Search Results (41,124)

Objectives: Diabetes Mellitus involves demanding challenges that interfere with family functioning and routines. In turn, family and social context impacts individual glycemic control. This study aims to identify this recursive interplay, the mutual influences of family systems and diabetes management. Design: Data was collected through a cross-sectional design comparing patients, aged 22–55, with and without metabolic control. Methods: Participants filled out a set of self-report measures of sociodemographic, clinical and family systems assessment. Patients (91) were also invited to describe their perception about disease management interference regarding family functioning. We first examined the extent to which family variables grouped dataset to determine if there were similarities and dissimilarities that fit with our initial diabetic groups’ classification. Results: Cluster analysis results identify a two-cluster solution validating initial classification of two groups of patients: 49 with metabolic control (MC) and 42 without metabolic control (NoMC). Independent sample tests suggested statistically significant differences between groups in family subscales- family difficulties and family communication (p < 0.05). Binary logistic regression shed light on predictors of explained variance to no metabolic control, in four models: Sociodemographic, Clinical data, SCORE-15/Congruence Scale and Eating Behavior. Furthermore, groups differ on family support, level and sources of family conflict caused by diabetes management issues. Considering only patients who co-habit with a partner for more than one year (N = 44), NoMC patients score lower on marital functioning in all categories (p < 0.05). Discussion: Family-Chronic illness interaction plays a significant role in a patient’s adherence to treatment. This study highlights the Standards of Medical Care for Diabetes, considering caregivers and family members on diabetes care. Full article

Background/Objectives: Aberrant expression of high-mobility group protein B1 (HMGB1) has been linked to cancer development and progression. Methods: To better comprehend the role of HMGB1 expression in cancer, a tissue microarray containing 14,966 samples from 134 different tumor entities and 608 samples of 76 different normal tissue types was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Results: Strong HMGB1 staining occurred in almost all normal cell types and in most cancers. Of 11,808 evaluable cancers, only 7.8% showed complete absence of HMGB1 staining (HMGB1 deficiency) while 9.9% showed 1+, 25.0% showed 2+, and 57.2% showed 3+ HMGB1 positivity. Absence of HMGB1 staining mostly occurred in pheochromocytoma (90.0%), seminoma (72.4%), gastrointestinal stromal tumor (28.6%), adrenal cortical carcinoma (25.0%), and Hodgkin’s lymphoma (25.0%). Low HMGB1 staining was linked to poor histologic grade (p < 0.0001), advanced pT stage (p < 0.0001), high UICC stage (p < 0.0001), and distant metastasis (p = 0.0413) in clear cell renal cell carcinoma, invasive tumor growth in urothelial carcinoma (pTa vs. pT2–4, p < 0.0001), mismatch repair deficiency (p = 0.0167) in colorectal cancers, and advanced pT stage in invasive breast carcinoma of no special type (p = 0.0038). Strong HMGB1 staining was linked to nodal metastases in high-grade serous ovarian carcinomas (p = 0.0213) and colorectal adenocarcinomas (p = 0.0137), as well as to poor histological grade in squamous cell carcinomas (p = 0.0010). Conclusions: HMGB1 deficiency and reduced HMGB1 expression occur in a broad range of different tumor entities. Low rather than strong HMGB1 staining is often linked to an aggressive tumor phenotype. Whether HMGB1 deficiency renders cells susceptible to specific drugs remains to be determined. Full article

Computer vision techniques such as three-dimensional digital image correlation (3D-DIC) and three-dimensional point tracking (3D-PT) have demonstrated broad applicability for monitoring the conditions of large-scale engineering systems by reconstructing and tracking dynamic point clouds corresponding to the surface of a structure. Accurate stereophotogrammetry measurements require the stereo cameras to be calibrated to determine their intrinsic and extrinsic parameters by capturing multiple images of a calibration object. This image-based approach becomes cumbersome and time-consuming as the size of the tested object increases. To streamline the calibration and make it scale-insensitive, a multi-sensor system embedding inertial measurement units and a laser sensor is developed to compute the extrinsic parameters of the stereo cameras. In this research, the accuracy of the proposed sensor-based calibration method in performing stereophotogrammetry is validated experimentally and compared with traditional approaches. Tests conducted at various scales reveal that the proposed sensor-based calibration enables reconstructing both static and dynamic point clouds, measuring displacements with an accuracy higher than 95% compared to image-based traditional calibration, while being up to an order of magnitude faster and easier to deploy. The novel approach has broad applications for making static, dynamic, and deformation measurements to transform how large-scale structural health monitoring can be performed. Full article

This article provides a critical review of the current design and research challenges in contemporary timber architecture. Conducted from the perspective of a designer-researcher, the review focuses on the role of wood as a material at the intersection of environmental performance, cultural meaning, and spatial practice. The study adopts a conceptual, problem-oriented approach, eschewing the conventional systematic aggregation of existing data. The objective of this study is to identify, interpret and categorise the key issues that are shaping the evolving discourse on timber architecture. The analysis is based on peer-reviewed literature published between 2020 and 2025, sourced from the Scopus and Web of Science Core Collection databases. Fifteen thematic challenges have been identified and classified according to their recognition level in academic and design contexts. The subjects under discussion include well-established topics, such as life cycle assessment and carbon storage, as well as less commonly explored areas, such as symbolic durability, social acceptance, traceability, and the upcycling of low-grade wood. The review under consideration places significant emphasis on the importance of integrating technical, cultural, and perceptual dimensions when evaluating timber architecture. The article proposes an interpretive framework combining design thinking and transdisciplinary insights. This framework aims to bridge disciplinary gaps and provide a coherent structure for understanding the complexity of timber-related challenges. The framework under discussion here encourages a broader understanding of wood as not only a sustainable building material but also a vehicle for systemic transformation in architectural culture and practice. The study’s insights may support designers, educators, and policymakers in identifying strategic priorities for the development of future-proof timber-based design practices. Full article

Background/Objectives: Health education plays a vital role in training health professionals and caregivers, supporting both prevention and the promotion of self-care. In this context, technology serves as a valuable ally by enabling continuous and flexible learning. Among the various domains of health education, nutrition stands out as a key element in the management of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), helping to prevent malnutrition and enhance patient well-being. Accordingly, this study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the teaching and learning processes within a learning pathway focused on food and nutrition in the context of ALS. Methods: This study adopted a longitudinal, quantitative design. The learning pathway, titled “Food and Nutrition in ALS,” consisted of four self-paced and self-instructional Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), offered through the Virtual Learning Environment of the Brazilian Health System (AVASUS). Participants included health professionals, caregivers, and patients from all five regions of Brazil. Participants had the autonomy to complete the courses in any order, with no prerequisites for enrollment. Results: Out of 14,263 participants enrolled nationwide, 182 were included in this study after signing the Informed Consent Form. Of these, 142 (78%) completed at least one course and participated in the educational intervention. A significant increase in knowledge was observed, with mean pre-test scores rising from 7.3 (SD = 1.8) to 9.6 (SD = 0.9) on the post-test across all courses (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The self-instructional, technology-mediated continuing education model proved effective in improving participants’ knowledge about nutrition in ALS. Future studies should explore knowledge retention, behavior change, and the impact of such interventions on clinical outcomes, especially in multidisciplinary care settings. Full article

In football, accurately pinpointing key events like passes is vital for analyzing player and team performance. Despite continuous technological advancements, existing tracking systems still face challenges in accurately synchronizing events and positional data accurately. This is a case study that proposes a new method to synchronize events and positional data collected during football matches. Three datasets were used to perform this study: a dataset created by applying a custom algorithm that synchronizes positional and event data, referred to as the optimized synchronization dataset (OSD); a simple temporal alignment between positional and event data, referred to as the raw synchronization dataset (RSD); and a manual notational data (MND) from the match video footage, considered the ground truth observations. The timestamp of the pass in both synchronized datasets was compared to the ground truth observations (MND). Spatial differences in OSD were also compared to the RSD data and to the original data from the provider. Root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) were utilized to assess the accuracy of both procedures. More accurate results were observed for optimized dataset, with RMSE values of RSD = 75.16 ms (milliseconds) and OSD = 72.7 ms, and MAE values RSD = 60.50 ms and OSD = 59.73 ms. Spatial accuracy also improved, with OSD showing reduced deviation from RSD compared to the original event data. The mean positional deviation was reduced from 1.59 ± 0.82 m in original event data to 0.41 ± 0.75 m in RSD. In conclusion, the model offers a more accurate method for synchronizing independent datasets for event and positional data. This is particularly beneficial for applications where precise timing and spatial location of actions are critical. In contrast to previous synchronization methods, this approach simplifies the process by using an automated technique based on patterns of ball velocity. This streamlines synchronization across datasets, reduces the need for manual intervention, and makes the method more practical for routine use in applied settings. Full article

Avocado (Persea americana), originally from Mesoamerica, has emerged as a focus of intense scientific and industrial interest due to its unique combination of nutritional richness, bioactive potential, and technological versatility. Its pulp, widely consumed across the globe, is notably abundant in monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, which can comprise over two-thirds of its lipid content. In addition, it provides significant levels of dietary fiber, fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K, carotenoids, tocopherols, and phytosterols like β-sitosterol. These constituents are consistently associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, glycemic regulatory, and cardioprotective effects, supported by a growing body of experimental and clinical evidence. This review offers a comprehensive and critical synthesis of the chemical composition and functional properties of avocado, with particular emphasis on its lipid profile, phenolic compounds, and phytosterols. It also explores recent advances in environmentally sustainable extraction techniques, including ultrasound-assisted and microwave-assisted processes, as well as the application of natural deep eutectic solvents. These technologies have demonstrated improved efficiency in recovering bioactives while aligning with the principles of green chemistry. The use of avocado-derived ingredients in nanostructured delivery systems and their incorporation into functional foods, cosmetics, and health-promoting formulations is discussed in detail. Additionally, the potential of native cultivars and the application of precision nutrition strategies are identified as promising avenues for future innovation. Taken together, the findings underscore the avocado’s relevance as a high-value matrix for sustainable development. Future research should focus on optimizing extraction protocols, clarifying pharmacokinetic behavior, and ensuring long-term safety in diverse applications. Full article

The 3rd Annual Meeting of the International Network on Ectopic Calcification (INTEC) was held in Faro, Portugal on 12–13 September 2024. This hybrid meeting brought together researchers and clinicians focused on the molecular, (patho)physiological, and clinical aspects of ectopic calcification in hereditary and acquired conditions, as well as in aging. The findings presented in this year’s meeting emphasised the complexity of the field, offering new insights into both mechanistic pathways and translational hurdles. The abstracts of this year’s meeting are collected in this conference paper, with permission from the corresponding authors. Full article

This study evaluated the effects of different storage conditions, varying in light exposure, relative humidity (RH), and packaging materials, on the physicochemical stability of Lobosphaera sp. biomass, the retention of bioactive compounds, and the bioactivity of its extracts. Under light and 75% RH, the biomass absorbed moisture over time, reaching 0.779 ± 0.003 g/g dry weight (DW) after three months. This was accompanied by a decline in luminosity, chroma, and hue values. In contrast, samples stored under other conditions showed minimal changes, indicating that high humidity, combined with light exposure, compromises biomass stability. Packaging in metalized polyethylene terephthalate (PETmet/PE) effectively preserved the water content, color, and carotenoid levels during a two-month storage period. Bioactive compounds extracted via hydroethanolic ultrasound-assisted extraction yielded 15.48 ± 1.35% DW. Total phenolic content (TPC) of the extracts declined over time in both PETmet/PE and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) packaging, though the decrease was less pronounced in PETmet/PE. Antioxidant activity, assessed via the ABTS assay, remained stable, regardless of storage duration or packaging. Antimicrobial activity of the extract decreased over time but remained more effective against Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, and Listeria monocytogenes), with PETmet/PE packaging better preserving antimicrobial efficacy than LDPE. These findings underscore the importance of optimized storage conditions and packaging for maintaining the quality and bioactivity of Lobosphaera sp. biomass and its extracts. Full article

The eruption of the Cumbre Vieja volcano on 19 September 2021 resulted in the deposition of over 20 million cubic meters of tephra, posing significant environmental and logistical challenges in the affected areas. This study aimed to explore the valorization of volcanic ash (VA) by evaluating its potential use in producing sustainable mortar by incorporating it as a replacement for cement or sand. Various experimental mixtures were prepared with different proportions of VA which substituted either cement or sand, and these mixes were characterized through a mechanical and microstructural campaign. Additionally, shrinkage was evaluated for the mixtures which showed good mechanical results. The results suggest that partially replacing cement with up to 15% ground VA as well as substituting sand with up to 25% VA are promising strategies for the production of sustainable mortar mixes. This research contributes to the understanding of the influence of VA in cementitious matrices and offers a novel approach for integrating locally available geomaterials into infrastructure design in volcanic active regions. Full article

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is used as a plasticizer to enhance flexibility in several household products, cosmetics, and food-contact materials. Due to its harmful effects, DBP is restricted or banned in children’s products and food items, particularly in Europe. Due to its endocrine disruptor properties and considering its ability to cross the placental barrier, it is imperative to study DBP’s vascular effects in pregnancy, given the vulnerability of this period. Thus, this study investigated the potential effects of DBP on the cardiovascular system using umbilical arteries from healthy pregnant women. Specifically, the impact of DBP on the vascular reactivity after both rapid and 24 h DBP exposure was analyzed, as well as the contractility and the cell viability of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC). DBP did not exhibit overt cytotoxic effects on VSMCs, possibly due to its adsorption onto polystyrene surfaces, potentially limiting bioavailability. Interestingly, DBP induced vasorelaxation in a concentration-dependent manner. Although mechanistic insights remain to be fully elucidated, the results suggest the involvement of pathways associated with nitric oxide signaling and calcium handling. Overall, DBP exposure appears to modulate arterial tone regulation, which may have implications for vascular function during pregnancy. Full article

This study aimed to investigate the effect of organizational culture on employee-perceived performance and whether this relationship is mediated by perceived organizational support and moderated by employee motivation. Three hundred individuals working in organizations located in Portugal and Angola participated in this study. This is a quantitative, exploratory, correlational, and cross-sectional study. The results indicate that only goal culture, rule culture, affective organizational support perception, and identified motivation have a positive and significant effect on perceived performance. Supportive culture and goal culture have a positive and significant effect on affective organizational support perception. All dimensions of organizational culture have a significant effect on cognitive organizational support perception, with the effects of the supportive culture and the goal culture being positive and significant, while the effects of the innovative culture and the rule culture are negative and significant. The perception of affective organizational support has a total mediating effect on the relationship between goal culture and perceived performance. Intrinsic motivation and identified motivation have a moderating effect on the relationship between all dimensions of organizational culture and perceived performance. This study is expected to help human resource managers understand the importance of the type of organizational culture that prevails in their organization to enhance employees’ perception of organizational support and performance. Full article

Saproxylic beetles are key bioindicators of forest ecosystem quality and play essential roles in deadwood decomposition and nutrient cycling. However, their populations are increasingly threatened by habitat fragmentation, deadwood removal, and climate-driven environmental changes. For this reason, an integrated sampling method can increase the detection of species with varying ecological traits. We evaluated the effectiveness of integrative sampling methodologies to assess saproxylic beetle diversity within Sila National Park, a Mediterranean forest ecosystem of high conservation value, specifically in two beech forests and four pine forests. The sampling methods tested included Pan Traps (PaTs), Malaise Traps (MTs), Pitfall Traps (PTs), Bait Bottle Traps (BBTs), and Visual Census (VC). All specimens were identified to the species level whenever possible, using specialized dichotomous keys and preserved in the Entomological Collection TB, Unical. Various trap types captured a different number of species: the PaT collected 32 species, followed by the PT with 24, the MT with 16, the VC with 7, and the BBT with 5 species. Interestingly, biodiversity analyses conducted using PAST software version 4.17 revealed that PaTs and MTs recorded the highest biodiversity indices. The GLMM analysis, performed using SPSS software 29.0.1.0, demonstrated that various traps attracted different species with different abundances. By combining multiple trapping techniques, we documented a more comprehensive community composition compared to single-method approaches. Moreover, PaTs, MTs, and PTs recorded 20%, 40%, and 33% of the Near Threatened species, respectively. We report new records for Sila National Park, including the LC species Pteryngium crenulatum (Curculionidae) and the NT species Grynocharis oblonga (Trogossitidae). For the first time in Calabria, the LC species Triplax rufipes (Erotylidae) and the NT species Oxypleurus nodieri (Cerambycidae) and Glischrochilus quadrisignatus (Nitidulidae) were collected. Our results emphasize the importance of method diversity in capturing species with distinct ecological requirements and highlight the relevance of saproxylic beetles as indicators of forest health. These findings support the adoption of multi-method sampling protocols in forest biodiversity monitoring and management programs, especially in biodiversity-rich and structurally heterogeneous landscapes. Full article

Background: Rapid urbanization has intensified the challenges of freight transport, particularly in last-mile (LM) delivery, leading to rising costs and environmental externalities. Autonomous vehicles (AVs) have emerged as a promising innovation to address these issues. While much of the existing literature emphasizes business and operational perspectives, this study focuses on the acceptance of AVs from the standpoint of e-consumers—individuals who make purchases via digital platforms—in an emerging market context. Methods: Grounded in an extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2), which is specifically suited to consumer-focused technology adoption research, this study incorporates five constructs tailored to AV adoption. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was applied to survey data collected from 304 e-consumers in Northeast Brazil. Results: The findings reveal that performance expectancy, hedonic motivation, and environmental awareness exert significant positive effects on acceptance and intention to use AVs for LM delivery. Social influence shows a weaker, yet still positive, impact. Importantly, price sensitivity exhibits a minimal effect, suggesting that while consumers are generally cost-conscious, perceived value may outweigh price concerns in early adoption stages. Conclusions: These results offer valuable insights for policymakers and logistics providers aiming to implement consumer-oriented, cost-effective AV solutions in LM delivery, particularly in emerging economies. The findings emphasize the need for strategies that highlight the practical, emotional, and environmental benefits of AVs to foster market acceptance. Full article

The frequency of specific variants associated with the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases has been extensively studied through genome-wide association studies (GWASs). Differences between populations may be caused by the interaction of several factors, such as environmental and genetic backgrounds. Here, we studied 19 SNPs involved in atherosclerosis (AT) and venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk in the Azorean and mainland Portuguese populations and compared their frequencies with other European, Asian, and African populations. Results revealed that, although there was no difference between Azorean and mainland populations, eight SNPs in ADAMTS7, PCSK9, APOE, and LDLR genes showed significant statistical differences (χ², p < 0.05) when compared with the European population. The multilocus genetic profile (MGP) analysis demonstrated that 7.4% of mainlanders and 11.2% of Azoreans have a high-risk of developing atherosclerosis. The opposite tendency was observed for venous thromboembolism risk, where the mainland population presented a higher risk (6.5%) than the Azorean population (4.1%). Significant differences in VTE-MGP distribution were found among the Azorean geographic groups (p < 0.05), with the Eastern group showing the highest VTE risk. Conversely, for the risk AT-MGP, the Central group shows the highest risk (12.9%). Taken together, the data suggest a risk of developing a cardiovascular disease consistent with the European population. However, the Azorean-specific genetic background and socio-cultural habits (dietary and sedentary) may explain the differences observed, validating the need to assess the allelic and genotypic frequencies between different populations, especially in small geographical locations, such as the Azores archipelago. In conclusion, these findings can improve the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of high-risk individuals, and contribute to reducing the lifelong burden of cardiovascular diseases in the Azorean population. Full article