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- Sustainable agriculture with cyanobacterial biomass: Soil experiments on spinach and radish plantsPublication . Massa, Anabella; Martins, Diogo; Azevedo, Joana; Prieto, Ana I.; Camean, Ana M.; Diez-Quijada, Leticia; Jos, Angeles; Reimão, Mariana; Azevedo, Rui; Pinto, Edgar; Almeida, Agostinho; Vasconcelos, Vitor; Campos, Alexandre; Freitas, Marisa; REIMÃO BORGES LOPES DA SILVA, MARIANATo support sustainable food production and improve crop yields, it is essential to explore bio-based plant growth- promoting products. Cyanobacterial biomass has shown potential to enhance soil quality and agricultural productivity. However, some cyanobacteria produce cyanotoxins, such as microcystins, cylindrospermopsin and anatoxin-a, which can adversely affect plant development depending on their concentration. This study evaluated the potential of cyanobacterial biomass as a soil amendment and plant growth stimulant by assessing growth, nutrient content and toxin accumulation in spinach and radish plants. Plants were cultivated in soil treated with no amendment, commercial fertilizer, or cyanobacterial biomass from Microcystis aeruginosa (microcystins-producer), Anabaena sp. (anatoxin-a-producer), Raphidiopsis raciborskii (non-cylindrospermopsin producer), and R. raciborskii (cylindrospermopsin-producer). While biomass additions supplied nutrients to the soil, spinach showed increased sensitivity to microcystins and anatoxin-a, with significantly reduced growth. Overall, mineral concentrations in plant tissues did not increase; most macro- and micronutrients declined, particularly in spinach shoots and radish roots (p ≥ 0.05). Vitamin C content also decreased in most treatments, except in plants treated with the non-cylindrospermopsin-producing R. raciborskii strain, where a significant increase was observed (p ≥ 0.05). Toxic biomass amendments led to the uptake of microcystins-LR and cylindrospermopsin in spinach, and cylindrospermopsin in radish, with cylindrospermopsin levels in spinach exceeding Word Health Organization's tolerable daily intake. These findings underscore the need for a previous detailed characterization of both nutrients and toxins in cyanobacterial biomass to ensure its safe and effective agricultural use, maximizing benefits while protecting food safety.
- Detection of physiological changes in knee cartilage using parametric T2 relaxation maps estimated with a dictionary methodPublication . Coelho, José M.; Fernandes, Tiago T.; Alves, Sandra M.; Vilaça, Adélio; Nunes, Rita G.; Nogueira, Luísa; Oliveira, António; Nogueira, Luisa; Alves, Sandra MariaTo investigate half-marathon running and recovery effects on knee articular cartilage (KAC) health in athletes, using dictionary-matching T2 maps, to detect changes and recovery patterns in KAC. Eleven asymptomatic volunteers (4 females, 7 males; mean age 40 ± 5 years, mean BMI 22.7 ± 1.4 kg/m2) completed a fixed-pace half-marathonwere studied. All were right-knee dominant and engaged in regular running. Sagittal T2-weighted Multi-Echo Spin-Echo images at 3 T were used to assess T2 values pre-run, post-run, and one week later for global and compartmental KAC. Recovery programme included low-intensity running, strength training and rest. Repeated measures ANOVA or equivalent non-parametric tests with post-hoc comparisons compared T2 values over time. Separate analyses were conducted based on laterality, gender and anatomical compartments. Significance was set at < 0.05. Post-run T2 values decreased significantly by 0.9 ms (− 2.0%, p < 0.001), with up to 5.3% reductions in medial tibial (MT) and femoral (MF) compartments. Recovery patterns varied by compartment, sex and laterality. Most compartments returned to baseline within one week; the lateral condyle (LatC) showed incomplete recovery (− 4.7%, Proportional Recovery Index (PRI) = − 0,1); the right knee’s MT exhibited overcompensation (6.3%, PRI = 2.6). Males showed higher baseline T2 values and more efficient recovery in the LatC compared to females (PRI = − 0.1 vs. − 0.4). Half-marathon running induces reversible reductions in KAC hydration, with most compartments recovering or overcompensating within one week. Dictionary-matching T2 mapping offers a robust approach for monitoring cartilage integrity and guiding individualised recovery strategies.
- Incorporação de algas em formulações cosméticas: Caracterização e fundamentos científicosPublication . Rodrigues, Renata; Oliveira, Ana Isabel; Oliveira, Ana IsabelA pele é o maior órgão do corpo humano e é responsável por funções de proteção e regulação (Quan, 2023). Nos últimos anos, tem-se verificado uma crescente procura por ingredientes naturais e sustentáveis. As algas, destacam-se, assim, como um dos exemplos mais promissores pela diversidade de compostos bioativos que produzem (Leong et al., 2024). Verificar e caracterizar a utilização de algas em formulações cosméticas, analisar as alegações cosméticas associadas às mesmas. Avaliar a fundamentação científica que sustenta a sua utilização, bem como a qualidade da informação disponibilizada no mercado de venda online. Estudo descritivo, transversal e observacional. Realizou-se uma pesquisa com as palavras-chave “comprar” E “cosméticos” E “parafarmácia” OU “farmácia” OU “loja de cosmética” OU “ervanária” e foram selecionados os cinco primeiros websites para pesquisar produtos cosméticos que contivessem algas ou seus derivados. Recolheram-se dados relativos à finalidade, local de aplicação, forma galénica, forma de apresentação e composição. A qualidade da informação apresentada nos websites foi avaliada através da ferramenta DISCERN, adaptada ao contexto cosmético. Foram identificados 129 produtos cosméticos contendo algas ou derivados. Os resultados encontrados têm suporte na literatura, onde diversos autores descrevem uma relação entre os grupos taxonómicos de algas e as finalidades cosméticas que lhes são atribuídas. As espécies mais frequentes foram Porphyridium cruentum e Chlorella vulgaris (14,0%). Quanto à finalidade, destacou-se a função hidratante (70,0%) e antienvelhecimento (30,2%). Observou-se uma predominância de produtos destinados ao rosto (72,1%) e as emulsões foram a forma galénica mais encontrada (58,1%). Verificou-se que 48,8% das formulações eram apresentadas sob a forma de cremes. A aplicação da ferramenta DISCERN revelou que 80% dos websites apresentavam qualidade de informação baixa, destacando-se a ausência de referências científicas e de dados sobre segurança e conservação. As algas afirmam-se como uma fonte natural com elevado potencial para formulações cosméticas, merecendo ser cada vez mais exploradas pela investigação científica e pela indústria. No entanto, é essencial uma comunicação mais responsável e sustentada, que combine clareza e rigor científico, permitindo ao consumidor fazer escolhas mais conscientes e informadas.
- Cost analysis of Multidose Drug Dispensing (MDD) system implementation in a community pharmacy in PortugalPublication . Reis, Ana; Jesus, Ângelo; Martín, Maria Luisa; Jesus, ÂngeloCommunity pharmacies are increasingly delivering structured services to support chronic disease management, such as Multidose Drug Dispensing (MDD). This strategy can improve adherence and safety, but evidence of its economic feasibility in Portuguese pharmacies remains limited. To estimate the cost of implementing and operating an MDD system in a community pharmacy, informing reimbursement models and policy. A micro-costing approach assessed fixed and variable expenses for serving polymedicated elderly patients. Costs were calculated in euros (2024/2025) and expressed per working day based on 253 annual preparation days. First-year costs totaled €70,985.68, including €8184.00 for setup, €21,579.00 for supplies, and €41,222.68 for staff salaries. The daily operating cost was €280.58, with labour representing the major expense. A break-even analysis indicated sustainability with around 700 users at €10/month. Although requiring significant initial investment, MDD can become financially viable through scaling, workflow efficiency, and supportive reimbursement strategies.
- Adverse reactions mediated by 99mTc-tetrofosmin: Literature review and analysis of post-marketing reportsPublication . Martins, Sara; Costa, Sara Poças; Sousa, Mariana; Moreira, Fernando; Martín-Suaréz, A.; Jesus, Ângelo; Jesus, Ângelo; Moreira, Fernando99mTc-tetrofosmin is a diagnostic radiopharmaceutical used to evaluate cardiac pathologies. Despite the lower incidence of reactions compared to other drugs, radiopharmaceuticals can still cause adverse reactions. For this reason, pharmacovigilance plays a crucial role in detecting, understanding, evaluating and preventing them. This study aims to review the available literature,on the safety of99mTc-tetrofosmin, and to analyze spontaneous adverse drug reaction reports from the European EudraVigilance database. A literature review was conducted according to PRISMA methodology. An analysis of spontaneous notifications was carried out in EudraVigilance, until 2022. The review identified a selection of 7 articles. The most reported adverse reactions were skin irritation, strange taste in the mouth and nausea. Regarding the EudraVigilance analysis, 220 notifications were identified, accounting for 477 adverse reactions. The majority belong to males (51%), between 18-64 years (45%). Health professionals were the main reporters (84%). The most prevalent System Organ Class was “general disorders and administration site conditions” (21%) and the most reported adverse reaction was pruritus (10%). Approximately 67% of reactions were considered serious, with 6 fatal cases recorded. The results demonstrated that adverse reactions associated with99mTc-tetrofosmin do occur and should not be minimized. Over a period of 17 years, only 220 notifications were recorded, which may highlight potential challenges in pharmacovigilance for radiopharmaceuticals. Therefore, raising awareness about the importance of reporting adverse reactions is crucial.
- Adverse reactions by radiopharmaceuticals: Retrospective analysis of the Portuguese National Pharmacovigilance SystemPublication . Martins, Sara; Jesus, Ângelo; Andrade, Ricardo; Rocha, Mariana; Martín-Suarez, Ana; Jesus, ÂngeloRadiopharmaceuticals are essential in the field of nuclear medicine, but like any other medicinal product, radiopharmaceuticals can potentially cause adverse reactions in patients. To describe the adverse reactions to radiopharmaceuticals reported to the Portuguese National Pharmacovigilance System (SNF). Methods: We performed a retrospective, observational study by examining individual case safety reports (ICSRs) provided by the SNF related to all radiopharmaceuticals commercially available in Portugal from 2010 to 2023. The SNF received a total of 84 ICSRs. These reports resulted in a total of 224 adverse drug reactions (ADR), which involved a total of 15 different radiopharmaceuticals. The mean age of patients was 61.9 years old. Twenty-one different system organ classes (SOCs) were identified, with the most prevalent situations being “Gastrointestinal Disorders” (18.3%; n = 41) followed by “General disorders and administration site conditions” (16.5%; n = 37), “Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders” (11.2%; n = 25) and “Blood and lymphatic system disorders” (10.3%; n = 23). Fifty-seven reports (67.85%) showed at least 1 serious ADR. Most notified radiopharmaceuticals were, respectively, radium—223 (n = 36, 41.4%), lutetium-177 oxotreotide (n = 12, 13.8%) and iodide—131 (n = 9, 10.3%). Although the number of notifications is limited, these findings provide valuable insights into the types and frequencies of adverse reactions associated with radiopharmaceuticals used in Portugal between 2010 and 2023. The data highlight the importance of continued pharmacovigilance efforts to monitor the safety of these specialized medical products and inform clinical decision-making.
- Health effects of ergonomics and personal protective equipment on chemotherapy professionalsPublication . Reis, Ana; Silva, Vítor; Joaquim, João José; Valadares, Luís; Matos, Cristiano; Valeiro, Carolina; Mateos-Campos, Ramona; Moreira, Fernando; Moreira, FernandoChemotherapy drugs are vital for treating cancer, but the professionals who prepare and administer them may be exposed to small amounts that can harm their health over time. To stay protected, they use personal protective equipment like gloves, gowns, and masks, and must also work under ergonomic conditions that prevent strain from repetitive tasks and awkward postures. This review examined recent studies to see how these protective measures are applied and what risks remain. We found that use of protective equipment is often inconsistent and ergonomic challenges are common, especially for nurses and pharmacy technicians. These findings show the importance of better training, safer workplace design, and stronger institutional support. Improving protective practices and ergonomics can help protect healthcare workers, enhance their wellbeing, and ensure safer patient care.
- Rare but relevant: MDMA and hyponatraemiaPublication . Garcia, Maria Rita; Gomes, Nelson G. M.; Silva, Diana Dias da; Dias da Silva, Diana CristinaConventionally used for its stimulant, empathogenic and entactogenic effects,3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) is one of the most commonlyused psychoactive drugs, specifically among young adults and in nightlife and recrea-tional party contexts. Often perceived as a safe drug, MDMA can display an array oftoxic effects on multiple organs, with hyponatraemia (a low blood sodium concentrationthat can cause an altered mental state) being increasingly reported. Although hypona-traemia per se is among the most common electrolyte disorders encountered in clinicalcare, acute MDMA-induced hyponatraemia was first described in 1993 and constitutes alife-threatening condition if left untreated, particularly among women, who presenthigher incidence rates and increased odds of developing severe clinical effects. The pre-sent review outlines the main clinical manifestations and prevalence of MDMA-inducedhyponatraemia, its pathophysiological mechanisms and the therapeutical approaches tocorrect this electrolyte imbalance.
- Pharmacy technicians in immunization services: Mapping roles and responsibilities through a Scoping ReviewPublication . Valeiro, Carolina; Silva, Vítor; Balteiro, Jorge; Patterson, Diane; Bezerra, Gilberto; Mealiff, Karen; Matos, Cristiano; Jesus, Ângelo; Joaquim, João; Jesus, ÂngeloPharmacy technicians are increasingly involved in immunization services, enhancing vaccine accessibility and reducing pharmacies’ workload. This scoping review aims to (1) provide a comprehensive overview of pharmacy technicians’ involvement in immunization services across various healthcare settings and countries, and (2) conduct a comparative analysis of training curricula for pharmacy technicians on immunization. A scoping review was conducted following the Arksey and O’Malley framework. A comprehensive search of the PubMed and Scopus databases was performed using keywords and MeSH terms such as “pharmacy technician(s)”, “immunization”, “vaccination”, “role”, and “involvement”. Studies included assessed pharmacy technicians’ roles in vaccine administration, training, and public health outcomes. Descriptive and thematic analyses were used to synthesize the findings. In addition, a supplementary analysis of immunization training curricula was conducted, reviewing programs from different countries to identify similarities, differences, and gaps in course structure, content, and delivery formats. Lastly, a comprehensive toolkit was developed, offering guidelines intended to facilitate the implementation of immunization training programs. A total of 35 articles met the inclusion criteria, primarily from the United States of America (n = 30), Canada (n = 2), Ethiopia (n = 1), Denmark (n = 1) and United Kingdom (n = 1). The findings indicate that pharmacy technicians contribute significantly to vaccine administration, patient education, and workflow optimization, particularly in community pharmacies. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated their involvement in immunization programs. Key challenges include regulatory barriers, a lack of standardized training, and resistance from other healthcare professionals. Facilitators include legislative support (e.g., the PREP Act), structured training programs, and collaborative pharmacist–technician models. Pharmacy technicians can play a vital role in expanding immunization services, improving vaccine uptake, and reducing pharmacist workload. Addressing regulatory inconsistencies, enhancing training, and fostering interprofessional collaboration are crucial for their effective integration of immunization programs. Since immunization by pharmacy technicians is not yet allowed in many EU countries, this review will provide a foundational basis to address their potential to support the healthcare workforce and improve access to immunization services.
- Reacciones adversas a radiofármacos: Análisis retrospectivo del Sistema de Farmacovigilancia EspañolPublication . Martins, Sara; Martín-Suarez, Ana; Jesus, Ângelo; Jesus, ÂngeloLos radiofármacos se han convertido en herramientas indispensables en la medicina mo-derna, pero como cualquier otro medicamento, pue-den causar reacciones adversas en los pacientes. El objetivo de este estudio fue realizar un análisis de las notificaciones relacionadas con sospechas de reacciones adversas (RAM) relacionadas con radiofármacos, en el contexto sanitario español. Se realizó un estudio observacional, cross-sectional, retrospectivo y descriptivo, centrán-dose en el análisis de notificaciones espontáneas sobre reacciones adversas asociadas con el uso de radiofármacos (RAMr), presentadas al Sistema Español de Farmacovigilancia de Medicamentos de Uso Humano, durante el periodo de 2010 a 2023. Se recibieron 518 notificaciones espontáneas, que resultaran en 1717 RAMr. 53,1% de las reacciones fueron consideradas graves. El Radio (223Ra) dicloruro fue el radiofármaco identifi-cado con más frecuencia en los informes (29,4%) y, de las 37 muertes reportadas en notificaciones asociadas a la administración de radiofármacos, 22 ocurrieron con este radiofármaco. Los radiofármacos tienen una me-nor incidencia de RAM reportadas en comparación con los medicamentos convencionales, pero no se puede descartar por completo la posibilidad de aparición, con graves consecuencias en algunos casos. El hecho de que en 14 años solo se hayan enviado 518 informes confirma las sospechas de subnotificación por parte de profesionales, pa-cientes y otros. Es necesario tomar más medidas de sensibilización y formación, para aumentar la notificación de posibles RAMr.