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- Satisfação profissional e burnout dos técnicos superiores de diagnóstico e terapêutica do centro hospitalar universitário de Santo AntónioPublication . Peixoto, Joana Rangel; Costa, Alexandra; Alves, SandraA satisfação no trabalho entende-se como a avaliação geral do profissional sobre o seu trabalho,, tratando-se de uma resposta emocional à própria atividade laboral. A variável `satisfação no trabalho´ é amplamente estudada, encontrando-se presente em muitas teorias sobre o comportamento organizacional e está relacionada com o desempenho e o comportamento contraproducente no trabalho, a rotatividade e a saúde do funcionário. O trabalho na área da saúde é um trabalho especial de cuidado humano cuja interação com o doente e familiares, com outros profissionais e com as chefias acarreta sentimentos negativos que podem levar ao burnout. O burnout é caracterizado pela exaustão física e emocional consequente da exposição prolongada a um trabalho exigente emocionalmente. Corresponde a uma resposta ao stress excessivo no trabalho e afeta as habilidades interpessoais, o desempenho no trabalho, a satisfação profissional e a saúde psicológica. A avaliação da satisfação profissional e do burnout desempenham importantes indicadores da qualidade dos serviços prestados e são fatores determinantes no sucesso de uma organização. O presente estudo visa identificar os níveis de satisfação profissional e de burnout nos Técnicos Superiores de Diagnóstico e Terapêutica (TSDT´s) do Centro Hospitalar Universitário de Santo António (CHUdSA) bem como, averiguar se os níveis de satisfação profissional e de burnout variam de acordo com as variáveis sociodemográficas (idade, sexo, estado civil e formação académica) e com as variáveis de caracterização da situação profissional (categoria profissional, tipo de vínculo, tempo de exercício no CHUdSA e tempo de exercício profissional). Por forma a cumprir com os objetivos estabelecidos, foi desenvolvido um estudo transversal, descritivo/observacional, correlacional e quantitativo. A recolha de dados fez-se através da implementação da versão reduzida do Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ) e da escala Maslach Burnout Inventory - Human Services Survey (MBI - HSS) à população em estudo, bem como da caracterização sociodemográfica e da situação profissional da mesma. A versão reduzida do Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire consiste num inquérito de satisfação em que avalia os aspetos intrínsecos e extrínsecos do trabalho. Os aspetos intrínsecos referem-se ao que as pessoas sentem acerca da natureza das tarefas do trabalho e os aspetos extrínsecos ao que sentem em relação a aspetos do trabalho que são externos às tarefas ou ao trabalho em sim, como por exemplo, o salário. A escala Maslach Burnout Inventory - Human Services Survey avalia a síndrome de burnout dos profissionais em três dimensões: exaustão emocional, despersonalização e realização pessoal. A exaustão emocional é descrita com sentimentos de desgaste, cansaço, fadiga e esgotamento. A despersonalização é definida como uma resposta de distanciamento e indiferença em relação ao trabalho e/ou às pessoas que o recebem. A realização pessoal traduz-se numa autoavaliação positiva do próprio trabalho. Os dados foram sujeitos a uma análise estatística com recurso ao SPSS, considerando um nível de significância estatística de 0,05. Procedeu-se à análise descritiva das variáveis sociodemográficas e de caracterização da situação profissional; à análise da consistência interna das escalas em estudo através do cálculo do Alfa de Cronbach; à análise da normalidade das variáveis quantitativas através do teste de Kolmogorov-Smirnov; ao calculo da média, desvio-padrão, mínimo e máximo da pontuação total do MSQ, subescalas intrínseca e extrínseca e das dimensões do burnout exaustão emocional, despersonalização e realização pessoal; à analise da existência de correlações estatisticamente significativas com recurso aos coeficientes de correlação de Pearson e Spearman; e à análise da existência de diferenças estatisticamente significativas com recurso ao teste t para duas amostras independentes, ao teste de Mann-Whitney, e ao teste Kruskall-Wallis. Participaram 117 TSDT’s, correspondendo a cerca de 34% da população, maioritariamente do sexo feminino (72,6%) e com idades médias de 42,84 ± 9,75. 61,5% indivíduos encontram-se casados ou em união de facto; 76,1% possuem licenciatura; e 47,9% têm um contrato individual de trabalho sem termo. O tempo de serviço no CHUdSA e o tempo de exercício profissional variam entre 1 e 40 anos, sendo as médias de tempo de 15,81 ± 10,56 e de 19,53 ± 10,08, respetivamente. Os TSDT´s do CHUdSA apresentam níveis moderados de satisfação profissional (53,84±12,89), baixos de despersonalização (4,68±4,05), médios de exaustão emocional (21,79±12,48) e altos de realização pessoal (28,91±10,37). Os TSDT´s com menos idade (r=-0,19), menos tempo de exercício profissional (r=-0,20) e na base da carreira manifestam-se mais satisfeitos profissionalmente com os aspetos intrínsecos ao trabalho. Os contratados sem termo exibem-se mais satisfeitos com os aspetos extrínsecos. Já os funcionários públicos sentem-se mais realizados pessoalmente. A satisfação profissional está associada à menor idade e ao menor tempo de experiência profissional, podendo tal ser devido à pouca oportunidade destes profissionais de vivenciar outros empregos e ambientes de trabalho, não apresentando, desta forma, meio de comparação. Os TSDT´s encontram-se estagnados a nível de progressão profissional, daí a maioria da amostra (n=106) encontrar-se na base da carreira. Os profissionais manifestaram menos satisfação profissional com os especto extrínsecos da MSQ total, referindo-se maioritariamente à progressão profissional e ao salário. Os níveis de burnout variam de acordo com o tipo de vínculo, sendo os TSDT´s contratados por função pública (n=47) os que se encontram mais realizados pessoalmente devido à estabilidade do emprego. Os resultados do estudo indicam que, de um modo geral, os TSDT´s do CHUdSA encontram-se satisfeitos profissionalmente e apresentam baixos níveis de burnout. No entanto, é urgente a atualização das carreiras por parte da gestão hospitalar e a implementação de medidas de prevenção. Sugere-se a realização de mais estudos sobre a satisfação profissional e a síndrome de burnout na classe profissional dos TSDT´s onde se relacione a satisfação profissional e o burnout com variáveis de prevenção, como o engagement, a motivação e o coping.
- Graciosa Island’s Hybrid Energy System Expansion Scenarios: A Technical and Economic AnalysisPublication . Jesus, José; Nogueira, Teresa; Magano, JoséThe island of Graciosa in the Azores faces unique energy challenges due to its remote location and reliance on imported diesel fuel. As a result, a hybrid energy system has been implemented that combines wind and solar energy with energy storage and diesel generators. This article examines the expansion of the island’s hybrid energy system, by simulating four alternative scalable scenarios that take into account expected technological advances over the next 20 years, including technologies such as biomass and hydrogen. Homer Pro and PVSyst software were used for optimizing the design of the stand-alone hybrid renewable energy system, with the aim of achieving cost-effective configurations and optimizing production, storage, and power grid management. Four simulations were performed to evaluate the expansion scenarios, namely in terms of configurations, component sizing, and economic feasibility. The results show that the most balanced, cost-effective scenario is the one that combines all the energy sources considered: photovoltaic, wind, biomass, battery storage, and hydrogen. The originality of this study lies in the scenario comparison methodology used to evaluate the viability and expansion of a hybrid energy system using modern renewable energy production technologies adapted to the specific insular conditions of Graciosa Island, assessing the economic impact and taking into account the imperative of energy security. This paper provides valuable insights into the potential and challenges of hybrid energy systems on the island of Graciosa and is instrumental for projects alike in similar remote regions.
- Calibration and Modeling of the Semmes–Weinstein Monofilament for Diabetic Foot ManagementPublication . Martins, Pedro; Coelho, Luis; Campilho, Raul Duarte Salgueiral GomesDiabetic foot is a serious complication that poses significant risks for diabetic patients. The resulting reduction in protective sensitivity in the plantar region requires early detection to prevent ulceration and ultimately amputation. The primary method employed for evaluating this sensitivity loss is the 10 gf Semmes–Weinstein monofilament test, commonly used as a first-line procedure. However, the lack of calibration in existing devices often introduces decision errors due to unreliable feedback. In this article, the mechanical behavior of a monofilament was analytically modeled, seeking to promote awareness of the impact of different factors on clinical decisions. Furthermore, a new device for the automation of the metrological evaluation of the monofilament is described. Specific testing methodologies, used for the proposed equipment, are also described, creating a solid base for the establishment of future calibration guidelines. The obtained results showed that the tested monofilaments had a very high error compared to the 10 gf declared by the manufacturers. To improve the precision and reliability of assessing the sensitivity loss, the frequent metrological calibration of the monofilament is crucial. The integration of automated verification, simulation capabilities, and precise measurements shows great promise for diabetic patients, reducing the likelihood of adverse outcomes.
- Fructose-Derived Carbon Dots as Selective Antitumor Agents in Breast Cancer Therapy: Synthesis, Characterization, and Biological EvaluationPublication . Magalhães, Sofia; Luís, Carla; Duarte, Abel J.; Adams, James DavidThis study explored a novel method using fructose-derived carbon dots (FCDs) for antitumor therapy in breast cancer (BC), marking a pioneering use of fructose as a carbon source for nanoparticle synthesis. BC, known for its complexity and heterogeneity, was chosen as a model due to its increasing mortality and incidence rates. The FCD synthesis involved the decomposition of fructose through microwave irradiation, followed by purification and characterization using techniques such as transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, fluorescence spectrophotometry, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The FCDs, ranging in size from 2 to 6 nm, presented a hydrodynamic diameter below 2 nm, a spherical morphology, and a crystalline structure. As expected, FCDs were composed by carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen, and exhibited fluorescence with absorption and emission spectra at 405 nm and around 520 nm, respectively. Cell-based assays on breast epithelial and tumor cell lines demonstrated a dose-dependent response, with a decreased viability rate more pronounced in breast tumor cells. In conclusion, FCDs showed significant potential as selective antitumor agents for breast cancer therapy. The comprehensive characterization and cell-based assay evaluations provided valuable insights into the applications of these nanoparticles in breast cancer treatment, highlighting their selective toxicity and impact on tumor cells.
- An electrochemically synthesized molecularly imprinted polymer for highly selective detection of breast cancer biomarker CA 15-3: a promising point-of-care biosensorPublication . Oliveira, Daniela; Romaguera Barcelay, Yonny; Moreira, FelisminaIn this study, a molecularly imprinted polymer film (MIP) was prepared on the surface of a disposable carbon screen-printed electrode (C-SPE) using (3-acrylamidopropyl)trimethylammonium chloride (AMPTMA) as a functional monomer and the cancer biomarker carbohydrate antigen 15-3 (CA 15-3) as a template. The MIP was synthesized by in situ electropolymerization (ELP) of the AMPTMA monomer in the presence of the CA 15-3 protein on the C-SPE surface. The target was subsequently removed from the polymer matrix by the action of proteinase K, resulting in imprinted cavities with a high affinity for CA 15-3. Electrochemical techniques such as cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were used to characterize the different phases of the sensor assembly. Chemical and morphological analysis was performed using RAMAN and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). CA 15-3 was successfully detected in a wide working range from 0.001 U mL−1 to 100 U mL−1 with a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.994 in 20 min. The MIP sensor showed minimal interference with other cancer proteins (CEA and CA 125). Overall, the developed device provides a rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective response in the detection of CA 15-3. Importantly, this comprehensive approach appears suitable for point-of-care (PoC) use, particularly in a clinical context.
- Adaptação de Laboratórios Remotos a Cenários de Ensino: Casos de Estudo com VISIR e RemotElectLabPublication . Fidalgo, André V.; Alves, Gustavo R.; Marques, Maria A.; Viegas, Maria C.; Costa-Lobo, Maria C.; Hernández-Jayo, Unai; García-Zubía, Javier; Gustavsson, Ingvar; Alves, Gustavo; Fidalgo, André; Marques, Maria Arcelina; Viegas, Clara; Costa Lobo, Cristina; Garcia-Zubia, JavierOs laboratórios remotos são uma ferramenta tecnológica e pedagógica com uso crescente em todos os níveis de educação, e sua utilização generalizada é uma parte importante do seu próprio aperfeiçoamento e evolução. Este artigo descreve vários problemas encontrados em aulas laboratoriais, em cursos de ensino superior, na utilização de laboratórios remotos baseados em sistemas PXI, utilizando o sistema VISIR ou uma solução alternativa. São identificados e explicados três problemas que foram relatados por professores que deram apoio aos estudantes na utilização dos laboratórios remotos. O primeiro problema prende-se com a necessidade de permitir aos alunos selecionar a localização específica onde um amperímetro deve ser inserido nos circuitos elétricos, mesmo que incorreta, replicando as dificuldades do mundo real. O segundo é causado por falhas de sincronismo quando são necessárias várias medições em intervalos curtos, como no ciclo de descarga de um condensador. E o último problema é provocado pelo uso de um multímetro em modo DC na leitura de grandezas em CA, um procedimento que colide com as definições do equipamento. Todos os cenários são apresentados e discutidos, incluindo a solução encontrada para cada caso. A conclusão que se retira do trabalho descrito é que a área de laboratórios remotos é um campo em expansão, onde a sua utilização prática permite o aperfeiçoamento e a evolução das soluções disponíveis, exigindo uma cooperação e partilha de informação entre todos os intervenientes, i.e. investigadores, professores e alunos.
- Graciosa Island’s Hybrid Energy System Expansion Scenarios: A Technical and Economic AnalysisPublication . Nogueira, Teresa; Jesus, José; Magano, JoséThe island of Graciosa in the Azores faces unique energy challenges due to its remote location and reliance on imported diesel fuel. As a result, a hybrid energy system has been implemented that combines wind and solar energy with energy storage and diesel generators. This article examines the expansion of the island’s hybrid energy system, by simulating four alternative scalable scenarios that take into account expected technological advances over the next 20 years, including technologies such as biomass and hydrogen. Homer Pro and PVSyst software were used for optimizing the design of the stand-alone hybrid renewable energy system, with the aim of achieving cost-effective configurations and optimizing production, storage, and power grid management. Four simulations were performed to evaluate the expansion scenarios, namely in terms of configurations, component sizing, and economic feasibility. The results show that the most balanced, cost-effective scenario is the one that combines all the energy sources considered: photovoltaic, wind, biomass, battery storage, and hydrogen. The originality of this study lies in the scenario comparison methodology used to evaluate the viability and expansion of a hybrid energy system using modern renewable energy production technologies adapted to the specific insular conditions of Graciosa Island, assessing the economic impact and taking into account the imperative of energy security. This paper provides valuable insights into the potential and challenges of hybrid energy systems on the island of Graciosa and is instrumental for projects alike in similar remote regions.
- Microencapsulation of the Biocide Benzisothiazolinone (BIT) by Inclusion in Methyl-β-cyclodextrin and Screening of Its Antibacterial and Ecotoxicity PropertiesPublication . Silva, Vânia F. M.; Silva, Aurora; Garrido, Ermelinda M. P. J.; Borges, Fernanda; Gaspar, Alexandra; Garrido, Jorge P. M. J.; Garrido, E. Manuela; Soares da Silva, Maria Aurora; Garrido, Jorge; Liu, RutaoThe excessive use of biocides has considerable environmental and economic impacts; this is why new technologies have been sought to decrease the concentration levels applied in an effort to reduce the use of these substances. Microencapsulation using cyclodextrins has been widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries as a way of reducing the concentrations of the active substance necessary to achieve a biological effect and/or eliminate its irritating or toxicological effects. In this study, the inclusion complexation behavior and binding ability of benzothiazolinone (BIT) with different β-cyclodextrins (β-CD, HP-β-CD, and Me-β-CD) was investigated. The intermolecular interactions were examined through UV and FTIR spectroscopy, DSC, 1D 1H NMR, and 2D ROESY. The highest stability constant was observed for the BIT/Me-β-CD inclusion complex (299.5 ± 2.9 M−1). Antibacterial activity was investigated against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, and the results revealed that the BIT/Me-β-CD inclusion complex displays a higher antibacterial activity than BIT. The acute toxicity of the biocide and inclusion complex was also examined using the photobacterium Aliivibrio fischeri. Although BIT exhibited higher toxicity than the inclusion complex, further investigation is needed due to the quorum quenching effect of β-CDs. The data found suggest that BIT microencapsulation can increase its aqueous solubility and can be used as an effective tool to improve its chemical, biological, and ecotoxicological properties.
- Amplified Sensitivity in SERS Detection of L1CAM With Silver Plasmonic Mesoporous Silica Capsules on an Imprinted FilmsPublication . Castaño-Guerrero, Yuselis; Arjones-Fernández, Belén; Moreira, Felismina T. C.; Alvarez-Puebla, Ramon A.; Correa-Duarte, Miguel A.; Águas, H.; Sales, M. Goreti F.This study presents a novel approach for dual detection, leveraging a combination of a Raman reporter-bearing nanomaterial and molecular imprinting polymers (MIP). A core-shell Au-Ag nanoparticles (Au-Ag NPs) encapsulated in mesoporous silica nanocapsules (Au-Ag NCs) and a new MIP-based material targeting L1CAM are used. The MIP prepared via surface imprinting on a carbon screen-printed electrode (C-SPE) used thionine (TH) as a monomer. The plasmonic Au-AgNCs are further functionalized with the Raman reporter 4-mercaptobenzoic acid (MBA) and anti-L1CAM for selective detection by surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy. The biosensor's analytical performance is evaluated using both SERS and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). EIS analysis reveals a linear response within the concentration range of 0.1 to 100 ng mL−1 in buffer and serum samples. SERS demonstrates a sensitivity ten times higher than EIS. Selectivity study demonstrates the biosensor's excellent specificity toward L1CAM, with minimal interference from other compounds such as creatinine, glucose, and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9). The Raman signal from the reporter molecule correlates with increasing L1CAM concentrations, reinforcing the analytical findings obtained through electrochemical analysis. Thus, the combination of dual detection and recognition capabilities presents promising potential for detecting diverse biomarkers, especially in critical scenarios where reducing false-positive or false-negative errors is crucial.
- Plantar pressure thresholds as a strategy to prevent diabetic foot ulcers: A systematic reviewPublication . Castro-Martins, Pedro; Marques, Arcelina; Coelho, Luís; Vaz, Mário; Costa, José TorresBackground The development of ulcers in the plantar region of the diabetic foot originates mainly from sites subjected to high pressure. The monitoring of these events using maximum allowable pressure thresholds is a fundamental procedure in the prevention of ulceration and its recurrence. Objective The aim of this review was to identify data in the literature that reveal an objective threshold of plantar pressure in the diabetic foot, where pressure is classified as promoting ulceration. The aim is not to determine the best and only pressure threshold for ulceration, but rather to clarify the threshold values most used in clinical practice and research, also considering the devices used and possible applications for offloading plantar pressure. Design A systematic review. Methods The search was performed in three electronic databases, by the PRISMA methodology, for studies that used a pressure threshold to minimize the risk of ulceration in the diabetic foot. The selected studies were subjected to eligibility criteria. Results Twenty-six studies were included in this review. Seven thresholds were identified, five of which are intended for the inside of the shoe: a threshold of average peak pressure of 200 kPa; 25 % and 40–80 % reduction from initial baseline pressure; 32–35 mm Hg for a capillary perfusion pressure; and a matrix of thresholds based on patient risk, shoe size and foot region. Two other thresholds are intended for the barefoot, 450 and 750 kPa. The threshold of 200 kPa of pressure inside the shoe is the most agreed upon among the studies. Regarding the prevention of ulceration and its recurrence, the efficacy of the proposed threshold matrix and the threshold of reducing baseline pressure by 40–80 % has not yet been evaluated, and the evidence for the remaining thresholds still needs further studies. Conclusions Some heterogeneity was found in the studies, especially regarding the measurement systems used, the number of regions of interest and the number of steps to be considered for the threshold. Even so, this review reveals the way forward to obtain a threshold indicative of an effective steppingstone in the prevention of diabetic foot ulcer.