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The effect of smoking on lung function changes during a 16-week combined exercise program in middle-aged workers: a latent growth curve analysis
No full textPurpose
To investigate the longitudinal changes in lung function of sedentary middle-aged workers over a 16-week combined exercise training program.
Methods
Thirty-six sedentary workers (53.70 ± 6.92 years old) were randomly allocated to either a combined aerobic and resistance training program (n = 18) or a control group (n = 18). Lung function was evaluated through spirometry using a portable flow spirometer (Spiropalm 6MWT, Cosmed, Italy). Predicted percentages of forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), FEV1/FVC ratio, and mean forced expiratory flow between 25 and 75% of exhaled FVC (FEF25–75) were analyzed. Assessments were performed at baseline (M1), after 8-week (M2) and 16-week follow-up (M3). The changes in lung function were analyzed using the Latent Growth Curve Modeling that estimated interindividual and intraindividual growth paths.
Results
Smoking status revealed a significant effect on lung function growth with significant paths to intercept and slope for all models in both groups. The exercise group participants who are non-smokers revealed higher increases in FVC% (β = .22), FEV1% (β = .08), FEV1/FVC% ratio (β = .19), and FEF25–75% (β = .06) compared to those who are smokers from M1 to M3. The control group revealed a lower growth in lung function from M1 to M3, with a lower slope observed in smokers compared to non-smokers for FVC% (β = − .44), FEV1% (β = −.41), FEV1/FVC% (β = − .98), and FEF25–75% (β = − .52).
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that a 16-week combined training program is an effective strategy to improve lung function among sedentary workers, with a higher magnitude of improvement for non-smokers compared to smokers.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio
El efecto del greenwashing en el consumo ético mediado por la confusión verde y el odio hacia la marca
No full textO greenwashing verifica-se quando as empresas enganam os consumidores quanto às suas práticas ambientais ou benefícios dos seus produtos/serviços. Esta investigação centra-se nos impactos dessas práticas no consumo ético e analisa como a confusão verde e o ódio à marca atuam como mediadores nessa relação. Baseado em informações recolhidas por meio de questionário aplicado numa amostra de 420 consumidores portugueses, foi realizado estudo confirmatório, quantitativo e transversal (ou de corte único). A análise foi conduzida através de um modelo de equações estruturais com o software SmartPLS. Os resultados sugerem que o greenwashing aumenta a confusão verde entre os consumidores, dificultando a correta interpretação de aspetos ambientais de um produto/serviço. Além disso, o greenwashing gera emoções negativas extremas, como o ódio à marca. Os resultados também demostram que os consumidores, quando percecionam práticas de greenwashing por parte de uma empresa/marca tendem a deixar de comprar os seus produtos/serviços, optando por alternativas mais éticas e responsáveis. Foi estabelecida relação positiva direta e indireta entre greenwashing e consumo ético. Esta investigação avança o estado da arte, que carece de estudos relacionados com as consequências das práticas de greenwashing e elucida as empresas da necessidade de eliminar essas atividades enganadoras e irresponsáveis. Limitações e oportunidades de estudo futuras são abordadas
Avaliação de parâmetros de cultivo de Lysmata debelius Bruce, 1983 ao longo do desenvolvimento larvar e juvenil
No full textA presente dissertação teve como principal objetivo completar o ciclo de vida do camarão-de-fogo, de Lysmata debelius Bruce, 1983, em condições controladas de cativeiro, contribuindo para a sua domesticação e para o avanço da aquacultura ornamental. Para tal, foram definidos três eixos centrais de investigação: determinar o período até à obtenção de indivíduos com tamanho comercial, avaliar a influência da densidade de cultivo e da luz LED azul e branco (azul: 450-470nm e branco: 450-700nm) na sobrevivência e no assentamento larvar. Estes fatores são considerados determinantes para a definição de protocolos de cultivo eficientes e sustentáveis.
Os resultados demonstraram que a sobrevivência larvar de Lysmata debelius foi fortemente influenciada pela densidade de cultivo, com melhores valores registados nas densidades mais baixas (90–140 larvas L-1. A taxa de assentamento não revelou diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre tratamentos. O tempo até ao primeiro assentamento foi mais curto nos ensaios sem luz (81,67 ± 2,31 dias), em comparação com aqueles conduzidos sob luz LED azul e branco (89,67–93,33 dias), embora sem diferenças estatisticamente significativas. Por outro lado, o tempo médio total até ao assentamento mostrou diferenças estatisticamente significativas na ausência de luz, situando-se entre 86,67 e 91,18 dias, face a 93,50–96,82 dias em presença de luz, sem efeito relevante da densidade. Finalmente, ao integrar as fases larvar e juvenil, estimou-se que o período total desde a desova até às dimensões do tamanho comercial (3 cm), variou entre 194 e 202 dias. Estes resultados, fornecem uma base sólida para a compreensão da biologia larvar de L. debelius, fundamental para a otimização dos protocolos de cultivo desta espécie e reforçam a necessidade de considerar múltiplos fatores ambientais e de manejo no desenho de sistemas produtivos. Do ponto de vista prático, esta investigação confirmou a viabilidade da produção sustentável desta espécie, abrindo caminho para reduzir a pressão sobre populações selvagens e responder à crescente procura do mercado. A consolidação de protocolos larvares e reprodutivos representa um passo essencial para a expansão da aquacultura ornamental, promovendo práticas mais responsáveis e ambientalmente sustentáveis, resultando numa menor dependência de exemplares capturados em populações naturais. Em forma conclusiva, este trabalho estabelece as bases para o cultivo controlado de Lysmata debelius, representando um contributo científico e aplicado relevante para a sua domesticação e para a consolidação da aquacultura ornamental como setor sustentável e inovador.The main objective of this dissertation was to complete the life cycle of the fire shrimp, Lysmata debelius Bruce, 1983, under controlled captive conditions, contributing to its domestication and to the advancement of ornamental aquaculture. To this end, three central research axes were defined: determining the time required to obtain individuals of commercial size, assessing the influence of culture density, and evaluating the effect of blue and white LED light (blue: 450–470 nm; white: 450–700 nm) on larval survival and settlement. These factors are considered essential for establishing efficient and sustainable culture protocols.
The results showed that larval survival of Lysmata debelius was strongly influenced by culture density, with higher values recorded at lower densities (90–140 larvae L⁻¹). Settlement rate did not show statistically significant differences among treatments. The time to first settlement was shorter in trials conducted without light (81.67 ± 2.31 days) compared with those under blue and white LED illumination (89.67–93.33 days), although differences were not statistically significant. In contrast, the mean total time to settlement differed significantly in the absence of light, ranging between 86.67 and 91.18 days, compared with 93.50–96.82 days under light, with no relevant effect of density. Finally, when integrating the larval and juvenile phases, the total period from spawning to attainment of commercial size (3 cm) was estimated to range between 194 and 202 days. These findings provide a solid foundation for understanding the larval biology of L. debelius, which is essential for optimizing culture protocols for this species, and they highlight the need to consider multiple environmental and husbandry factors when designing production systems.
From a practical standpoint, this study confirmed the feasibility of sustainable production of this species, paving the way to reduce pressure on wild populations and meet increasing market demand. The consolidation of larval and reproductive protocols represents a key step toward the expansion of ornamental aquaculture, promoting more responsible and environmentally sustainable practices and reducing dependence on wild-caught specimens.
In conclusion, this work establishes the basis for the controlled culture of Lysmata debelius, representing a relevant scientific and applied contribution to its domestication and to strengthening ornamental aquaculture as a sustainable and innovative sector
Validation of the Dysmorphic Concern Questionnaire (DCQ) in First- Episode Schizophrenia
No full textArticle n. :e70114Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank all participants.Background: There is evidence that suggests that body dysmorphia represents a risk factor that may occur at the prodromal phase of schizophrenia, affecting ongoing developmental processes and conferring vulnerability to the disease. This study examined the psychometric properties of the Arabic Dysmorphic Concern Questionnaire (DCQ) among patients with a first- episode schizophrenia in a Tunisian, Arabic- speaking context. Method: A cross- sectional study was conducted. Data collection was performed using a traditional paper- and- pencil approach by a single interviewer, who was one of the study's authors. Results: Our findings showed that the unidimensional factor structure of the DCQ holds up in patients with schizophrenia from a Tunisian culture and at an early stage of their disease, and shows excellent reliability (Cronbach's α of 0.91) in this specific population. Measurement invariance was supported in terms of three levels (configural, scalar and metric). Convergent validity of the DCQ was evidenced through significant positive correlations of the scale with abnormal bodily phenomena, muscle dysmorphia and body dissatisfaction. Besides, concurrent validity was demonstrated via significant positive correlations between the DCQ and four other measures: psychological distress, disordered eating, insight and psychotic symptoms severity. Conclusion: The DCQ showed good validity and reliability for measuring dysmorphic concerns in patients with schizophrenia from a Tunisian culture and at an early stage of their disease. The sound psychometric performance of the DCQ, its short administration time, as well as easy scoring and interpretability make it an excellent instrument for use in future clinical and research endeavours
Pseudophakic macular edema: Review and new insights on treatment and prophylaxis
No full textArticle preview.Pseudophakic cystoid macular edema (PCME) is a common complication of cataract surgery that may rarely result in vision loss. In most cases PCME resolves spontaneously, which makes it challenging to establish the efficacy of therapeutic and prophylactic interventions. Although no consensus exists regarding management or prevention, most surgeons advocate prophylaxis primarily for high-risk eyes. Nevertheless, the costs associated with preventive measures have risen substantially in recent years. In this review, we summarize the current evidence on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, risk factors, treatment, and prophylaxis of PCME, to provide a comprehensive understanding of its clinical indications and the cost-effectiveness of available strategies
O Comic como Plataforma de Comunicação de Emoções
No full textA presente proposta de dissertação, realizada no contexto do Mestrado em Design Gráfico, teve na sua base o desafio de desenvolver um conteúdo gráfico, com a intenção de explorar a questão das emoções, dando destaque à ansiedade. Neste contexto foi considerado o desenvolvimento de um comic cuja narrativa ilustra o conjunto de peripécias e desafios encontrados pela personagem principal durante um momento da sua vida. O público-alvo deste trabalho foram jovens adolescentes por nos ser pertinente perceber em que medida o Design Gráfico, na sua vertente de comunicação, através do seu cruzamento com a linguagem dos comics poderia contribuir na desconstrução do tema. Neste sentido foi constituído um corpo teórico, com o propósito de perceber as diferentes dimensões envolvidas, captando-se o posicionamento de autores de áreas disciplinares distintas, cujos contributos constituíram os pilares da abordagem aqui realizada. Assim, da análise de diversos textos, artigos e obras foi trabalhado um conjunto de opções, que viriam a ser indispensáveis no desenvolvimento do projeto prático, enquanto conteúdo acessível, tanto ao nível da narrativa como na sua forma visual. Em termos de metodologias assumimos um desenho de projeto exploratório, que viveu do cruzamento entre o Design Gráfico, o comic e ainda a metodologia qualitativa por forma a compreender a dimensão empírica deste projeto. No contexto de validação foram também conduzidos inquéritos por questionário para perceber se o conteúdo desenvolvido respondia às vertentes de comunicação que se propunha, designadamente, se servia de plataforma para desconstruir e comunicar a ansiedade. Com isto foi possível percecionar o potencial dos comics como plataforma para a exploração e comunicação de emoções.This dissertation proposal, carried out in the context of the Master’s Degree in Graphic Design, was based on the challenge of developing a graphic content with the intention of exploring the issue of emotions, with a focus on anxiety. In this context, the development of a comic whose narrative illustrates the set of adventures and challenges encountered by the main character during a moment in his life was considered. The target audience for this work was young teenagers because we felt it
was relevant to understand the extent to which Graphic Design, in its communication aspect, through its intersection with the language of comics, could contribute to deconstructing the theme. To this end, a body of theory was put together in order to understand the different dimensions involved, capturing the position of authors from different disciplinary areas, whose contributions would form the pillars of the approach taken here. Thus, from the analysis of various texts, articles and works, we worked out a set of options that would become indispensable in the development of the practical project, as accessible content, both in terms of narrative and visual form. In terms of methodologies, we adopted an exploratory project approach that drew on the intersection between Graphic Design, comics and qualitative methodology in order to understand the empirical dimension of this project. In the context of validation, questionnaire surveys were also carried out to find out whether the content developed responded to the communication aspects that were proposed, namely whether it served as a platform for deconstructing and communicating anxiety. This made it possible to see the potential of comics as a platform for exploring and communicating emotions
The Impact of an 8-Week Running Technique Program on Linear and Change-of-Direction Speed in Youth Football—A Pilot Study
No full textIn football, linear speed and change-of-direction speed are fundamental skills for performance in the sport. The present study aims to evaluate the effect of an 8-week running technique program on the variables described in young footballers. Thirty-one athletes participated, 16 in the intervention group (Under-15) and 15 in the control group (Under-17). The intervention group had a mean age of 14.37 ± 0.50 years and the control group had a mean age of 15.80 ± 0.76 years. Both groups underwent two assessments, pre- and post-intervention, performing the 20-m test and the 5-0-5 Agility Test, assessing linear speed and change-of-direction speed, respectively, with timing conducted manually by trained evaluators. The results showed improvements in the intervention group in both tests, with statistically significant differences in change-of-direction speed (right foot: p = 0.010; r = 0.669; left foot: p = 0.05; r = 0.503), while the control group did not show any significant differences in either test, even showing a regression in results. The present study indicates that running technique training, even with a weekly frequency of only one session per week, may contribute to improvements in linear speed (even non-significant) but, especially, in the change of direction of young footballers. These results are important because training can promote more efficient running movement patterns, promoting benefits in terms of sports performance and the prevention of non-contact injuries.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio
Positive Mental Health and Happiness at Work in a Sample of Portuguese Workers: A Web-Based Cross-Sectional Study
No full textAcknowledgments
We acknowledge all the volunteers who participated in the online survey to make this study possible.Article number - 44Positive mental health in individuals’ lives and happiness at work have been growing concerns for organizations. This web-based cross-sectional study aimed to understand these two factors and their interrelationship in a population of workers. Data were collected with an e-questionnaire from 1768 individuals currently employed in various public and private organizations. The variables studied included: social and occupational data, happiness at work, and positive mental health. Study participants showed good levels of positive mental health and happiness at work. Positive mental health was positively associated with both organizational happiness domains and function and with perceived productivity (p < 0.001). Using a multiple linear regression model, we found four predictors of overall happiness at work: age, perception of productivity, seniority, and positive mental health factors (personal satisfaction, autonomy and problem-solving and self-actualization) (R2 = 0.249). Organizations wishing to make employees happier and more productive should promote mental health in the workplace. Interventions that focus on the adoption of positive coping techniques in the workplace, such as training focused on increasing intrapreneurial self-capital, should also be explored.This work is funded by national funds through FCT—Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, I.P. (UIDB/05704/2020 and UIDP/05704/2020) and under the Scientific Employment Stimulus Institutional Call [https://doi.org/10.54499/CEECINST/00051/2018/CP1566/CT0012, accessed on 15 January 2025]. It was also supported by National Funds through FCT—Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia, I.P., within CINTESIS, R&D unit (reference UIDB/4255/2020 and reference UIDP/4255/2020)
As diferenc¸as entre os sexos no enfarte agudo do miocárdio com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST: um estudo baseado no registo nacional multicêntrico português
No full textIntroduction and objectives
Sex differences among patients with acute myocardial infarctions remain a matter of debate. Inequalities in presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis are frequently observed, contributing to a worse prognosis in women. The aim of this study was to investigate sex-related differences in Portuguese ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients.
Methods
The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of STEMI patients included in the Portuguese Registry on Acute Coronary Syndromes, between October 2010 and 2022. The two co-primary endpoints were in-hospital and one-year mortality.
Results
A total of 14 470 STEMI patients were studied. Women were underrepresented with 3721 individuals (25.7%). They were significantly older (70 vs. 62 years, p<0.001), with higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors, and underwent less frequently coronary angiography (84.4% vs. 88.5%, p<0.001) and guideline-directed medical therapy (e.g., aspirin 92.5% vs. 95.4%, beta blockers 79.2% vs. 83%, p<0.001). Furthermore, they experienced more complications, such as congestive heart failure (23.4% vs. 14.6%), ischemic stroke (47% vs. 40%), and in-hospital mortality (8.5% vs. 4.1%) (p<0.001 for all comparisons). Similarly, they presented higher one-year mortality (11.5% vs. 6.3%, p<0.001). However, after a multivariate analysis testing significant clinical variables, female sex remained an independent predictor for in-hospital (odds ratio=1.633; 95% CI [1.065–2.504]; p=0.025), but not for one-year mortality.
Conclusions
This analysis reveals sex-related disparities in Portuguese STEMI patients. Despite limitations inherent to registry-based analysis, women were significantly older, with increased cardiovascular risk, less treated, and with higher in-hospital mortality. These disparities should be a concern for clinicians to further improve outcomes and move toward equitable medical care.Introdução e objetivos
As diferenças entre sexos nos doentes com enfarte agudo do miocárdio (EAM) são um tópico controverso. São frequentemente descritas disparidades na apresentação, no diagnóstico e no tratamento, as quais contribuem para um pior prognóstico nas mulheres. O objeto desta análise foi determinar estas diferenças no EAM com supradesnivelamento do segmento ST (STEMI).
Métodos
Os autores realizaram uma análise retrospetiva de doentes com STEMI incluídos no Registo Português de Síndromes Coronárias Agudas, entre outubro de 2010 e 2022. Foram definidos dois endopoints primários: mortalidade intra-hospitalar e mortalidade a um ano.
Resultados
Foram incluídos 14 470 STEMI. O sexo feminino estava sub-representado (3.721 doentes, 25,7%). As mulheres tinham uma idade superior (70 versus 62 anos, p < 0,001), com maior prevalência de fatores de risco cardiovascular, sendo menos submetidas a angiografia coronária (84,4% versus 88,5%, p < 0,001) e a terapêutica médica (aspirina 92,5% versus 95,4%, beta bloqueantes 79,2% versus 83%, p < 0,001). O sexo feminino apresentou mais complicações: insuficiência cardíaca congestiva (23,4% versus 14,6%), acidente vascular cerebral isquémico (47 versus 40%), e mortalidade intra-hospitalar (8,5% versus 4,1%) (p < 0,001 para todas as comparações). A mortalidade a um ano foi superior nas mulheres (11,5% versus 6,3, p < 0,001). Após análise multivariada, o sexo feminino manteve-se preditor independente de mortalidade intra-hospitalar (OR = 1,633; CI 95% [1,065-2,504]; p = 0,.025), mas não a um ano.
Conclusão
O presente estudo, em Portugal, revela múltiplas diferenças entre sexos no STEMI. Apesar das limitações inerentes às análises baseadas em registos nacionais, as mulheres têm idade e risco cardiovascular superior, sendo menos tratadas, com mortalidade superior. Estas desigualdades devem ser uma preocupação para a comunidade médica de modo a melhorar outcomes e a proporcionar cuidados médicos equitativos
Qualidade Apercebida, Qualidade Global do Serviço, Satisfação Global do Serviço, Valor Apercebido do Serviço e Intenções Futuras de um evento desportivo: Perceções de triatletas portugueses
No full textEl objetivo de este estudio fue analizar la estructura factorial de un modelo para evaluar la percepción de satisfacción y calidad de un acontecimiento deportivo. Se desarrolló un análisis factorial confirmatorio para probar la estructura factorial. La presente muestra comprendió 208 participantes triatletas portugueses (hombres = 148; Edad media = 41.29 ± 11.28). De estos participantes, 169 declararon practicar ejercicio físico más de 4 veces por semana y 153 dijeron haber participado en 5 o más pruebas de triatlón. Los resultados actuales mostraron que el modelo de medición presentaba un ajuste adecuado (modelo muestral total: χ2/df = 2.748, B-S p < .001, TLI = .928, CFI = 0.940, SRMR = 0.075, RMSEA = 0.092 (CI = 1.068, 1.671). Estos resultados apoyan el uso de este modelo para evaluar todas las dimensiones asociadas a un acontecimiento deportivo, en particular el triatlón.The aim of this study was to analyse the factor structure of a model to assess the perception of satisfaction and quality of a sport event. Confirmatory factor analysis was developed to test the factor structure. The present sample comprised 208 Portuguese triathlete participants (males = 148; Mean age = 41.29 ± 11.28). Of these participants, 169 reported practice of physical activity more than 4 times a week and 153 said they had completed part in 5 or more triathlon events. Current results showed that the measurement model presented adequate fit (total sample model: χ2/df = 2.748, B-S p< .001, TLI = .928, CFI = 0.940, SRMR = 0.075, RMSEA = 0.092 (CI = 1.068, 1.671). These results support the use of this model to assess all the dimensions associated with a sporting event, particularly triathlon.O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar a estrutura fatorial de um modelo de avaliação da perceção da satisfação e da qualidade de um evento desportivo. A análise fatorial confirmatória foi desenvolvida para testar a estrutura fatorial. A presente amostra foi constituída por 208 participantes triatletas portugueses (sexo masculino = 148; idade média = 41.29 ± 11.28). Destes participantes, 169 referiram praticar exercício físico? mais de 4 vezes por semana e 153 afirmaram ter participado em 5 ou mais eventos de triatlo. Os resultados atuais mostraram que o modelo de medida apresentou um ajuste adequado (modelo da amostra total: χ2/df = 2.748, B-S p< .001, TLI = .928, CFI = 0.940, SRMR = 0.075, RMSEA = 0.092 (IC = 1.068, 1.671). Estes resultados apoiam a utilização deste modelo para avaliar todas as dimensões associadas a um evento desportivo, em particular o triatlo.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio