Polytechnic Institute of Castelo Branco
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Design and implementation of open educational resources through telecollaboration: analysis of their contribution to the development of generic competencies in Portuguese and Chilean university students
No full textEste trabajo se ha realizado en el marco del Proyecto de Investigación Erasmus+ (K2) INCOLLAB(Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching, https://incollabeu.wixsite.com/project/about) durante el período 2019-2022. (Project number: 2019-1-CZ01-KA203-061163).Las instituciones de enseñanza superior (IES) han ido adaptándose a las políticas planteadas por el Espacio Europeo de Educación Superior (EEES), que priorizan la adquisición de competencias transversales para responder a las demandas de un mercado laboral cada vez más global y digital. En este contexto se presenta el recurso educativo abierto (R A) “Introducción a la temática de género”, surgido en el marco del proyecto Erasmus+ INCOLLAB. Con la implementación en telecolaboración de este REA se pretenden identificar las competencias genéricas adquiridas por el alumnado participante y averiguar las dificultades experimentadas a la hora de desarrollarlas. Se optó por un diseño de estudio de caso para el que se realizaron grupos focales en dos IES (en Portugal y en Chile). Esta experiencia de innovación didáctica, además de favorecer la adquisición de competencias genéricas, ayuda a identificar las dificultades que impiden un desarrollo adecuado competencial, permitiendo así articular una propuesta de mejora en su diseño instruccional.Higher education institutions (HEIs) have been gradually adapting to the policies proposed by the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), in which the acquisition of generic or transversal skills is shown to be a priority in responding to the demands of a labour market, increasingly global and digital. In this context, the open educational resource (OER) “Introduction to gender issues” is presented, a didactic proposal that emerged within the framework of the Erasmus+ INCOLLAB project. The objectives pursued with the use of international virtual exchanges within the module “Introduction to gender issues” are to assess the gain in general competences acquired by the participating students from Portugal and Chile, as well as to identify the difficulties experienced when developing these competences. A case study design was chosen for which focus groups were held in two HEIs, (in Portugal and Chile). This experience of didactic innovation, in addition to promoting the acquisition of general competences that are especially relevant in today's society, helps to identify the difficulties that prevent the adequate development of certain skills, thus allowing us to articulate a proposal for improvement in the design of the materials that make up the OER
Integrating sentiment analysis into agile feedback loops for continuous improvement
No full textThe original contributions presented in this study are included in the article. Further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding author.The pursuit of continuous improvement is a defining feature of agile software development, yet its success depends on the systematic collection and interpretation of team members’ feedback. Conventional mechanisms, such as retrospectives and surveys, provide valuable insights but are often constrained by their episodic nature and susceptibility to subjective interpretation. This study examines the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and in particular sentiment analysis, to complement feedback-driven practices and strengthen continuous improvement in agile contexts. Two literature reviews were conducted: one on applications of AI across software engineering domains and another focusing specifically on sentiment analysis in agile environments. Based on these insights, a prototype tool was developed to integrate sentiment analysis into task management workflows, enabling the structured collection and analysis of developers’ perceptions of task descriptions. Semi-structured interviews with experienced project managers confirmed the relevance of this approach, highlighting its capacity to improve task clarity and foster more transparent and inclusive feedback processes. Participants emphasized the value of the proposed approach in generating rapid, automated insights, while also identifying potential limitations related to response fatigue and the reliability of AI-generated outcomes. The findings suggest that incorporating sentiment analysis into agile practices is both feasible and advantageous, providing a pathway to align technical objectives with developer experiences while enhancing motivation, collaboration, and operational efficiency
Childhood literature in multiformat: APPADCM Silk Museum in Castelo Branco
No full textEste trabalho propõe uma reflexão acerca de como o património pode ser comunicado para todos dentro e fora do espaço físico do museu, tendo como princípio a equidade, de forma a sensibilizar para a diversidade humana, através da comunicação para todos. Para tal, fundamenta-se nos conceitos de Desenho Universal, equidade e diferentes formatos de comunicação, relacionando-os com a nova definição de Museus pelo Conselho Internacional de Museus. Os resultados que ora se apresentam evidenciam que a comunicação multiformato auxilia na comunicação do património, podendo ser utilizado de muitas formas, consoante ao objetivo que se pretende atingir. Observa-se a sensibilização de todos para a
aprendizagem acerca da diversidade humana, bem como do entendimento do conceito de "para todos". A criação de um livro infantil multiformato é o corolário de todo o trabalho desenvolvido no Museu da Seda para que seja acessível "para todos", com particular atenção para as criançasThis paper proposes a reflection on how heritage can be communicated to everyone inside and outside the physical space of the museum, based on the principle of equity, to raise awareness of human diversity through communication for all. Tothis end, it draws on the concepts of Universal Design, equity, and different formats of communication, relating them to the new definition of Museums by the International Council of Museums. The results presented here demonstrate that multiformat communication facilitates the transmission of heritage and can be employed in various ways, depending on the objective to be achieved. There is a noticeable increase in awareness of human diversity, as well as an understanding of the concept of “for
all”. The creation of a multi-format children’s book is the culmination of all the work carried out at the Silk Museum to make it accessible “for all”, with a particular focus on childre
Os profissionais e o processo de fim de vida e morte dos idosos, em contexto de estruturas residenciais para pessoas idosas
No full textTrabalho de Projeto apresentado à Escola Superior de Educação do Instituto Politécnico de Castelo Branco para cumprimento dos requisitos necessários à obtenção do grau de Mestre em Gerontologia Social.A literatura existente destaca a importância de uma abordagem multidisciplinar e centrada na pessoa, respeitando a dignidade e as vontades dos idosos. O processo de fim de vida/morte é uma fase crítica que não afeta apenas os idosos, mas também os profissionais que lhes prestam cuidados e apoio constante.
No entanto, existe uma lacuna significativa no conhecimento sobre como os profissionais vivenciam este processo em contexto institucional.
Com o aumento da longevidade e do envelhecimento populacional, torna-se pertinente debater-se acerca dos cuidados paliativos e práticas institucionais para o fim de vida em Estruturas Residenciais para Pessoas Idosas (ERPI).
Este trabalho final de projeto tem como objetivo, analisar as perceções e práticas dos profissionais relativamente ao fim de vida e à morte dos idosos institucionalizados, destacando as estratégias utilizadas para lidar com essa realidade.
O trabalho de campo desenvolvido baseou-se na metodologia qualitativa, em que através de entrevistas semiestruturadas, permitiu captar as complexidades das perceções dos profissionais.
Os resultados evidenciam o consenso de que os idosos e famílias são e deverão ser tratados com dignidade até ao último momento.
Contudo, foram identificadas necessidades. Entre as principais recomendações, destaca-se a necessidade de ampliar a oferta de formação sobre o fim de vida, melhorar o acesso a cuidados paliativos e acompanhamento psicológico aos profissionais. Como sugestão de boas práticas, propõe-se a expansão do uso da ficha de desejos para personalização dos cuidados.
Deste modo, o Trabalho de Projeto em geral e o projeto de intervenção 'Cuidar com Conhecimento: Formação em Cuidados Paliativos para ERPI' surgem como uma resposta concreta a essas necessidades identificadas, promovendo uma abordagem formativa que visa não apenas capacitar os participantes, mas também incentivar uma participação ativa e integrada no contexto dos cuidados paliativos. A sua implementação procura fomentar um espaço de aprendizagem colaborativa, onde os profissionais e outros intervenientes possam aprofundar conhecimentos, trocar experiências e fortalecer competências essenciais para uma prestação de cuidados mais humanizada e eficaz dentro das ERPI. Com esta iniciativa, almejase não só suprir lacunas formativas, mas também contribuir para uma mudança sustentável na qualidade dos cuidados prestados na ERPI.Abstract: Existing literature highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary and personcentered approach, respecting the dignity and wishes of elderly individuals. The end-of-life process is a critical phase that impacts not only older adults but also the professionals who provide them with constant care and support.
However, there is a significant knowledge gap regarding how professionals experience this process in institutional settings. With increasing longevity and an aging population, discussing palliative care and institutional end-of-life practices in Residential Structures for Elderly People (ERPI) has become relevant.
This final project aims to analyze professionals' perceptions and practices related to the end-of-life process and death among institutionalized elderly individuals, emphasizing the strategies used to navigate this reality.
The fieldwork was based on a qualitative methodology, using semi-structured interviews to capture the complexities of professional perceptions. The results indicate a consensus that elderly individuals and their families should be treated with dignity until the very last moment.
Nonetheless, certain needs were identified. Among the main recommendations are the need to expand training opportunities on end-of-life care, improve access to palliative care, and provide psychological support for professionals. As a suggestion for good practices, the expansion of the "wish sheet" is proposed to personalize care.
Thus, the Project Work in general and the intervention project "Caring with Knowledge: Training in Palliative Care for ERPI" emerge as concrete responses to these identified needs, promoting a training approach that aims not only to equip participants but also to encourage active and integrated participation in the palliative care context. Its implementation seeks to foster a collaborative learning space where professionals and other stakeholders can deepen their knowledge, share experiences, and strengthen essential competencies for more humanized and effective care within ERPI.
With this initiative, the goal is not only to address training gaps but also to contribute to sustainable improvements in the quality of care provided in ERPI
Connecting present and future soil erosion risk in the upper Tagus river region of Portugal
No full textAutor correspondente: Duarte, António Canatário.Soil water erosion causes soil degradation, affecting its fertility and, consequently, leading to the loss of its productive capacity and may contribute to a process of desertification. Countries in the Mediterranean basin are under the influence of a climate pattern that is unfavorable to maintaining effective soil cover, with peak precipitation events occurring, and an increase in soil erosion rates is expected in changing scenarios. Climate, where the occurrence of extreme meteorological phenomena will be more frequent. The aim of this study is to evaluate the present situation and estimate the future soil erosion risk of in the upper region of the Portuguese part of the Tagus River basin, where agricultural use and livestock activities are dominant in soils that are highly susceptible to erosion. The soil loss estimation was carried out for the current situation and for the climatic conditions projected for 2050, considering two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5). We use the RUSLE methodology to determine the risk of soil water erosion. Although annual precipitation decreases for both RCPs, the erosivity index will increase in both scenarios. Our findings provide insights into the consequences of socioeconomic development options on physical land degradation and loss. To understand the process of soil water erosion, using modeling and other tools, is very important for the design of policy instruments that minimize the effects of climate change on soil.N/
The DDMRP replenishment model: An assessment by simulation
No full textThe original contributions presented in this study are included in the article. Further inquiries can be directed to the corresponding author.Demand-Driven Material Requirements Planning (DDMRP) has been proposed as a solution for managing uncertainty and variability in supply chains by combining decoupling, buffer management and demand-driven planning principles. A key element of DDMRP is its inventory replenishment model, which relies on dynamically adjusted inventory buffers rather than fixed stock levels. However, parameterization of these buffers often involves subjective choices, raising concerns about consistency and performance. This paper assesses the DDMRP replenishment model through discrete-event simulation of a multi-echelon, capacity-constrained production system. Two alternative formulations of the safety stock term in the red zone are compared: the original factor-based approach and a revised formula that incorporates measurable variability coefficients. While both safety stock formulations yield similar numerical results, the revised formula enhances transparency and reduces subjectivity. Assessing the impact of introducing a buffer for components in addition to a finished goods buffer further shows that the componentes buffer can reduce finished goods inventory requirements while maintaining service levels.
These findings contribute to a better understanding of the DDMRP replenishment model, offering practical insights for parameter selection and supply chain design.This work has been supported by FCT—Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia within the R&D Unit Project Scope UID/00319/Centro ALGORITMI (ALGORITMI/UM)
Índice VL e Índice VL-Erva : vivem-se bons momentos para a rentabilidade das explorações leiteiras
No full textAnalisa-se neste número da Ruminantes os Índices VL e VL - ERVA para o período de maio a julho de 2025. Durante o trimestre em análise, o preço médio do leite pago aos produtores individuais do continente foi de 0,471 €/kg, para leite com 3,75% de gordura e 3,29% de proteína. O preço variou entre 0,473 €/kg em maio e 0,468 €/kg em julho. Na Região Autónoma dos Açores o preço médio do leite pago aos produtores individuais que possuem tanque de refrigeração na exploração foi de 0,432 €/kg, para leite com 3,74% de gordura e 3,22% de proteína, tendo variado entre 0,434 €/kg em maio e 0,429 €/kg em junho. Relativamente ao leite Bio produzido em Portugal, durante o trimestre em análise preço médio do leite obtido, segundo o modo biológico de produção, foi de 0,530 €/kg, leite com 3,78% de gordura e 3,25% de proteína. A evolução do preço do leite pago aos produtores e a evolução dos custos da alimentação refletiu-se nos Índices VL e VL - ERVA que, em julho de 2025, foram, respetivamente, 2,005 e 2,871. Parece que se estão a viver bons momentos para a rentabilidade das explorações de bovinos de leite em Portugal. Desde dezembro de 2023 que os índices VL e VL-ERVA apresentam uma linha de tendência crescente, mesmo continuando o leite a ser pago em Portugal a um valor muito mais baixo do que a média trimestral da UE27 (-7,18 cêntimos / kg de leite)
The effects of terrestrial and aquatic activities on foot health: A comparative analysis of podiatric disorders
No full textI would like to thank the coaches of the different clubs in Castelo Branco and Plasencia for their support in informing the athletes, gathering the study sample, and coordinating the exploration days for this work. I also want to thank the athletes who participated in the research; their collaboration was very valuable and provided us with important information about podiatric disorders in sports. Lastly, special thanks to Adrián Román Garrido for his help in obtaining the participants and assisting with the examinations at the University Center of Plasencia.Background/Objectives: This study explores the prevalence of podiatric disorders in relation to factors such as gender, age, and the type of sports activity. Understanding these elements is crucial for implementing effective prevention strategies.
Methods: The sample consisted of 70 participants, aged 12 to 30, with 71.4% youths and 28.6% adults, including 50 Portuguese and 20 Spanish individuals, who practiced either terrestrial or aquatic sports at varying training intensities. Statistical analyses were performed on data collected from athletes using chi-square tests and proportion tests. Variables such as exercise intensity and sport type (terrestrial vs. aquatic) were examined.
Results: Skin disorders were more frequent in men (70.2%) compared to women (29.8%). Regarding age, 70% of individuals aged 19 to 30 years presented dermatoses, compared to 36% in the 12 to 18-year-old group. Exercise intensity also had an impact: 53.8% of athletes engaging in moderate activity exhibited keratoses, compared to 30.8% of those practicing intense activity. Additionally, athletes in terrestrial sports showed an average of 5.2 podiatric disorders, significantly higher than the 3.2 average in aquatic sports. Specifically, terrestrial athletes have a higher prevalence of pinch callus (84.6%) and hyperkeratosis on metatarsal heads (85.7%), while aquatic athletes have more onychomycosis (91.7%) and less hyperkeratosis. A higher prevalence of rotated toes (61.4%) and subungual hematoma (90.9%) was also observed in terrestrial athletes.
Conclusions: The prevalence of podiatric disorders is significantly related to gender, age, and the type of physical activity. Men and Young adults are more prone to dermatoses, while athletes engaging in moderate intensity activity and those athletes in terrestrial sport face a higher risk of podiatric issues. These findings highlight the need for prevention and treatment strategies in relation to the specific characteristics of each group.This study was funded by the Extremadura Regional Government and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) through a grant to the research group (code CTS020, reference GRU21077).N/
Investigation of electrocardiographic changes in individuals with three or more cardiovascular risk factors on Santiago Island: The Cross-Sectional PrevCardio.CV Study
No full textThe study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki, and approved by the Ethics Committee of COMITÉ NACIONAL DE ÉTICA EM PESQUISA PARA A SAÚDE—CABO VERDE, 35/2021.Cerebrocardiovascular diseases represent one of the greatest public health concerns globally.
In Cabo Verde, non-communicable diseases, such as cerebrocardiovascular diseases, have become
leading causes of morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to correlate risk factors with cardiac
electrical changes in adult individuals residing on Santiago Island—Cabo Verde. A cross-sectional
population-based study using simple random sampling was conducted in 2021 with individuals aged
18 and over, of both sexes, having authorization 35/2021 from the Cabo Verde Ethics Commission.
The sample size was calculated based on Santiago Island’s projected population for 2021, considering
an estimated prevalence of 50%, a 95% confidence interval, and a standard error of 4%, resulting in
a sample of 599 individuals. The data were collected through a questionnaire on risk factors and
cerebrocardiovascular diseases, blood pressure measurement, capillary blood glucose evaluation,
and a 12-lead electrocardiogram. The study sample was predominantly female (54.8%), with the
largest age group being 18–27 years (21%). Among the sample, 9.3% had no risk factors, 27.5% had
one risk factor, 36.2% had two risk factors, and 26.9% had three or more risk factors. Of those
who underwent electrocardiography, 60.24% showed electrocardiographic changes, with the most
prevalent being ventricular repolarization changes, nonspecific repolarization changes, and early
repolarization. A relationship was observed between cerebrocardiovascular disease risk factors and
the electrocardiographic changes found in the study participants.N/
Dynamic energy-aware anchor optimization for contact-based indoor localization in MANETs
No full textData Availability Statement: The data presented in this study are openly available in https://github.com/Bear-the-box/adaptive-indoor-location-for-manets, accessed on 29 September 2025.Indoor positioning remains a recurrent and significant challenge in research. Unlike outdoor environments, where the Global Positioning System (GPS) provides reliable location information, indoor scenarios lack direct line-of-sight to satellites or cellular towers, rendering GPS inoperative and requiring alternative positioning techniques. Despite numerous approaches, indoor contexts with resource limitations, energy constraints, or physical restrictions continue to suffer from unreliable localization. Many existing methods employ a fixed number of reference anchors, which sets a hard balance between localization accuracy and energy consumption, forcing designers to choose between precise location data and battery life. As a response to this challenge, this paper proposes an energy-aware indoor positioning strategy based on Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs). The core principle is a self-adaptive control loop that continuously monitors the network’s positioning accuracy. Based on this real-time feedback, the system dynamically adjusts the number of active anchors, increasing them only when accuracy degrades and reducing them to save energy once stability is achieved. The method dynamically estimates relative coordinates by analyzing node encounters and contact durations, from which relative distances are inferred. Generalized Multidimensional Scaling (GMDS) is applied to construct a relative spatial map of the network, which is then transformed into absolute coordinates using reference nodes, known as anchors. The proposal is evaluated in a realistic simulated indoor MANET, assessing positioning accuracy, adaptation dynamics, anchor sensitivity, and energy usage. Results show that the adaptive mechanism achieves higher accuracy than fixed-anchor configurations in most cases, while significantly reducing the average number of required anchors and their associated energy footprint. This makes it suitable for infrastructure-poor, resource-constrained indoor environments where both accuracy and energy efficiency are critical.V.N.G.J.S. acknowledges that work is funded by FCT/MECI through national funds and, when applicable, co-funded EU funds under UID/50008: Instituto de Telecomunicações.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio