus through an umbrella review. Materials and Methods: A search for publications up to August 2023 was conducted using the following electronic databases: PubMed, Cochrane Database, Scopus, SciELO, Google Scholar, and OpenGrey. We included systematic reviews (SRs) with or without meta-analysis evaluating primary studies that investigated the association between periodontal disease and diabetes mellitus, and there were no time or language restrictions. Literature or narrative reviews, rapid reviews, intervention studies, observational studies, preclinical and basic research, abstracts, comments, case reports, protocols, personal opinions, letters, and posters were excluded. The AMSTAR-2 tool was used to determine the methodological quality of the included studies. Results: The preliminary search yielded a total of 577 articles, of which only 17 remained after discarding those that did not meet the selection criteria. Following their analysis, an association between periodontal disease and diabetes mellitus (type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus and gestational diabetes mellitus) was found. Conclusions: The findings and conclusions of this umbrella review indicate with high confidence that periodontal disease is associated with the onset of type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus and gestational diabetes. Full article

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the effect of etching protocols on bond strength, surface roughness, and mechanical properties of a zirconia-reinforced lithium silicate (ZLS) CAD/CAM-ceramic. In total, 100 bars (ISO 6872), 75 plaques, and 25 cubes were cut from ZLS blocks(Vita Suprinity^®). The surfaces were standardized, crystallized and divided into five groups: 1. control (no/treatment-C), 2. 5%-Hydrofluoric-acid (HF)/20 s (HF5%20s), 3.HF5%60s, 4.HF10%20s, and 5.HF10%60s. Flexural strength (FS) (three-point bending test, 1 mm/min), roughness (Pa), and micro-shear bond-strength (µSBS) tests were performed. The data were statistically analyzed with one-way ANOVA, Tukey’s test (p ˂ 0.05) and Weibull (FS data). C showed higher Pa (1.176 ± 0.370 µm) than HF10%60s (0.627 ± 0.236 µm) and all other groups. Groups C and 20 s showed the most irregular surface patterns. The FS results were not influenced by etching protocols, while the Weibull modulus was, with the 5%HF groups being the most reliable (m: 5.63/6.70), while C and HF10%60s (m: 2.78/2.73) were the least reliable. All fractures originated from surface defects on the treated side of specimens. The 5%HF groups showed higher µSBS (20 s: 21.35 ± 4.70 MPa; 60 s: 23.50 ± 4.27 MPa) than the 10%HF groups (20 s: 14.51 ± 2.47 MPa; 60 s: 16.54 ± 3.12 MPa) and C (6.46 ± 2.71 MPa). The most prevalent failure pattern was “mixed” for etched groups, and “adhesive” for C. Etching protocols affect the evaluated properties by roughening materials’ surface and, in some cases, regularizing surface defects. The best overall outcomes were achieved when applying 5%HF. Full article

The aim of this study is to develop a nanoemulgel encapsulating a Tunisian Prickly Pear (Opuntia ficus-indica L.) seed oil (PPSO) to assess, for the first time, the in vivo efficacy of this nanoformulation on wound healing. Phytocompounds of this oil have been reported in the literature as having powerful pharmacological activities. However, it remains poorly exploited due to low bioavailability. A nanoemulsion (NE) was designed by determining the required hydrophilic–lipophilic balance (HLB) and subsequently characterized. The mean droplet size was measured at 56.46 ± 1.12 nm, with a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.23 ± 0.01 using dynamic light scattering. The zeta potential was −31.4 ± 1.4 mV, and the morphology was confirmed and assessed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). These characteristics align with the typical properties of nanoemulsions. The gelification process resulted in the formation of a nanoemulgel from the optimum nanoemulsion. The high wound healing efficiency of the nanoemulgel was confirmed compared to that of a medicinally marketed cream. The outcomes of this research contribute valuable insights, for the first time, into the potential therapeutic applications of PPSO and its innovative pharmaceutical formulation for wound healing. Full article

Selenium (Se) is a nutrient whose daily intake is often below the recommended levels in people. Biofortification with Se is a method to increase this intake by raising the Se concentration in tomato fruits, an effect dependent on sources and modes of application. Additionally, Se application can promote the enhancement of other compounds in tomato fruits, altering their metabolism, which may increase the fruit’s shelf life. This study aimed to determine how different strategies of applying a multi-nutrient fertilizer containing Se (SeMNF) can increase the Se content and other bioactive compounds and enhance the shelf life of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) fruits. Different foliar fertilization strategies involving the use of SeMNF were evaluated in field trials conducted on commercial tomato crops. Indeterminate-growth tomatoes were used, and different Se doses and application strategies were tested. Harvesting was conducted in three phases according to fruit ripening. Each harvested fruit was assessed for the Se content, macro and micronutrients, total phenolic compounds, vitamin C, antioxidant activity, carotenoids, pH, total titratable acidity, and total soluble solids in tomato fruits. Doses of 15 g ha⁻¹ of Se, split into three applications, increased the Se content in the fruits at 1 and 2 harvests. The application of SeMNF at Se doses above 10 g of Se ha⁻¹ increased firmness, days of ripening, and the nutritional quality of the tomatoes (higher contents of carotenoids (+39%), lycopene (+33%), antioxidant activity (+16%), total phenolic compounds (+38%), and vitamin C (+14%) in a dose-dependent effect of the application strategy used. These results contributed to an increase in the shelf life of tomatoes, consequently reducing food waste. Full article