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- Acute effects of dynamic stretching on knee joint position sense and dynamic balance in recreational runners: A randomized controlled trialPublication . Simões, Edgar; Tavares, Nuno; Saraiva, MarinaObjectives: Proprioception and dynamic balance are crucial elements of neuromuscular control during running, supporting movement precision and postural adjustments. Dynamic stretching is commonly used in warm-ups to enhance muscle activation and sensorimotor readiness, but its acute effects on proprioception and balance remain unclear. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Participants: Sixty-two healthy recreational runners (25–45 years; ≥20 km/week), randomly assigned to a Dynamic Stretching group (n = 31) or a control group performing light walking (n = 31). Main outcome measures: Joint position sense was assessed through active joint repositioning using 2D video analysis, with Absolute Angular Error, Relative Angular Error, and Variable Angular Error as outcomes. Balance was evaluated using the Y-Balance Test, including anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral reach directions, as well as a composite score. Results: The Dynamic Stretching group showed significant reductions in Absolute Angular Error (p < 0.05) and Variable Angular Error (p < 0.001), with a between-group difference in Relative Angular Error (p = 0.043). Both groups improved Y-Balance Test scores, but the Dynamic stretching group achieved significantly greater gains in posteromedial reach and Composite Score (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Dynamic stretching acutely improves proprioceptive accuracy and dynamic balance in recreational runners, supporting its inclusion in warm-up routines.
- Non-lethal heat shock induces cross-tolerance to different stressors in two strains of Brachionus koreanus (Rotifera: Monogononta): Mechanisms of increased tolerance to hydrogen peroxidePublication . Granada, Luana; Morão, Inês F.C.; Lemos, Marco F. L.; Bossier, Peter; Novais, Sara C.The rotifer Brachionus sp. is of great importance for aquaculture, as the reproduction cycle under rearing conditions of many economically important species larvae depends on the use of rotifers as first live feed. Establishing a protocol that results in an improved tolerance of rotifers to environmental stressors will allow for a more stable rotifer production. The exposure to non-lethal heat shocks (NLHS) already proved to enhance the tolerance, not only to heat stress, but also to other stressors in several aquatic species, by activating the heat shock response and epigenetic mechanisms. This study aimed to determine the potential of a single NLHS to induce tolerance to different abiotic stressors in two strains of B. koreanus (MRS10 and IBA3) and to evaluate possible molecular mechanisms involved in the achievement of increased tolerance to hydrogen peroxide induced by NLHS. Cross-tolerance was achieved for both strains, namely to high salinity, cadmium chloride, and hydrogen peroxide. Scale-up tests resulted in increased tolerance to hydrogen peroxide only for MRS10. During the exposure to this substance, heat-shocked MRS10 rotifers showed an up-regulation of genes related to oxidative stress response and histone modifications, increased production of HSP70, and higher levels of total acetylation of histone H3. A single NLHS proved to induce epigenetic effects when rotifers were exposed to other stressor later in life. However, further studies should elucidate if the NLHS conditions used in this study can yield a persistent outcome, allowing the establishment of tolerant rotifer strain lines and, consequently, a more stable production.
- Evidence synthesis methodology for questions relating to barriers and enablers in health care: a scoping reviewPublication . Stern, Cindy; Valenzuela, Chelsea; Whitehorn, Ashley; Pollock, Danielle; Minooee, Sonia; Gohil, Dilan; Zhu, Zheng; Kirkpatrick, Pamela; Loureiro, Ricardo; Davies, Ellen; Cardoso, Daniela; Munn, Zachary; Carrier, Judith; Pieper, Dawid; Cooper, Kay; Jia, Romy; Loveday, Heather; Martin, Priya; Salmond, Susan; dos Santos, Kelli; Habibi, Nahal; Lizarondo, Lucylynn; Aromataris, EdoardoObjective: The objective of this scoping review was to map the range of methodologies and methods used to undertake evidence synthesis aimed at determining barriers and/or enablers in health care, and to inform further research relevant to synthesis methodology in this area. Introduction: Questions related to identifying and exploring barriers and/or enablers within health care are becoming increasingly popular. Currently, there are multiple approaches to synthesizing this evidence, and it is unclear whether a more consistent approach is warranted. Eligibility criteria: Evidence synthesis on barriers and/or enablers (facilitators) that included interest-holders at different levels of the health system were considered. Evidence synthesis projects had to include primary research studies and were published from 2010 to 2021. Literature reviews, narrative reviews, and umbrella reviews were excluded, as were reviews published in languages other than English. Methods: This scoping review followed JBI methodology and was based on a published a priori protocol and reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). A 3-step search strategy using a combination of key terms and index headings was undertaken in October 2021 via the following databases/resources: PubMed, Embase, CINAHL (EBSCOhost), PsycINFO (Ovid), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, JBI Evidence Synthesis, and EPPI-Centre Systematic Reviews. An extensive piloting process for screening and selection, and data extraction was undertaken due to the large number of reviewers involved. All records were screened independently by 2 reviewers, and any disagreements were resolved through either a third reviewer or discussion with a panel of reviewers. Extraction was undertaken using a customized form, and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Data are presented via tables, figures, a word cloud, and an infographic, supplemented with a narrative synthesis. Results: Following completion of the search, 24,823 records were screened and 774 reviews were included in the scoping review. Systematic reviews were the most commonly used methodology (68%) to synthesize barrier and/or enabler questions. Reviews often included diverse types of evidence and involved an assessment of methodological quality (70%). Findings related to barriers and/or enablers were usually grouped and organized into categories, often by thematic methods (33%) or a narrative approach (20%). Incongruencies related to nomenclature, missing information, and methods used were evident across the large dataset. Conclusions: A variety of methodological approaches are being followed to undertake reviews focused on barriers and/or enablers in health care. The current state of the literature indicates that most authors answer these questions via the conduct of a systematic review and include diverse types of evidence. Further work is needed to determine whether authors are unclear when deciding on methodology and whether guidance is required.
- The family caregiver of the older person with hip fracture: perceptions about the transition to homePublication . Rocha, Paula; Albuquerque, Carlos; Batista, Susana; Henriques, Maria Adriana; Baixinho, Cristina Lavareda; Jester, RebeccaBackground Fractures resulting from falls constitute a problem of great magnitude for the older person, as they cause functional decline and difficulty in returning to the state prior to the fracture, and for the family caregiver, as they require care support to face the compromised ability to perform daily life activities that these people experience. Objective To characterize the perception of difficulties and needs felt by family caregivers in supporting older person with hip fractures in the transition home. Methods A descriptive, exploratory, qualitative study was developed, based on semi-structured interviews with family caregivers of patients with hip fractures undergoing surgical treatment, belonging to a hospital in the central region of Portugal. To analyze the data obtained, Bardin's content analysis was used, with the support of the MAXQDA Analytic pro 2022 software. Results From the analysis of the 15 interviews carried out, two categories emerged related to the difficulties perceived by family caregivers in supporting older person with hip fractures in the transition home: Care Support and Responsiveness. In relation to felt needs, the following categories emerged: Continuity of care and Training to provide care. Conclusions The family caregiver perceives multiple needs and difficulties experienced in the support provided to older person with hip fractures in the transition home. As this phenomenon is somewhat complex due to the involvement of numerous factors, the analysis of the aspects associated with this care process is essential, contributing to a favorable evolution and a safe transition.
- Psychometric validation of the food and nutrition literacy scale (Escala de Literacia da Alimentação e Nutrição – E-LAN) among Portuguese youthPublication . Batalha, Maria; Rosinha, Camila; Amaro, Catarina; Couto, Mariana; Fidalgo, Mariana; Dias, Sara; Borrel, Luisa N.Objectives: Psychometric Validation of the Escala de Literacia da Alimentaç˜ ao e Nutriç˜ ao (E-LAN), addressing the current lack of validated instruments for assessing food and nutrition literacy among portuguese youth. Study design: Cross-sectional. Methods: The study was conducted in a school setting in the western region of central Portugal between April 10 and 12, 2024, using a convenience sample of children aged 10–12 years. The E-LAN comprises 49 items (42 Likert-scale and 7 multiple-choice) across seven subscales assessing cognitive and skills domains. Reliability was examined using Cronbach's α , and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed to evaluate the internal structure, using χ 2 /df, AGFI, CFI, TLI, and RMSEA as fit indices. Results: The initial scale showed good internal consistency (Cronbach's α α =0.875). Four items were removed due to low item-total correlations and factor loadings. The revised 38-item version demonstrated improved reliability (Cronbach's =0.889), acceptable inter-item correlations, and good model fit ( χ 2 /df = 1.45; AGFI = 0.91; CFI = 0.93; TLI = 0.91; RMSEA = 0.06). Conclusions: The E-LAN is a concise, reliable, and valid tool for assessing food and nutrition literacy among portuguese youth, supporting its use in public health research and interventions.
- Optimisation of Alginate Extraction and Characterisation of Polysaccharides from Brown Seaweed from the Portuguese CoastPublication . Mendes, Joana Corrêa; Valente, Joana F. A.; Sousa, Fani; Bernardino, Raul; Bernardino, Susana; Afonso, Clélia; Chagas, BárbaraAlginate is a widely used and versatile biopolymer with an ever-expanding range of applications in the pharmaceutical and biomedical industries. This highlights the importance of developing sustainable and renewable production sources. Conventional extraction methods, although effective, are often energy-intensive and rely on harsh chemicals. In this context, brown algae are a promising alternative due to their abundance and renewability. This study investigated the potential of Saccorhiza polyschides and Sargassum muticum as sources of sodium alginate (SA), thus optimising an extraction process that combines acid treatment with an alkaline step. The extracted biopolymers were characterised using FTIR, H-NMR, STA, SEM/EDX, viscosity measurements, dynamic light scattering, and spectrophotometric assays of residual polyphenols and proteins. The optimised extraction conditions produced yields above 20% of high-purity alginate. When compared with commercial SA, the extracted materials showed comparable quality while relying on a simplified, solvent-reduced protocol that improves process efficiency and reduces the environmental impact. These results demonstrate that S. polyschides and S. muticum are promising, locally available sources of high-quality sodium alginate, and that industrially relevant yields (>20%) can be achieved through an environmentally conscious two-step extraction process.
- Interactions Between BMI and Age on Fall Risk in Older AdultsPublication . Rodrigues, Filipe; Monteiro, Diogo; Monteiro, A. M.; Forte, PedroBackground/Objectives: The aging process is typically marked by a reduction in functional fitness, which heightens the likelihood of falling. Although obesity is established as a determinant of poor mobility, the interplay between excess weight and advanced age is still a topic of research interest. Therefore, this research investigated how age, sex, and Body Mass Index (BMI) interact to influence fall risk among older adults living in the community. Methods: This cross-sectional investigation involved 815 participants (Mage = 70.45 ± 6.10 years), stratified by age (sexagenarians, septuagenarians, octogenarians) and BMI (normal weight, overweight, obesity). Fall risk was assessed using the Timed Up and Go test. A Three-Way ANOVA examined the main and interaction effects. Results: No significant three-way interaction (p = 0.334) or main effect of sex (p = 0.079) was found. However, a significant age x BMI interaction was observed (p = 0.007). In sexagenarians and septuagenarians, obesity was associated with significantly slower fall risk performance compared to normal weight (p < 0.001). Conversely, in octogenarians, this difference was not significant (p = 1.000) with normal-weight individuals. Conclusions: Obesity may be a significant risk factor for falls, especially in adults aged 60 to 79 years. In octogenarians, the protective benefit of normal weight disappears, revealing a “weight paradox” likely driven by sarcopenia. Fall risk assessments and weight management strategies should be tailored to age, focusing on preserving muscle mass in octogenarians.
- Short-Term 8-Foot up and Go Responsiveness in Institutionalized vs. Community-Dwelling Older AdultsPublication . Rodrigues, Filipe; Monteiro, Diogo; Forte, Pedro; Monteiro, A. M.This study aimed to examine the combined effects of Body Mass Index (BMI) and living setting on fall risk trajectories in older adults over a 16-week period. A total of 124 older adults were recruited from nursing homes (n = 65; Mage: 84.4 ± 7.7 years) and community settings (n = 59; Mage: 70.3 ± 3.6 years). Participants were stratified by BMI (normal weight, overweight, and obesity) and assessed for functional mobility using the 8-foot Timed Up and Go test at baseline and after 16 weeks. A 3 × 2 × 2 repeated-measures GLM using the multivariate approach (Pillai’s Trace) revealed significant main effects for time (p < 0.001) and Living Setting (p < 0.001), but not for BMI (p = 0.408). A significant time × living setting interaction (p < 0.001) indicated that institutionalized older adults demonstrated a significant reduction in 8-foot Up-and-Go completion time (~16%), whereas community-dwelling peers maintained their baseline levels. These findings suggest that the observed reduction in time reflects a test familiarization effect rather than physiological improvement. Analysis revealed that the living setting profile was strongly associated with performance, showing a more significant link to functional decline than BMI-defined weight status, as no significant differences were found across BMI categories.
- Saliência e funções semânticas dos países de língua portuguesa e China em manuais didáticos de português língua estrangeiraPublication . Li, Jiaqi; Barbeiro, Luís Filipe; Sá, Maria Helena Araújo eOs manuais didáticos moldam o ensino e a aprendizagem de línguas, conferindo visibilidade às entidades discursivas mobilizadas, neste caso, aos países e atribuindo-lhes papéis semânticos através das escolhas discursivas adotadas. O presente estudo analisa a saliência e as funções semânticas dos nomes dos países de língua portuguesa e da China em quatro manuais de Português Língua Estrangeira (PLE), dois editados na China e dois em Portugal. É teoricamente enquadrado pela Linguística Sistémico-Funcional, designadamente pela categorização de processos e funções semânticas, no nível oracional e sintagmático. Metodologicamente, foi construída uma base de dados com os nomes dos países e os contextos oracionais e sintagmáticos em que surgem, analisando-se a frequência dos termos e os processos e funções a eles associados. Nos resultados obtidos, Portugal salienta-se entre os países lusófonos, seguido do Brasil e de Angola; a China surge igualmente em posição saliente nos manuais chineses. Os países surgem representados de forma multifacetada, desempenhando funções como Portador e Identificado, em processos relacionais, valor de localização (Atributo, Circunstância ou Classificador), mas também como Ator e Meta, em processos materiais, e Fenómeno, em processos mentais. Esta diversidade reflete a complexidade do conceito de país, que inclui dimensões de território, pessoas, história, cultura e sociedade, podendo assumir funções semânticas correspondentes.
- Entre Formas e Sons: A Poética e a Expressividade da ÁguaPublication . Morim, Sofia Craveiro; Alvim, Diogo D'Aguiar de Sousa; Duarte, Susana NascimentoEsta investigação explora a plasticidade da água nas suas dimensões visual e sonora, averiguando o seu papel na criação de ambientes envolventes que sugerem uma sensação de mergulho e imersão. A pesquisa utiliza a água como meio interativo e sensível, capaz de estabelecer um diálogo com o ser humano. Este projeto de tese propõe a hipótese, apresentada e desenvolvida pela prática artística instalativa, de que água é dotada de uma plasticidade específica que a torna um meio comunicativo. Inspirando-se nas reflexões filosóficas de Gaston Bachelard, tratar-se-á de evidenciar a água como um elemento que molda a imaginação, evoca emoções, produz diferentes sensações e afeções no espectador. Esta perspetiva sustenta a análise da água enquanto agente que participa ativamente na experiência estética e abre espaço para a criação artística.