Browsing by resource type "research article"
Now showing 1 - 10 of 187
Results Per Page
Sort Options
- Adaptação cultural, tradução e avaliação psicométrica do questionário de estigma sobre a perturbação de hiperatividade e défice de atenção para países de língua portuguesaPublication . Couto, Beatriz; Trigueiro, Maria João; Simões-Silva, Vítor; Almeida, Raquel Simões de; Trigueiro, Maria João; Simões-Silva, Vitor; Simões de Almeida, RaquelApesar do crescente conhecimento sobre a Perturbação de Hiperatividade e Défice de Atenção (PHDA), estas pessoas ainda enfrentam estigmas da sociedade. A pesquisa sobre o estigma associado à PHDA é limitada pela falta de instrumentos válidos e fiáveis. Este estudo teve como objetivo validar o Questionário de Estigma sobre a PHDA (ASQ) para a população portuguesa e perceber os níveis de estigma numa amostra comunitária. A amostra consistiu em 762 indivíduos, com idades entre 11 e 64 anos (média = 32,41 ±14,59 anos). A validação incluiu a tradução e adaptação cultural da versão original e a análise das propriedades psicométricas: fiabilidade (teste-reteste e consistência interna), validade de conteúdo e de construto. A consistência interna do ASQ foi excelente (α = 0,93) e os valores de teste-reteste (r = 0,86) suportam a fiabilidade do instrumento. Na validade de construto, a análise fatorial explicou 50,25% da variância e indicou uma nova distribuição dos itens 2, 3, 9 e 15 no instrumento. As mulheres (p<0,001) e os residentes em áreas costeiras (p=0,015) apresentaram níveis mais elevados de estigma. A utilização do ASQ para a pesquisa e prática clínica em Portugal é adequadamente suportada pelas suas propriedades psicométricas. Campanhas direcionadas de literacia e estigma da PHDA podem ser uma via importante para melhorar as atitudes da comunidade em geral em relação à PHDA
- Adaptação de Laboratórios Remotos a Cenários de Ensino: Casos de Estudo com VISIR e RemotElectLabPublication . Fidalgo, André V.; Alves, Gustavo R.; Marques, Maria A.; Viegas, Maria C.; Costa-Lobo, Maria C.; Hernández-Jayo, Unai; García-Zubía, Javier; Gustavsson, Ingvar; Alves, Gustavo; Fidalgo, André; Marques, Maria Arcelina; Viegas, Clara; Costa Lobo, Cristina; Garcia-Zubia, JavierOs laboratórios remotos são uma ferramenta tecnológica e pedagógica com uso crescente em todos os níveis de educação, e sua utilização generalizada é uma parte importante do seu próprio aperfeiçoamento e evolução. Este artigo descreve vários problemas encontrados em aulas laboratoriais, em cursos de ensino superior, na utilização de laboratórios remotos baseados em sistemas PXI, utilizando o sistema VISIR ou uma solução alternativa. São identificados e explicados três problemas que foram relatados por professores que deram apoio aos estudantes na utilização dos laboratórios remotos. O primeiro problema prende-se com a necessidade de permitir aos alunos selecionar a localização específica onde um amperímetro deve ser inserido nos circuitos elétricos, mesmo que incorreta, replicando as dificuldades do mundo real. O segundo é causado por falhas de sincronismo quando são necessárias várias medições em intervalos curtos, como no ciclo de descarga de um condensador. E o último problema é provocado pelo uso de um multímetro em modo DC na leitura de grandezas em CA, um procedimento que colide com as definições do equipamento. Todos os cenários são apresentados e discutidos, incluindo a solução encontrada para cada caso. A conclusão que se retira do trabalho descrito é que a área de laboratórios remotos é um campo em expansão, onde a sua utilização prática permite o aperfeiçoamento e a evolução das soluções disponíveis, exigindo uma cooperação e partilha de informação entre todos os intervenientes, i.e. investigadores, professores e alunos.
- Adherence to treatment in allergic rhinitis during the pollen season in Europe: A MASK‐air StudyPublication . Bousquet, Jean; Amaral, RitaAdherence to rhinitis treatment has been insufficiently assessed. We aimed to use data from the MASK-airmHealth app to assess adherence to oral antihistamines (OAH), intra-nasal corticosteroids (INCS) or azelastine-fluticasone inpatients with allergic rhinitis. We included regular European MASK-air users with self-reported allergic rhinitis and reporting at least 1 day of OAH,INCS or azelastine-fluticasone. We assessed weeks during which patients answered the MASK-air questionnaire on all days. Werestricted our analyses to data provided between January and June, to encompass the pollen seasons across the different assessedcountries. We analysed symptoms using visual analogue scales (VASs) and the combined symptom-medication score (CSMS),performing stratified analyses by weekly adherence levels. Medication adherence was computed as the proportion of days inwhich patients reported rhinitis medication use. Sensitivity analyses were performed considering all weeks with at most 1 day ofmissing data and all months with at most 4 days of missing data. We assessed 8212 complete weeks (1361 users). Adherence (use of medication > 80% days) to specific drug classesranged from 31.7% weeks for azelastine-fluticasone to 38.5% weeks for OAH. Similar adherence to rhinitis medication was foundin users with or without self-reported asthma, except for INCS (better adherence in asthma patients). VAS and CSMS levelsincreased from no adherence to full adherence, except for INCS. A higher proportion of days with uncontrolled symptoms was observed in weeks with higher adherence. In full adherence weeks, 41.2% days reported rhinitis co-medication. The sensitivityanalyses displayed similar results. A high adherence was found in patients reporting regular use of MASK-air. Different adherence patterns werefound for INCS compared to OAH or azelastine-fluticasone that are likely to impact guidelines.
- Age-related influence on reliability and learning effect in the assessment of lower limb strength using sit-to-stand tests: A cross-sectional studyPublication . Vilarinho, Rui; Montes, António Mesquita; Melo, Cristina; Mesquita Montes, AntónioDecreased muscle strength, especially in the muscles of lower limbs, is an important risk factor for early age‐related decline in physical function, morbidity, hospitalization, and mortality.1 This evidence should be a stimulus for healthcare professionals to include the assessment of muscular strength as a priority in the community due to its substantial value in predicting future health status.2 For this purpose, sit‐to‐stand tests represent one of the simple and valid options to quantify lower limb strength,3 and two of the most used are the 1‐min sit‐to‐stand (1MSTS)4 and the 5 times sit‐to‐stand (5TSTS).5 To standardize the use of 1MSTS and 5TSTS, it is important to explore whether a similar reliability and learning effect exist between adults and older adults in community settings. Since aging may cause a significant reduction in motor skill acquisition,6 it is important to carefully consider whether performances on these tests are the same for repeated measurement over time (test‐retest) and if a practice test is needed according to age. Another reason to establish the reliability and learning effect, before recommending the use of the sit‐to‐stand tests for adults and older adults, is because significantly different performances have been found between these populations.7,8 With this research, we aimed to determine the within‐day test‐ retest reliability and the learning effect of the 1MSTS and 5TSTS in adults (
- Altered NRF2 signalling in systemic redox imbalance: Insights from non-communicable diseasesPublication . Santos, Marlene; Morgenstern, Christina; Santos, MarleneThe balanced activity of the cytoprotective transcription factor NRF2 is central for maintaining redox, metabolic-energetics, and proteome homeostasis, as well as for regulating inflammatory responses, among other functions. Activated NRF2 regulates the expression of hundreds of genes containing antioxidant response elements (AREs) or electrophile response elements (EpRE) in their regulatory regions, often promoting cytoprotection under stress conditions and contributing to defence against various pathologies and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The products of increased NRF2 activity, detected systemically, may originate from either the white blood cells, the cells of the vasculature or tissue-derived products that could be secreted into biological fluids. Therefore, assessing basal and inducible NRF2 activity in blood or other biofluids is crucial for inferring NRF2 responses in local and often inaccessible tissues. In previous work, we identified a panel of six biomarkers - Glutamate-cysteine ligase catalytic subunit (GCLC), Glutamate-cysteine ligase modifier subunit (GCLM), Haem oxygenase 1 (HMOX1), NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1), Sulfiredoxin 1 (SRXN1), and Thioredoxin reductase 1 (TXNRD1) - as indicators of NRF2 activity. In the current study, we assess their utility in a clinical setting to measure NRF2 activation in a disease context. Here we discuss findings on how NRF2 activity in accessible human samples can reveal its involvement in various NCDs and its connection to clinical aspects such as diagnosis, disease progression and response to therapy.
- An evolutionary perspective on the relationship between kinetochore size and CENP-E dependence for chromosome alignmentPublication . Almeida, Ana C.; Almeida, Ana C.; Rocha, Hélder; Rocha, Hélder; Raas, Maximilian W. D.; Raas, Maximilian W. D.; Witte, Hanh; Witte, Hanh; Sommer, Ralf J.; Sommer, Ralf J.; Snel, Berend; Snel, Berend; Kops, Geert J. P. L.; Kops, Geert J. P. L.; Gassmann, Reto; Gassmann, Reto; Maiato, Helder; Maiato, HelderChromosome alignment during mitosis can occur as a consequence of bi-orientation or is assisted by the CENP-E (kinesin-7) motor at kinetochores. We previously found that Indian muntjac chromosomes with larger kinetochores bi-orient more efficiently and are biased to align in a CENP-E-independent manner, suggesting that CENP-E dependence for chromosome alignment negatively correlates with kinetochore size. Here, we used targeted phylogenetic profiling of CENP-E in monocentric (localized centromeres) and holocentric (centromeres spanning the entire chromosome length) clades to test this hypothesis at an evolutionary scale. We found that, despite being present in common ancestors, CENP-E was lost more frequently in taxa with holocentric chromosomes, such as Hemiptera and Nematoda. Functional experiments in two nematodes with holocentric chromosomes in which a CENP-E ortholog is absent (Caenorhabditis elegans) or present (Pristionchus pacificus) revealed that targeted expression of human CENP-E to C. elegans kinetochores partially rescued chromosome alignment defects associated with attenuated polar-ejection forces, whereas CENP-E inactivation in P. pacificus had no detrimental effects on mitosis and viability. These data showcase the dispensability of CENP-E for mitotic chromosome alignment in species with larger kinetochores.
- An overview of the clinical uses, pharmacology, and safety of modafinilPublication . Murillo-Rodríguez, Eric; Veras, André Barciela; Rocha, Nuno Barbosa; Budde, Henning; Machado, Sérgio; Rocha, NunoModafinil (MOD) is a wakefulness-inducing compound prescribed for treatment of excessive daytime sleepiness as a consequence of sleep disturbances such as shift work sleep disorder, obstructive sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, or narcolepsy. While providing effective results in patients with sleepiness, MOD also produces positive outcomes in the management of fatigue associated with different conditions including depression, cancer, or tiredness in military personnel. Although there is clear evidence of the stimulant effects of MOD, current data also show that administration of this drug apparently induces positive neurobiological effects, such as improvement in memory. However, serious concerns have been raised since some reports have suggested MOD dependence. Taken together, these findings highlight the need to characterize the changes induced by MOD which have been observed in several neurobiological functions. Moreover, further work should follow up on the likely long-term effects of this drug if used for treatment of drowsiness and tiredness. Here, we review and summarize recent findings of the medical uses of MOD in the management of sleepiness and fatigue associated with depression or cancer as well as exhaustion in military personnel. We also discuss the available literature related with the cognitive enhancing properties of this stimulant, as well as what is known and unknown about MOD addiction.
- An overview of the recent advances in antimicrobial resistancePublication . Oliveira, Manuela; Antunes, Wilson; Mota, Salete; Carvalho, Áurea Madureira; Oliveira, Ricardo Jorge Dinis; Silva,Diana Dias daAntimicrobial resistance (AMR), frequently considered a major global public health threat, requires a comprehensive understanding of its emergence, mechanisms, advances, and implications. AMR’s epidemiological landscape is characterized by its widespread prevalence and constantly evolving patterns, with multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) creating new challenges every day. The most common mechanisms underlying AMR (i.e., genetic mutations, horizontal gene transfer, and selective pressure) contribute to the emergence and dissemination of new resistant strains. Therefore, mitigation strategies (e.g., antibiotic stewardship programs—ASPs—and infection prevention and control strategies—IPCs) emphasize the importance of responsible antimicrobial use and surveillance. A One Health approach (i.e., the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health) highlights the necessity for interdisciplinary collaboration and holistic strategies in combating AMR. Advancements in novel therapeutics (e.g., alternative antimicrobial agents and vaccines) offer promising avenues in addressing AMR challenges. Policy interventions at the international and national levels also promote ASPs aiming to regulate antimicrobial use. Despite all of the observed progress, AMR remains a pressing concern, demanding sustained efforts to address emerging threats and promote antimicrobial sustainability. Future research must prioritize innovative approaches and address the complex socioecological dynamics underlying AMR. This manuscript is a comprehensive resource for researchers, policymakers, and healthcare professionals seeking to navigate the complex AMR landscape and develop effective strategies for its mitigation.
- An overview of the therapeutic potential of dimeric flavonoids for targeting cancer hallmarksPublication . Lopes, Inês; Meireles, Isabel; Rocha, Rafaela; Medeiros, Rui; Cerqueira, FátimaEvidence found in the literature indicates that dimeric flavonoids constitute important therapeutic options against cancer. Using these molecules to prevent cancer progression might be a novel and promising therapeutic approach with advantages like fewer side effects, easy access in nature, overall health benefits and overcoming drug resistance. Cancer is a complex disease and still not understood, but there are some common mechanisms and biological characteristics underlying tumor progression that have been scrutinized over the years. This information was summarized in a conceptual framework designated as hallmarks of cancer. Dimeric flavonoids exert biological effects in several pathways involved in cancer hallmarks including cell growth, cell cycle, apoptosis, metastasis and metabolism.
- Análise da funcionalidade em idosos do Alto Minho após o programa OtagoPublication . Alves, Odete; Carvalho, Ana de; Francisco, Ana; Pinho, Mariana; Carvalho, Camila; Martins, Hélder; Mesquita, Cristina; Lopes, Sofia; Santos, Paula; Carvalho Mesquita, Cristina; Lopes, SofiaO norte de Portugal apresenta uma elevadataxa de envelhecimento, associada a condições como sarcopenia, diminuição do equilíbrio e da força muscular. O obje,vo deste estudo foi avaliar o impacto do programa de exercícios de Otago (PEO) na funcionalidade e, de forma secundária, na perceção de saúde e no medo de cair em idososresidentes em estruturas residenciais no Alto Minho. Realizou-se um estudo pré-experimental com 37 par,cipantes (83,46 ± 6,53 anos)sendo a maioria mulheres (75,60%). O PEO foi implementado durante oitosemanas, com avaliação da funcionalidade antes e após a intervenção u,lizando os testes 30 seconds Sit to Stand (30STS), Timed Up and Go (TUG), 4 Stage Balance Test "Modified" (4SBTM), 15 seconds Step Test (15SST) e 10 meters Walking Speed (10MWS). A perceção de saúde e o medo de cair foram avaliados através de um ques,onário. Após a intervenção, observou-se uma melhoria significa,va na funcionalidade, com aumento das repe,ções do 30STS (6,69 ± 4,35 para 9,16 ± 5,35; p < 0,001) e redução do tempo do TUG (p = 0,006). No entanto, não foram encontradas diferenças significa,vas do 15SST (p = 0,142) e do 10MWS (p = 0,815). Houve uma melhoria significa,va do equilíbrio dinâmico (4SBTM, p < 0,001), mas não da perceção de saúde ou do medo de cair (p > 0,05). Conclui-se que o PEO melhora a força muscular, mobilidade e equilíbrio dinâmico, sem afetar a perceção de saúde ou o medo de cair.