ESS - TBIO/Rise Health - Artigos
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- Before the spike: Human oversight of artificial intelligence in EEG interpretation requires reasoning beyond recognitionPublication . Borges, Daniel Filipe; Leal, Alberto; Borges, Daniel FilipeArtificial intelligence (AI) is transforming EEGinterpretation faster than training is adapting to definewhat competent interpretation now requires. Errors arisebefore the first abnormal waveform appears, in whattrainees encounter, how they examine evidence, and howreadily a signal becomes a diagnostic label. That path isalready shortening: a deep neural network has achievedexpert- level detection of interictal epileptiform dischargesin selected settings.1 As automated recognition growsmore capable, human verification becomes more, notless, consequential. Protecting patients requires readers toreconstruct, defend, and revise the reasoning from signalto conclusion. What makes verification credible? Presenceis insufficient unless readers can explain why an output isplausible and recognize when it is not.
- Data from the Researcher Mental Health Observatory STAIRCASE SurveyPublication . Santos, Marlene; Rocha, Nuno; Santos, Marlene; Rocha, NunoThe data presented here derives from the Sustainable Working Conditions in Academia survey (STAIRCASE) on researcher mental health. The survey addresses the ongoing mental health crisis in academia by providing comprehensive, multilevel data on researcher well-being and its structural determinants. We employed a cross-sectional between-participant study design to collect data from 4,296 researchers between September 15, 2023, and August 26, 2024. The sample, which primarily includes researchers based in European countries, has a mean age of 38.1 years (SD = 10.7) and consists of 63.7% female participants. Participants provided data on key mental health outcomes – including depression, anxiety, stress, burnout, and well-being – alongside detailed assessments of working conditions, leadership behavior, and organizational characteristics. The dataset facilitates a holistic, multilevel investigation of academic mental health beyond individual risk factors by including the individual, leadership, institutional, and national context. By enabling analyses across hierarchical levels this dataset provides the necessary evidence to identify systemic drivers of mental (ill) health and inform the development of effective, system-wide strategies for meaningful change in academic work environments.
- Forecasting and clustering the burden of non communicable diseases in Europe to support public health policyPublication . Vinhal, Cláudia; Oliveira, Alexandra; Faria, Brígida Mónica; Pimenta, Rui; Nascimento, Ana Paula; Oliveira, Alexandra; Faria, Brigida Monica; Pimenta, Rui; Nascimento, Ana PaulaThis study aims to model Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALYs) for cardiovascular diseases and neurological disorders using ARIMA models, exploring regional disparities and evaluating model performance across countries. This is a quantitative, exploratory time series study using secondary data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) database, covering annual DALYs across 48 European countries, from 1990 until 2019. ARIMA models were applied using an automated algorithm. Model performance was assessed using MAE, RMSE, MSE, and MAPE. Time series were compared using Piccolo distances, and countries were clustered with hierarchical average linkage. Cluster quality was evaluated using Silhouette, Dunn, McClain, and C-index. Simpler ARIMA models often yielded better forecasts than more complex ones, particularly in smaller countries such as San Marino and Monaco. Cardiovascular disease time series were grouped into 2 clusters, while neurological disorders formed 15 clusters, reflecting diverse epidemiological and reporting patterns. The mean MAPE was 6.8% for cardiovascular diseases and 0.95% for neurological disorders, indicating greater predictive accuracy and stability for the latter. ARIMA modelling is effective for capturing temporal dynamics in DALY data, but should be tailored to avoid overfitting. Clustering countries based on time series similarities reveals insights into health system differences and regional disease patterns. These findings support the use of data-driven approaches to improve forecasting and inform global public health planning.
- Digital workplace competencies and their outcomes: A systematic literature reviewPublication . Pinheiro, Sofia; Pinto, Ana; Simões, Ana Correia; Ferraz, Mariana; Domingues, Ana Raquel; Santos, Joana; Ferraz, MarianaThe rapid digital transformation of work environments has heightened the need to understand not only which competencies are essential but also how they influence workplace outcomes. This study presents a systematic literature review (SLR) of 46 peer-reviewed articles published between 2018 and 2023, following the PRISMA methodology across Scopus, Web of Science, and ERIC databases. This review has two objectives: (1) to synthesize how digital competencies are conceptualized and developed in workplace contexts, and (2) to analyze the measurable outcomes associated with their acquisition. Competencies were categorized using the DigComp 2.2 and the European Key Competence Framework for Lifelong Learning, capturing both digital competencies (e.g., communication, collaboration, problem-solving, data literacy) and transversal skills (e.g., STEM, personal, social, and learning). The findings highlight strong associations between competencies and outcomes such as innovation, performance, engagement, and well-being, while also noting risks like job loss, digital fatigue, and peer-to-peer friction. The review underscores the multidimensional and evolving nature of digital workplace competencies, identifies underexplored areas such as AI literacy, ethical awareness, and virtual teamwork, and provides insights for organizational training, policy design, and curriculum development. Future research should establish hierarchical models of competence influence on work performance and broaden the evidence base through interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral perspectives.
- 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.
- Physical activity during pregnancy: Associations between levels and types of physical activity and low back pain–related disability in Portuguese pregnant womenPublication . Teixeira, Isabel; Santos, Paula Clara; Festas, Clarinda; Bernardo, Diana; Santos, Paula ClaraLow back pain (LBP) is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal conditions during pregnancy and frequently impairs daily living activities and quality of life. The association between different levels and types of physical activity (PA) and LBP-related functional disability remains insufficiently explored. This study aimed to examine the association between PA levels and types and functional disability among pregnant women with LBP. A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted involving 192 Portuguese pregnant women. Data were collected through an online questionnaire comprising the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Most participants engaged predominantly in light-intensity or sedentary activity (69.1%), with minimal participation in vigorous activity (0.8%). Functional disability was generally mild (mean ODI = 11.5 ± 7.35); however, 42.2% of participants reported moderate disability and 11.0% severe disability. Advancing gestational age showed weak associations with increased domestic activity (r = 0.146, p = 0.044), decreased occupational activity (r = −0.295, p = 0.001), and higher functional disability scores (r = 0.142, p = 0.049). Parity was associated with differences in total PA levels (p = 0.005) and domestic activity (p = 0.001). Higher ODI scores were weakly associated with light-intensity and sedentary activity (r = 0.144, p = 0.047), whereas severe disability demonstrated a moderate association with sedentary behavior (r = 0.529, p = 0.014). Overall, lower levels of PA, particularly sedentary behavior, were weakly associated with higher LBP-related disability; however, the observed associations were generally weak and should be interpreted with caution considering the cross-sectional design.
- Towards a safer hospital environment: a multilevel analysis of safety climate and performancePublication . Ferreira, Juliana; Rodrigues, Matilde A.; Rodrigues, MatildeSafety climate is a crucial measure for organizations, predicting occupational accidents, monitoring safety performance, and identifying areas for improvement. However, its application in hospital settings remains limited. This study aimed to analyze safety climate levels and their relationship with other safety performance indicators in hospital settings using a multilevel perspective. The study was conducted in two hospital units located in Northern Portugal and involved 500 health professionals, including doctors, nurses, diagnosis and therapeutics technicians, operational assistants, and technical assistants. A questionnaire was applied to collect data of the variables under study. The questionnaire included a multilevel safety climate scale, which assesses the safety climate at the three different levels: management, team leader and coworkers. Additionally, it included scales to determine safety behaviours, motivation, time pressure and safety knowledge. Results revealed positive levels of safety climate across the three hierarchical subscales. Safety climate was positively associated with safety motivation, safety behaviors, and safety knowledge, and negatively associated with time pressure. Significant differences were observed across professional categories. Technical assistants were observed to reported lower levels for co-workers safety climate, safety knowledge, and safety participation, and higher time pressure. Additionally, work schedule was associated with safety climate perceptions and safety knowledge, with non-shift workers reporting higher safety climate at the management and team leader levels. This study enhances understanding of safety climate in hospital settings, highlighting the importance of addressing specific safety indicators, particularly among distinct professional groups.
- The association between exposure to blue spaces and multidimensional frailty in community-dwelling older adults: A cross-sectional studyPublication . Coelho, Tiago; Leite, Diana; Maciel, Daniela; Ribeiro, Ana Isabel; Rocha, Nuno Barbosa; Rocha, Nuno; Coelho, TiagoContact with blue spaces appears to benefit older adults’ health and well-being, but evidence on its relationship with frailty is scarce. This cross-sectional study investigated associations between exposure to blue spaces and multidimensional frailty in 189 community-dwelling people aged ≥65 years (Portugal). Measurements included the Tilburg Frailty Indicator, questionnaire regarding exposure, and Geographic Information System data for proximity. Purposeful visits once or twice a month were associated with lower physical frailty, as were visits with pets, engaging in physical activity, and spending 1–2 hours or >2 hours in these environments. Visiting with others was associated with lower social frailty. Incidental exposure—passing by visible blue spaces during daily commutes—was linked to lower total and physical frailty. Walking travel times <20 minutes were associated with lower total, physical, and social frailty, with different distances within this range showing domain-specific associations. Results suggest blue spaces may promote healthy aging.
- A comprehensive profile of volunteer firefighters: sociodemographic and occupational dimensionsPublication . Teixeira, Tatiana; Carvalho, Eduardo; Santos, Joana; Vaz, Mário; Guedes, Joana; Santos, JoanaThe European Union prioritizes occupational health and safety, with firefighters—particularly volunteers—facing significant risks. In Portugal, 94% of firefighters are volunteers, often balancing multiple jobs, which increases their exposure to hazards. This study investigates Portuguese firefighters’ occupational risks and identifies tasks with the highest accident incidence to build a comprehensive profile of their health and work conditions. Firefighters are exposed to extreme environments, long shifts, and high-stress situations, especially during wildfires. These conditions contribute to physical and mental health issues, including cardiovascular disease and sleep disturbances. Training and experience are key to improving risk perception and preventing accidents. Understanding firefighters’ main characteristics is essential for risk reduction and improving their quality of life. A sociodemographic questionnaire was developed and administered to firefighters, covering three sections: General Information, Lifestyle and Clinical History, and Firefighting Activity. This enabled the collection of sociodemographic and occupational data. A total of 220 responses were collected from Portuguese volunteer firefighters. Cardiovascular and respiratory diseases were the most commonly reported diagnoses. Wildland and urban/industrial fires were the main operational contexts linked to accidents, with 84 individuals reporting accident history in these scenarios. The study revealed a lack of data on the profile of volunteer firefighters, a group at heightened risk due to cumulative exposures and existing health conditions. Further research is needed to support the development of regulations and health monitoring strategies that protect this workforce without compromising their operational capacity.
- A systematic review of indoor air quality in schools settings: Focus on microbiome and their relation to particulate matter and chemical pollutantsPublication . Ferraz, Mariana; Santos, Joana; Silva, Manuela Vieira da; Santos, Joana; Vieira da Silva, Manuela; Ferraz, MarianaIndoor air quality (IAQ) in schools is a growing concern due to its impact on children's health. Continuous exposure to indoor air pollutants, such as particulate matter (PM), carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), and microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, can affect school performance, increase absenteeism, and trigger respiratory problems. This systematic review aimed to analyze the potential correlation between the presence of microorganisms and PM and chemical pollutants in school indoor environments. Study design: A systematic literature review was conducted using the methodology PRISMA and 25 articles were selected. The current systematic review follow the steps: definition of research objectives; selection of the science databases; definition of keywords; establishment of the inclusion and exclusion criteria, evaluation process and evaluation and management of selected studies. The findings highlight the significant presence of airborne microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, often associated with PM and chemical pollutants such as CO 2 correlations between CO 2 and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Positive and bacteria were observed in ten studies and were statistically significant in six of them. Both positive and negative correlations between fungi and CO 2 were reported. Fungal genera such as Aspergillus spp. And Cladosporium spp. Were associated with particulate matter (PM). In general, the concentrations of bacteria and fungi were often correlated with PM levels, with larger particles (PM 10 adhesion and transport of microorganisms, while smaller particles (PM 2 . 5 ) favoring the ) remain suspended in the air for longer periods, increasing exposure. Despite the methodological variations among the various studies, the results reinforce the need to create effective interventions to reduce pollutant concentrations to minimize health risks for occupants.