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- 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.
- Interventions to chemotherapy and radiotherapy induced oral mucositis: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysisPublication . Pereira, Cristiana Palmela; Marques, Inês; Martins, João Paulo; Oliveira Martins, João PauloOral mucositis is a common adverse effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, characterized by erythematous lesions, edema, ulceration, atrophy, or even hemorrhage. Current evidence highlights the complexity of its management and the importance of tailoring therapeutic approaches to the individual patient profile in order to improve quality of life during cancer treatment. To access the efficacy of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions for the prevention and treatment of chemotherapy- and/or radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis. A systematic review with meta-analysis of 27 articles published between 2019 and 2024 was also performed, aiming to characterize and contextualize therapeutic interventions for oral mucositis. This systematic review and meta-analysis suggests that various non-pharmacological interventions (such as cryotherapy and photobiomodulation) and pharmacological interventions, particularly natural agents (such as honey, curcumin, green tea), are effective for the prevention and treatment of oral mucositis. Oral mucositis is a highly prevalent adverse effect in patients undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, with significant functional, nutritional, and treatment adherence implications. The systematic review with meta-analysis demonstrated the efficacy of non-pharmacological and natural interventions.
- Sexual harassment in institutions of higher education: Some critical insights based on the case of PortugalPublication . Neves, Sofia; Ferreira, Mafalda; Topa, Joana; Silva, Estefânia; Correia, Ariana; Sousa, Mafalda; Borges, Janete; Borges, JaneteAs Portugal lived under a dictatorship for almost 50 years, policies and legislation on women’s rights began to be developed only after the instauration of democracy in 1975 (Monteiro and Ferreira, 2016). In the second half of the 20th century, especially after the feminist movement gained strength, broader discussions about sexual harassment (SH) in Portugal began to emerge. A greater awareness of SH as a form of gender-based violence and discrimination resulted from the increased consciousness surrounding issues of gender equality and women’s rights during the 1960s and 1970s. In the 80s and 90s, the debate on this issue intensified, driven by social movements and international legislation, such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (United Nations, 1979), to which Portugal has been a signatory since 1980.
- Dating violence and gender beliefs legitimizing dating violence among Cape Verdean university studentsPublication . Neves, Sofia; Borges, Janete; Antunes, Arimery; Borges, JaneteThe present study analyses the association between victimization and perpetration of dating violence and gender beliefs legitimizing dating violence among Cape Verdean university students. The sample consisted of 301 Cape Verdean university students, 220 female (73.1%) and 80 male (26.6%), with an average age of 23.86 years old (SD = 6.112). An online survey with sociodemographic characterization, the Inventory of Gender Beliefs, and the Inventory of Violent Juvenile Relationships were completed by each participant. Findings reveal high levels of dating violence, with 61.1% (n = 184) and 46.8% (n = 141) of students admitting having been exposed to or perpetrated, respectively, at least one act of violence. Female participants showed higher rates of victimization when compared to male participants, while males presented a higher level of beliefs legitimizing dating violence when compared to females. Education policy recommendations for dating violence prevention and combat are provided.
- Perceptions of adverse childhood experiences among lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex people victims of domestic violence by their families: A portuguese qualitative studyPublication . Neves, Sofia; Ferreira, Mafalda; Sousa, Edgar; Topa, Joana; Borges, Janete; Vieira, Cristina P.; Borges, JaneteResearch shows lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex (LGBTI) people are vulnerable to more adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). The research focused on the perceptions of experiencing ACEs among 36 Portuguese LGBTI people who were exposed to domestic violence by their parents or other family members (M = 34.11; SD = 10.77). Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted and data were subjected to thematic analysis. Results reveal a great exposure to different types of domestic violence, such as psychological, physical and sexual abuse, corrective practices and home expulsion. Affirmative and trauma-informed approaches, especially in counseling, are required to address LGBTI children’s needs.
- Understanding wearable health technology use in older adults through social and psychological factorsPublication . Félix, José; Moreira, Juliana; Pereira, Soraia; Guedes, Diana; Sá, Catarina; Santos, Rubim; Faria, Brígida; Kontio, Elina; Pinheiro, Ana Rita; Sousa, Andreia S. P.; Pinheiro de Sousa, Andreia Sofia; Faria, Brigida Monica; Rubim Silva Santos, Manuel; Sousa Félix, José Manuel; Santos Moreira, Juliana; C. Guedes, Diana; Pinheiro, Ana RitaAs populations age globally, wearable health technologies offer promising solutions to support autonomy and well-being among older adults. This study explored the adoption of smart wearable systems, such as wristbands and chest sensors, for remote health monitoring among 352 older adults (aged 60–99) in Northern Portugal. Results showed that 74.4% of participants expressed interest in using wearable systems, with safety (93.9%) cited as the main benefit. Prevention (11.4%) and improved health monitoring (6.1%) were reported less frequently and should be considered secondary factors. However, barriers included discomfort (62.7%), heaviness (31.1%), and device size (32.7%), particularly in smartwatches. Chest bands were preferred when soft, lightweight, and discreet. Technology use frequency, especially smartphone usage, emerged as a key predictor of interest, as confirmed by a decision tree machine learning model with an accuracy of 71.88%. Despite low educational levels, participants demonstrated high motivation to use features such as medication reminders (83.5%), healthy habit prompts (74.2%), and appointment alerts (70.2%). Although many respondents felt reassured by the potential of continuous monitoring, some reported concerns related to anxiety (54.9%) and over-surveillance. These findings underscore the importance of balancing technological functionality with emotional comfort. The study highlights the need for user-centered design, digital literacy initiatives, and co-creation with older users to improve adherence and usability. Tailored interventions and accessible technologies can enhance health outcomes and promote independent living among aging populations.
- Smartphone addiction and chronic spinal pain among university students: A cross-sectional studyPublication . Oliosi, Maria Eduarda; Silva, Cláudia; Simões, Daniela; Pinheiro, Ana Rita; Silva, CláudiaCurrent smartphones are highly versatile, and their use is embedded in people’s daily lives, particularly among university students. Their overuse does not seem to be harmless, being associated with adverse effects, including musculoskeletal dysfunction. Moreover, chronic spinal pain (CSP) is increasing among university students. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of self-reported smartphone addiction (SA) and CSP among university students and analyze the association between both. A cross-sectional study was performed. Date were obtained from a sample of university students through an online self-reported questionnaire, which included the Smartphone Addiction Scale Short Version, the Numerical Pain Rating Scale, the Neck Disability Index, and the Oswestry Disability Index. Of 465 students who responded, 31% showed SA, and 26% reported CSP. Students with SA evidenced a greater prevalence of neck, thoracic, and low back pain when compared to university students without addiction. Logistic regression analysis showed a significant association between SA and CSP (OR = 2.48, 95% CI = 1.55–3.98). However, longitudinal studies are needed to establish causal relationships. This study concludes that SA and CSP are both prevalent among university students, and their association should be further analyzed and considered in preventive measures.
- A systematic review of chest-worn sensors in cardiac assessment: technologies, advantages, and limitationsPublication . Machado, Ana; Ferreira, Filipa; Ferreira, Simão; Almeida-Antunes, Natália; Carvalho, Paulo; Melo, Pedro; Rocha, Nuno; Rodrigues, Matilde A.; Rodrigues, Matilde; Martins de Almeida Melo, Pedro MiguelThis study reviews the scientific use of chest-strap wearables, analyzing their advantages and limitations, following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible studies assessed chest-strap devices in adults and reported physiological outcomes such as heart rate, heart rate variability, R–R intervals, or electrocardiographic waveform morphology. Studies involving implanted devices, wrist-worn wearables, or lacking validation against reference standards were excluded. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect for studies published in the last 10 years. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool, and results were synthesized narratively. Thirty-two studies were included. The most frequently evaluated devices were the Polar H10 and Zephyr BioHarness 3.0, which showed strong correlations with electrocardiography at rest and during light-to-moderate activity. Reported limitations included motion artefacts, poor strap placement, sweating, and degradation of the skin–electrode interface. None of the devices had CE or FDA approval for clinical use, and most studies were conducted in controlled settings, limiting generalizability. Ergonomic concerns such as discomfort during prolonged wear and restricted mobility were also noted. Overall, chest-strap sensors showed good validity and were widely used in validation studies. However, technical refinements and large-scale field trials are needed for broader clinical and occupational application. This review is registered in PROSPERO and is part of the SIREN project.
- Digital proficiency and educational needs of Portuguese radiation therapistsPublication . Barbosa, B.; Oliveira, C.; Couto, J. G.; Bravo, I.; Antunes, Luís; Fadden, S. Mc; Hughes, C.; McClure, P.; Dias, A. G.; Lopes Botelho Antunes, Luís JorgeAs radiotherapy (RT) becomes increasingly digitised, the digital skills (DS) proficiency of Therapeutic Radiographers/Radiation Therapists (RTTs) is essential for ensuring patient safety and quality care. This study is part of larger sequential multi-phase mixed-methods research; previous research by the same research team has shown that DS proficiency varies among European RTTs. The current study aimed to assess stakeholders' perceptions of proficiency, influencing factors, challenges, and strategies to bridge the digital gap in Portugal. A qualitative, hybrid (inductive and deductive), descriptive, cross-sectional, prospective design was used. Online focus group and individual interviews were performed with 16 Portuguese stakeholders (RTTs, managers, industry representatives, students, and educators), using an interview guide based on previous research. Interview transcripts were thematically analysed. Results: Seven themes were identified: proficiency levels, influencing factors, challenging areas, essential DS for practice, strategies for integration into education, concerns about technological evolution, and impact on RTTs' roles. The study underscores the critical need for DS proficiency among RTTs, emphasising gaps in specialised areas and multifaceted influencing factors. It stresses the urgency of improving RTTs' digital training across all educational stages. Adaptation and constant learning are imperative in radiotherapy's dynamic landscape, ensuring optimal patient care. Implications for practice: Addressing DS gaps is imperative for RTTs to ensure quality and safety of RT treatments. Essential strategies include DS integration and education adaptation and CPD. Recognizing concerns, such as job losses, highlights the need for a balanced technological approach. Patient-centred care remains paramount in guiding RTTs through evolving roles in the dynamic field of radiotherapy.
- Integrating PET for tumour hypoxia in radiotherapy planning: Insights from Portuguese radiotherapy and nuclear medicine technologistsPublication . Sousa, Ruben Diogo Oliveira; Faria, Brígida Mónica; Bravo, Isabel; Costa, Pedro; Costa, Pedro; Faria, Brigida MonicaIn the era of personalised medicine, tumour hypoxia (TH) is critical in radiotherapy (RT) response due to its role in tumour resistance. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) enables non-invasive assessment of TH and supports heterogeneous dose-escalation to hypoxic sub-volumes, improving treatment efficacy. This study explores Nuclear Medicine Technologists (NMT) and Radiotherapy Technologists (RTT) perceptions of PET-based TH (PET-TH) assessment and implementation in RT planning in Portugal. We conducted an observational cross-sectional survey of RTTs and NMTs currently working in Portuguese healthcare institutions. Statistical tests were used to assess associations and compare distributions using IBM® SPSS®. A total of 66 participants, 57 (86.4 %) females, with a mean age of 33.68 (±8.13) years, were included: 23 (34.8 %) NMTs and 43 (65.2 %) RTTs. While 65.2 % of NMT departments had PET scans with RT-compatible settings, only 8.7 % had performed PET-TH studies. Among RTTs, 88.4 % reported that their treatment planning systems were compatible with PET/CT fusion, yet only 9.3 % had used PET in RT planning. RTTs received more training in TH (p = 0.006) and rated their knowledge higher than NMTs (p = 0.042). Greater professional experience and higher perceived knowledge were associated with better performance on evaluation items (p = 0.027; p = 0.037). Regardless of institution type, 92.4 % expressed interest in interprofessional collaboration to support individualised planning. The assessed departments possess infrastructures for PET-TH integration, yet clinical implementation remains limited. Knowledge and professional experience are associated with competency. Targeted training for Technologists and interdisciplinary workflows may improve PET-TH adoption. Addressing knowledge and workflow could facilitate PET integration into RT planning and potentially enhance treatment outcomes. Future efforts should focus on interdisciplinary collaboration.