Browsing by Issue Date, starting with "2025-05"
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- Innovative curriculum strategies for managing the future of food science, technology and engineering educationPublication . Saguy, I. Sam; Silva, Cristina L. M.; Cohen, EliThe rapid advancement of science and technology, driven by digitalization and artificial intelligence, underscores the need to reevaluate food science, technology, and engineering (FST&E) education. A global study with 688 respondents examined key challenges and opportunities in this evolving field, gathering input from professionals and students in Africa, China, Eastern and Western Europe, USA & Canada, and South America & Mexico. The study aimed to identify strategies such as hybrid teaching, project-based learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and internships to meet future educational demands. Principal Component Analysis highlighted two key factors: professional development (PC1), which grouped adaptability, employability, soft skills, and apprenticeships; and future-oriented education (PC2), clustering hybrid teaching, curriculum revisions, nutrition integration, and research projects. African participants placed greater emphasis on these factors compared to USA respondents. A notable finding was the lower engagement of food engineering (FE) professionals with both principal component factors compared to their food science and technology (FST) counterparts. This suggests a possible resistance to change or higher satisfaction with the status quo, which could limit FE professionals' ability to meet future business and innovation requirements. This is concerning given the rapid technological and science progress and the necessity for new curricula that foster innovation. The study underscores the importance of adapting FST&E education to regional differences and evolving industry expectations. It advocates for strategic educational transformations that integrate emerging technologies, interdisciplinary approaches, and practical learning opportunities to equip students for future challenges and capitalize on new opportunities in the FST&E field.
- Evaluating cork coating homogeneity using hyperspectral imaging and texture analysis: a comparative study of stationary and mobile pneumatic pistol coating applicationsPublication . Guedes, Gonçalo M.; Fhuaráin, Áine M. Ní; Herrero-Langreo, Ana; Santos, Ana Filipa L. O. M.; Gowen, Aoife A.; Ferreira, António C. SilvaCork stoppers are vital for wine bottle packaging, allowing the sealing of the wine in the bottle. Cork stoppers are coated with a treatment to increase impermeability and lubrication, ensuring the quality and longevity of bottled wines. This coating, typically made of hydrophobic polymers, is applied during the final stages of cork production. The application of the coating material to the cork surface takes place in a drum and can be applied using two methods, a stationary or a mobile pneumatic pistol. In this study, cork coating homogeneity is evaluated using hyperspectral imaging to investigate which coating application method, a stationary pneumatic pistol, or a mobile pneumatic pistol, gives higher coating homogeneity on the cork surface. Partial least squares-discriminant analysis on hyperspectral images and texture analysis algorithms showed that there is more coating homogeneity when coating is applied with the mobile pneumatic pistol method than when coating is applied with the stationary pneumatic pistol method. This result is advantageous for industry as they can potentially optimize coating methods and choose the coating application method which achieves greater coating homogeneity on their cork samples.
- Matching the sensory analysis of Serpa PDO cheese with the volatile profiles—a preliminary studyPublication . Macedo, Antónia; Carvalho, Maria João; Mecha, Elsa; Costa, Leonor; Ferreira, António; Inácio, Rita S.; Bronze, Maria do RosárioSerpa cheese, a Portuguese Protected of Denomination Origin (PDO) cheese, known for its unique sensory attributes, is made from the raw milk of native sheep. In this preliminary work, ten samples of Serpa cheese were submitted for a sensory evaluation performed by an expert panel in a sensory laboratory accredited according to ISO 17025 for Serpa cheese parameters, and the panelists classified the cheeses based on texture, taste and odor scores, in accordance with the specifications for the classification of this type of cheese. All cheeses were analyzed by SPME-GC-MS. Following an exploratory unsupervised multivariate analysis, the supervised multivariate analysis by partial least squares—discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), associated the relative percent area of the identified volatiles with the classification of cheeses attributed by the sensory panel. Among the 144 compounds putatively identified, there was a pattern of compound distribution of some of them, such as acetoin, diacetyl, and 2,3-butanediol, leaning toward the cheese samples with high taste and odor scores, while other compounds, such as ethyl caprate, capric acid, and 3-methylindole, were more associated with the cheese samples rated with a low score. Despite the reduced number of samples that may have imposed some restrictions on the conclusions drawn, there was a clear trend in the volatiles’ distribution, allowing us to identify, based on the higher correlation loadings, potential candidates for the Serpa cheese sensory quality. This preliminary study presents, for the first time, an overview of the volatiles that are present in Serpa PDO cheese that may be responsible for the positive or negative sensory evaluation of this PDO cheese.
- Trends in homelessness and social sustainability: veterans vs. non-veterans in the USPublication . Leite, Ângela; Silva, Catarina Vieira daIntroduction: Social sustainability is deeply connected to the well-being of marginalized groups, and it is important to highlight how mental health impacts the social inclusion of homeless individuals, particularly veterans. Homelessness is a growing global issue, disproportionately affecting U.S. veterans, with mental health challenges playing a significant role in its onset and perpetuation. Purpose: This study aims to compare the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of homeless veterans and non-veterans in the U.S. Method: Using public data (N = 6295), this quantitative study applies descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. Results: Homeless veterans are more likely than non-veterans to be older, male, and identify as Caucasian or African American. They are more frequently high school graduates or have higher education, and report being divorced, widowed, married, or in varied employment statuses (full-time, part-time, or unemployed). Veterans exhibit higher rates of severe mental illnesses, schizophrenia, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, depression, anxiety, and substance or alcohol use disorders. However, they are less likely than non-veterans to report substance-induced disorders, intoxication, dependence, or abuse involving cocaine, cannabis, opioids, and other substances. Conclusions: Psychosocial interventions for homeless veterans should prioritize mental health-related concerns, whereas efforts for homeless non-veterans should focus on addressing substance use. Future research should develop tailored interventions, explore the sociodemographic factors influencing homelessness, and investigate the interplay between trauma, mental health, and substance use. Addressing these issues can contribute to a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable society by providing long-term support and integration opportunities for those most affected. The novelty of this study lies in distinguishing between mental health issues prevalent in veterans and substance use disorders more common in non-veterans, offering insights for tailored interventions. It also connects these findings to social sustainability, suggesting that addressing these issues can promote a more inclusive and resilient society.
- Biodiversity assessment in a floating treatment wetland established in a stormwater pondPublication . Calheiros, Cristina S. C.; Ilarri, Martina; Godinho, Mariana; Castro, Paula M. L.; Pereira, Sofia I. A.Floating treatment wetland (FTW) are a nature-based solution delivering a wide range of ecosystem services when applied in water bodies, such as lakes and rivers. They are recognized for delivering biodiversity, aesthetic integration, and water quality enhancement through phytoremediation processes, although research is still needed to go deeper into the processes underlying the performance of these systems and evaluate the extent of biodiversity promotion especially on pond ecosystems. This study aimed to assess the plant establishment and biodiversity associated with an FTW set up in a rural artificial stormwater pond, with a polyculture comprising Iris germanica, Acorus gramineus, Caltha palustris, and Typha latifolia set in a cork agglomerate platform. For this, it was assessed the culturable bacterial communities associated to the floating platform and the rooting system, and the macroinvertebrates associated to the FTW and to the pond margin. Culturable bacterial communities colonizing the floating platform biofilm and the plant rhizosphere were isolated, identified by 16S rRNA, and characterized for their ability to produce plant growth-promoting substances (e.g., indole-acetic acid, siderophores). There was a high bacterial genera diversity associated with the FTW and with the ability to produce plant growth-promoting substances. Bacterial strains with outstanding growth-promoting traits can be used in the future to support phytoremediation strategies or plant resilience to climate change-related abiotic stresses. Regarding the biodiversity of macrofauna, namely macroinvertebrates, associated with FTW, they were mostly from the order Odonata. The FTW attracted mainly individuals of the genus Coenagrion, which represented more than 80 % of the associated fauna. The full life cycle of dragonflies and damselflies occurred in the FTW. These systems proved to be a hotspot of biodiversity supporting water and landscape management plans, besides aesthetics integration. This study gives new insights into broadening the FTW applications in stormwater or prospects to polluted water.
- Breaking the virus: yeast glucans as an effective alternative to acyclovir in HSVI treatmentPublication . Tavares-Valente, Diana; Moreira, Helena; Sousa, Pedro; Amorim, Manuela; Conde, António; Pintado, Manuela; Fernandes, João; Azevedo-Silva, JoãoGlucans, structural polysaccharides in the yeast cell wall, are known for their biological and immunomodulatory capacities, helping in prevention and management of infections. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSVI) is a prevalent infection that causes great comorbidity and is challenging to treat due to the adverse effects of standard antiviral drugs like acyclovir. This study assessed the potential of yeast glucans extracted from two different origins − a steviol-glycoside producing strain and a wild-type strain- to circumvent HSVI infection, either in vitro and ex vivo. Treatment with glucans in keratinocytes and macrophages in vitro reduced cell infection similarly to acyclovir. However, unlike acyclovir, glucans demonstrated an immunostimulatory effect, increasing the production of IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6. Additionally, both glucans were formulated with squalane for skin application. This formulation improved glucans penetration in the skin, restored skin structure and reduced the cytopathic effect of HSVI infection. In summary, this study highlights yeast glucans as a natural therapeutic alternative for HSVI treatment, offering an option with an excellent safety profile. Moreover, using glucans from industrial side-streams promotes a sustainable approach, contributing to the circular economy.
- In vitro colonic fermentation of clean label ham formulations: gut microbiota modulation and metabolite productionPublication . Carvalho, Teresa Bento de; Barbosa, Joana Bastos; Carvalho, Nelson Mota de; Komora, Norton; Carvalho, Fátima; Madureira, Ana Raquel; Teixeira, PaulaConsumer wishes for “clean label” products have prompted the rise of these products available in the market. With dietary choices directly influencing market trends, developing novel meat products with natural nitrate and nitrite alternatives is a sought-after premise. Cured meats like ham have been under scrutiny due to their potential harm to human health, having sodium nitrite been theorised to trigger dysbiosis of the gut microbiota and impair faecal short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production. Four novel ham formulations with a natural nitrate source coupled with nitrate-reducing starter cultures were subjected to an in vitro gastrointestinal digestion simulation (INFOGEST) and followed by in vitro colonic fermentation. The impact of each novel ham formulation on the gut microbiota and their fermentation metabolites, namely SCFAs, was assessed by quantitative Next Generation Sequencing and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography, respectively. No significant differences have been found for SCFAs levels or microbial communities throughout colonic fermentation. Further research should provide insight into how these alternatives can be associated with nitrosamine formation. The potential benefits of "clean label" alternatives need to be thoroughly demonstrated. While these solutions are often considered preferable to traditional nitrite-containing products, their implementation should be approached with caution. In addition to their antimicrobial efficacy and consumer acceptance, it is essential to assess their impact on product cost and compare their performance and health impact (positive or negative) with that of traditional nitrite formulations. Extensive research is needed to ensure that any move to "clean label" formulations is based on solid evidence rather than market trends.
- Green school - um lugar chamado escola: Diário de bordo viagem a bali: visita à "green school"Publication . Galante, Cristina
- The wittmann-price theory of emancipated decision-making in women’s health care: an analysis based on McEwenPublication . Lopes, Marlene Isabel; Wittmann-Price, Ruth A.The use of theories in nursing reflects the discipline’s progression toward autonomy and delineates its scope, directly guiding practice, research, education, and administration. This paper analyzes and evaluates the theoretical model for nursing care of women involved in health care decisions—The Wittmann-Price Theory of Emancipated Decision-Making in Women’s Health Care—based on McEwen’s systematic theory 3-phase evaluation method. Developed through a rigorous process, this theory centers on the concept of emancipation and its associated subconcepts crucial to decision-making in women’s health. This included crafting explanatory propositions and incorporating them into a structured theoretical framework. Having been applied and refined in various clinical settings, the theory has improved in applicability and proven effective for guiding nursing care across diverse environments. Furthermore, fostering a flexible environment that enhances personal knowledge significantly contributes to emancipated decision-making, which is closely linked to decision satisfaction.
- Economic impact of healthcare cyber risksPublication . Brilhante, M. Fátima; Mendonça, Sandra; Pestana, Pedro; Rocha, M. Luísa; Santos, RuiPurpose: The healthcare sector is a primary target for cybercriminals, with health data breaches ranking among the most critical threats. Despite stringent penalties imposed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights (OCR), vulnerabilities still persist due to slow detection and ineffective data protection measures. On the other hand, as organizations are often reluctant to disclose security breaches for fear of reputational and market share losses, penalties can serve as a useful proxy for quantifying losses and insurance claims. Methods: This study analyzes fines and settlements (2008–2024) using the traditional lognormal, general extreme value (GEV) and other heavy-tailed statistical models, including the geo-max-stable loglogistic law, and also the mixture models hyperexponential and hyperloglogistic. Results: Mixture models, either the hyperexponential or the hyperloglogistic, deliver the best fit for OCR penalties, and for yearly maxima, the best fit is achieved with the GEV distribution. Regarding Attorneys General fines, the hyperexponential model is optimal, with the GEV model excelling again for their yearly maxima. Hence, mixture models effectively capture the dual nature of penalty data, comprising clusters of moderate and extreme values. However, yearly maxima align better with the GEV model. Conclusions: The findings suggest that while Panjer’s theory for aggregate claims suffices for moderate claims, it must be supplemented with strategies to address extreme cybercrime scenarios, ensuring insurers and reinsurers can manage severe losses effectively.