Percorrer por tipo de recurso "review article"
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- Can lycopene be considered an effective protection against cardiovascular disease?Publication . Rodrigues, João Costa; Pinho, O.; Monteiro, Pedro Ribeiro Rocha; Costa-Rodrigues, Joao; Monteiro, PedroLycopene is a bioactive component mainly found in tomato. It is characterized by a high antioxidant potential, the highest among carotenoids. Mainly due to this property, lycopene has been suggested to display many beneficial effects, including its potential cardioprotective role. Despite some contradictory observations, which appear to be mainly caused by discrepancies in the different experimental protocols applied in the different studies, growing evidence points to clear benefits of lycopene in the maintenance of cardiovascular function and health. The knowledge about lycopene’s preventive effects in atherosclerosis, and other cardiovascular diseases, must be translated into changes in food patterns, aiming to increase the consumption of tomato, tomato-containing products, or other foods with high lycopene content, which can have an important impact on cardiovascular disease, particularly in countries where this represents a major public health concern.
- Colouring applications of microalgae and cyanobacteria photosynthetic pigments: Challenges for industrial and market acceptancePublication . Reimão, Mariana; Almeida, Liliana; Ramos, Cristiana; Eusébio, Nádia; Martins, Rosário; Silva, Manuela Vieira da; Vasconcelos, Vítor; Freitas, Marisa; Freitas, Marisa; Vieira da Silva, Manuela; Martins, Rosario; REIMÃO BORGES LOPES DA SILVA, MARIANAMicroalgae and cyanobacterial photosynthetic pigments possess immense potential for sustainable colouring applications in industries such as food, feed, cosmetics and textiles, primarily because of their vibrant colours, safety and eco-friendliness. These photosynthetic pigments align with the growing demand for eco-conscious products. However, substantial challenges persist at the industrial level, particularly in scaling up production and achieving acceptance in niche markets. This review highlights the critical roles of abiotic factors such as light quality, temperature, pH, nutrient availability and salinity in enhancing pigment production using conventional production methods. Additionally, issues related to the cost, purity and stability of the pigments must be addressed to facilitate broader acceptance. Looking forward, the focus must be on developing innovative cultivation techniques that optimise and define the abiotic conditions most favourable for maximum pigment production or even incorporate genetic engineering tools. Additionally, exploring untapped species from inhospitable environmental sources and integrating the residual biomass through biorefinery processes represent effective approaches for enhancing the sustainability of microalgae and cyanobacterial pigment production on an industrial scale. Overcoming these barriers utilising targeted research and industry collaboration as well as fostering market acceptance is essential for fully harnessing the potential of these natural pigments and driving the transition towards more sustainable industrial colouring practices.
- Effects of caffeine on P300: A systematic review and meta-analysisPublication . Pinho, Beatriz B.; Mazer, Prune; Barroso, Beatriz; Pinto, Joana O.; Mazer, PruneCaffeine is a widely consumed psychoactive substance that stimulates the central nervous system, enhancing alertness and concentration. Its effects on brain activity can be examined using neurophysiological techniques such as event-related potentials, with emphasis on the P300 component. Caffeine appears to modulate P300 amplitude and latency, suggesting changes in processing speed and attention, although findings remain inconsistent. The objective of this work was to systematise the literature about the effects of caffeine on the amplitude and latency of the P300. A systematic review and meta-analysis of empirical studies measuring the effect of caffeine on P300 amplitude and latency was conducted, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta- Analyses. Statistical analyses were performed using the meta-analysis package for R. Caffeine intake between 201 and 399 mg was associated with a significant increase in P300 amplitude across anterior, central, and posterior regions, whereas higher doses were associated with smaller effect sizes. No significant differences in P300 latency were observed between pre- and post-caffeine intake. Overall, our findings align with previous reviews showing that caffeine, as a stimulant, can modulate brain activity. The main limitation of this work is the high heterogeneity across studies. Future research directions are discussed.
- Executive function in gambling disorder: A meta-analysis on neuropsychological evidencePublication . Peixoto, Miguel; Dores, Artemisa; Monteiro, Maria; Marques, António; Barbosa, Fernando; Pereira da Silva Marques, António José; Dores, Artemisa; de Faria Távora Moreira Peixoto, MiguelGambling disorder (GD) is associated with defcits in various cognitive functions. Specifcally for executive function (EF), previous fndings are inconsistent, despite defcits being reported for shifting, inhibition, planning, and working memory domains. Although a worse performance in EF measures related to GD severity is often reported, there is a need to clarify current evidence. This study aims to systematically review and perform a meta-analysis to clarify the association between EF defcits and GD. The current study followed the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses protocols. The meta-analysis used a random efects model and robust variance estimation to analyze the data, using Hedge’s g to report efect sizes. A total of 21 studies were systematically reviewed, of which 17 were included for meta-analysis. Meta-analysis was performed for shifting, inhibition, planning, and verbal fuency. Due to a lower number of studies, working memory data was systematically reviewed, but no meta-analysis was performed. Significant efect sizes were found for shifting and inhibition, indicative of defcits in participants with GD. No signifcant defcits were found for the other EF domains. Working memory results revealed inconsistent evidence, even when divided into verbal and visuospatial modalities. There is enough evidence of defcits in shifting and inhibition in participants with GD. However, better sample characterization should be considered in future studies to better understand the sources of potential heterogeneity. Consideration of gambling severity as a continuous variable could allow for a more detailed analysis of EF alterations across the various degrees of GD.
- Immersive technology applications in radiation protection for fluoroscopy - A systematic reviewPublication . Videira, Sara; Rodrigues, Matilde A.; Santos, Joana; da Silva, Manuela Vieira; Rodrigues, Matilde; Vieira da Silva, ManuelaImmersive technology is being increasingly incorporated into various professional and educational settings for occupational safety and health training. This review aims to assess the impact of immersive technology on the radiation protection (RP) of workers exposed to ionising radiation during fluoroscopy-guided procedures. Studies were collected from six databases on 3 April 2024: PubMed, Academic Search Complete, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, ScienceDirect, and Engineering Village. Additionally, studies were identified through snowball sampling techniques. Eligible studies assessed RP learning via immersive technology among healthcare workers or trainees exposed to ionising radiation from fluoroscopy in operating or interventional rooms. Additionally, only original research articles published in peer-reviewed journals and written in Portuguese, Spanish, English, and French were included. The review followed PRISMA and PICo, using narrative synthesis and bibliometric analysis. Quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool checklist. Ten studies involving 358 individuals (37 % trainees/students; 63 % workers) were analysed. All assessed the usefulness of RP education/training, and most (9/10) reported an improved understanding of scattered radiation. Technologies used included virtual reality (7/10), augmented reality (2/10), and mixed reality (1/10). Radiation scatter visualisation was present in the majority (9/10) of the studies, and 1/10 combined immersive technology with clinical training. These technologies enhance learning outcomes, support effective RP teaching, and optimise work practices. Integrating clinical training with RP education is essential. Implications for practice: This study supports healthcare professionals and educators in understanding how immersive technology (virtual, augmented, and mixed reality) is being applied and evaluated in training and real work contexts. Insights into methods, outcomes, and study populations inform practical use, while bibliometric data highlight key sources and authors for future reference and collaboration.
- Impact of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) on the marine environment: Raising awareness, challenges, legislation, and mitigation approaches under the One Health conceptPublication . Bilela, Lada Lukić; Matijošytė, Inga; Krutkevičius, Jokūbas; Alexandrino, Diogo A.M.; Safarik, Ivo; Burlakovs, Juris; Gaudêncio, Susana P.; Carvalho, Maria F.; Alexandrino, DiogoPer- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) have long been known for their detrimental effects on the ecosystems and living organisms; however the long-term impact on the marine environment is still insufficiently recognized. Based on PFAS persistence and bioaccumulation in the complex marine food network, adverse effects will be exacerbated by global processes such as climate change and synergies with other pollutants, like microplastics. The range of fluorochemicals currently included in the PFAS umbrella has significantly expanded due to the updated OECD definition, raising new concerns about their poorly understood dynamics and negative effects on the ocean wildlife and human health. Mitigation challenges and approaches, including biodegradation and currently studied materials for PFAS environmental removal are proposed here, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and bridging research gaps. The PFAS EU regulations, good practices and legal frameworks are discussed, with emphasis on recommendations for improving marine ecosystem management.
- Impact of the addition of botanical ingredients on the physicochemical properties, polyphenolic content, and antioxidant activity of craft beersPublication . Pereira, Maria João; Santos, Diana; Pinho, Cláudia; Oliveira, Ana Isabel; Oliveira, Ana IsabelThe incorporation of botanical ingredients into craft beer has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance nutritional value and expand its sensory diversity. Thus, this review aims to discuss the impact of adding botanical extracts on the physicochemical properties, phenolic content, and antioxidant potential of craft beers. A narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and b-on databases, with the keywords ‘craft beer’, ‘physicochemical properties’, ‘polyphenolic content’, and ‘antioxidant activity’. The incorporation of botanical ingredients into beers modified the physicochemical parameters, total phenolic content (TPC), and antioxidant activity. These effects varied according to the type of matrix, concentration, timing of addition, beer style, and brewing conditions. Overall, an increase in beer TPC and antioxidant activity was observed. However, higher TPC can present technological challenges, as phenolic–protein interaction may lead to turbidity. Conversely, enhanced antioxidant potential contributes to oxidative stability and extends the shelf-life of beer. Future studies should validate the current results, explore new bioactive matrices, and evaluate variables that ensure the functional quality of beer. Practical applications under real production conditions should also be prioritized to guarantee effective functional benefits without compromising the stability and sensory acceptance of craft beer.
- Prevalence of high-grade endometrioid endometrial cancer of no specific molecular profile (NSMP): A systematic review and meta-analysisPublication . Casanova, João; Ramos, Ana Sofia; Costa, Ana Gomes da; Babiciu, Alexandru; Serra, Sofia Silvério; Moutinho, Filipa; Costa, Teresa; Tripepi, Marta; Abu-Rustum, Nadeem R.; Martins, João Paulo; Lima, Jorge; Oliveira Martins, João PauloEndometrial cancer of no specific molecular profile (NSMP) represents the most prevalent molecular subtype of endometrial cancer, comprising over 50 % of all diagnoses. Although studies have explored the prevalence of the NSMP subtype, to our knowledge, no systematic review or meta-analysis has specifically targeted grade 3 (G3, high-grade) tumors. We aimed to determine the prevalence of G3 endometrioid endometrial cancer of NSMP and assess regional variations in this prevalence. We also sought to synthesize available data concerning oncologic outcomes, including overall survival, progression-free survival, and disease-specific survival. We conducted a systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines (PROSPERO No: CRD42024544247). We searched the electronic databases: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE. To estimate the overall prevalence of the NSMP subtype, we performed a meta-analysis using the proportions method with the Freeman-Tukey (arcsine) transformation. For estimating oncologic outcomes, we conducted a meta-analysis using hazard ratios (HRs) when available. In the absence of HRs, we utilized Kaplan-Meier curves. All pooled estimates and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random-effects model with the inverse variance method and restricted maximum likelihood estimator. We analyzed 31 studies, encompassing 2,660 patients. The pooled prevalence of NSMP within G3 endometrioid endometrial cancer was 0.29 (95 %CI: 0.23–0.34, I 2 = 80.8 %). This prevalence was highest in North America (0.43, 95 %CI: 0.17–0.71) and lowest in Europe (0.23, 95 %CI: 0.19–0.28). The random-effects pooled estimate indicated that the NSMP subtype was associated with intermediate oncologic outcomes compared to other molecular subtypes.
- Prevalence of the use of dosimeters for ionizing radiation from fluoroscopy − a systematic literature review and meta-analysisPublication . Videira, Sara; Rodrigues, Matilde; Santos, Joana; Guedes, Joana; Martins, João; Silva, Manuela Vieira da; Vieira da Silva, Manuela; Rodrigues, MatildeThis study aims to assess the prevalence of individual dosimeter use among workers exposed to ionizing radiation during fluoroscopy-guided procedures. Additionally, factors contributing to its use were identified. Studies were identified through searches in five databases on 13 April 2024. Additionally, snowballing techniques were employed. The review followed PRISMA guidelines and the CoCoPop model. A narrative synthesis, bibliometric analysis, and meta-analysis were performed. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for prevalence studies. Fifty studies involving 11,067 individuals were included. Orthopedics/traumatology was the most studied specialty (46 %). Median use rates were: 24 %(IQR = 44 %) for eye lens dosimeters, 15 %(IQR = 13 %) for electronic real-time dosimeters, 27 %(IQR = 42 %) for wrist/finger dosimeters, 25 %(IQR = 23 %) for collar/ thyroid dosimeters and 5 % for ankle dosimeter; 15 %(IQR = 78 %) reported no monitoring device. In 15 studies (30 %) with 4,188 individuals (38 %), the overall prevalence of “always” using whole-body dosimeters was 43 % [95 %CI:24–62]. By continent, the highest prevalence was found in Africa (75 %[95 % CI: 46–95]), while the lowest was in the “Americas” (33 %[95 % CI: 16–52]). Significant moderator effects were found: higher prevalence in “Africa” (p = 0.04), “gastroenterology” (p = 0.04), and “involving radiology” (p = 0.01); lower in “orthopedics” (p = 0.01) and “physicians” (p = 0.03). No significant moderator effects were found: “very high Human Development Index” (p = 0.72) and “high Human Development Index” (p = 0.69). Studies showed moderate risk of bias (6/9), with little evidence of publication bias. Exposure doses may be underestimated due to the low prevalence of dosimeter use. Interventions targeting individual and organizational factors are needed to promote consistent use and improve safety.