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  • Adaptação cultural, tradução e avaliação psicométrica do questionário de estigma sobre a perturbação de hiperatividade e défice de atenção para países de língua portuguesa
    Publication . Couto, Beatriz; Trigueiro, Maria João; Simões-Silva, Vítor; Almeida, Raquel Simões de; Trigueiro, Maria João; Simões-Silva, Vitor; Simões de Almeida, Raquel
    Apesar 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
    2024-12-04Research article Open access Show more
  • Adaptação de Laboratórios Remotos a Cenários de Ensino: Casos de Estudo com VISIR e RemotElectLab
    Publication . 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, Javier
    Os 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.
    2013Research article Open access Show more
  • Adherence to treatment in allergic rhinitis during the pollen season in Europe: A MASK‐air Study
    Publication . Bousquet, Jean; Amaral, Rita
    Adherence 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.
    2025-02-16Research article Embargoed access Show more
  • An evolutionary perspective on the relationship between kinetochore size and CENP-E dependence for chromosome alignment
    Publication . 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, Helder
    Chromosome 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.
    2024-12-19Research article Embargoed access Show more
  • An overview of the clinical uses, pharmacology, and safety of modafinil
    Publication . Murillo-Rodríguez, Eric; Veras, André Barciela; Rocha, Nuno Barbosa; Budde, Henning; Machado, Sérgio; Rocha, Nuno
    Modafinil (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.
    2017-11-08Research article Open access Show more
  • An overview of the recent advances in antimicrobial resistance
    Publication . Oliveira, Manuela; Antunes, Wilson; Mota, Salete; Carvalho, Áurea Madureira; Oliveira, Ricardo Jorge Dinis; Silva,Diana Dias da
    Antimicrobial 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.
    2024-09-21Research article Open access Show more
  • Análise de repetição de exames em radiologia convencional
    Publication . Freitas, Artur; Pereira, José Manuel; Pereira, José Manuel
    A Radiologia Convencional é o método de primeira linha no diagnóstico de diversas patologias e avaliação da anatomia. A repetição de exames relaciona-se com o não cumprimento de critérios de boa realização que resultem em ausência/insuficiência de valor diagnóstico. A diminuição da taxa de repetição representa um fator importante na área da radiologia e da saúde comunitária, contribuindo para a diminuição da dose recebida pelos doentes e profissionais de saúde. O objetivo principal deste estudo foi determinar os exames de radiologia convencional mais suscetíveis de serem repetidos pelos técnicos de radiologia, e causas associadas. Realizou-se um estudo analítico, observacional e transversal. Os dados foram colhidos através da aplicação online de um inquérito por questionário aos participantes no estudo. A população em estudo consistiu em técnicos de radiologia portugueses, licenciados em radiologia ou imagem médica e radioterapia, a exercer funções em Portugal ou no estrangeiro. Para o estudo de associações entre variáveis, utilizaram-se os testes estatísticos de Correlação de Pearson e Qui-quadrado da independência. A amostra foi constituída por 228 participantes, dos quais 176 (77,2%) do sexo feminino, com média de idade de 33.93 (±10.37) anos e tempo médio de experiência profissional de 10.58 (±10.34) anos. O exame ao joelho (61%) foi considerado pelos participantes como o mais provável de ser repetido, seguido do tórax (29.4%) e ombro (24.6%). Os participantes apontaram como erro técnico mais comum o posicionamento incorreto, sendo a não colaboração do doente, o principal fator preditor de erro técnico. Observou-se uma correlação negativa de fraca amplitude entre o tempo de experiência dos profissionais e a frequência com que repetem exames radiológicos. Os exames realizados ao joelho, ombro e tórax, são aqueles que apresentam maior taxa de repetição, sendo o erro mais comum o posicionamento incorreto do doente. O fator que mais contribui para o erro é a não colaboração do doente. Os participantes realçam a necessidade do desenvolvimento de programas de formação contínua e a introdução de pequenas pausas durante os turnos.
    2022-01-20Research article Open access Show more
  • Art as a therapeutic medium: the SuperART project medium
    Publication . Alves, Isa; Almeida, Raquel Simões de; Algado, Salvador Simó; Marques, António; Simões de Almeida, Raquel; Pereira da Silva Marques, António José
    Evidence of the role of the arts in mental health is growing, but artistic approaches are still developing in rehabilitation services. The SuperART project is based on the therapeutic potential of art, proposing an innovative intervention, combining arts, nature and virtual reality to promote well-being in individuals with mental illness. This mixed study evaluated the effectiveness of an artistic intervention on the well-being of people with mental illness. Methods Eight participants took part in activities such as art exhibitions, creating outdoor art and using virtual reality. The Non-pharmacological Therapy Experience Scale (NPT-ES) assessed participants' experiences during sessions, and the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS) measured well-being before and after the intervention. At the end, a focus group was conducted. Most of the study participants were male, aged between 35 and 56, with a predominant diagnosis of Schizophrenia. Significant changes were observed in the well-being reported by the participants (p-value = .011). There were no differences in engagement and participation across sessions, but overall interest in the intervention increased. Qualitative feedback was promising and participants were satisfied with the project. Conclusion The study highlights the potential of museums as therapeutic contexts for the use of art to promote well-being in individuals with mental illness. The intervention demonstrated encouraging results, including greater well-being and evoked memories. More research with more representative samples is needed to develop effective strategies to promote well-being and provide individuals with genuine opportunities to contribute to the community. growing services wellbeing well being illness exhibitions Nonpharmacological Non pharmacological NPTES NPT ES (NPT-ES sessions WarwickEdinburgh Warwick Edinburgh WellBeing Well Being WEMWBS (WEMWBS end conducted male 3 56 Schizophrenia pvalue p value .011. 011 .011 . .011) increased results memories community 5 01 .01 0 .0 Resumo Introdução A evidência do papel das artes na saúde mental está crescendo, mas as abordagens artísticas ainda estão em desenvolvimento nos serviços de reabilitação. O projeto SuperART baseia-se no potencial terapêutico da arte, propondo uma intervenção inovadora, combinando artes, natureza e realidade virtual para promover o bem-estar em indivíduos com doença mental. Objetivo Este estudo misto avaliou a eficácia de uma intervenção artística no bem-estar de pessoas com doença mental. Métodos Oito participantes participaram de atividades como exposições de arte, criação de arte ao ar livre e uso de realidade virtual. A Non-pharmacological Therapy Experience Scale (NPT-ES) avaliou as experiências dos participantes durante as sessões, e a escala Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale (WEMWBS) mediu o bem-estar antes e após a intervenção. No final foi conduzido um grupo focal. A maioria dos participantes eram homens, entre 35 e 56 anos, com diagnóstico predominante de Esquizofrenia. Observaram-se mudanças significativas no bem-estar relatado pelos participantes (p-value = .011). Não houve diferenças no envolvimento e na participação ao longo das sessões, mas o interesse geral pela intervenção aumentou. O feedback qualitativo foi promissor e os participantes mostraram-se satisfeitos com o projeto. Conclusão O estudo realça o potencial dos museus como contextos terapêuticos para a utilização da arte na promoção do bem-estar em indivíduos com doença mental. A intervenção demonstrou resultados encorajadores, incluindo um maior bem-estar e memórias evocadas. É necessária mais investigação com amostras mais representativas para desenvolver estratégias eficazes de promoção do bem-estar e proporcionar aos indivíduos oportunidades genuínas de contribuição na comunidade. crescendo reabilitação baseiase baseia se inovadora bemestar bem estar Nonpharmacological Non pharmacological NPTES NPT ES (NPT-ES sessões WarwickEdinburgh Warwick Edinburgh WellBeing Well Being WEMWBS (WEMWBS focal homens 3 5 anos Esquizofrenia Observaramse Observaram pvalue p value .011. 011 .011 . .011) aumentou mostraramse mostraram encorajadores evocadas comunidade 01 .01 0 .0
    2024-09-17Research article Open access Show more
  • Beer with probiotics: Benefits and challenges of their incorporation
    Publication . Santos, Diana; Barreiros, Luisa; Jesus, Ângelo; Silva, Ana Luísa; Martins, João Paulo; Oliveira, Ana Isabel; Pinho, Cláudia; Jesus, Ângelo; Oliveira, Ana Isabel; Barreiros, Luisa
    Beer is considered one of the most consumed beverages worldwide and a potential vehicle for probiotics. However, there are several technical challenges to overcome during the production and storage of beers, as probiotics must remain viable until the moment of consumption. Therefore, this work aims to discuss how the incorporation of probiotics improves or adds value to beer and which variables influence the viability of the process. This is a narrative review of the literature with research in the PubMed, Web of Science, and b-on databases for articles related to the incorporation of probiotics in beer and the variables that influence the process. The results demonstrated that the incorporation of probiotics into beer faces technical challenges such as probiotic selection, pH, the presence of alcohol, and beer’s production and storage temperatures. However, strategies such as immobilizing probiotics in alginate, alginate–silica, and durian husk powder, fermentation with the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii, and co-fermentation with probiotics permit us to overcome these barriers. Thus, incorporating probiotics into beer brings added value, potentially increasing antioxidant activity and phenolic compound content and providing unique flavors and aromas. Nevertheless, strict control of the technical conditions involved is necessary to ensure probiotic viability and the health benefits they confer.
    2024-11-14Research article Open access Show more
  • Bilateral breast cancer and the influence of body mass index in clinicopathological features and overall survival
    Publication . Luís, Carla; Fernandes, Rute; Dias, João; Pereira, Deolinda; Firmino-Machado, João; Baylina, Pilar; Fernandes, Rúben; Soares, Raquel; BAYLINA MACHADO, PILAR
    Breast cancer (BC) and obesity are two closely associated pathologies with increasing incidence and mortality rates. Bilateral Breast Cancer (BBC) displays a low incidence rate within BC and obesity represents a major risk factor. The aim of this study is to analyzed BBC clinicopathological features distribution and determine the potential influence of obesity in BBC in these same features and overall survival. Clinicopathological information was obtained from 42 cases of women with BBC diagnosed in IPO-Porto. To evaluate the frequency distribution of the clinicopathological data, a chi-square goodness of fit test was performed for BBC cases. A chi-square test of independence was applied for BMI stratification. Cox regression was performed for overall survival. Statistical significance was set at p-value < 0.05. Distribution of BBC clinicopathological features was found to be statistically significant in family history (p-value < 0.001), BBC type (p-value < 0.001), stage (p-value = 0.005), differentiation grade (p-value < 0.001), receptor expression (pvalue < 0.001) and histological type (p-value = 0.031). In comparison to the statistical expected results, we observed an increased cases of absence of family history and less cases of metachronous BBC. Histological types between tumours of BBC were mostly concordant. All cases presented concordant receptor expression. Analysis stratified by BMI revealed that obese women were diagnosed later, although without statistical significance. All obese women presented poor differentiation grade (n = 6). Overweight patients display a tendency to a better overall survival with lower tumour stages and lower differentiation grades. Our results reveal the same receptor expression between contralateral tumours. Also, most tumours share the same histological type. When stratified by BMI, we observed a tendency for overweight women to have improved overall survival.
    2023-12-08Research article Open access Show more