Browsing by Issue Date, starting with "2025-10"
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- Application of encapsulated tomato by-product extract as a colorant in mascarponePublication . Molina, Adriana K.; Leichtweis, Maria G.; Machado, Manuela; Silva, Sara; Pintado, Manuela; Barreira, João C. M.; Dias, Maria Inês; Prieto, Miguel Á.; Barros, Lillian; Pereira, CarlaAgricultural by-products, often underutilized, represent a significant opportunity to obtain sustainable value-added products to develop new functional foods. In this context, the (typically discarded) aerial parts of tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L. var. cerasiforme), were studied as new sources of natural bioactive compounds, focusing the extraction and encapsulation (using spray drying with maltodextrin as the encapsulant) of chlorophylls. The encapsulated natural colorant was subsequently incorporated into mascarpone cheese to assess its stability and effect on nutritional and antioxidant properties. The obtained extracts were mainly characterized by high concentrations of bioactive compounds, particularly quercetin-3-O-deoxyhexoside (14.4 ± 0.3 mg/g). The colorant imparted a greener hue to the mascarpone (a* –6.0 ± 0.05 vs. –1.7 ± 0.05 in control, p < 0.001) and maintained antioxidant activity (OxHLIA EC₅₀ = 1440 ± 72 to 1166 ± 66 μg/mL, p = 0.030) without altering the nutritional profile (p > 0.05). Moreover, no cytotoxicity was observed, and the fatty acid composition remained unchanged. Accordingly, the studied encapsulated colorant might be used as a functional ingredient in other dairy products, imparting an attractive color while preserving nutritional integrity. In conclusion, the incorporation of TAPC is an effective strategy to enrich dairy products with natural pigments and bioactive compounds without compromising quality. Future research is needed to explore its application in other food matrices and assess long-term storage effects.
- Value creation and value capture in NFT business models: insights from blockchain-based venturesPublication . Rezazadeh, Arash; Bohnsack, RenéThis paper sets out to explore how blockchain-based technologies, particularly non-fungible tokens (NFTs), are influencing future business models. Drawing on the relevant literature and a multiple case study of blockchain ventures, we demonstrate how the technology leads to new polyadic mechanisms of value creation and value capture. A clarification of NFTs and related concepts, together with their use values and exchange value determinants, led us to argue that the polyadic mechanisms differ from those in dyadic and triadic business models. Overall, we identify a total of 39 NFT technology affordances that fall into four types: utility, social, financial, and legal affordances. In addition, the NFT business ecosystem is mapped in terms of sources of generativity, mixed-side network effects, and the convergence of complementors within the ecosystem. Finally, this study explores three distinct mechanisms of stakeholder collaboration using NFTs: token distribution and fundraising, polyadic value creation and capture, and smart contract-enabled facilitation of stakeholder interactions. Based on the insights, we discuss the impact of NFTs and blockchain technology on society (illustrated by two cases of NFT ticketing and decentralized apps), and the implications for theory, practice, and policy.
- Biphasic sleep and human health: a theoretical paradigm for personalized sleepPublication . Sena-Ribeiros, João; Reis, CátiaAs our understanding of sleep evolves, a recurring recommendation remains that adults should sleep in a single, uninterrupted nocturnal bout – commonly referred to as monophasic sleep. However, the scientific foundation for this standard may be less canonical than previously assumed, particularly when considering individual variability in sleep needs and organization. Historical texts and recent research suggest an alternative view: that sleep can be naturally segmented into two periods across the 24h cycle – a pattern known as biphasic sleep. This review explores the physiological implications of biphasic sleep, examining its potential benefits and limitations under healthy conditions and in particular contexts, such as shift working. With this available data, an original hypothesis is proposed, consisting of a novel framework of sleep distribution according to sleeping types. This aims to stimulate new research about biphasic schedules and how sleep architecture might adapt to them over time. The strengths and weaknesses of existing research will be critically assessed, culminating in recommendations for future investigations and methodological approaches. These insights may ultimately inform more personalized and flexible sleep guidelines better aligned with individual and societal needs.
- The prediction of the analgesic placebo effect is moderated by direction of attention: results from fibromyalgia and healthy controlsPublication . Agostinho, Mariana; Emergui, Galia; Canaipa, Rita; Treister, RoiDespite extensive research, reliable predictors of the placebo response remain elusive. The within-subject variability (WSV) of pain reports has emerged as a potential predictor, with multiple studies confirming its predictive value. But the results have been mixed. We recently showed that direction of attention moderates WSV's role in predicting the placebo response in patients with chronic back pain. This observational study aims to further examine the relationship between direction of attention, WSV, and the placebo effect in fibromyalgia patients (FM) and healthy controls. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire, clinical pain diaries (for FM), and the revised Self-Consciousness Scale (SCS-R). Afterward, participants underwent two experimental procedures: (1) the Focused Analgesia Selection Test (FAST), assessing experimental WSV of pain reports, and (2) an experimental placebo paradigm. Moderation and regression analyses examined the role of the SCS-R subscales in moderating the prediction of the placebo effect by the WSV of pain reports. Sixty-nine participants (healthy: 37, FM: 32) completed the protocol. Groups did not differ in SCS-R subscales, WSV, or placebo effect magnitude (p≥0.281). At low levels of private self-consciousness (p=0.013) and social anxiety (p=0.017) among FM, clinical WSV played a significant role in predicting the placebo effect. Public self-consciousness for FM showed a similar trend toward significance. These findings underscore attention as a relevant moderator of the placebo effect, emphasizing the need for improved measurement tools to predict the placebo effect. Perspective: We highlight the role of direction of attention in the prediction of the placebo effect. Our current findings validate our previous recent results from a cohort of chronic back pain patients, implying that direction of attention should be used in future attempts to improve the prediction of the placebo effect.
- Ecchordosis physaliphora: a rare and challenging clinical entity in a patient with acromegalyPublication . Marques, Pedro; Neto, Lia; Tortosa, Francisco; Sagarribay, Amets
- Dry-aged beef: a global review of meat quality traits, microbiome dynamics, safety, and sustainable strategiesPublication . Ribeiro, Ana J.; Silva, Filipe; Teixeira, Paula; Saraiva, Cristina M.Dry-aged beef is valued for its tenderness, complex aroma, and concentrated flavor. However, variability in aging protocols and limited understanding of underlying biological and technological processes can compromise consistent quality and safety. This review examines factors influencing meat characteristics, including genetics, breed, sex, age, diet, intramuscular fat deposition, antioxidant reserves, and endogenous enzyme pools. Postmortem biochemical pathways, such as proteolysis, lipid oxidation, and nucleotide degradation, are discussed in relation to flavor and texture development. The dynamics of surface microbiota are analyzed, highlighting the succession from psychrotrophic spoilage bacteria to molds and yeasts, which collectively form an enzymatic crust that contributes umami and nutty notes while providing antimicrobial barriers. Regulatory frameworks in major markets are reviewed, alongside valorization strategies that convert crust trimmings into umami-rich powders, bioactive peptides, starter cultures, or industrial enzymes. Despite advances, critical knowledge gaps remain, including the functional roles of minor crust taxa, the efficacy of defined starter cultures or bacteriophage blends, and standardized methods for texture and flavor measurement. By focusing on these biochemical and microbiological mechanisms and their applications, this review provides a roadmap for transforming dry aging into a reproducible, safe, and high-quality process in modern meat science.
- Identifying genomic surveillance gaps in Africa for the global public health response to West Nile virus: a systematic reviewPublication . CLIMADE Consortium; Lourenco, JoséWest Nile virus (WNV) is a priority pathogen that poses a high risk for public health emergencies of global concern. Although WNV is endemic to Africa, only few (n=63) whole genomic sequences are available from the continent. In this Review, we examined the status of the molecular testing and genomic sequencing of WNV across Africa and mapped its global spatiotemporal spread. WNV has been detected in 39 African countries, the Canary Islands, and Réunion Island. Although publications, including those with molecular data, originated from 24 of these countries, genomic sequences were available from only 16 countries. Our analysis identified regions with detected viral circulation but without molecular surveillance. The current literature has substantial knowledge gaps in terms of the disease burden, molecular epidemiology, and distribution of WNV in Africa. Addressing these gaps requires an integrated One Health surveillance approach, which is challenging to establish. We propose three key surveillance needs that could improve the current understanding of the WNV disease burden in Africa, to strengthen the global public health response to this vector-borne disease.
- Toxicity of resin-matrix composites in a dental clinical settingPublication . Cordeiro, Maria; Souza, Julio C. M.; Gomes, Ana T. P. C.; Correia, Patricia; Fidalgo-Pereira, RitaThe aim of this study was to perform a systematic review to comprehensively explore the factors contributing to the resin-matrix composites′ toxicity in patients. A systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines. The bibliographic review was performed in the following databases: PubMed, Cochrane Central and Web of Science. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were established to retrieve articles published in English over the last 20 years. The research yielded 1261 articles, with 1227 articles remaining after removing duplicates. Following a title and abstract screening, 20 articles underwent full-text review, and 12 in vivo studies were included. Detectable levels of free monomers and potential toxicity exposure were reported in the selected studies on saliva, urine, and blood samples. The selected in vivo studies suggest relatively low local and systemic toxicity although the available methods show technical limitations and therefore further studies are required. Dental operator-dependent factors were also identified. Standard chair-side guidelines on handling of resin-matrix composites placement plays a key role on the properties of the materials. The results reported noticeable changes in samples were not considered significant to affect patient's health, although, manufacturer’s instructions must be followed whilst using resin-matrix composites. In fact, adequate light curing parameters maintain a high degree of conversion of the resin-matrix composites decreasing the release of residual monomers and thus the probability of related toxicity.
- Coping and social support in clinical nursing practice used by nursing students: a mixed-methods studyPublication . Loureiro, Fernanda; Peças, Dina; Neves, Ana Cristina; Antunes, Ricardo Jorge; Antunes, Ana VanessaAim: To explore the coping strategies employed by nursing students during clinical practice and to examine their satisfaction with the social support received, as well as to identify the key dimensions of that support. Background: Nursing students have high levels of anxiety and stress in clinical practice due to clinical setting, patient complexity and lack of practical and theoretical knowledge among others. Students have been found to use coping strategies and social support to mitigate stress. Methods: We used a mixed methods approach with an explanatory sequential design. Coping behavior inventory and the satisfaction with social support scale were applied to students from all years followed by interviews to family members and close contacts of 4th year nursing students. Results: “Problem-solving” was the most common coping strategy, and students reported satisfaction with social support. Pshycological support was highlighted in interviews performed mostly to female family members and close contacts. Conclusions: Our findings emphasize the need for academic institutions to enhance student support networks and implement mental health initiatives to foster well-being and resilience during clinical practice.
- Coping strategies before competition: the role of stress, cognitive appraisal and emotionsPublication . Nogueira, José Miguel; Simães, Clara; Morais, Catarina; Mansell, Paul; Gomes, A. RuiSports, and especially competitions, can be a stressful experience for athletes, who often struggle to find and apply strategies to cope with stress. Thus, this study analyzes how different coping strategies anticipated to be employed in an important competition are explained by psychological (i.e., cognitive appraisal and emotions) and person and sports- related factors (i.e., gender, type of sport). Specifically, athletes were asked to complete a protocol 24–48 h prior to an important competition to assess their adaptation to stress related to high performance. The study included 383 athletes (60% male, Mage = 22.9 ± 5.3 years), from individual (swimming and running, n = 157; 41%) and team sports (handball, vol- leyball, n = 226; 59%) competing in major national leagues. Hierarchical linear regression analyses (enter method) were performed to examine the extent to which coping strategies and coping efficacy were explained by psychological, personal and sport-related variables. Results indicated (a) higher control perception and excitement were related with higher intention to use active coping; (b) being a female athlete, practicing individual sports, and excitement (higher intensity and facilitative value) were associated with a higher intention to use emotional support; (c) being a female athlete, lower coping perception, higher anger intensity, and higher facilitative value of happiness were associated with a higher antic- ipated use of humor; and (d) being a male athlete, higher anxiety, anger, and happiness intensity, and lower facilitative value of dejection and excitement were associated with higher anticipated use of denial. In sum, the explanation of each coping strategy is distinct and should be analyzed separately.
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