ESS - SA - Artigos
URI permanente para esta coleção:
Navegar
Entradas recentes
- 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.
- Occupational exposure to solar ultraviolet radiation: A systematic review of protective measuresPublication . Rocha, Ricardo; Santos, Joana; Baptista, João Santos; Guedes, Joana; Carvalhais, Carlos; Alberto Alves Carvalhais, Carlos; Santos, JoanaSolar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen and poses a significant occupational hazard to outdoor workers. Despite preventive guidelines, adherence to protective measures remains inconsistent. This systematic review identified the protective measures adopted by healthy outdoor workers and assessed their adherence to and the effectiveness of these measures. Following the PRISMA 2020 statement, the review searched Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed for peer-reviewed studies published between 2015 and 2025. Eligible studies included at least 100 healthy participants and evaluated preventive or protective measures against solar UVR. Independent reviewers extracted data and assessed risk of bias using the McMaster Critical Review Form. From 17,756 records, 51 studies met the inclusion criteria after screening and a subsequent snowballing process. The identified protective strategies clustered into physical, behavioural, and organisational categories. Adherence ranged from low to moderate, with structured interventions and employer support improving compliance. Sunscreen use remained low due to perceived inconvenience and lack of provision. Overall, the evidence revealed substantial variability in implementation and effectiveness across occupations. Strengthened regulations and integrated interventions combining education, personal protective equipment, and organisational measures are essential. Future research should prioritise longitudinal designs and objective indicators such as biomarkers and dosimetry.
- Translation, adaptation, and validation in portuguese of an acceptance scale for human–robot interaction in an industrial contextPublication . Pinto, Ana; Lemos, Letícia; Carvalho, Carla; Santos, Joana; Menezes, Paulo; Nomura, Tatsuya; Santos, JoanaIndustry 4.0, characterized by the integration of advanced technologies across various industrial domains, is now evolving intoIndustry 5.0, which emphasizes the human perspective, resilience, and sustainability. In this context, the study of humanbehavior and attitudes towards human–robot interaction (HRI) is crucial for understanding the acceptance of this emergingtechnology, which, in turn, can drive the development of more well-designed industrial robotic systems. This paper is aimed attranslating, adapting, and validating a scale designed to measure acceptance in the context of HRI within industrial settings,with a focus on collaborative robots (cobots). To conduct an exploratory factor analysis (EFA), 140 participants (male = 45%,female = 52%, and nonbinary = 3%) were recruited. The results revealed a four-factor structure for the Frankenstein SyndromeQuestionnaire–Industrial Context (FSQ-IC): “general anxiety towards cobots” (α = 0 87), “trustworthiness towards developersof cobots” (α = 0 83), “apprehension towards cobots in the industrial context” (α = 0 73), and “expectation of cobots in socialchange” (α = 0 69). For further validation and to help ensure the validity and reliability of the adapted scale, a confirmatoryfactor analysis (CFA) was conducted with a sample of 210 participants (male = 45%, female = 53%, and nonbinary = 2%). Themodel fit indices, including a χ2/df of 3.14 and root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) of 0.10, indicated anacceptable fit. The goodness-of-fit index (GFI), comparative fit index (CFI), and normed fit index (NFI) were 0.88, 0.90, and0.86, respectively, all within acceptable ranges. Convergent and discriminant validities were also analyzed. An analysis of thedifferences in perceptions of acceptance based on sociodemographic variables (gender, experience with robots, educationallevel, and age) was conducted. Only gender revealed significant differences. Considering the psychometric qualities of theinstrument, the FSQ-IC is valid and reliable for assessing acceptance in HRI.
- Assessing resilience potentials in management of occupational safety and health in hospitals: Development and validation of a toolPublication . Afonso-Fernandes, J.; Barbosa, J.; Arezes, P.; Pardo-Ferreira, C.; Rubio-Romero, J.C.; Rodrigues, Matilde Alexandra; Rodrigues, MatildeA resilient Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) management system is crucial for effectively addressing potential future public emergencies, ensuring the continuous protection of workers' safety and health. Therefore, it is essential for organizations, particularly hospitals, to assess their resilient performance and employ tools that are appropriate and tailored to their specific context. This study aims to enhance the understanding of resilience potentials in OSH management within hospital settings. To this end, an assessment tool was developed based on the Resilience Assessment Grid (RAG). A Delphi study involving subject matter experts was conducted to refine the tailored RAG tool. Following this, a pilot test was administered to 404 healthcare professionals across three public hospitals, with subsequent psychometric analysis. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) identified a four-dimensional structure. Goodness-of-fit indices demonstrated acceptable values, confirming the adequacy of the measurement model. Reliability testing indicated that the 29 item assessment tool is both valid and reliable. The tailored RAG tool was successfully validated, enabling the identification of strengths and weaknesses in OSH management.
- Complementary field and laboratory batch studies to quantify generation rates of perfluoroalkyl acids in a contaminated agricultural topsoil with unknown precursorsPublication . Haluska, Alexander Arthur; Röhler, Klaus; Fabregat-Palau, Joel; Alexandrino, Diogo A. M.; Abramov, Sergey; Thompson, Katharine J.; Straub, Daniel; Kleindienst, Sara; Bugsel, Boris; Zweigle, Jonathan; Zwiener, Christian; Grathwohl, Peter; Alexandrino, DiogoSoil microbiome changes and generation rates of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) precursors were studied in a contaminated agricultural field using a combination of field and laboratory batch microcosm studies. 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing was used to track how microbial community composition changed over time, while perfluoroalkyl acids (PFAA) generation rates were quantified using a combination of field and batch incubations combined with the direct total oxidizable precursor (dTOP) assay. The study site in Brilon-Scharfenberg, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, has PFAS contamination in the topsoil (0 to 30cm) originating from compost. Generation rate constants of these short-chain PFAA estimated from batch incubations (0.12 to 0.751/year) were higher but similar to rate constants from the fields (0.05 to 0.221/year). Long-term field mass discharge data (2009 to 2023) suggest that at least 60years are needed to remove 99.99% of short-chain PFAA and their precursors. 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing data revealed a major impact of PFAA on the biodiversity of soil microorganisms, with batch-incubated contaminated soils showing higher richness and diversity indexes than field control soils. However, most of these impacts occurred at lower taxonomical ranks and did not seem to have a prominent impact on the overall structure of the autochtonous microbial communities of the soils where PFAA were produced and accumulated. Overall, our findings demonstrate that well-controlled aerobic batch test combined with the results of dTOP assay are a suitable approach for estimating short-chain PFAA generation rates. Additionally, our research suggests that the complete removal of PFAA precursors from topsoil will take decades.