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1.
Nutrients ; 16(9)2024 Apr 28.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38732566

ABSTRACT

Dietary supplements are commonly used among athletes, and the Internet may be an easy source of these products. Tribulus terrestris is an herbal supplement with multiple properties. Of interest to athletes are reports that its consumption can lead to muscle mass gain and a faster recovery process. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the availability of Tribulus terrestris via the Internet in six countries (Canada, Puerto Rico, Russia, Spain, Ukraine, and the United States of America) via a specifically designed computer program. The characteristics of the websites selling this substance, the country from which it can be purchased, the route of administration, and recommendations for its use were analyzed. The results of the study show that this supplement is marketed mainly in Russia, Ukraine, and Spain on many websites that are mostly dedicated to sports products. Just over half of the webpages (59.14%) identified only distribute this supplement within the same country. The main claims for its consumption refer to sports performance benefits, but there are also claims that it may improve male hormone levels and sexual function. Athletes should be encouraged to seek professional advice prior to ingesting this supplement to ensure that it is suitable for their specific training and sports objectives.


Subject(s)
Athletic Performance , Dietary Supplements , Internet , Tribulus , Humans , Cross-Sectional Studies , United States , Spain , Ukraine , Russia , Canada , Advertising/statistics & numerical data , Male
2.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(9)2024 Apr 25.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38731888

ABSTRACT

The interaction of heparin with antithrombin (AT) involves a specific sequence corresponding to the pentasaccharide GlcNAc/NS6S-GlcA-GlcNS3S6S-IdoA2S-GlcNS6S (AGA*IA). Recent studies have revealed that two AGA*IA-containing hexasaccharides, which differ in the sulfation degree of the iduronic acid unit, exhibit similar binding to AT, albeit with different affinities. However, the lack of experimental data concerning the molecular contacts between these ligands and the amino acids within the protein-binding site prevents a detailed description of the complexes. Differential epitope mapping (DEEP)-STD NMR, in combination with MD simulations, enables the experimental observation and comparison of two heparin pentasaccharides interacting with AT, revealing slightly different bound orientations and distinct affinities of both glycans for AT. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the differential solvent DEEP-STD NMR approach in determining the presence of polar residues in the recognition sites of glycosaminoglycan-binding proteins.


Subject(s)
Antithrombins , Heparin , Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy , Molecular Dynamics Simulation , Oligosaccharides , Protein Binding , Heparin/chemistry , Heparin/metabolism , Oligosaccharides/chemistry , Oligosaccharides/metabolism , Antithrombins/chemistry , Antithrombins/metabolism , Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy/methods , Binding Sites , Solvents/chemistry , Epitope Mapping/methods , Humans
3.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(9)2024 Apr 29.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38732050

ABSTRACT

Despite elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels, some older subjects with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH) do not develop atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACVD) during their lifetime. The factors related to this resilient state have not been fully established. The aim of this study was to evaluate differential characteristics between older HeFH subjects with and without ACVD and factors associated with the presence of ACVD. Subjects were part of the Spanish Atherosclerosis Society Dyslipidemia Registry, and those ≥ 70 years old and with HeFH were included. Baseline characteristics of these subjects with and without ACVD were compared. A multivariate analysis was performed to assess factors associated with the presence of ACVD. A total of 2148 subjects with HeFH were included. Resilient subjects were mostly female, younger and presented fewer comorbidities with respect to the ACVD group. Subjects without ACVD had higher baseline high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (55.8 ± 17.1 vs. 47.9 ± 15.4 mg/dL; p < 0.001) and lower lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] (53.4 ± 67.9 vs. 66.6 ± 85.6 mg/dL; p < 0.001) levels with respect to those in the ACVD group. Lp(a) and the presence of ≥3 risk factors were associated with the presence of ACVD.


Subject(s)
Heterozygote , Hyperlipoproteinemia Type II , Humans , Female , Male , Hyperlipoproteinemia Type II/blood , Hyperlipoproteinemia Type II/genetics , Aged , Risk Factors , Cholesterol, LDL/blood , Atherosclerosis/blood , Atherosclerosis/etiology , Atherosclerosis/genetics , Cholesterol, HDL/blood , Lipoprotein(a)/blood , Aged, 80 and over
4.
J Vet Diagn Invest ; : 10406387241249180, 2024 May 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38708704

ABSTRACT

Astylus atromaculatus Blanchard is a native beetle of South America that feeds on pollen. During the summer of 2022-2023 in Argentina and Uruguay, an explosive infestation of these insects occurred in pastures in which ruminants were grazing. This was believed to be associated with a severe drought, which had significantly reduced the flowering of crops. Three farms in Uruguay and one in Argentina were visited to examine the flocks and perform autopsies. Affected sheep had watery diarrhea, anorexia, depression, and ruminal atony. The average morbidity, mortality, and case fatality rates were 7.5%, 4.3%, and 68%, respectively. The main gross findings in all animals were in the jejunum; the serosa had multifocal hemorrhages, and the mucosa was necrotic and covered by a pseudomembrane. Microscopically, the mucosa had partial-to-complete necrosis of the lamina propria, as well as loss of villus and crypt epithelium with neutrophilic infiltration. Overlying the necrotic mucosa was a pseudomembrane of fibrin, cell debris, desquamated epithelial cells, degenerate neutrophils, and bacteria. Many specimens of A. atromaculatus were in all paddocks in which sheep grazed, as well as in the ruminal content of the autopsied animals.

5.
Transfusion ; 2024 May 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38708765

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Therapeutic phlebotomy (TP), a widely used medical procedure, can be performed on diverse patients with iron overload or polyglobulia. However, its adverse events are not well known as most of the information on phlebotomy is derived from healthy blood donors (0.1%-5.3%). In contrast, TP is applicable to a broader, more complex population with comorbidities and old age. To ascertain the incidence of adverse events in phlebotomies, we conducted a prospective study on patients who attended our Unit. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We prospectively gathered data from patients referred to our Unit for TP. Data regarding demographics, health status, and adverse events within at least 24 h of phlebotomy were gathered via a structured questionnaire during each visit. RESULTS: Between August 2021 and September 2022, 189 patients underwent 587 procedures. Most patients were men, over 60 (57.3%) had comorbidities, and 93% underwent at least two procedures during the study period. Twenty patients (10.8%) presented 25 adverse events (4.3% of phlebotomies), usually vasovagal reactions, none of which were clinically relevant, and all were managed by nursing staff on site, with full patient recovery. DISCUSSION: The rate of adverse events (<5%) in patients undergoing TP was low and comparable to that seen in healthy blood donors. Consequently, even old patients and those with some comorbidities can safely undergo TP when the process is carefully managed.

6.
Arch Cardiol Mex ; 2024 Apr 04.
Article in Spanish | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38574393

ABSTRACT

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of a cardiac rehabilitation program (CRP) in improving adherence to non-pharmacological secondary prevention in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Method: Retrospective study of patients with ACS referred to CRP in a tertiary hospital from 2018 to 2021. Pre-post differences in adherence to physical activity, Mediterranean diet, smoking, and motivation to change were analyzed. Age, sex, and baseline motivation were analyzed in predicting change in adherence. Results: 418 patients were included. At the end of the CRP, the adherence to the mediterranean diet increased (p < 0.05; d = 0.83), frequency of physical activity increased by 2.16 (p < 0.05), and motivation to change remained constant (p = 0.94). Both women and men improved their adherence to the mediterranean diet. Both sexes performed more physical activity at the end of the CRP (1.89 times more in men and 4 times more in women; p < 0.05). An association was found between initial motivation and greater changes in adherence to the mediterranean diet (p < 0.05). An inversely proportional difference was observed between age and adherence to the mediterranean diet (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The CRP, in our hospital environment, has an effect of improving adherence to the mediterranean diet and physical exercise in patients with ACS. The change in adherence to the diet increases as the motivation to change the baseline increases, and age is inversely related to the change in adherence.


Objetivo: Evaluar la eficacia de un programa de rehabilitación cardiaca (PRC) sobre la mejora de la adherencia a las medidas de prevención secundaria no farmacológicas en pacientes con síndrome coronario agudo (SCA). Método: Estudio retrospectivo con pacientes con SCA derivados a PRC en un hospital terciario de 2018 a 2021. Se analizaron diferencias pre-post de adherencia a actividad física, dieta mediterránea, tabaquismo y motivación al cambio. Se analizaron la edad, el sexo y la motivación basal en la predicción del cambio de adherencia. Resultados: Se incluyeron 418 pacientes. Al final del PRC aumentó la adherencia a la dieta mediterránea (p < 0.05; d = 0.83), la frecuencia de actividad física aumentó 2,16 (p < 0.05) y la motivación al cambio se mantuvo constante (p = 0.94). Tanto las mujeres como los hombres mejoraron la adherencia a la dieta mediterránea. Ambos sexos realizaron más ejercicio físico al final del PRC (1.89 veces más los hombres y 4 las mujeres; p < 0.05). Se encontró una asociación entre motivación inicial y mayores cambios en la adherencia a la dieta mediterránea (p < 0.05). Se observó una diferencia inversamente proporcional entre la edad y la adherencia a la dieta mediterránea (p < 0.05). Conclusiones: El PRC, en nuestro medio hospitalario, mejora la adherencia a la dieta mediterránea y al ejercicio físico en los pacientes con SCA. La adherencia a la dieta mediterránea aumenta a medida que lo hace la motivación al cambio basal, mientras que la edad está inversamente relacionada con el cambio de adherencia.

7.
Open Forum Infect Dis ; 11(4): ofae112, 2024 Apr.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38560607

ABSTRACT

Objective: The incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has risen dramatically. Among people living with HIV (PLHIV), chronic disease (now >15 cases/1000 in the general population worldwide) and long-term exposure to antiretroviral therapy (ART) can alter metabolic processes early, favoring insulin resistance and T2DM. We retrospectively studied the incidence of T2DM and associated factors in the Cohort of the Spanish AIDS Research Network, a prospective cohort of PLHIV enrolled at diagnosis and before initiation of ART. Methods: PLHIV were aged >18 years and ART naive at inclusion. The incidence of new diagnoses of T2DM after initiation of ART (per 1000 person-years) was calculated. Predictors of a diagnosis of T2DM were identified by a Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for statistically significant and clinically relevant variables. Results: Cumulative incidence was 5.9 (95% CI, 5.1-6.7) per 1000 person-years, increasing significantly in persons aged >50 years to 14.4 (95% CI, 10.4-19.3). Median time to diagnosis of T2DM was 27 months. Only age and higher education were significant. Interestingly, higher education was associated with a 33% reduction in the incidence of T2DM. Having received tenofovir disoproxil fumarate + (lamivudine or emtricitabine) + rilpivirine was almost significant as a protective factor (hazard ratio, 0.49; 95% CI, .24-1.01; P = .05). Conclusions: The incidence of T2DM in PLHIV in Spain was high, especially in persons aged >50 years. Age was the factor most closely associated with onset, and educational level was the factor most associated with reduced risk. We highlight the lack of association between HIV-related factors and T2DM and show that, within nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, rilpivirine could prove more benign for metabolic comorbidities.

8.
J Clin Med ; 13(7)2024 Mar 22.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38610601

ABSTRACT

Objectives: To compare complications associated with percutaneous gastrostomies performed using PUSH and PULL techniques, whether endoscopic (PEG) or radiological (PRG), in a tertiary-level hospital. Methods: This was a prospective observational study. Adult patients who underwent percutaneous PULL or PUSH gastrostomy using PEG or PRG techniques at the Virgen del Rocio University Hospital and subsequently followed up in the Nutrition Unit between 2009-2020 were included. X2 tests or Fisher's test were used for the comparison of proportions when necessary. Univariate analysis was conducted to study risk factors for PRG-associated complications. Results: n = 423 (PULL = 181; PUSH = 242). The PULL technique was associated with a higher percentage of total complications (37.6% vs. 23.8%; p = 0.005), exudate (18.2% vs. 11.2%; p = 0.039), and irritation (3.3% vs. 0%; p = 0.006). In the total sample, there were 5 (1.1%) cases of peritonitis, 3 (0.7%) gastrocolic fistulas, and 1 (0.2%) death due to complications associated with gastrostomy. Gender, age, and different indications were not risk factors for a higher number of complications. The most common indications were neurological diseases (35.9%), head and neck cancer (29%), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (17.2%). Conclusions: The PULL technique was associated with more total complications than the PUSH technique, but both were shown to be safe techniques, as the majority of complications were minor.

9.
Heliyon ; 10(7): e29191, 2024 Apr 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38623236

ABSTRACT

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and insufficient physical activity is a significant risk factor. This study analyzed the tumor prevalence based on sex, age, smoking, BMI, and physical activity level (PAL) in the Spanish people. Data from the Spanish National Health Survey (ENSE) was used, comprising a sample of 17,704 people diagnosed with malignant tumors. The findings revealed compelling associations (P < 0.001) between all variables examined and the prevalence of malignant tumors. Notably, women exhibited a higher prevalence than men (P < 0.05). Furthermore, individuals classified as obese displayed a greater prevalence of tumors than those within the normal weight range (P < 0.05). The analysis also showed that the inactive group had a higher prevalence of malignant tumors than the active group (P < 0.05). This study identified significant dependency relationships (P < 0.001) between PAL and the various population groups examined. Additionally, the general population analyzed in the ENSE2017 study demonstrated a reduced risk of developing malignant tumors among the active (P < 0.05) and very active groups (P < 0.05) compared to the inactive group. This risk reduction was consistently observed across different subgroups, including men, women, specific age groups, smoking, and BMI categories (P < 0.05). This study highlighted the importance of regular physical activity in reducing the risk and prevalence of malignant tumors in the Spanish population. These findings underscore the critical role of engaging in physical activity as a protective measure against cancer. Encouraging individuals to adopt an active lifestyle could significantly contribute to cancer prevention efforts and promote overall well-being.

10.
Front Nephrol ; 4: 1384208, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38666245

ABSTRACT

Acquired tubulopathies are frequently underdiagnosed. They can be characterized by the renal loss of specific electrolytes or organic solutes, suggesting the location of dysfunction. These tubulopathies phenotypically can resemble Bartter or Gitelman syndrome). These syndromes are infrequent, they may present salt loss resembling the effect of thiazides (Gitelman) or loop diuretics (Bartter). They are characterized by potentially severe hypokalemia, associated with metabolic alkalosis, secondary hyperaldosteronism, and often hypomagnesemia. Tubular dysfunction has been described as nephrotoxic effects of platinum-based chemotherapy. We present 4 cases with biochemical signs of tubular dysfunction (Bartter-like/Gitelman-like phenotype) related to chemotherapy.

11.
J Gastrointest Surg ; 2024 Apr 02.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38574966

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is one of the most commonly performed bariatric surgeries. SG treats type 2 diabetes mellitus better than several drugs. The mechanisms that underlie this phenomenon are not clear. This study proposed that somatostatin (SST) isoforms SST-14 and SST-28 are key in the carbohydrate after SG. METHODS: Surgeries were performed on 3 groups of Wistar rats: the fasting, surgery control, and SG groups. Plasma levels of glucose, insulin, SST-14, and SST-28 were measured at 2 survival periods after surgery. Islet SST receptor (SSTR) and cell populations were studied. We performed a pasireotide (SST-28 analogue) infusion assay in another group of rats to confirm the influence of SST-28 plasma levels on the delta-cell population. RESULTS: This study found an elevation in the insulin response after SG in animals but a decrease in the insulin response over the long term with a loss of beta-cell mass. An increase in duodenal SST-28-producing cells in the duodenum and a loss of pancreatic SST-14-producing cells were observed after SG in animals but not in controls. The expression of SSTR type 5 in delta-cell populations from each group and the ability of the pasireotide infusion assay to decrease the delta-cell population indicated the effect of SST-28 plasma levels on delta-cell maintenance. CONCLUSION: After SG initiates a compensatory response in the duodenum, beta-cell mass is depleted after loss of the brake that regulates SST-14 at the paracrine level in a nonobese, normoglycemic rat model. This was an experimental model, with no clinical translation to the human clinic, with a preliminary importance regarding new pathophysiologic perspectives or pathways.

12.
J Child Sex Abus ; : 1-19, 2024 Apr 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38618949

ABSTRACT

Research on child sexual abuse (CSA) has increased in recent decades. However, the study of gender differences in this field is still scarce. The aim of this study was to analyze the differences in the characterization of CSA between Spanish adult men and women. The Juvenile Victimization Questionnaire was administered to 162 cisgender victims of CSA aged 18-63. Most of the abuses involved physical contact and were committed by a known person. Twenty percent of the victims indicated that they had developed a mental health problem that they believed was due to the CSA experience. Women suffered more CSA with physical contact and penetration, more types of abuse and more abuse by men, and were abused more frequently by a family member. Compared to women, men suffered more sexual abuse by women. Exploring gender differences in CSA could help to improve preventive strategies and interventions aimed at reducing the occurrence of this type of abuse and sequelae resulting from it.

13.
Anim Sci J ; 95(1): e13934, 2024.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38581380

ABSTRACT

This study aims to evaluate the effect of different dietary fat sources on the quality of a Spanish-cooked meat product Lomo de Sajonia (LSA) and its shelf-life. Forty loins were selected from Iberian pigs fed four dietary treatments containing pork fat (G-1), Greedy-Grass Olive® (GGO) (enriched oleic-acid oil) (G-2), G-2 and high oleic sunflower (G-3), and G-3 plus a mixture of commercial organic acids (Bioll®) (G-4). Loins were manufactured to obtain LSA, and the quality and sensorial attributes were assessed. The shelf life was established according to microbial count and sensorial analysis, which was packed in a modified atmosphere and stored under retail conditions. All meat quality parameters of LSA remained stable in all groups, except fat content and overall liking, which showed the highest values for G-2 LSA. Regarding the shelf life, sensorial attributes remained acceptable in all groups during storage time, while a delay in microbial growth was recorded for the LSA of G-3. According to the results, including GGO in Iberian pig diets could enhance LSA traits, possibly linked to increased assimilation compared with conventional fat sources. However, adding organic acids to the diet did not have the expected effect on improving the shelf life of the LSA.


Subject(s)
Meat Products , Pork Meat , Red Meat , Swine , Animals , Dietary Fats , Cooking , Meat/analysis
14.
Clin Nurs Res ; 33(4): 240-252, 2024 May.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38623695

ABSTRACT

Physical distancing measures to limit contagion in the COVID-19 pandemic made it difficult to care for older persons with dementia. Non-essential home visits were prevented and family caregivers took over most of their care. The aim of our study was to describe the lived experience of peoples living with dementia caregivers during the pandemic regarding the care provided and the person cared for. A qualitative phenomenological design was used. Participants were recruited using purposeful sampling. Informants were selected from primary healthcare centers, day centers, and a community mental health unit. The study participants comprised 21 caregivers. Semi-structured in-depth interviews by telephone were used, and field notes were collected from the researchers. A thematic analysis was conducted. The criteria used to control trustworthiness were credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. Three main themes and six related sub-themes were identified: (1) care for the person with dementia during the pandemic, including lockdown, associated with difficulties in coping with restrictions, deterioration in health, and the impact of the closure of health and social resources; (2) health and social care provided to people with dementia after the disruptions and the care received from primary care prior to hospital or residential admission; and (3) the caregiver's perspective on the effects of the psycho-emotional impact, and coping strategies adopted in caring. Interventions for people with dementia should be planned in order to prevent the worsening of their health and cognitive status, while also developing programs to prevent stress and alleviate caregiver burden in case of health crises.


Subject(s)
COVID-19 , Caregivers , Dementia , Qualitative Research , Humans , Caregivers/psychology , Female , Male , Aged , Adaptation, Psychological , Middle Aged , Pandemics , Aged, 80 and over , Interviews as Topic , SARS-CoV-2 , Adult
15.
Development ; 151(20)2024 Oct 15.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38619327

ABSTRACT

Tissue morphogenesis is intimately linked to the changes in shape and organisation of individual cells. In curved epithelia, cells can intercalate along their own apicobasal axes, adopting a shape named 'scutoid' that allows energy minimization in the tissue. Although several geometric and biophysical factors have been associated with this 3D reorganisation, the dynamic changes underlying scutoid formation in 3D epithelial packing remain poorly understood. Here, we use live imaging of the sea star embryo coupled with deep learning-based segmentation to dissect the relative contributions of cell density, tissue compaction and cell proliferation on epithelial architecture. We find that tissue compaction, which naturally occurs in the embryo, is necessary for the appearance of scutoids. Physical compression experiments identify cell density as the factor promoting scutoid formation at a global level. Finally, the comparison of the developing embryo with computational models indicates that the increase in the proportion of scutoids is directly associated with cell divisions. Our results suggest that apico-basal intercalations appearing immediately after mitosis may help accommodate the new cells within the tissue. We propose that proliferation in a compact epithelium induces 3D cell rearrangements during development.


Subject(s)
Cell Proliferation , Embryo, Nonmammalian , Morphogenesis , Animals , Epithelium , Embryo, Nonmammalian/cytology , Cell Count , Starfish/embryology , Epithelial Cells/cytology , Epithelial Cells/metabolism , Cell Division
17.
Physiol Behav ; 280: 114560, 2024 Jun 01.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38631544

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to investigate the physical and psychological benefits of an alternative cardiac rehabilitation program based on therapeutic groups during physical exercise sessions and to compare the results with those of a conventional cardiac rehabilitation program. METHOD: The sample included 112 patients from the cardiac rehabilitation unit of a medical center, 91.1 % of whom were male. The control group consisted of 47 subjects, with a mean age of 57.89 ± 12.30 and the experimental group consisted of 65 subjects, with a mean age of M = 58.38 ± 9.86. Quality of life, psychological well-being, health-related quality of life, body mass index, blood pressure, abdominal circumference and resting heart rate were measured before starting and at the end of the cardiac rehabilitation program. RESULTS: The experimental group improved significantly more than the control group in body mass index, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, abdominal circumference, and resting heart rate (p value < 0.005). In addition, the experimental group had significantly greater improvements in quality of life, psychological well-being, and health-related quality of life than the control group (p-value < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: A cardiac rehabilitation program based on simultaneous aerobic training and psychosocial support improved the physical function, health-related quality of life and well-being.


Subject(s)
Blood Pressure , Body Mass Index , Cardiac Rehabilitation , Exercise , Heart Rate , Quality of Life , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Female , Cardiac Rehabilitation/methods , Cardiac Rehabilitation/psychology , Aged , Heart Rate/physiology , Exercise/physiology , Exercise/psychology , Blood Pressure/physiology , Exercise Therapy/methods , Treatment Outcome , Social Support , Psychological Well-Being
18.
Mult Scler Relat Disord ; 86: 105595, 2024 Jun.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38598952

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Continuously acquired smartphone keyboard interactions may be useful to monitor progression in multiple sclerosis (MS). We aimed to study the correlation between tapping speed (TS), measured as keys/s, and baseline disability scales in patients with MS. METHODS: Single-center prospective study in patients with MS. We passively assessed TS during first week, measured by an "in house" smartphone application. Reliability was assessed by intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Correlations between median and maximum keys/s of first week of assessment and baseline disability measures were explored. RESULTS: One-hundred three patients were included: 62.1 % women, with a median (IQR) age of 47 (40.4-54.8) years-old and an EDSS score of 3.0 (2.0-4.0). Distribution by MS subtypes was: 77.7 % relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), 17.5 % secondary-progressive MS (SPMS) and 4.9 % primary-progressive MS (PPMS). ICC during first week was 0.714 (p < 0.00001). Both median and maximum keys/s showed a negative correlation with Expanded Disability Status Score, 9-hole peg test and timed 25-foot walk and a positive correlation with Processing Speed Test CogEval® raw and Z-score. Median and maximum keys/s were lower in patients diagnosed with SPMS than in RRMS. Both measures of tapping speed were associated with MS phenotype independently of age. CONCLUSION: TS measured through our application is reliable and correlates with baseline disability scales.


Subject(s)
Multiple Sclerosis , Smartphone , Humans , Female , Male , Middle Aged , Adult , Prospective Studies , Multiple Sclerosis/physiopathology , Multiple Sclerosis/diagnosis , Disability Evaluation , Reproducibility of Results , Disease Progression , Mobile Applications , Multiple Sclerosis, Chronic Progressive/physiopathology , Multiple Sclerosis, Chronic Progressive/diagnosis , Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting/physiopathology , Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting/diagnosis
19.
Polymers (Basel) ; 16(8)2024 Apr 19.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38675071

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to investigate the sustainable use of recycled plastics, specifically polypropylene (PP) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), in the manufacture of geogrids for geotechnical and civil engineering applications. Plastics were collected from a recycling center, specifically targeting containers used for food, cleaning products, and other domestic packaging items. These plastics were sorted according to the Möbius triangle classification system, with HDPE (#2) and PP (#5) being the primary categories of interest. The research methodologically evaluates the mechanical properties of PP/HDPE (0/100, 25/75, 50/50, 75/25 and 100/0% w/w) composites through tensile and flexural tests, exploring various compositions and configurations of geogrids. The results highlight the superiority of pure recycled HDPE processed into 1.3 mm thick laminated yarns and hot air welded for 20 to 30 s, exhibiting a deformation exceeding 60% in comparison to the PP/HDPE composites. Through SolidWorks® Simulation, it was shown that the adoption of a trigonal geogrid geometry optimizes force distribution and tensile strength, significantly improving slope stabilization efficiency. Based on the results obtained, a laboratory-scale prototype geogrid was developed using an extrusion process. The results underscore the importance of careful composite design and yarn configuration selection to achieve the desired mechanical properties and performance in geogrid applications. It emphasizes the potential of recycled plastics as a viable and environmentally friendly solution for stabilizing slopes, contributing to the reduction in plastic waste and promoting sustainable construction practices.

20.
Clín. investig. arterioscler. (Ed. impr.) ; 36(2): 71-77, mar.-abr. 2024. tab, graf
Article in Spanish | IBECS | ID: ibc-231495

ABSTRACT

Introducción Recientemente se ha demostrado una relación inversa entre la concentración en sangre de la lipoproteína(a) (Lp[a]) y los triglicéridos (TG). A mayor tamaño de lipoproteínas de muy baja densidad (VLDL), mayor presencia de VLDL ricas en apoliproteína E (apo E) y en sujetos con genotipo apo E2/E2, Lp(a) más baja. El mecanismo de esta asociación contrapuesta es desconocido. El objetivo de nuestro análisis fue evaluar la correspondencia Lp(a)-TG en los pacientes atendidos en las Unidades de Lípidos incluidos en el registro de la Sociedad Española de Arteriosclerosis (SEA) comparando las diferentes dislipidemias. Pacientes y métodos Se incluyeron 5.275 usuarios de ≥ 18 años registrados antes del 31 de marzo de 2023, con datos de concentración de Lp(a) e información completa del perfil lipídico sin tratamiento. Resultados La media de edad fue de 53,0 ± 14,0 años, con 48% de mujeres. Un total de 9,5% (n = 502) tenían diabetes mellitus (DM) y 1.184 sujetos (22,4%) presentaban obesidad. La mediana de TG fue de 130 mg/dL (rango intercuartílico [IQR] 88,0-210) y de Lp(a) 55,0 nmol/L (IQR 17,9 -156). La concentración de Lp(a) mostró una asociación negativa con la de TG cuando los valores de estos superaban los 300 mg/dL. Los pacientes con TG > 1.000 mg/dL mostraron el menor nivel de Lp(a) 17,9 nmol/L y los usuarios con TG < 300 mg/dL, presentaron una media de Lp(a) de 60,1 nmol/L. En pacientes sin DM ni obesidad, la relación inversa de Lp(a)-TG fue especialmente importante (p < 0,001). La mediana de Lp(a) fue de 58,3 nmol/L en aquellos con TG < 300 mg/dL y 22,0 nmol/L si TG > 1.000 mg/dL. No se encontró asociación entre TG y Lp(a) en sujetos con DM y obesidad, ni en los que contaban con hipercolesterolemia familiar (HF). En los que padecen hiperlipemia combinada multifactorial con TG < 300 mg/dL la Lp(a) fue 64,6 nmol/L, en el rango de 300-399 mg/dL de TG la Lp(a) desciende hasta 38,8 nmol/L y hasta 22,3 nmol/L si TG > 1.000 mg/dL. Conclusiones ... (AU)


Background Recently, an inverse relationship between the blood concentration of lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) and triglycerides (TG) has been demonstrated. The larger the VLDL particle size, the greater the presence of VLDL rich in apoliprotein E and in subjects with the apoE2/E2 genotype, the lower Lp(a) concentration. The mechanism of this inverse association is unknown. The objective of this analysis was to evaluate the Lp(a)–TG association in patients treated at the lipid units included in the registry of the Spanish Society of Atherosclerosis (SEA) by comparing the different dyslipidemias. Patients and methods Five thousand two hundred and seventy-five subjects ≥18 years of age registered in the registry before March 31, 2023, with Lp(a) concentration data and complete lipid profile information without treatment were included. Results The mean age was 53.0 ± 14.0 years, with 48% women. The 9.5% of subjects (n = 502) had diabetes and the 22.4% (n = 1184) were obese. The median TG level was 130 mg/dL (IQR 88.0–210) and Lp(a) 55.0 nmol/L (IQR 17.9–156). Lp(a) concentration showed a negative association with TG concentration when TG values exceeded 300 mg/dL. Subjects with TG > 1000 mg/dL showed the lowest level of Lp(a), 17.9 nmol/L, and subjects with TG < 300 mg/dL had a mean Lp(a) concentration of 60.1 nmol/L. In subjects without diabetes or obesity, the inverse association of Lp(a)–TG was especially important (p < 0.001). The median Lp(a) was 58.3 nmol/L in those with TG < 300 mg/dL and 22.0 nmol/L if TG > 1000 mg/dL. No association was found between TG and Lp(a) in subjects with diabetes and obesity, nor in subjects with familial hypercholesterolemia. In subjects with multifactorial combined hyperlipemia with TG < 300 mg/dL, Lp(a) was 64.6 nmol/L; in the range of 300–399 mg/dL of TG, Lp(a) decreased to 38. 8 nmol/L, and up to 22.3 nmol/L when TG > 1000 mg/dL. Conclusions ... (AU)


Subject(s)
Humans , Male , Female , Young Adult , Adult , Middle Aged , Aged , Lipoproteins, HDL , Triglycerides , Dyslipidemias , Lipids , Spain
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