Polytechnic Institute of Viseu

This integrative review of the ACT Raising Safe Kids (ACT)—child maltreatment prevention program for parents—focuses on the program’s theoretical framework, examines the ACT studies about the effects on caregivers, and discusses the ACT’s implications for the practice and public policy. A systematic search of the PubMed, Web of Science, PsycINFO, and Lilacs databases was performed, along with a search on the ACT Program website and contacting program researchers. Twenty-five studies evaluating the ACT Program were reviewed. The evaluation studies were conducted in the United States, Brazil, Portugal, and Peru. The program improved parenting practices in general and targeted populations such as incarcerated parents, mothers with a history of childhood violence, and mothers of preterm children. Additionally, the program was effective in decreasing child behavioral problems. Overall, the ACT Program effectively decreased hostile, aggressive, and coercive parenting and child behavior problems, which are key predictors of family violence.

Prepregs are commonly fabricated with non-renewable petroleum-based materials. To reduce the impact of the manufacturing of these materials and to produce more sustainable prepregs, this research aims to manufacture poly(furfuryl alcohol)/wood veneer prepregs and their posterior molding in laminate composites. For this purpose, the vacuum infusion process was used to impregnate the wood veneers, and compression molding was applied to manufacture three- and four-layer laminate composites. Scanning electronic microscopy was used to evaluate the impregnation. the laminate manufacturing and differential scanning calorimetry were used to predict the shelf-life of the prepregs, Fourier-transform infrared was used to evaluate the induced hydrolysis resistance, and thermogravimetric analysis was used to determine the thermal degradation of the laminates. Moreover, water uptake and flexural, compressive, and tensile properties were evaluated. The kinetic models were effective and showed a shelf life for the laminates of approximately 30 days in storage at −7 ◦C, which is an interesting result for laminates with lignocellulosic materials. FTIR proved the laminates’ excellent resistance to hydrolysis. The water absorption, thermal stability, and mechanical properties did not differ as the amount of wood veneer increased, but these results were up to ~40% higher compared with unidirectional wood laminates found in the literature, which is probably linked to the excellent interface observed with SEM.

In the last few years, the production and consumption of craft beers has increased notably. However, there is restricted knowledge about the potential impact of chips from different wood species on beer quality. Thus, this work aimed to evaluate the effect of the addition of wood chips from cherry and oak species—after the fermentation was completed and during a brief maceration time—on the volatile composition of three different beer groups (Ale, Lager, and Porter) through a headspace solid-phase dynamic extraction (HS-SPDE) and GC-MS analysis. Fifty-six volatile compounds from different chemical families (esters, alcohols, terpenes, acids, aldehydes, ketones, and pyrazines) were detected, identified, and considered in this study. In general, the volatile composition of the beers macerated with wood chips was very similar to that of the control beers. However, the control beers showed higher volatile compound levels. The results suggest potential interactions between beer volatile compounds and the wood chips during maceration. The outcomes of this research could be of practical interest to brewers since they could improve the knowledge of the impact of short-time contact and low wood chip concentration on the volatile composition of different craft beers.

Background. A nursing work method is the base for the organization and implementation of nursing care to patients based on nurses' skills. Nurses' work methods are consensually organized into two groups: task-oriented work methods (functional method) and client-centered work methods (teamwork method, individual work method, and work method per reference nurse). As for the impact of the work method on clients, we highlight the interference in the quality of care provided and, regarding nurses, the impact on workload and job satisfaction. Terefore, the existence of tools that allow identifying the organizational methodologies of nursing care is relevant. Aim. Te aim of the study is to test the validity and reliability of the nurses work methods assessment scale (NWMAS). Methods. Te methodological study followed the recommendations of the EQUATOR network. Te NWMAS was previously developed as a self-completion questionnaire. To determine construct validity, exploratory and confrmatory factor analyses were performed. Results. 325 participants were enrolled in this study. In exploratory factor analysis, the 25 items comprising NWMAS were distributed in fve dimensions, contemplating the work methods. Cronbach's alpha of the total scale was 0.846. Te confrmatory factor analysis revealed a good ft. Conclusion. Te NWMAS is a valid and reliable tool. Implications for Nursing Practice. Te NWMAS identifes the work methods adopted by nurses in hospital settings, is a valuable tool for nursing management, and contributes to the defnition of strategies that promote the quality of nursing care and the safety of patients.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of citric acid on the properties of solid pine wood, which were submitted to thermomechanical treatment. A preliminary test was performed in a previous study to evaluate the influence of different temperatures of pressing and concentrations of citric acid on the physical properties of wood. After choosing the best treatments (170 °C and 5% and 10% of citric acid), the effect of these on the chemical properties (SEM, FTIR and pH); on the density profile using an X-ray microtomography and on the resistance to aging through an abrasion test were evaluated. The result of the chemical analysis showed an increase of the presence of ester functional groups, as well as better coverage and higher acidity of the surface. The density profile technique allowed us to observe the formation of peaks of density on the surface where the acid was applied. Lastly, it was also possible to verify an increase in the resistance to abrasions because of the application of citric acid.

Over the past twenty years, the use of electronic mobile sensors by children and youngsters has played a significant role in environmental education projects in Portugal. This paper describes a research synthesis of a set of case studies (environmental education projects) on the use of sensors as epistemic mediators, evidencing the technological, environmental, social, and didactical dimensions of environmental education projects over the last two decades in Portugal. The triggers of the identified changes include: (i) the evolution of sensors, information and communication platforms, and mobile devices; (ii) the increasing relevance of environmental citizenship and participation; (iii) the recognition of the role of multisensory situated information and quantitative information in environmental citizenship; (iv) the cause–effect relation between didactical strategies and environmental education goals; (v) the potential of sensory and epistemic learners’ practices in the environment to produce learning outcomes and new knowledge. To support the use of senses and sensors in environmental education projects, the SEAM model was created based on the developed research synthesis.

There is an ongoing scholarly debate regarding the compatibility of sustained high levels of firm-level growth with today's environmental sustainability goals, which include targets for limiting carbon emissions and avoiding further biodiversity loss. In this study, we aim to explore this issue through a quantitative analysis of the relationship between firm-level growth and sustainable innovation (i.e., all innovations with benefits for the environment) within an international sample of small-and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). To accomplish this, we utilise micro-data from the Community Innovation Survey, based on the conceptual framework provided by the Oslo Manual. By employing econometric models, we demonstrate that sustainable innovations promote SME growth. Specifically, we find that SMEs implementing sustainable innovations experience higher growth compared to those that do not practice them. Our research not only contributes to the existing literature in economics and management by providing more extensive knowledge but it also identifies several policy and management implications. Furthermore, we seek to offer novel insights into the importance of sustainable innovations adopted by growth-oriented SMEs.

Augmented reality (AR) is a field of knowledge being developed since the middle of the last century. Its use has been spreading because of its usefulness, but more recently because of mobile platforms being widespread and accessible. AR has been applied in several fields of activity, and also in the field of Education and Training, because AR has several advantages over other teaching methods. In this paper, we search and analyze surveys and reviews of AR to present a brief history and its definition. We also present a classification of our sample under a scheme we developed in past work, and present also examples of technologies and applications of AR in each field. Finally, we do a deeper analysis over the publications of Education and Training, advantages and issues of AR in this field, and some research trends.

Determining the drivers of non-native plant invasions is critical for managing native ecosystems and limiting the spread of invasive species1,2. Tree invasions in particular have been relatively overlooked, even though they have the potential to transform ecosystems and economies3,4. Here, leveraging global tree databases5-7, we explore how the phylogenetic and functional diversity of native tree communities, human pressure and the environment influence the establishment of non-native tree species and the subsequent invasion severity. We find that anthropogenic factors are key to predicting whether a location is invaded, but that invasion severity is underpinned by native diversity, with higher diversity predicting lower invasion severity. Temperature and precipitation emerge as strong predictors of invasion strategy, with non-native species invading successfully when they are similar to the native community in cold or dry extremes. Yet, despite the influence of these ecological forces in determining invasion strategy, we find evidence that these patterns can be obscured by human activity, with lower ecological signal in areas with higher proximity to shipping ports. Our global perspective of non-native tree invasion highlights that human drivers influence non-native tree presence, and that native phylogenetic and functional diversity have a critical role in the establishment and spread of subsequent invasions.

Objective: To identify the best evidence on the efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions in reducing fatigue in people with inflammatory rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (I-RMDs) and to summarise their safety in the identified studies to inform European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology recommendations for the management of fatigue in people with I-RMDs. Methods: Systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) including adults with I-RMDs conducted according to the Cochrane Handbook. Search strategy ran in Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL Complete, PEDro, OTseeker and PsycINFO. Assessment of risk of bias, data extraction and synthesis were performed by two reviewers independently. Data were pooled in meta-analyses. Results: From a total of 4150 records, 454 were selected for full-text review, 82 fulfilled the inclusion criteria and 55 RCTs were included in meta-analyses. Physical activity or exercise was efficacious in reducing fatigue in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (standardised mean differences (SMD)=−0.23, 95% CI=−0.37 to −0.1), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (SMD=−0.54, 95% CI=−1.07 to −0.01) and spondyloarthritis (SMD=−0.94, 95% CI=−1.23 to −0.66); reduction of fatigue was not significant in Sjögren’s syndrome (SMD=−0.83, 95% CI=−2.13 to 0.47) and systemic sclerosis (SMD=−0.66, 95% CI=−1.33 to 0.02). Psychoeducational interventions were efficacious in reducing fatigue in RA (SMD=−0.32, 95% CI=−0.48 to −0.16), but not in SLE (SMD=−0.19, 95% CI=−0.46 to 0.09). Follow-up models in consultations (SMD=−0.05, 95% CI=−0.29 to 0.20) and multicomponent interventions (SMD=−0.20, 95% CI=−0.53 to 0.14) did not show significant reductions of fatigue in RA. The results of RCTs not included in the meta-analysis suggest that several other non-pharmacological interventions may provide a reduction of fatigue, with reassuring safety results. Conclusions: Physical activity or exercise and psychoeducational interventions are efficacious and safe for managing fatigue in people with I-RMDs.

Eating patterns are linked with both environmental and behavioural factors [...]

Objectives to construct and validate the Interprofessional Communication Scale in Health. Methods a psychometric study was carried out on a sample of 360 nurses from a hospital and university center in central Portugal. Reliability was assessed through internal consistency and construct validity through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Results the Interprofessional Communication in Health Scale, consisting of 27 items, is organized into 3 factors: “Teamwork”, “Conflict management” and “Leadership”, with a total variance of 51.1%. Good internal consistency was obtained, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.842, and adequate Goodness of Fit Index model. Conclusions the Interprofessional Communication in Health Scale presents a factorial structure with adequate validity and reliability results, and may constitute a useful self-report instrument in assessing interprofessional communication in health. Descriptors: Communication; Patient Care Team; Nursing; Validation Study; Psychometrics.

Objectives to construct and validate the Interprofessional Communication Scale in Health. Methods a psychometric study was carried out on a sample of 360 nurses from a hospital and university center in central Portugal. Reliability was assessed through internal consistency and construct validity through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Results the Interprofessional Communication in Health Scale, consisting of 27 items, is organized into 3 factors: “Teamwork”, “Conflict management” and “Leadership”, with a total variance of 51.1%. Good internal consistency was obtained, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.842, and adequate Goodness of Fit Index model. Conclusions the Interprofessional Communication in Health Scale presents a factorial structure with adequate validity and reliability results, and may constitute a useful self-report instrument in assessing interprofessional communication in health. Descriptors: Communication; Patient Care Team; Nursing; Validation Study; Psychometrics.

Although not a new concept, modular construction has been the target of increasing interest and investment in recent years. Modular wood construction systems have economic and environmental advantages, as wood is a natural and locally available raw material with interesting thermal properties. In this context, the BlueWoodenHouse Project, a closed cooperation project between academy and industry, aims to improve the actual knowledge of modular wood construction in Portugal. Among other objectives, the project aims to characterize the solutions, systems, and materials used in wooden modular construction, specifically in a modular wooden, single-family house in full use. Afterward, the house was monitored for 1 year (temperature, relative humidity, and CO 2) and the data collected were analyzed and the interior thermal comfort was evaluated. The results of CO 2 concentration monitoring indicate adequate air renewal rates, except for some periods in the bedroom, during the night. Additionally, application of the adaptive comfort model proposed by the EN 16798-2 standard resulted in a percentage of time in discomfort due to overcooling ranging between 31.3% and 38.6%. However, most of these periods may correspond to times when there is no occupancy of these spaces.

Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum are obligate intracellular protozoan parasites infecting a wide range of hosts worldwide. However, information on the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis and neosporosis in cats from Portugal is limited. Thus, this study aims to evaluate anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum seroprevalence in client-owned cats from Portugal and to identify risk factors using a panel of well-characterized sera. A total of 183 domestic cats were sampled and screened for antibodies against T. gondii and N. caninum using commercial ELISA assays, and their owners answered an online questionnaire designed to obtain background information. The overall anti-T. gondii and anti-N. caninum seroprevalences were 13.1% (CI: 8.97–18.77) and 3.8% (CI: 1.87–7.68), respectively. Univariate analysis revealed that living strictly indoors was a significant protection factor (cOR: 0.053; CI: 0.005–0.627), and the presence of a chronic disease a significant risk factor (cOR: 3.106; CI: 1.062–9.082) to T. gondii seroprevalence. When performing multivariate analysis, only chronic disease (aOR: 57.527; CI: 1.7–1976.7) and seropositivity to N. caninum (aOR: 7.929; CI:0.8–82.9) were found to be a significant risk factor to anti-T. gondii antibodies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of N. caninum seropositivity in cats from Portugal.

The current global pandemic scenario has health implications, but also economic and social. Impacts on energy markets are examples of these consequences. Thus, the main objective of this research is to assess the impacts of the Covid-19 context on energy prices. Furthermore, it was intended to analyse the interrelationships of these frameworks with unemployment rates and excess mortality. For this purpose, several data and other pertinent information from international databases were considered and analysed. For the empirical analysis, econometric approaches were taken into account, as well as other methodologies associated with statistical analyses. The main findings of this research highlight that the impacts of the pandemic context on energy markets were several phases and the last one are the implications for price increases. The rise in energy prices is not only a consequence of the pandemic scenario, but also an implication of energy policies adopted worldwide, namely in the European Union (EU) member-states.

The use of untoasted woods was not previously considered for white wine aging. Thus, this work focuses on the comparative analysis of phenolic composition, wood volatile compounds and sensory characteristics of a white wine stored for 20 days in contact with untoasted woods from oak (Quercus petraea and Quercus pyrenaica) acacia (Robinia pseudoacacia), and chestnut (Castanea sativa). The outcomes obtained demonstrated a clear differentiation between the impact of untoasted wood cubes from chestnut specie on wine characteristics compared to other wood species studied. Thus, the results showed that the wine stored in contact with chestnut cubes exhibited significantly highest values for the global phenolic parameters, browning potential index, tanning power, and individual phenolic compounds (gallic and caffeic acids, castalagin, and vescalagin), followed by an evident change in wine chromatic characteristics. However, for wood volatile compounds, an absence of clear differentiation between the wines was observed. In general, these compounds were also detected with concentrations below their level of sensory perception. The wine stored in contact with the untoasted acacia cubes showed the least changes in its chemical composition. From a sensory point of view, a higher score for “color intensity”, “woody aroma” and “body” descriptors were obtained for wines stored in contact with untoasted woods compared to control wine. Nevertheless, wine stored in contact with untoasted oak cubes from Quercus pyrenaica showed the highest score for overall appreciation. The outcomes of this research improved the knowledge of the use of untoasted wood species on white wine characteristics.