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A benchmarking report on best and new practices
No full textThe Bragança Polytechnic University in Portugal (IPB), in collaboration with the Foundation for Studies and Training in Local Administration (FEFAL), the National Institute of Administration (INA, I. P.), the City University of Applied Sciences Bremen in Germany (HSB), and the Silesian University in Opava in the Czech Republic (SUO), are spearheading a project to thoroughly analyze the culture of innovation in local public administration. This project also aims to develop cutting-edge training programs to enhance local public services, tailored to meet the needs of citizens and economic agents. In our globalized and highly competitive world, innovation has become essential for both businesses and organizations. This is particularly true in the public sector, where local governments are increasingly relying on innovative strategies to foster economic and social development, tackle challenges, and improve responsiveness. Innovation in the public sector is also crucial for meeting the demands and expectations of an informed, participatory, and demanding citizenry. As such, it remains a top priority. Through this report, we seek to identify the challenges in fostering a culture of innovation within the public sector and to determine the necessary skills for its successful implementation
Functional capacity of hemodialysis patients – 13 years of evolution
Full text linkChronic kidney disease and hemodialysis are factors that affect functional capacity, and physical inactivity, sarcopenia and
a sedentary lifestyle are important risk factors for mortality (1,2). Physical exercise can offer multiple benefits to patients with chronic kidney disease, such as improving aerobic and functional capacity and having a positive impact on quality of life (3,4).
To describe the changes in functional capacity over 13 years in the same group of people with chronic kidney disease
on hemodialysis.
Functional capacity was assessed at two different times, spaced 13 years apart, using the 6-meter Timed Up and Go, the 30-second sit to stand test and the handgrip strength test. The data is presented using measures of central tendency and dispersion (compared using the non-parametric Wilcoxon test).
Results
Seven people (4 women and 3 men) with an average age of 55.49±11.98 years in 2012 (average age of 68.49 years in 2025) took part in the two assessments. The subjects showed statistically significant changes in the results of the tests [2012 data vs. 2025 data] Up and Go (9.66±4.06 vs. 12.03±5.07 seconds), sit to stand (17.33±7.66 vs. 12.15±4.33 repetitions), average right and left hand grip strength (19.12±7.43 vs. 14.72±8.42 Kg/f). From the analysis of the results, it can be seen that the patients saw a clear reduction in their functional capacity when comparing the two assessment moments.
Conclusion/Application to practice
There was a marked reduction in levels of functionality over the 13 years between the two assessments. The implementation of intervention programs could mitigate the negative effects of biological aging, sedentary lifestyle and the catabolic state resulting from chronic kidney disease and hemodialysis
Development of cosmetic functional formulations incorporating hyaluronic acid
No full textMestrado de dupla diplomação com a UTFPR - Universidade Tecnológica Federal do ParanáThe cosmetic industry has been expanding continuously, driven by demand for innovative, sustainable, and high-performance formulations. In this context, this work aimed to develop particles composed of hyaluronic acid (HA) and Collagen type I (Col) to act as Pickering stabilisers in cosmetic emulsions. The particles were prepared using different methods (direct mixing - mix and droping - drop), with the most promising dispersions obtained after high-shear homogenisation: P_17_Mix_Ultra and P_17_Drop_Ultra. These formulations exhibited particle sizes of 12.30 ± 3.73 μm and 2.55 ± 0.08 μm, respectively. Both showed highly negative zeta potentials (–37.73 ± 1.50 mV for the mix and –37.72 ± 0.56 mV for the drop), confirming colloidal stability. Wettability tests demonstrated strong oil affinity, with contact angles of 128.30 ± 1.05° and 137.22 ± 3.20°. The drop method stood out for producing smaller, more homogeneous particles. Pickering emulsions were then prepared using sweet almond oil, Miglyol 812, and olive oil. Olive oil originated the most stable systems, and emulsions with a higher oil fraction (70:30 oil-to-aqueous ratio) presented superior stability compared to those with lower oil content. Analyses of emulsion type, colourimetry, creaming index, droplet size, microscopy, zeta potential, and rheology confirmed the better performance of olive oil-based formulations obtained by the drop method. The formulation E_70_OO_17d (drop method, olive oil, 70:30 ratio) achieved the most promising overall results, with a creaming index of 10% after 30 days, homogeneous droplets, and rheological behaviour exhibiting viscoelastic properties comparable to those of commercial products. In conclusion, HA-Col particles proved to be efficient Pickering stabilisers, enabling the development of stable emulsions. The most promising formulation, E_70_OO_17d, was particularly suitable for moisturising and anti-ageing cosmetic applications, where hyaluronic acid provides hydration and regeneration while Col enhances elasticity and repair.A indústria cosmética vem apresentando uma expansão contínua, impulsionada pela demanda por formulações inovadoras, sustentáveis e de alto desempenho. Nesse contexto, este trabalho teve como objetivo desenvolver partículas compostas por ácido hialurônico (AH) e Colagénio tipo I (Col) para atuarem como estabilizantes de Pickering em emulsões cosméticas. As partículas foram preparadas por meio de diferentes métodos (mistura direta e gotejamento), e as dispersões mais promissoras foram obtidas após a homogeneização de alta cisalha: P_17_Mix_Ultra e P_17_Drop_Ultra. Essas formulações apresentaram tamanhos de partícula de 12,30 ± 3,73 μm e 2,55 ± 0,08 μm, respectivamente. Ambas exibiram valores de potencial zeta negativos (–37,73 ± 1,50 mV para o método de mistura e –37,72 ± 0,56 mV para o método de gotejamento), confirmando a estabilidade coloidal. Os testes de molhabilidade demonstraram forte afinidade com o óleo, com ângulos de contato de 128,30 ± 1,05° e 137,22 ± 3,20°. O método de gotejamento destacou-se por produzir partículas menores e mais homogêneas. Em seguida, foram preparadas emulsões Pickering utilizando óleo de amêndoas doces, Miglyol 812 e azeite. O azeite resultou em sistemas mais estáveis, e as emulsões com maior fração de óleo (razão óleo:água de 70:30) apresentaram estabilidade superior em comparação com as de menor teor de óleo. As análises para identificação do tipo de emulsão, colorimetria, índice de creme, tamanho de gota, microscopia, potencial zeta e reologia confirmaram o melhor desempenho das formulações à base de azeite obtidas pelo método de gotejamento. A formulação E_70_OO_17d (método de gotejamento, azeite, razão 70:30) apresentou os resultados mais promissores, com índice de cremeação de 10% após 30 dias, gotas homogêneas e comportamento reológico adequado, exibindo propriedades viscoelásticas comparáveis às de produtos comerciais. Em conclusão, as partículas de AH-Col mostraram-se eficientes como estabilizantes de Pickering, possibilitando o desenvolvimento de emulsões estáveis. A formulação mais promissora, E_70_OO_17d, revelou-se particularmente adequada para aplicações cosméticas com efeito hidratante e antienvelhecimento, nas quais o ácido hialurônico promove hidratação e regeneração, enquanto o Colagénio contribui para a elasticidade e reparação da pele.This work was supported by national funds through FCT/MCTES (PIDDAC): CIMO UID/00690/2025 (10.54499/UID/00690/2025) and UID/PRR/00690/2025 (10.54499/UID/PRR/00690/2025); SusTEC, LA/P/0007/2020 (DOI: 10.54499/LA/P/0007/2020); the Federal Technological University of Paraná (UTFPR) and the Araucária Foundation for PD&I Agreement nº. 429/2022 and to the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq#305029/2022-3)
Melaço de cana-de-açúcar: um substrato sustentável para a produção de bebidas fermentadas
Full text linkO hidromel é uma das bebidas fermentadas mais antigas, produzida tradicionalmente a partir da fermentação alcoólica de uma solução de mel e água. No entanto, o elevado custo do mel e a sua variabilidade sazonal constituem entraves à sua produção em escala industrial. Neste contexto, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o potencial do melaço de cana-de-açúcar como substrato alternativo para a produção de hidromel, analisando o impacto da sua incorporação, parcial ou total, na cinética fermentativa e composição físico-química.
Foram preparadas formulações com diferentes proporções de melaço (0%, 50% e 100%), mantendo-se constantes os parâmetros de fermentação (pH, densidade inicial, temperatura e levedura inoculada). Monitorizaram-se variáveis como o consumo de açúcares redutores, produção de etanol, viabilidade celular e tempo de fermentação. Após o processo fermentativo, os hidroméis foram analisados quanto ao teor alcoólico, acidez, açúcares residuais, glicerol e dióxido de enxofre total.
Os resultados revelaram que a substituição parcial do mel até 50% por melaço não comprometeu a fermentação nem a qualidade final da bebida, mantendo-se teores alcoólicos entre 10,3% e 10,8% (v/v), com elevada eficiência fermentativa e bom equilíbrio sensorial. A formulação com 50% de melaço destacou-se pelo maior rendimento alcoólico (90,2%) e composição estável. Por outro lado, a substituição total resultou numa fermentação mais lenta, com menor teor alcoólico (9,35% v/v) e acidez mais elevada, embora compatível com a fermentação controlada.
Conclui-se que o melaço de cana-de-açúcar pode ser utilizado como substituto parcial do mel na produção de bebidas fermentadas, representando uma estratégia tecnológica viável, economicamente acessível e ambientalmente sustentável, com potencial para diversificar a oferta de bebidas fermentadas e valorizar subprodutos agroindustriais.Mead is one of the oldest fermented beverages, traditionally produced from the alcoholic fermentation of a solution of honey and water. However, the high cost of honey and its seasonal variability constitute obstacles to its production on an industrial scale. In this context, the present work aimed to evaluate the potential of sugarcane molasses as na alternative substrate for mead production, analyzing the impact of its partial or total incorporation on the fermentative kinetics and physicochemical composition.
Formulations with different proportions of molasses (0%, 50%, and 100%) were prepared, keeping the fermentation parameters constant (pH, initial density, temperature and inoculated yeast). Variables such as reducing sugar consumption, ethanol production, cell viability and fermentation time were monitored. After the fermentation process, the meads were analyzed for alcohol content, acidity, residual sugars, glycerol and total sulfur dioxide.
The results revealed that the partial replacement of honey up to 50% with molasses did not compromise fermentation or the final quality of the beverage, maintaining alcohol levels between 10.3% and 10.8% (v/v), with high fermentative efficiency and good sensory balance. The formulation with 50% molasses stood out for its higher alcohol yield (90.2%) and stable composition. On the other hand, total replacement resulted in slower fermentation, with lower alcohol content (9.35% v/v) and higher acidity, although compatible with controlled fermentation. It is concluded that sugarcane molasses can be used as a partial substitute for honey in the production of fermented beverages, representing a viable, economically accessible and environmentally sustainable technological strategy, with the potential to diversify the supply of fermented beverages and add value to agro-industrial by-products
Contributo das tecnologias digitais para o combate das desigualdades sociais em Moçambique
Full text linkO presente estudo analisa o contributo das tecnologias digitais para a redução das desigualdades sociais em Moçambique. A pesquisa teve como objectivo compreender até que ponto estas tecnologias podem facilitar o acesso a recursos essenciais como informação, educação, saúde e inclusão financeira. O estudo é quantitativo e envolveu a pesquisa bibliográfica e documental, bem como a aplicação de um questionárioonline a 47 inquiridos. Os resultados apontam para barreiras, como o custo elevado de dispositivos tecnológicos que suportam estas tecnologias, acesso limitado à internet e um baixo nível de literacia digital, sublinhando a importância da expansão da infraestrutura tecnológica e promoção de acções de literacia digital como caminhos para combater as desigualdades sociais
Development of a DNA-based methodology for the identification of Pfaffia glomerata in herbal products
Full text linkPfaffia glomerata (Brazilian ginseng) is a medicinal plant widely recognized for its adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Due to its growing commercial value, as well as to its common name that includes the word “ginseng”, and the morphological similarity to other ginsengs, it is increasingly prone to adulteration. This study aimed to develop and validate a species-specific real-time PCR method for the identification and quantification of P. glomerata in commercial herbal products. Primers targeting the ITS1 region were designed and evaluated both in silico and experimentally. Specificity was assessed against 51 medicinal plant samples, including other species known for their adaptogenic properties.
Sensitivity assays confirmed an absolute detection limit of 0.001 ng of P. glomerata DNA.
Quantitative analysis using binary mixtures with Withania somnifera and the ∆Cq normalization method reliably detected P. glomerata at levels as low as 0.1% (w/w) and allowed the accurate estimate of the percentage of P. glomerata material in the range of 50% to 0.1% (m/m). The method was applied to 25 commercial products labeled as P. glomerata, Pfaffia paniculata, Pfaffia, Brazilian ginseng, or other possibly adulterant species of Brazilian ginseng, seven samples showed inconsistencies with the label and were considered as adulterated. P. glomerata DNA was also found to be present in nine other samples, but only at trace amounts (<LOQ of 0.1%), suggesting a cross-contamination rather than adulteration. These findings highlight the high sensitivity of the developed method but also evidence the importance of using the ∆Cq normalization method to estimate the amounts of P. glomerata in mixtures. The results also showed that the molecular strategy developed was effective and sensitive for the authentication of P. glomerata and confirmed the method’s capacity to authenticate P. glomerata and distinguish
it from other adulterant species. The results reveal a high rate of adulteration (3 out of 6) among products marketed under the name P. glomerata or “Brazilian ginseng,” with recurrent substitution of P. glomerata by P. paniculata. In addition, two samples labeled as P. paniculata were found to be P. glomerata, indicating a high level of mislabeling among the two Pfaffia species. These findings highlight weaknesses in labeling practices and support the need for molecular tools to ensure botanical authenticity, for a reliable traceability within the adaptogenic plant market and Pfaffia genus in particular.Pfaffia glomerata (ginseng brasileiro) é uma planta medicinal amplamente reconhecida por suas propriedades adaptogénicas, anti-inflamatórias e imunomoduladoras. Devido ao seu crescente valor comercial, bem como ao facto de seu nome comum incluir a palavra “ginseng” e à sua semelhança morfológica com outros ginsengs, está cada vez mais sujeita a adulteração. Este estudo teve como objetivo desenvolver e validar um método de PCR em tempo real específico para a identificação e quantificação de P. glomerata em produtos fitoterápicos comerciais. Foram desenhados primers direcionados para a região ITS1, avaliados in silico e experimentalmente. A especificidade foi testada contra 51 amostras de plantas medicinais, incluindo outras conhecidas por suas propriedades adaptogénicas. Ensaios de sensibilidade confirmaram um limite absoluto de deteção de 0,001 ng de DNA de P. glomerata. A análise quantitativa, utilizando misturas binárias com Withania somnifera e o método de normalização ∆Cq, detetou de forma confiável P. glomerata em níveis tão baixos quanto 0,1% (p/p) e permitiu estimar com precisão a percentagem de material de P. glomerata na gama de 50% a 0,1% (m/m). O método foi aplicado a 25 produtos comerciais rotulados como P. glomerata, Pfaffia paniculata, Pfaffia, ginseng brasileiro ou outras espécies possivelmente adulterantes de ginseng brasileiro. Sete amostras apresentaram inconsistências com o rótulo e foram consideradas adulteradas. DNA de P. glomerata também foi encontrado em outras nove amostras, mas apenas em quantidades residuais (<LOQ de 0,1%), sugerindo contaminação cruzada e não adulteração. Estes resultados destacam a alta sensibilidade do método desenvolvido, mas também evidenciam a importância da utilização do método de normalização ∆Cq para estimar as quantidades de P. glomerata em misturas. Os resultados também mostraram que a estratégia molecular desenvolvida foi eficaz e sensível para a autenticação de P. glomerata, confirmando a capacidade do método para distinguir a espécie de possíveis adulterantes. Foi revelada uma taxa elevada de adulteração (3 em cada 6) entre os produtos comercializados sob o nome P. glomerata ou “ginseng brasileiro”, com substituição frequente de P. glomerata por P. paniculata. Além disso, duas amostras rotuladas como P. paniculata foram identificadas como P. glomerata, indicando um elevado nível de erros de rotulagem entre as duas espécies de Pfaffia. Esses resultados evidenciam falhas nas práticas de rotulagem e reforçam a necessidade de ferramentas moleculares para garantir a autenticidade botânica, possibilitando uma rastreabilidade fiável no mercado de plantas adaptogénicas e, em particular, do género Pfaffia.This work was supported by the FCT (Fundaç ão para a Cie ̂ ncia e Tecnologia) through the project “POIROT: novel methods and approaches for detecting the illegal addition of Pharmaceutical drugs and botanical adulteration in plant food supplements” (DOI:10.54499/PTDC/SAU-PUB/3803/2021)
Physicochemical Characterisation of Olive Mill Wastewaters Based on Extraction Methods and Filtration Levels
Full text linkOlive mill wastewaters (OMWW) generated during olive oil extraction represent a significant environmental challenge due to their high organic matter content, acidic pH, phenolic content, and toxicity. Their composition varies widely depending on the extraction method and remains difficult to treat, particularly for small-scale producers lacking access to complex infrastructure. This study evaluates the combined effect of the extraction system (traditional vs. three-phase continuous) and filtration level (single vs. double) on the physicochemical and biological properties of OMWW. The methodologies employed included the analysis of water content, density, fatty acid composition, acidity, pH, total solids, chemical and biochemical oxygen demand, and biodegradability. The results indicate that traditional systems consistently produced OMWW with higher organic matter and phenolic loads, while filtration moderately reduced antioxidant potential and acidity, especially in traditional systems. The use of simple, low-cost filtration materials proved effective in improving effluent clarity and could serve as a practical pre-treatment option. This approach offers an accessible strategy for small producers aiming to valorise OMWW or reduce environmental impact. However, the study was conducted at the laboratory scale, and the long-term behaviour of filtered OMWW under real operating conditions remains to be evaluated.This research was partially funded through the base funding from the project CMFPE3; EXPL2021CIMO_01 (OliveWasteWater4MWFs) supported by CIMO, Centro de Investigação de Montanha, based in Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Bragança, Portugal. National funds also supported this work through FCT/MCTES (PIDDAC): CIMO, UIDB/00690/2020 (DOI: 10.54499/UIDB/00690/2020) and UIDP/00690/2020 (DOI: 10.54499/UIDP/00690/2020); and SusTEC, LA/P/0007/2020 (DOI: 10.54499/LA/P/0007/2020); UIDB/04077/2020 (Mechanical Engineering and Resource Sustainability Center (MEtRICs)), UIDB/00532/2020 and LA/P/0045/2020 (ALiCE). Inês S. Afonso was supported by the doctoral grant 2024.05919.BDANA, financed by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT)
Computatio Litterarum Limitis Project: exploring AI’s endless possibilities in preserving and disseminating ancient texts
Full text linkWith around 7500 printed volumes and rare manuscripts preserved in local libraries and archives, Bragança, an inland city in Portugal next to Spain, plays a key role in the region’s cultural identity, especially given its historical border significance. Studying and using AI to explore and promote Bragança’s bibliographic collections represents a significant cultural initiative, strengthening its heritage value. The project CompLiTT – Computatio Litterarum limitis: Calculations of literary culture on the border, funded by the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology and running from November 2024 until April 2026, intends to use technology to provide greater access to these literary treasures, reducing barriers and liaising with foreign cultures. The project aims to preserve and analyse historical texts while capitalising on AI to improve accessibility. AI software will enable intelligent reading, labelling, thematic analysis, and generating summaries of the books. It also seeks to update Bragança’s multilingual catalogue and highlight rare works in seven languages, benefiting both researchers and the public. The AI-driven approach will help connect and contextualise these texts, guaranteeing broader dissemination of Bragança’s literary heritage while making book knowledge more democratic and accessible. The work methodology followed is based on meta-analysis and meta-synthesis, grounded on the humanistic study, through observation, documentation and research using the library method, and, finally, through advanced computer resources, which will allow for the organisation and execution of the project. Therefore, we aim to introduce a wider international audience to the project at this conference,
showcasing its literary and technological innovations and benefits. At the same time, by disseminating CompLiTT, we seek to identify similar cases in other European border regions, enabling us to expand and adapt our work to create new contexts
Evolução e resposta dos serviços de imagiologia da ULSNE: uma análise entre 2015 e 2021
Full text linkA Imagiologia, enquanto especialidade médica fundamental na área do diagnóstico e terapêutica, tem acompanhado a evolução tecnológica, recorrendo a métodos como a tomografia computorizada (TC), a ressonância magnética (RM), a ecografia e a mamografia. Estas técnicas exigem recursos especializados, tanto a nível de equipamentos gold standard, como de profissionais qualificados, sendo, por isso, uma área com exigências acentuadas em termos organizacionais e operacionais.
O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a evolução da atividade e a capacidade de resposta dos serviços de Imagiologia da Unidade Local de Saúde do Nordeste (ULSNE), entre 2015 e 2021, considerando o impacto de fatores organizacionais e epidemiológicos que marcaram este período. A investigação baseou-se numa abordagem quantitativa, através da análise estatística descritiva de dados relacionados com o número, tipo e origem dos exames realizados, o tempo médio de espera para uma TC e os custos associados à atividade imagiológica.
Os resultados demonstraram um aumento progressivo do número de atos médicos solicitados, com um pico de solicitações em 2019, atingindo uma média diária de 371 solicitações. Em 2021, os serviços de Clínica Geral de Bragança e Mirandela destacaram-se pelo volume de atividade. Observou-se, no entanto, uma redução em áreas específicas, como Digestivo e Urografia. Os módulos de Urgência e Admissão Direta/Centro de Saúde foram os principais responsáveis pela procura, seguidos pela Consulta Externa. A assistência técnica foi transversal a todos os módulos, incluindo o Bloco Operatório.
Esta análise permitiu caracterizar a evolução dos serviços de Imagiologia da ULSNE, identificar constrangimentos estruturais e operacionais, e refletir sobre oportunidades de melhoria. Apesar das limitações ao nível de recursos humanos e tecnológicos, os dados sugerem uma resposta globalmente ajustada às exigências da população, destacando a necessidade de reforço na gestão e planeamento para garantir maior resiliência e capacidade de resposta futura.Imaging, as a fundamental medical specialty in the field of diagnosis and therapy, has kept pace with technological developments by employing methods such as computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, and mammography. These techniques require specialised resources, including gold-standard equipment and highly qualified professionals, making this a highly demanding area from both organisational and operational perspectives.
This study aimed to assess the evolution of activity and the response capacity of the imaging services of the Nordeste Local Health Unit (ULSNE) between 2015 and 2021, considering the impact of organisational and epidemiological dynamics during this period. The research followed a quantitative approach through descriptive statistical analysis of data related to the number, type, and origin of imaging exams performed, the average waiting time for CT scans, and the costs associated with imaging services.
The results showed a progressive increase in the number of medical imaging requests, peaking in 2019 with a daily average of 371 requests. In 2021, General Practice services in Bragança and Mirandela stood out for their high volume of activity. However, a decline was observed in specific areas such as Digestive and Urography exams. Emergency and Direct Admission/Primary Health Centre modules were the main sources of demand, followed by Outpatient Consultations. Technical assistance was transversal across all modules, including the Operating Room.
This analysis allowed for a detailed understanding of the evolution of imaging services at ULSNE, highlighting structural and operational constraints and identifying areas for improvement. Despite existing limitations in human and technological resources, the data suggest an overall adequate response to population needs, underlining the importance of strengthening management and planning strategies to enhance resilience and future service capacity
Clinical case report: severe neonatal jaundice due to abo incompatibility
Full text linkA clinical situation in which foetal red blood cells carrying different surface antigens pass through the placenta into the maternal circulation. Following the initial exposure, the maternal immune system produces IgM-type antibodies. A second exposure triggers the rapid and massive production of IgG antibodies, which cross the placenta and bind to the foetus's red blood cells. Since the introduction of Rh immunoglobulin (RhIG) in 1968, the incidence has decreased significantly (Harmening, 2012). This disease can cause foetal anaemia, erythropoiesis with hepatosplenomegaly, increased bilirubin due to the destruction of red blood cells. In some cases, this can be fatal