Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco
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Dynamics of pesticide residues in soils during the growing season: a case study in peach orchards, east-central Portugal
No full textPermanent crops rely heavily on pesticides. Their short-term behaviour has already been characterised under laboratory conditions. However, their degradation in the field is still poorly understood. Furthermore, studies that relate pesticide residues in soil with their application history are still scarce, despite their relevance for inferring the historical and diffuse dimensions of pollution. This work explores the spatial and temporal dynamics of pesticide residues in soil under the light of their application records and the accuracy of the predicted environmental concentrations (PEC). To achieve these purposes, 270 soil samples were collected at 5 sampling times over the 2022 growing season, in 18 peach orchards from east-central Portugal. Moreover, the data extracted from the application records was used to obtain predicted levels which were compared with the measured results. A total of 37 residues were analysed. Overall, 32 of these were detected back in, at least, one sample. Glyphosate and AMPA were the most frequently found and had the highest median concentrations. The comparison between predicted and measured environmental concentrations (MEC) suggests that pesticide decay was generally slower than expected. Glyphosate, AMPA, fluopyram and tebuconazole showed a high potential for resulting in background concentrations in soil. Our results highlight the need for regular and comprehensive monitoring, being recommended long-term assessments of the persistence and fate of pesticides under realistic conditions. Furthermore, our results also stress the necessity of more studies on reasons for PEC-MEC mismatch, a factor of concern considering the regulatory relevance of PEC values.</jats:p
Body composition, strength and muscle power indices at the different competitive levels of Futsal
No full textObjective: The aim was to verify the differences in physical condition (body composition, power and muscle strength) in futsal players from three competitive levels.
Methodology: Sixty-eight (24.26 ± 4.63 years old) Portuguese futsal players participated in the study, divided into: elite, sub-elite and amateur. We used the bioimpedance, the countermovement jump and the isokinetic dynamometer to assess physical condition, and the Kruskal-Wallis test to compare variables between groups.
Results: There were no differences in body composition between groups. Elite players had higher countermovement jump heights than amateur players (p < 0.001). There were significant differences in the isokinetic muscle strength of the knee flexors, with the elite players showing more strength than the amateur players (p = 0.047).
Discussion: The results of the research should be contrasted with those of other research found in the literature.
Conclusions: The elite players had higher physical condition parameters (more lower limb power and more flexor muscle strength) compared to the amateur players. We would point out that all groups had a high probability of lower limb muscle injury (H/Q ratio < 60%) at this stage of the sports season, alerting training professionals to the importance of individualised physical condition analysis
Teatro, Música e Cinema: The musical instruments in the decorative mural tapestry in the hall of the Teatro-Cine da Covilhã
No full textSó está disponível o resumo.On May 31, 1954, the Teatro-Cine da Covilhã, nowadays called Teatro Municipal da Covilhã (Portugal), was inaugurated. In the entrance hall, on the wall of the staircase, a tapestry called Teatro, Música e Cinema, by Tapetes de Portalegre Lda., today called Manufatura de Tapeçarias de Portalegre, has been displayed since the opening day. As a large tripartite mural tapestry, the work is a reproduction of a cartoon, a manual technique, which had as its starting point an original by an artist. This is João Tavares (1908-1984), painter, watercolourist, draftsman, and teacher at the Liceu de Portalegre. The tapestry we will study has several musical and dance motives in dialogue with other arts, like the Theatre (with allegorical representations of a stage, a scenario, and male and female figures), Music (musical instruments or a female figure linked to mousiké) and the Cinema (with allegorical representations of a horse or a star with luminous rays or a cinema reel). As for the musical instruments, these appear to have references to elements from Classical Antiquity that extend to other later temporal landmarks. Finally, this chapter aims to disseminate the study of the Teatro, Música e Cinema tapestry in a holistic way. Thus, the tapestry was described and analysed from an iconographic and iconological point of view, addressing João Tavares' aesthetic choices, as well as the historical and acoustic aspects of the Teatro-Cine da Covilhã.This work was funded by National Funds through the FCT - Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia, I.P.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio
Design for automation, edge services, and manufacturing – A React Native interface for collaborative robot palletizing systems
No full textThis work is part of the PRODUTECH R3 mobilizing agenda project and provides a comprehensive overview of the concepts of Design-for-Automation (DfA), Design-for-Edge Services (DfES), and Design-for-Manufacturing (DfM), highlighting their importance within the Industry 4.0 paradigm. These principles are crucial for developing smart, efficient, and scalable industrial solutions. As a case study, the paper presents the development of an automatic configuration system for a collaborative robotic palletizer, implemented in React Native. The graphical interface simplifies the mosaic configuration process, improves the user experience, and ensures integration with the collaborative robot. Using cutting-edge computing resources, the solution achieves real-time performance and scalability, offering significant value to the company involved and its customers. The study demonstrates how the adoption of these design principles can drive innovation and efficiency in industrial processes, reinforcing the fundamental role of user-centered solutions in the digital transformation of production systems
Técnica vocal como estratégia de desenvolvimento do trompetista
No full textRelatório de estágio apresentado à Escola Superior de Artes Aplicadas do Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco para cumprimento dos requisitos necessários à obtenção do grau de Mestre em Ensino de Música – Variante de Instrumento e Música de Conjunto.O presente relatório descreve uma investigação que analisou a relação entre o canto e a prática do trompete, pela sua simetria de funcionamento e de produção de som, onde se procurou identificar ideologias e metodologias utilizadas pelos cantores que poderão ser utilizados pelos trompetistas, com vista a um maior e melhor desenvolvimento tanto ao nível técnico como ao nível musical.
O desenvolvimento musical dos instrumentistas de metal, e particularmente dos trompetistas, através da técnica vocal é um mecanismo viável, uma vez que o processo de produção de som do cantor e do instrumentista, é similar. Neste sentido, procura-se investigar se o canto pode ser utilizado como ferramenta de desenvolvimento, tanto no foro técnico como musical, e quais as melhores estratégias para o fazer.
Quanto à investigação, esta divide-se em três fases. Na primeira, ocorre uma análise e fundamentação teórica com base em trabalhos de autores e pedagogos de referência. Num segundo momento, é apresentado um breve capítulo onde exponho resumidamente as estratégias/metodologias baseadas no canto, desenvolvidas pelo professor cooperante em contexto de sala de aula, observadas no estágio profissional, realizado no Conservatório Regional de Música de Viseu Dr. José de Azeredo Perdigão. Na última fase é divulgado o questionário "Técnica vocal como estratégia de desenvolvimento do trompetista", que conta com as respostas de trompetistas de todo o país e as análises dos resultados obtidos.
Em forma de conclusão, é apresentada uma síntese final que engloba as principais perceções dos capítulos abordados, centrada na problemática abordada.Abstract: This report investigates the relationship between singing and the trumpet practice, due to their symmetry of functioning and sound production. In this respect, it identifies ideologies and methodologies used by singers, which could be used by trumpet players, with the aim of developing both technically and musically.
The musical development of brass players and particularly trumpet players through vocal technique is a viable mechanism, since the sound production process of the singer and the instrumentalist is similar. In this sense, I will endeavor to show that singing can be used as a tool for both technical and musical development.
The research is divided into three phases. Firstly, an analysis and theoretical foundation based on the work of leading authors and pedagogues. Secondly, a brief chapter is presented on the lessons observed during my professional internship, which took place at the Dr. José de Azeredo Perdigão Regional Music Conservatory in Viseu, under the guidance of the collaborating teacher Dr. José Almeida. In the last phase, the questionnaire “Vocal technique as a development strategy for trumpet players” is released, with answers from trumpet players from all over the country and the results obtained.
In conclusion, there is a final wrap-up that encompasses the perceptions of the chapters covered, leading to an underpinning of the theme worked on
Skeletal age assessed by Greulich-Pyle: Intra-observer and inter-observer agreement among male pubertal tennis players
No full textThe assessment of biological maturation is a central topic in pediatric exercise sciences.
Skeletal age (SA) reflects changes in each bone of the hand and wrist from initial ossification to the adult state. This study examined intra-observer and inter-examiner agreement is Greulich-Pyle (GP) assessments of SA in 97 male tennis players 8.6–16.8 years of age.
Two observers independently examined all films on two occasions using the GP method.
The SA of each bone was evaluated. The mean and median of SAs assigned for each bone was the individual SA for each participant. The calculation was exclusively based on the bones that were not skeletally mature. Intra-observer mean differences were significant for
several bones with better results by the experienced examiner (observer B). Comparisons between SA values of the two independent observers indicated significant differences for the ulna, metacarpals II and III, and distal phalanx V. Nevertheless, the magnitude of the
bone-specific differences was small, perhaps trivial. Differences in individual SA values of the tennis players based on the non-mature bones of the hand-wrist were negligible based on the mean (0.04±0.39, t = 0.321, p = 0.749) or the median (0.05±0.58, t = 0.007, p =
0.994). Nevertheless, the current study confirmed examiners as a source of error in the estimation of SA using the Greulich-Pyle method and highlighted the importance of calculating
SAs based on non-mature bones among adolescent players
Cultural and social design in Monchique, local research strategies
No full textO presente artigo descreve o trabalho de investigação-ação que tem vindo a ser desenvolvido na localidade de Monchique, numa colaboração entre
docentes, investigadores e alunos de arquitetura e design (FAUL, Esec UAlg), em estreito contacto com as entidades locais, a comunidade e alguns
artesãos da região. O objetivo é repensar e requalificar os espaços e a produção local, contribuindo para a fixação da população e reenquadramento das suas práticas no contexto rural contemporâneo, por meio de estratégias de atualização e valorização da cultura local. Isso ocorre num município com um património cultural muito rico, mas que enfrenta uma população envelhecida e em gradual declínio. Esta investigação, de natureza qualitativa, desenvolve-se ao longo de missões de curta duração em trabalho de campo em Monchique, alternadas com fases de projeto em ambiente de atelier, no contexto académico, complementadas pela discussão e apresentações periódicas dos resultados obtidos com a população e as entidades locais. Os projetos surgem da constatação de problemas reais identificados in situ, durante visitas a locais de interesse cultural e social em desuso, em reuniões com agentes locais, visitas a oficinas de artesãos, consulta a especialistas, workshops e exposições abertas à população. Este estudo permitiu-nos adquirir um conhecimento profundo da região, promover a partilha de projetos entre designers, artesãos, arquitetos e entidades locais, com contributos multidisciplinares ativos, e fortalecer a relação entre a academia e a sociedade. Além disso, motivou significativamente os alunos, que tiveram a oportunidade de se envolver com questões projetuais reais durante o seu percurso académico. Já foram produzidas diversas propostas nas áreas do design de produto, comunicação, arquitetura e urbanismo, que contribuirão para um renovado interesse em habitar e visitar esta vila situada no interior do Algarve.Abstract : This article describes the action-research work that has been carried out in the town of Monchique, developed simultaneously by faculty researchers and students of architecture and design (FAUL, Esec UAlg), in direct contact with local entities, the community, and some artisans from the region.
The aim is to rethink and redevelop local spaces and production, contributing to the settlement of the population and reframing the practices of people within the contemporary rural environment, through strategies of updating and enhancing local culture. This takes place in a municipality with a very rich cultural heritage but facing an aging population in gradual decline. This qualitative research is developed through short-term field missions in Monchique, alternated with project phases in the academic workshop environment, complemented by periodic discussions and presentations of the results obtained with the population and local entities. The projects arise from the identification of real problems in situ, during visits to disused places of cultural and social interest, in meetings with local agents, visits to artisans' workshops, consultations with experts, workshops, and exhibitions open to the population. This study allowed us to gain a deep understandingof the region, promote the sharing of projects between designers, artisans, architects, and local entities, with active multidisciplinary contributions, and strengthen the relationship between academia and society. It also greatly motivated the students, who had the opportunity to engage with real design issues during their academic journey. Various proposals have already been produced in the fields of product design, communication, architecture, and urbanism, which will contribute to a renewed interest in living in and visiting this town in the interior of the Algarve
Older men in motion : bodies, masculinities, and redefinition of identity
No full textIntroduction: This study explores the intersection of physical exercise, masculinity, and aging in older men, examining how these elements shape identity and bodily experiences. Aging is often framed through deficit-based narratives that emphasize decline; however, this research seeks to reframe aging as a process of adaptation and opportunity. By investigating how physical activity contributes to identity reconstruction, this study aims to provide insights into the broader social and structural factors influencing older men’s engagement in exercise.
Methods: The study employs a qualitative research design, utilizing semi-structured interviews with 12 men aged 65–76. A narrative thematic analysis was conducted to examine participants’ experiences, concerns, and expectations regarding physical activity. This approach allowed for an in-depth exploration of how exercise intersects with notions of masculinity and aging, as well as the barriers and facilitators that shape participation in physical activities.
Results: The analysis identified three key themes: (1) the transformative role of exercise in fostering emotional well-being and bodily awareness, (2) the renegotiation of traditional masculinity through engagement in non-traditional physical activities, and (3) the social connections cultivated through group-based exercise programs. Additionally, the study highlights social and structural barriers, such as limited access to facilities and economic constraints, which hinder participation in physical activity.
Discussion: Findings underscore the significance of physical activity not only for maintaining health but also as a space for identity reconstruction and resistance to conventional narratives of aging. The study suggests that exercise serves as a means of empowerment, allowing older men to navigate aging in ways that challenge societal expectations. Moreover, the identification of structural barriers emphasizes the need for inclusive public health policies and targeted interventions that promote active aging. By reframing aging as a dynamic process of adaptation rather than mere decline, this research contributes to a broader understanding of how older adults experience and engage with physical activity
Impact of muscle mass and muscle strength on quality of life of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
No full textThis study aimed to investigate the relationship between muscle strength and perceived quality of life in individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDDs). A cross-sectional study was carried out, which involved 37 participants with a mean age of 39.08 years (SD = 0.05), ranging from 20 to 58 years. The participants were
assessed on anthropometric and body composition parameters, a 30 s chair stand test and isokinetic dynamometry. Quality of life was assessed using the Portuguese version of the Personal Outcomes Scale. Pearson’s correlation analyses were carried out to examine the
associations between strength measures and quality of life. Significant correlations were observed between strength measures and quality of life. In addition, lower limb muscle strength, particularly in flexion (left: r = 0.450; p ≤ 0.001; right: r = 0.504; p ≤ 0.001) and extension (r = 0.328; p = 0.05), showed positive correlations with quality of life. These
findings provide preliminary evidence suggesting that muscle mass and strength may serve as potential predictors of quality of life in individuals with IDD
Análise do impacto do marketing de influência digital no processo de decisão de compra do consumidor discente
No full textDissertação apresentada à Escola Superior de Gestão da Idanha-a-Nova do Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco para cumprimento dos requisitos necessários à obtenção do grau de Mestre em Gestão de Empresas.O marketing de influência é essencial no marketing digital, influenciando o comportamento de compra dos consumidores. Este estudo analisa como os influenciadores digitais afetam as etapas iniciais da decisão de compra: reconhecimento da necessidade, procura de informação e decisão. O comportamento do consumidor é moldado por fatores culturais, sociais, pessoais e psicológicos, englobando atividades de aquisição e uso de produtos que satisfazem necessidades e desejos. O marketing de influência envolve relações entre influenciadores e público, ajudando as marcas a aumentar a visibilidade, atrair novos públicos, melhorar a credibilidade e impulsionar as vendas. Os influenciadores digitais estendem a sua influência para além do círculo pessoal. Com base no Modelo de Credibilidade da Fonte, analisou-se como a credibilidade do influenciador afeta a perceção do público, reforçando a sua importância no comportamento de compra. Aplicou-se um questionário a 255 participantes, avaliando variáveis sobre influenciadores digitais—credibilidade, número de seguidores, avaliação de produtos, proximidade, regularidade de publicação, decisão de compra, reconhecimento da necessidade, procura de informação e lealdade—usando escalas de 5 pontos. Foram também recolhidos dados sociodemográficos. Os resultados mostraram uma relação significativa entre a credibilidade do influenciador e o reconhecimento das necessidades dos consumidores. Os influenciadores digitais impactam positivamente a procura de informação e a decisão de compra.Abstract: Influence marketing is essential in digital marketing, influencing consumers' purchasing behavior. This study analyzes how digital influencers affect the initial stages of the purchasing decision: need recognition, information search, and decision. Consumer behavior is shaped by cultural, social, personal, and psychological factors, encompassing activities of acquiring and using products that satisfy needs and desires. Influence marketing involves relationships between influencers and the public, helping brands increase visibility, attract new audiences, improve credibility, and boost sales. Digital influencers extend their influence beyond the personal circle. Based on the Source Credibility Model, the study analyzed how the influencer's credibility affects public perception, reinforcing its importance in purchasing behavior. A questionnaire was administered to 255 participants, evaluating variables related to digital influencers—credibility, number of followers, product evaluation, proximity, posting regularity, purchase decision, need recognition, information search, and loyalty—using 5-point scales. Sociodemographic data were also collected. The results showed a significant relationship between the influencer's credibility and the recognition of consumers' needs. Digital influencers positively impact information search and purchase decision