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- Adult’s perceptions after residential care: facilitating and inhibiting factorsPublication . Novo, Rosa; Prada, Ana Raquel Russo; Abrunhosa, FernandaThis study explores the perceptions of formerly institutionalized adults in Portugal regarding the challenges they faced after leaving residential care. It aims to understand the feelings experienced upon leaving the institution; to infer the facilitating and inhibiting factors of post-institutionalization transition, and to outline proposals for improving support during this transition. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 adults aged 24 to 39. The first and second-order categories were identified within three thematic axes. Results highlighted that the cessation of care was essentially remembered with negative feelings. Facilitating factors included academic commitment, social support, having or going to start a professional activity, and the transition to an independent living apartment emerged as facilitating factors. Poor functional skills, economic struggles, limited reality understanding, lack of formal support during the transition out of institutions, and social stigma emerged as inhibiting factors. Multiple personal and contextual factors influenced coping with transition challenges, emphasizing the need for qualified support and investment in promoting autonomy and self-confidence.
- Nursing degree curriculum: differences and similarities between 15 european countriesPublication . Antão, Celeste; Santos, Bruna; Santos, Nelson; Fernandes, Hélder; Barroso, Bárbara; Mǎrginean, Cristina Oana; Pimentel, Maria HelenaThis study explores the curriculum of Nursing Bachelor’s degrees across 15 European countries, aiming to describe nursing course curricula and admission requirements and to identify differences and similarities in the implementation of the Bologna Process. The research employs a qualitative and documentary methodology, analyzing curricula from selected higher education institutions involved in the Erasmus+ “Innovative Skills for Nurses” project. The findings reveal variations in the duration of training, with some countries adopting 3-year (180 ECTS) programs, while others require 4-year (240 ECTS) programs. Furthermore, discrepancies were found in the balance between theoretical and clinical education, as well as the availability of optional subjects. Countries with longer training programs tend to offer more consolidated practices and greater alignment with Bologna’s principles, fostering better professional outcomes. The study highlights the challenges posed by non-standardized training durations and their impact on mobility and employability of nursing professionals. These findings may inform future discussions on harmonizing nursing education across Europe to ensure consistency in quality and professional competencies.
- Intrapopulation differences in biological traits and impacts in a highly invasive freshwater speciesPublication . Alves, Henrique; Gonçalves, Diana; Nogueira, António Barbosa; Teixeira, Amilcar; Padilha, Janeide; Sousa, RonaldoIndividual variation assessments are essential to better understand population and community dynamics, as well ecosystem functioning. Although researchers have long recognized this aspect, only recently has evidence accumulated about the ecological importance of variation within species. The incorporation of individual variation provides an even more complete description of the effects a species may have on ecosystems and this detailed ecological knowledge can be especially important in the context of biological invasions. In this study, we used an invasion gradient of the signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus in the Rabaçal River (NE Portugal) to assess possible intrapopulation differences in key biological traits and evaluate possible changes in ecological impacts. For this, we collected individuals from the core and front of an invasion gradient to characterize several traits such as abundance, size, sex-ratio, body condition, behaviour (i.e. boldness), and trophic niche. In addition, we performed two laboratory experiments to assess possible differences regarding the consumption of prey (gastropods), leaf mass loss, and nutrients release. Signal crayfish from the front of the invasion gradient have lower abundance, are larger, predominantly male, have better body condition in both sexes, exhibit increased boldness, and have higher δ 15 N and lower δ 13 C values. In addition, in experimental conditions, signal crayfish from the front of the invasion gradient consumed more gastropods and leaves and increased the concentration of nitrates and phosphates in the water. Overall, the signal crayfish has different biological traits and distinct ecological impacts along the invasion gradient in the studied river. Our study demonstrates the relevance of assessing biological traits and impacts of invasive species at the intrapopulation level.
- PM10-bound elements in Luanda's urban atmosphere: Concentrations, sources, and their environmental and health impactsPublication . Alves, Célia A.; Campa, Ana Sanchez de la; Cipoli, Yago; Furst, Leonardo; Higawa, Gustavo; Leitão, Anabela; Silva, Alan Victor da; Feliciano, ManuelAn unprecedented study was carried out in the megacity of Luanda, Angola, involving daily sampling of particulate matter (PM10) from June to November 2023. The analysis was focused on the detection of 56 metal(loid)s and complemented by the application of several contamination and health risk indices. PM10 levels ranged from 23.6 to 108 μg/m3, averaging 59.3 μg/m3, exceeding WHO’s 24-h guideline on 83% of days. In addition to crustal elements, the most abundant constituents were Zn (159 ng/m3), Ba (43.2 ng/m3), Pb (17.8 ng/m3), Cu (10.5 ng/m3), Sr (7.0 ng/m3), Ni (4.5 ng/m3), Sb (3.7 ng/m3) and Cr (3.5 ng/m3). Mineral dust, primarily from unpaved roads and local soils, accounted for 31 wt% of PM10, while sea salt contributed 6%. Geochemical markers (e.g., Ce-La-V relationships) suggest that vanadium originates predominantly from upper crust weathering. Elemental ratios such as Fe/Cu, Cu/Sb, and Zn/Sb indicate significant contributions from traffic-related emissions (e.g., brake and tyre wear) and industrial sources. Sulphur, an important PM10 component, likely stems from fossil fuel combustion and petroleum refining. Luanda experiences severe air pollution, with high inputs from Sb, Cd, Zn, and other elements linked to traffic, industrial emissions, and biomass burning. The extremely high ecological risk (RI = 4360 ± 2440) highlights critical contamination, driven primarily by Cd and Sb, while the Nemerow risk index (1990 ± 1530) underscores urgent public health concerns. Non-cancer hazard indices (HI) exceeded safe thresholds for children (2.29) and adults (2.18), with Fe, Mn, Be, Pb, Ni, Co, and Sb identified as key contributors. Carcinogenic risks from PM10 inhalation (2.34 × 10 3 for children and 1.36 ×10 3 for adults) also exceeded acceptable levels, emphasising the need for targeted pollution mitigation strategies.
- Satisfação no trabalho e intenção de abandono em enfermagem: a influência do empoderamento profissionalPublication . Gomes, Jacinta; Galvão, Ana Maria; Gomes, Maria José; Moura Ramos, OlgaA satisfação profissional e a intenção de abandono em enfermagem estão fortemente relacionadas com as políticas organizacionais promotoras do empoderamento estrutural e do capital psicológico dos trabalhadores. Avaliar a satisfação no trabalho, a intenção de abandono e o empoderamento profissional em enfermeiros na prática clínica em organizações de saúde; avaliar a associação entre o empoderamento profissional, a satisfação no trabalho e a intenção de abandono dos enfermeiros. Estudo observacional, transversal e correlacional, com abordagem quantitativa. Amostra por conveniência constituída por 308 enfermeiros na prática clínica. Instrumento de recolha de dados constituído por questionário de caraterização sociodemográfica e profissional, Job Satisfaction Survey, Antecipated Turnover Scale, Conditions for Workplace Effectiveness Questionnaire II e Psychological Empowerment Instrument. Participaram no estudo enfermeiros com média de idade de 40,15 anos (±9,38) e que exercem prática clínica há 16,19 anos (±9,30). Aferiu-se uma relação positiva significativa entre a satisfação no trabalho e todas as dimensões do empoderamento profissional (0,2550,088). Para a intenção de abandono, obtiveram-se relações negativas com todas as dimensões do empoderamento estrutural e psicológico (-0,352
- Rapid screening of fumonisins in maize using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and machine learning algorithmsPublication . Sampaio, Pedro; Barros, Sílvia Cruz; Freitas, Andreia; Silva, Ana Sanches; Brites, Carla; Carbas, BrunaFumonisins occurrence in maize represents a significant global challenge, impacting economic stability and food safety. This study evaluates the potential of near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy combined with chemometric al- gorithms to detect fumonisins in maize. For fumonisin B1 (FB1) and B2 (FB2) levels were developed predictive NIR models using partial least squares (PLS) and artificial neural networks (ANN). PLS models demonstrated strong correlation coefficient (R2) values of 0.90 (FB1), 0.98 (FB2), and 0.91 (FB1 + FB2) for calibration, with ratio of prediction to deviation (RPD) values ranging 2.8–3.6. Similarly, ANN models showed good predictive performance, particularly for FB1 + FB2, with R = 0.99, and the root means square error (RMSE) of 131 μg/kg for calibration; and R = 0.95, RMSE = 656 μg/kg for validation. These findings underscore the efficacy of NIR spectroscopy as a rapid, non-destructive tool for fumonisin screening in maize, with chemometric algorithms enhancing model accuracy, offering a valuable method for ensuring food safety.
- Medicinal plants and their derivatives for skin and hair: a Mediterranean perspective of women carePublication . Bouissane, Latifa; Elfardi, Yahya; Khatib, Sohaib; Fatimi, Ahmed; Pereira, Carla; Cruz-Martins, NatáliaSince olden days, medicinal and aromatic plants have been consumed due to their well-known therapeutic, ornamental, culinary, and cosmetic properties. Plant-based cosmetics comprise a growing market offering brands of sustainable products with the ultimate goal of responding to the woman needs to boost their natural beauty, such as soothing, toning, moisturizing and protecting skin and hair. The increasing focus on body and beauty care, combined with a better understanding of the diverse biological effects of plants and their derivatives, has revitalized their significance in aesthetic, cosmetic, and dermatological contexts. Concurrently, the increasing prevalence of allergies and hypersensitivity reactions to synthetic additives commonly found in cosmetics and other skin products has spurred interest in seeking healthier and more efficacious natural alternatives. An intense investigation has been stated around the formulation of medicinal plants- and other plant-based cosmetic products for dermatological and aesthetic purposes. Similarly, a raising awareness by cosmetics’ manufacturers and related industries have been progressively stated, culminating with the emergence of a line of plant-based cosmetics increasingly safe and with reliable quality features for multiple purposes. Although a high demand for natural-based products for cosmetic purposes has been stated, further studies are required to deepening knowledge on their beneficial properties, safety and quality features and to identify the main limitations and likelihood of side effects occurrence. In this review, an outlook of the current scenario regarding the use of medicinal and aromatic plants as cosmetic ingredients in the formulation of skin care and other dermatological products traditionally used by the Mediterranean woman for prevention and even cure of skin and hair diseases or for beautification is provided.
- Microbial and pest contamination in nuts: Radio frequency disinfestation and controlled atmosphere preservation – A reviewPublication . Liberal, Ângela; Fernandes, Ângela; Moreira, Jorge; Fernandes, Natércia; Gonçalves, Alexandre; Ferreira, Isabel C.F.R.; Barros, LillianNuts are increasingly recognized for their rich nutritional profile and bioactive potential, making them a sig- nificant economic contributor globally. However, the commercialization of nuts necessitates stringent quality control measures to mitigate infestations by insect pests and microorganisms, which can lead to rapid deterio- ration both pre- and post-harvest. Contamination often arises from inadequate practices in harvesting, packaging, storage, and transportation, heightening the risk of pathogen infection and mycotoxin contamination. To address these challenges, innovative preservation techniques are essential for enhancing food safety and extending shelf- life without compromising quality. Radiofrequency (RF) technology has emerged as a promising solution in food processing, utilizing volumetric heating for effective disinfestation, pathogen pasteurization, drying, and blanching while maintaining product integrity. In contrast, Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage employs gas composition control to create low-oxygen environments that inhibit microbial growth during storage. This re- view aims to provide a comprehensive overview of nut safety and preservation by identifying key contamination sources and the microorganisms that target nuts. It will analyze the effectiveness of RF and CA technologies in preserving and decontaminating nuts. By exploring these advanced methods, this study highlights their potential to surpass conventional processes, ultimately improving nut safety and quality throughout the supply chain.
- Acute Leptospirosis Outbreak in Cattle: A Case ReportPublication . Paixão, Gustavo; Botelho‐Fontela, Sofia; Gandra, Filipe; Reis, JoanaLeptospirosis is a globally distributed re-emerging zoonotic disease caused by Leptospira species. In cattle, the clinical course varies from a subclinical-chronic infection, commonly found in adult animals, to a severe acute syndrome mostly found in calves. The present study reports an outbreak of acute leptospirosis, following favourable climacteric conditions. Seven affected farms were monitored. Clinical observations from infected animals (n = 30) revealed two distinct patterns: lactating calves experienced hyperacute courses, often culminating in death, and older animals, mainly steers, displayed signs of apathy, anorexia, icterus and haemoglobinuria. Necropsies confirmed jaundice and haemoglobinuria, aligning with a presumptive diagnosis of leptospirosis. Haematology and serology results further supported this diagnosis. Pomona and Mozdok serovars were the most prevalent (62.5%) and had the highest mean agglutination titres, 1:1160 and 1:700, respectively. Antimicrobial treatment of sick animals consisted of oxytetracycline. Chemical metaphylaxis and prophylactic measures were established to control the outbreak in cohabiting animals. Environmental factors like climate change are expected to contribute to more frequent leptospirosis outbreaks. Comprehensive serological surveys are recommended to develop region-specific control measures, emphasising the importance of vaccination as a practical and effective prophylactic measure.
- Dynamics of Soil Carbon Average Content at Different Depths: Insights from a Global Approach to Climate Change MitigationPublication . Rodrigues, Cristina I. Dias; Brito, Luís Miguel; Nunes, Leonel J.R.This study provides an in-depth examination of the average values of gravimetric carbon content, measured in grams per kilogram (g/kg), and the organic Carbon (OC) content, quantified in kilograms per square meter (kg/m2), within various soil classifications and depths. Highlighting the relevance of such research, it delves into the intricacies of soil OC dynamics across diverse depth strata and offers a comparative analysis of different soil types, each with distinct carbon sequestration capacities. Utilizing the latest version of the world soil database, the research integrates three interconnected data sets: soil classification, density, and OC. In total, the study includes 51,507 soil profile layers to calculate the average gravimetric OC content in the fineearth fraction. In parallel, the average OC content in the fine-earth fraction was determined across 6,197 soil profile layers. This comprehensive data is organized into 34 separate soil units, each dissected across four depth categories: 0–30 cm, 0–100 cm, 0–200 cm and 0–2590 cm. The findings from this analysis reveal a consistent pattern: as depth increases, both the gravimetric content and average OC content tend to decrease. However, it is noteworthy that this trend is not universal. Certain soil units demonstrate an opposing behavior, with an increase in average OC content observed at greater depths, contradicting the prevailing trend. This divergence underscores the complexity of soil OC dynamics and the inherent variability across different soil units.