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- Impact of post-COVID-19 condition on health status and functional capacity: a cross-sectional studyPublication . Pereira, Andreia; Amaral, Luísa; Dias, Inês; Magalhães, André; Abreu, Verónica; Esteves, Mário; Vilarinho, Rui; Cervaens, Mariana; Vilarinho, RuiTo assess health status and functional capacity in adults with post-COVID-19 condition. Observational, retrospective cross-sectional study. Outpatients from the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department of the Hospital Fernando Pessoa, Porto, Portugal, were included. A convenient sample included 54 participants aged over 18 years old (52.4 6 15.5 years, 61% female), with diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection at least 12 weeks before the study, persistent or new-onset symptomatology consistent with post-COVID-19 condition. Clinical assessment included the collection of symptoms (COVID-19 Questionnaire and Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea scale), lung function (spirometry), functional capacity (1-minute-sit-to-stand test and the 6-minute walk test), and emotional status (Anxiety, Depression, and Stress Scale). A total of 46.3% of participants reported fatigue, 29.6% dry cough, 24.1% dyspnea, 24.1% myalgia, 22.2% weakness, and 20.4% memory loss. On functional capacity, 1-minute-sit-to-stand (20.1 6 5.7) and 6-minute walk test (483.0 6 110.3) performances were lower than the predicted values (P , .001). Adults with post-COVID condition in this study demonstrated evidence of reduced health status and functional capacity. These findings highlight the potential long-term effects of COVID-19.
- Nano versus bulk: Evaluating the toxicity of lanthanum, yttrium, and cerium oxides on Enchytraeus crypticusPublication . Santos, Joana; Neca, Inês; Capitão, Ana; Nogueira, João; Santos, José A. S.; Pinto, Edgar; Barreto, Angela; Silva, Ana L. Daniel da; Maria, Vera L.; Pinto, EdgarConsidering the increase in demand for rare earth elements (REEs) and their accumulation in soil ecosystems, it is crucial to understand their toxicity. However, the impact of lanthanum, yttrium and cerium oxides (La2O3, Y2O3 and CeO2, respectively) on soil organisms remains insufficiently studied. This study aims to unravel the effects of La2O3, Y2O3 and CeO2 nanoparticles (NPs) and their corresponding bulk forms (0, 156, 313, 625, 1250 and 2500 mg/kg) on the terrestrial species Enchytraeus crypticus. The effects on survival, reproduction (21 days (d)), avoidance behavior (2 d) and DNA integrity (2 and 7 d) of E. crypticus were evaluated. No significant effects on survival were observed. For La2O3, the bulk form affected more endpoints than the NPs, inducing avoidance behavior (1250 mg/kg) and DNA damage (1250 mg/kg - 2 d; 2500 mg/kg - 7 d). The Y2O3 NPs demonstrated higher toxicity than the bulk form: decreased reproduction (≥ 1250 mg/kg); induced avoidance behavior (≥ 625 mg/kg) and DNA damage (≥ 156 mg/kg - 2 d; 2500 mg/kg - 7 d). For CeO2, both forms exhibited similar toxicity, decreasing reproduction (625 mg/kg for bulk and 2500 mg/kg for NPs) and inducing DNA damage at all tested concentrations for both forms. REEs oxides toxicity was influenced by the REEs type and concentration, exposure time and material form, suggesting different modes of action. This study highlights the distinct responses of E. crypticus after exposure to REEs oxides and shows that REEs exposure may differently affect soil organisms, emphasizing the importance of risk assessment.
- Homozygosity for a rare FASTKD2 variant resulting in an adult onset autosomal recessive mitochondrial podocytopathyPublication . Gonçalves, Francisco Pereira; Tavares, Isabel; Silva, Roberto; Nunes, Ana Teresa; Pereira, Luciano; Campos, Andreia; Pinto, Joel; Lopes, Ana; Simões, Marta; Grazina, Manuela; Fogo, Agnes B.; Oliveira, João PauloMitochondrial cytopathies can have kidney involvement in up to half of cases. Their diagnosis is challenging due to phenotypic variability, lack of noninvasive tests to assess mitochondrial dysfunction, and genetic heterogeneity. We report on a young adult male with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) with subnephrotic proteinuria who presented to the emergency department with kidney failure and hypervolemia requiring dialysis. A kidney biopsy showed focal segmental and global glomerulosclerosis, extensive foot process effacement, and abnormal mitochondria in podocytes and tubular epithelial cells; the genetic workup identified a rare FASTKD2 exon 2 variant, c.29G>C p.(Ser10Thr), in homozygosity; and functional mitochondrial assays in cultured skin fibroblasts showed reduction in FASTKD2 protein expression and moderate combined impairment in mitochondrial respiratory chain (MRC) assembly and function. This is the first report of a FASTKD2-associated cardiorenal mitochondrial cytopathy, characterized by young adult-onset proteinuric CKD and dilated HCM, in the absence of the severe neurologic manifestations described in patients with biallelic FASTKD2 variants. We hypothesize that the increased production of reactive oxygen species associated with moderate MRC impairment could result in a smoldering podocytopathy with progressive proteinuric CKD, without overt tubulopathy or encephalomyopathy—which might be, instead, pathogenically related to adenosine triphosphate deficiency.
- Product ideation in the age of artificial intelligence: insights on design process through shape coding social robotsPublication . Chakraborty, Shujoy; Loyens, Dirk; Aston, JeremyThis research explores the impact of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) on ideation and concept design of social robots capable of undertaking sustained long-duration human–robot interaction. The work reported here was developed between 2021 and 2024 through classroom teaching executed in four editions of 3-day project workshops involving 36 product design master students producing 27 concept design proposals in a European Higher Education Institute (HEI). The first two workshop editions used only classical methods utilising semantic moodboarding, sketching, virtual 3D modelling, and rendering. The last two editions employed mixed methods blending classical methods with computational methods using text-to-image and sketch-to-image GenAI tools, like Midjourney, DALL-E, and Vizcom. The findings suggest that using mixed methods, which co-creates by combining organic and synthetic creativity, enhances the concepts’ numeric quantity, although the concepts’ creative quality remains questionable. The advantage of the computationally enhanced mixed methods over the traditional classical methods is the greater potential to overcome creative blockages in novice designers with weak ideation skills. Increasing the volume of concept exploration increases the serendipitous probability of arriving at successful outcomes. This research is a case study of GenAI implementation in classroom teaching, highlighting its benefits and limitations for design courses in HEIs.
- Evaluation of the potential of annatto seed powder to reduce the formation of heterocyclic amines in charcoal-grilled and pan-fried beef pattiesPublication . Gonçalves, Thaís de Moura Neves; Braga, Anna Rafaela Cavalcante; Pinto, Edgar; Viegas, Olga; Mesquita, Leonardo M. de Souza; Ferreira, Isabel Maria Pinto Leite Viegas Oliveira; García-Jares, Carmen; De Rosso, Veridiana Vera; Domene, Semíramis Martins Álvares; Pinto, EdgarVarious strategies are being explored to reduce the formation of undesirable compounds during the thermal processing of foods. This study investigates the impact of incorporating annatto seed powder (Bixa orellana L.) into beef patties to reduce the formation of heterocyclic amines (HAs) during charcoal-grilling and pan-frying. A three-level full factorial design was used to assess the effect of both annatto seed powder concentration and cooking times on HAs formation. The results showed that HA formation increased with longer cooking times and decreased with higher concentrations of annatto seed powder. A significant reduction in HA content was observed in both charcoal-grilled and pan-fried beef patties when annatto seed powder was added, with a particularly notable 91 % reduction at the 1 % addition level. These findings demonstrate that the addition of annatto seed powder is a highly effective strategy for reducing HA formation in beef patties. Chemical compounds studied in this article: 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (MeIQx) (PubChem CID: 62275); 2-amino-3,4,8-trimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (4,8-DiMeIQx) (PubChem CID: 104739); 2amino-3,7,8-trimethylimidazo[4,5-f]quinoxaline (7,8-DiMeIQx) (PubChem CID: 104855); 2-amino-1-methyl-6phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP) (PubChem CID: 1530); 3-amino-1,4-dimethyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (TrpP-1) (PubChem CID: 5284474); 3-amino-1-methyl-5H-pyrido[4,3-b]indole (Trp-P-2) (PubChem CID: 5284476); 2-amino-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]indole (A α (MeA α C) (PubChem CID: 62805); 2-amino-3-methyl-9H-pyrido[2,3-b]indole C) (PubChem CID: 62244); Bixin (PubChem CID: 5281226).
- O futuro dos discursos: para uma reconexão simbióticaPublication . Rodrigues, RicardoEscrever e falar sobre liberdades em exercício implica necessariamente discorrer sobre relações de poder no tempo e no espaço, exige deslindar as malhas dos discursos e transcorrer sobre localização e representatividade. A violência de género, entre outras manifestações conexas, como contra identidades LGBTQIAPN+, a violência étnico-racial, a xenofobia, entre tantas outras expressões identitárias abafadas, neutralizadas pelo social, pelo todo, por subjetivismos perniciosos, perenes formas estruturais e multifacetadas, perpassando subtilmente a filigrana de propósitos de sistemas e tecnologias geneticamente infetados. Tratam-se, pois de manifestações persistentes de desigualdades históricas, estruturais e culturais, alavancadas por discursos de ódio (sentido amplo) direcionados, oportunamente amplificados por líderes políticos, de viés carismático (como Donald Trump, Jair Bolsonaro, Viktor Orbán, André Ventura, Marine Le Pen, Giorgia Meloni, etc.), personalidades veículo (como Richard Spencer e Alex Jones, etc.), magnatas (como Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, Robert Mercer, Steven Bannon, Rupert Murdoch, etc.), feixes de interesses obscuros, sustentados por holofotes mediáticos e mecanismos mercadológicos de validação social.
- The effects of social feedback through the “Like” feature on brain activity: A systematic reviewPublication . Dores, Artemisa Rocha; Peixoto, Miguel; Fernandes, Carina; Marques, António; Barbosa, FernandoProblematic social media (SM) use is a growing concern, particularly among adolescents who are drawn to these platforms for social interactions important to their age group. SM dependence is characterized by excessive, uncontrolled usage that impairs personal, social, and professional aspects. Despite the ongoing debate over recognizing SM addiction as a distinct diagnostic category, the impact of social feedback, particularly through the “like” button, on brain activity remains under scrutiny. Objective: This systematic review aims to study the neural correlates of online social feedback, focusing on the effects of the “like” feedback on brain activity using fMRI and EEG. Methods: The review followed the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA). Results: The review included 11 studies with 504 participants, identifying key brain structures such as the amygdala, ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), and ventral striatum involved in reward processing. Positive feedback (“likes”) activates areas like the nucleus accumbens (NACC), vmPFC, and amygdala, with NACC correlating with increased SM use intensity. Negative feedback activates the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (vlPFC) and left medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). Behavioral data indicates that positive feedback influences subsequent social interactions. Conclusions: The review highlights disparities in the literature regarding the neural response to social feedback, emphasizing the need for further research to clarify the roles of sex, personality traits, and the person giving feedback. Overall, understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of SM engagement is essential for developing effective interventions to prevent or address the negative effects of excessive SM use.
- Total sacrectomy rehabilitation: Implementation of the international classification of functioning, disability, and health model – A case reportPublication . Lopes, Alfredo A.; Mesquita, Inês; Torres, Rui; Torres, Rui; Lopes, Alfredo; Mesquita, InêsThis study aims to outline an evaluative diagnostic process and intervention for a patient who underwent total sacrectomy based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) model. A 70-year-old male with a history of an aggressive sacral chordoma experiencing intense pain, constipation, and polyuria without the sensation of bladder filling, underwent a total sacrectomy. Two evaluations at two-time points were conducted 12 weeks apart. The patient then underwent an individualized rehabilitation program tailored to address impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. The care plan was adjusted based on the patient’s health status and relevant personal and environmental factors. The Barthel Scale scores improved from 60 to 80. Motor scores on the American Spinal Injury Association scale increased from 62 to 66, while sensory scores for light touch improved from 86 to 96. However, pain scores remained stable at 86. Functional reach tests showed notable enhancements, with anterior reach increasing from 16.4 cm to 23.7 cm and lateral reach from 9.6 cm to 15.2 cm. The patient also showed progress in mobility, increasing the number of steps taken from 0 to 10. This case report highlights the positive therapeutic outcomes achieved, illustrating improvements in functional activities and patient independence, thereby underscoring the effectiveness of the ICF model in managing patients undergoing total sacrectomy.
- Interventions based on biofeedback systems to improve workers’ psychological well-being, mental health and safety: a systematic literature reviewPublication . Ferreira, Simão; Rodrigues, Matilde A.; Mateus, Catarina; Rodrigues, Pedro Pereira; Rocha, Nuno Barbosa; Ferreira, Simão; Rodrigues, Matilde; Mateus, Catarina; Rocha, NunoIn modern, high-speed work settings, the significance of mental health disorders is increasingly acknowledged as a pressing health issue, with potential adverse consequences for organizations, including reduced productivity and increased absenteeism. Over the past few years, various mental health management solutions, such as biofeedback applications, have surfaced as promising avenues to improve employees' mental well-being. To gain deeper insights into the suitability and effectiveness of employing biofeedback-based mental health interventions in real-world workplace settings, given that most research has predominantly been conducted within controlled laboratory conditions. A systematic review was conducted to identify studies that used biofeedback interventions in workplace settings. The review focused on traditional biofeedback, mindfulness, app-directed interventions, immersive scenarios, and in-depth physiological data presentation. The review identified nine studies employing biofeedback interventions in the workplace. Breathing techniques showed great promise in decreasing stress and physiological parameters, especially when coupled with visual and/or auditory cues. Future research should focus on developing and implementing interventions to improve well-being and mental health in the workplace, with the goal of creating safer and healthier work environments and contributing to the sustainability of organizations.
- The influence of artificial breast volume induction on postural stability, postural orientation, and neuromuscular control in healthy women: a cross-sectional studyPublication . Guedes, Diana C.; Carneiro, Daniela Ferreira; Alves, Leonel Agostinho Teixeira; Melo, Ana S. C.; Moreira, Juliana; Cunha, Bruno; Santos, Rubim; Noites, Andreia; Sousa, Andreia S. P.; C. Guedes, Diana; Melo, Ana; Santos Moreira, Juliana; Cunha, Bruno; Rubim Silva Santos, Manuel; Noites, Andreia; Pinheiro de Sousa, Andreia SofiaThe percentage of breast augmentations has increased in recent years alongside the frequency of implant removals. Musculoskeletal and postural disorders are often overlooked during this removal process. Research indicates that excess anterior load from breast implants can disrupt postural control and potentially lead to short- or long-term musculoskeletal dysfunction. This study aims to evaluate the immediate changes in postural control after artificial breast augmentation in healthy female volunteers. Spinal angles, the center of pressure (CoP), and electromyographic activity of the spinal muscles were recorded in the static position and during the functional reach test (FRT) without and with implants of different volumes (220 mL, 315 mL, and 365 mL). Subjective perceptions of effort, comfort, weight, and performance in the FRT were also assessed. Statistical differences were significant in the scapular elevator during the one-minute standing position (lower activation with the 220 mL implant compared to the control and 315 mL) and in the trapezius muscles during the FRT (lower activation in the upper trapezius in the 315 mL vs. control in the reach phase and 220 mL vs. control in the return phase and higher activation in the lower trapezius in the 315 and 365 mL vs. control in the reach phase). Additionally, significant differences were identified in the performance of the FRT and the associated subjective perceptions. Breast implants with sizes of 220, 315, and 365 mL can alter scapular neuromuscular control, but these differences do not seem substantial enough to result in negative biomechanical effects in the short-term analysis.
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