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- European network on optimizing treatment with therapeutic antibodies in Chronic Inflammatory Diseases: Overview, progress and perspectivesPublication . Tachkov, Konstantin; Rumano, Merita; Bluett, James; Bogavac-Stanojević, Nataša; Dreesen, Erwin; Itik, Mehmet; Kararigas, Georgios; Kawalec, Paweł; Santos, Marlene; Skrede, Silje; Petrova, Guenka; Mulleman, Denis; Santos, MarleneTreatment of chronic inflammatory diseases has been revolutionized with the introduction of targeted therapies using therapeutic antibodies. However, a large proportion of patients do not respond to treatment, or they lose response over time. To overcome this challenge, researchers have started to investigate strategies for treatment optimization, based on the development of patient stratification tools and therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM). The aim of the COST Action European Network on Optimizing Treatment with Therapeutic Antibodies in chronic inflammatory diseases (ENOTTA) is to create an interdisciplinary, pan-European network to defragment and structure scientific research in this field. Through the network, ENOTTA will facilitate the implementation of tools for patient stratification, as well as individualized (TDM-guided) approaches. These strategies should be cost-effective and provide therapeutic antibody treatment optimization for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases. This article highlights the key achievements of the ENOTTA consortium to date.
- Toxicity of lanthanum and yttrium oxide nanoparticles and bulk forms on Folsomia candida: a study of single versus mixture exposuresPublication . Santos, Joana; Capitão, Ana; Barbosa, Manuel; Pires, Thomás; Pinto, Edgar; Silva, Ana L. Daniel da; Barreto, Angela; Maria, Vera L.; Pinto, EdgarThe intensive use of rare earth elements (REEs) raises concerns about their effects on soil organisms, particularly under mixture exposure scenarios. This study evaluated the toxicity of lanthanum oxide (La2O3) and yttrium oxide (Y2O3) nanoparticles (NPs) and bulk forms on Folsomia candida. Single (0–2500mg/kg) and dual mixture exposures were tested for effects on survival, reproduction, avoidance behavior, and biochemical markers. No effects on survival and avoidance behavior were observed. NPs were more toxic than bulk forms. La2O3 NPs reduced reproduction (≥ 1250mg/kg) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity (2500mg/kg), whereas Y2O3 NPs exhibited greatest toxicity, reducing reproduction (≥ 313mg/kg) and increasing catalase (CAT) (156 and 625mg/kg) and glutathione reductase (GR) (625 and 2500mg/kg) activities. Mixture exposures revealed complex interactions (synergism, antagonism, or no interaction), with toxicity depending on concentration, endpoint, and material form. Besides, higher number of biochemical endpoints were affected by mixture exposures, but dissimilar responses were observed with different concentrations: 2500mg/kg Y2O3 NPs + 2500mg/kg La2O3 NPs decreased reproduction and increased GR, glutathione S-transferases (GST) and AChE activities; 2500mg/kg Y2O3 NPs + 625mg/ kg La2O3 NPs increased CAT, GR, GST and AChE activities; 625mg/kg Y2O3 NPs + 625mg/kg La2O3 NPs increased GR activity; 156mg/kg Y2O3 NPs + 2500mg/kg La2O3 NPs decreased AChE activity, increased GR activity and lipid peroxidation levels. This study highlights that REE exposures, particularly mixtures, can pose risks to soil organisms and emphasizes the need to include mixture interactions in risk assessments.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Chemical safety in academic laboratories: awareness, attitudes, and practices among higher education studentsPublication . Ribeiro, Inês; Ramos, Catarina; Santos, Joana; Carvalhais, Carlos; Santos, Joana; Alberto Alves Carvalhais, CarlosHigher education institutions, particularly those with teaching and research laboratories, play an important role in transmitting knowledge and attitudes regarding chemical safety to their students. As such, this study aims to assess the knowledge and attitudes of higher education students across different study programs regarding laboratory chemical safety. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire adapted and translated into Portuguese. The instrument comprised twenty-seven questions and was distributed to students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs that include laboratory practices in their curricula in March and July of 2025. A total of 284 students participated in the study, divided among the different study programs (CTeSP = 4.2%; Bachelor’s = 70.4%; Master’s = 21%; Doctorate = 4.2%). The results showed that, although a large percentage of students have a high level of knowledge, their attitudes are not always the most appropriate, which could jeopardize their safety and that of those around them. Our findings revealed that there is room for curriculum adjustments. Early exposure to chemical and laboratory safety concepts can promote the development of students’ awareness and future professionals’ competence. Integrating safety modules into education may enhance knowledge and skills for making informed decisions that reduce accidents/incidents in laboratory environments.
- 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.
- 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.
- A systematic review of the health effects of occupational exposure to ultraviolet radiationPublication . Rocha, Ricardo; Guedes, Joana; Santos, Joana; Carvalhais, Carlos; Alberto Alves Carvalhais, Carlos; Santos, JoanaOutdoor workers face significant health risks from prolonged exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR), which can lead to serious conditions such as skin cancer and cataracts, while also offering some potential benefits like reduced risks of certain cancers. This systematic review synthesizes findings from 16 studies, revealing a clear association between occupational solar UVR exposure and adverse health effects, underscoring the urgent need for improved sun protection policies and further research to enhance risk assessment and prevention strategies.