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Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that can result in lung fibrosis, and is strongly associated with the presence of serum anti-topoisomerase-I autoantibodies. A young man with genetic muscular dystrophy caused by titin-cap/telethonin (TCAP) gene mutation, developed a severe restrictive lung disease due to a fibrosing interstitial pneumonia secondary to systemic sclerosis with positive anti-topoisomerase-I antibodies. Using amino acid sequence alignment and protein structure modelling, we found that mutant telethonin exposes an amino acid sequence with significant homology to an immunodominant site of topoisomerase-I. Abnormal telethonin results in a loss of integrity of the sarcomere structure, which might result in rhabdomyolysis and abnormal protein exposure to the immune system. Our preliminary analysis suggests a possible role for mutant sarcomere protein telethonin as an immunogenic target recognised by anti-topoisomerase-I antibodies, which could explain the development of systemic sclerosis in this particular patient.

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary fish oil replacement with a mixture of vegetable oils and probiotic supplementation on plasma biochemical parameters, oxidative stress, and antioxidant ability of Seriola dumerili. Specimens with an initial weight of 175 g were used. Four feeds were formulated with 0% (FO-100), 75% (FO-25), and 100% (FO-0 and FO-0+ with the addition of Lactobacillus probiotics) substitution of fish oil with a mixture of linseed, sunflower, and palm oils. After 109 days, no significant differences were observed in the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the liver, foregut, and hindgut, only glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity in the liver was higher in the fish fed the FO-100 diet than in those fed the FO-0 diet. No significant differences were observed in the total, reduced, and oxidized glutathione and the oxidative stress index in the liver. In addition, lipid peroxidation in the liver and red muscle values were higher in the fish fed the FO-100 diet than in the fish fed the FO-0+ diet, however, the foregut of the fish fed the FO-100 diet presented lower values than that of the fish fed the FO replacement diet, with and without probiotics. There were significant differences in cholesterol levels in the FO-100 group; they were significantly higher than those observed with the fish diets without fish oil. To sum up, fish oil can be replaced by up to 25% with vegetable oils in diets for Seriola dumerili juveniles, but total fish oil substitution is not feasible because it causes poor survival. The inclusion of probiotics in the FO-0+ diet had no effects on the parameters measured.

This article examines how the Post-New Public Management administrative model adopted by a teaching hospital in Portugal shapes innovation processes. We find that innovation is a multi-level organizational phenomenon that relies substantially on the interplay of three factors: (1) trust-based professional autonomy at the individual level; (2) an intra-organizational collaborative approach in innovation (re)design at the team level; and (3) staff involvement/commitment towards the hospital’s strategy in the implementation of innovations at the organizational level. Additionally, innovation is facilitated by interconnected formal and informal processes that mutually reinforce each other. The study contributes to the literature on innovation and administrative models by providing a nuanced understanding of how intra-organizational innovation processes take place within a Post-New Public Management model. As such, it is one of the first attempts to empirically analyse and link the administrative model of Post-New Public Management with innovation. Points for practitioners This research provides an account of how a Post-New Public Management administrative model can foster intra-organizational innovation through collaboration across different hierarchies and professions. The article also helps to better understand the role of organizational dynamics at individual, team and organizational levels on innovation, as well as how these can shape and be shaped by formal and informal processes.

Este trabalho teve como objetivo comparar a ABP e o ensino expositivo relativamente à construção e retenção do conhecimento. O estudo seguiu uma metodologia de investigação quasi- experimental com uma seleção não-aleatória de participantes. Foi sido aplicado um teste cognitivo em duas fases diferentes, a fase I após o término do programa de intervenção e, outra, a fase II, três meses depois. Os resultados mostram que os alunos do grupo experimental melhoram a retenção do conhecimento da fase I para a fase II, algo que não sucedeu com o grupo de controlo. Este estudo permitiu demonstrar que a introdução da ABP no ensino de Ciências Naturais não afeta negativamente o sucesso escolar e, em comparação com o ensino expositivo, promove uma maior retenção do conhecimento.

Tiles are found on numerous Portuguese facades. The exposure to external agents causes degradation and, in some cases, detachment of these tiles. In the coastal area of Aveiro city (Portugal), the building's facades, exposed to adverse atmospheric conditions are in constant contact with aggressive agents, which cause the detachment of a significant amount of facade tiles. Within the scope of the SOS Azulejo Project, and in partnership with the University of Aveiro, Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva de Aveiro, the Prison of Aveiro and DDL Arg, this study encompasses the conservation of a tile facade, after degradation and detachment of the ceramic body. Several replicas of the tiles were made in the specific context of a training action that took place at the Aveiro Prison. The technical study was carried out to analyze the compatibility and reversibility of the mortars and ceramic tiles used. The mortars were tested in their fresh and hard state for consistency through spreading, flexural tensile strength, compressive strength, water absorption, and pull-off adhesion tests on bricks surfaces. The results were satisfactory, and the replicated tiles were applied on a building’s facade on the National Tile Day, as part of an awareness campaign., Os azulejos são encontrados em inúmeras fachadas portuguesas e a sua exposição a agentes exteriores provoca a sua degradação e, em alguns casos, o seu destacamento. Na zona costeira da cidade de Aveiro, perante condições atmosféricas adversas, as fachadas do edificado estão em constante contacto com agentes agressivos, gerando destacamento de uma significativa quantidade de azulejos de fachada. No âmbito do Projeto SOS Azulejo em parceria com a Universidade de Aveiro, a Fábrica Centro Ciência Viva de Aveiro, o Estabelecimento Prisional de Aveiro e a empresa DDL Arg, este estudo viabiliza a ação de conservação de uma fachada, após degradação e destacamento do corpo cerâmico. Foram executadas várias réplicas dos azulejos no contexto específico de uma ação de formação que decorreu no Estabelecimento Prisional de Aveiro. Decorreu o estudo técnico para análise da compatibilidade e reversibilidade da argamassa e dos azulejos. As formulações foram estudadas no estado fresco e no estado endurecido, com a realização de ensaios como a consistência por espalhamento, resistência à tração por flexão, resistência à compressão, absorção de água e aderência ao suporte. Os resultados foram satisfatórios, com aplicação das réplicas de azulejos na fachada, no Dia Nacional do Azulejo, no âmbito de uma ação de sensibilização.

The increasing replacement of fish oil (FO) by vegetable oils (VO) in aquafeeds for marine carnivorous species may lead to modifications of the dietary arachidonic (ARA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) levels and ratios that may compromise the fish immune status. Therefore, this study aimed to assess how different dietary ratios of ARA, EPA, and DHA modulate the immune response of gilthead sea bream juveniles. For that purpose, four isoproteic and isolipidic plant-based diets were formulated to include different dietary Long-Chain-Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (LC-PUFA) ratios (%DM): Diet A (2.0% ARA: 0.2% EPA: 0.1% DHA); Diet B (1.0% ARA: 0.4% EPA: 0.4% DHA); Diet C (0% ARA: 0.6% EPA: 0.6% DHA); Diet D (0% ARA: 0.3% EPA: 1.5% DHA). Fish were fed the experimental diets for 56 days and then the haematological profile, humoral innate immune parameters, and expression of immune-related genes in the gut were determined. Our results showed that fish fed diet B exhibited an increase in the monocyte numbers, alternative complement activity, and bactericidal activity against Photobacterium damselae compared to the values found in fish fed other diets. Contrarily, peroxidase, antiproteases, and proteases activity and nitric oxide levels were not affected by the dietary treatments. Immune-related gene expression in the distal intestine did not show differences between dietary treatments. Overall, a diet with a balanced n-6 (ARA) and n-3 (EPA+DHA) LC-PUFA ratio seemed to better modulate the fish innate immune response, thus better preparing the fish innate immune system against potential immunological insults.

The most commonly used materials to fill gaps/lacunae in glazed tiles are lime mortars or organic resins, which have some disadvantages regarding their compatibility and durability, failing to guarantee the desired characteristics. Therefore, there is a need to develop new materials with compatible characteristics, able to withstand exposure to variations in climatic conditions. This scientific work focuses on the possibility of using geopolymers, aiming to evaluate the possibility of the use of these materials in the intervention process of historic tiles conservation as compatible materials that may be used to fill gaps. Different geopolymer pastes were developed changing the source of aluminosilicates, the type of alkaline activators and the pH. To evaluate the geopolymers, polymers and tiles, several tests were carried out. The results suggest that the geopolymers are a possible option for the filling of tile gaps, given the characteristics that can be achieved, ensuring compatibility and durability properties.

A growth trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary plant-protein replacement by corn distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS), and of exogenous carbohydrases supplement (Natugrain®TS, BASF) in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) juveniles. For that purpose, a basal diet was formulated with 35% of fish meal and 20% soybean meal (SBM) as main protein sources. Two other diets were formulated incorporating 15 or 35% of DDGS, replacing 37.5% or 100% of SBM (diets DDGS15 and DDGS35, respectively). Another diet was formulated similar to diet DDGS35 and supplemented with 0.1% of a commercial non-starch polysaccharidases complex, Natugrain®TS, BASF (CHOase; diet DDGS35ENZ). Triplicate groups of fish (IBW = 15 ± 1 g) were fed the experimental diets for 67 days at 22 °C. At the end of the trial, growth performance, voluntary feed intake, feed efficiency, protein and energy retention were not affected by dietary DDGS incorporation. Dietary CHOase supplementation also did not affect growth performance, but increased feed efficiency, nitrogen and energy retention. Dietary inclusion of DDGS tended to decrease production cost (€ per kg of fish), and dietary CHOase supplementation further reduced production cost, which was significantly lower with diet DDGS35ENZ than with the basal diet. Whole-body composition, hepatosomatic and visceral indexes were not affected by the dietary inclusion of DDGS, though a trend was noticed for a decrease of whole-body lipid, energy, and visceral index with the increase dietary DDGS. Plasma glucose, protein, albumin, and globulins levels were similar among diets, whereas plasma triglycerides increased, and cholesterol decreased with the increase of dietary DDGS. Hepatic glycolytic enzymes activities (hexokinase and glucokinase) were similar among groups, while gluconeogenic (fructose biphosphatase) activity, GDH and ASAT activities decreased with the increase of dietary DDGS. The hepatic activity of oxidative stress-related enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase were not affected by dietary treatments, but G6PDH and GR activities decreased, and liver lipid peroxidation increased with dietary DDGS level. Dietary CHOase supplementation decreased overall lipid peroxidation. Overall, results of this study indicate that total replacement of SBM by DDGS in diets for gilthead seabream did not compromise growth performance or feed utilization efficiency, while supplementation of DDGS-based diet with exogenous carbohydrases improved feed utilization efficiency and economic efficiency ratio.

A growth trial was performed to assess the interactive effects of high dietary levels of arachidonic acid (ARA) or docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and carbohydrates on growth performance, feed utilization, proximate composition, plasma metabolites, and intermediary metabolism. Four isoproteic (47% crude protein) and isolipidic (18% crude lipids) diets were formulated for gilthead sea bream juveniles (47.5 g of initial mean body weight) to include low or high gelatinized starch (5 and 20% starch; LS and HS diets, respectively) and different dietary ARA/DHA content (2.3/0.3 and 0/2.6; ARA and DHA diets, respectively). Dietary ARA/DHA content did not affect growth performance or feed utilization. However, dietary starch inclusion increased feed efficiency, protein efficiency ratio, and energy retention (% intake). Dietary ARA/DHA profile did not affect the whole-body composition, but dietary starch increased whole-body dry matter, lipid, and gross energy content and decreased protein content. Low dietary ARA/DHA ratio increased plasma total protein and total lipids, triglycerides, and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL) and decreased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), independently of the dietary starch level. On the other hand, in LS diets, total cholesterol levels were lower in fish fed the diet rich in DHA than those fed with ARA. HS diets increased glucose, total protein and lipids, triglycerides, and VLDL plasmatic values, and decreased HDL. HS diets increased the carbohydrates intermediary metabolism and lipogenic enzymes. ARA and HS increased fatty acid desaturase 2 (FADS2) and decreased elongation of very long-chain fatty acid 5 protein (ELOVL5) in the liver, and only HS decreased ELOVL5 in the intestine. The muscle fatty acid content followed the dietary fatty acid profile, but ARA, EPA, and DHA content were increased in LS diets. In conclusion, few interactions between ARA or DHA and dietary digestible carbohydrates were found. The results indicate that at least in the presence of high ARA levels the n-3 LC-PUFA requirements were fulfilled with 0.5% EPA + DHA and gilthead sea bream tolerates well dietary inclusion of 20% starch.

[EN] A digestibility trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of fishmeal (FM) replacement with meat and bone meal on diets digestibility, digestive enzymes activity, and microbiota modulation in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) juveniles fed diets (45% CP; 20% CL) including 0, 50, and 75% of protein from MBM (diets MBM0; MBM50; MBM75). The ADC of protein was high and unaffected by dietary MBM level, whereas the ADC of energy was higher with diet MBM50 than with MBM0. The ADC of essential amino acids was also high and not affected by diet composition, except for the ADC of phenylalanine and tyrosine, which were lower in diet MBM75 than in the other diets. Pepsin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, lipase, and total alkaline proteases activities were all unaffected by diet composition. Dietary inclusion of MBM modulated gastrointestinal tract microbiota, decreasing the average number of operational taxonomic units and microbial richness. Dietary MBM inclusion promoted an increase of Vibrio, Bacillus, and Mycobacterium genera, whereas colonization by Staphylococcus and Corynebacterium decreased. Overall, present results indicate that up to 75% of FM protein can be replaced by MBM protein in diets for gilthead seabream juveniles without major adverse effects on diet digestibility and digestive function. However, gastrointestinal microbiota was modulated, and further research should be conducted to evaluate the impact of gastrointestinal microbiota modulation on immune and health status of gilthead seabream., This research was partially supported by the Strategic Funding UID/Multi/04423/2013 through national funds provided by FCT - Foundation for Science and Technology and European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), in the framework of the programme PT2020. C.R. Serra was supported by grant SFRH/BPD/101038/2014, from FCT.

The possibility of using geopolymers to fill gaps/lacunae in glazed ceramic tiles (azulejos) has been studied. Since the 15th century, glazed ceramic tiles are characteristic elements of the Portuguese architectural heritage and their use as external rendering elements has made them prone to degradation. On the other hand, civil construction is a sector with a high consumption of natural resources and CO2 emissions. In order to respond a necessary increase of sustainability in conservation/restoration processes, it is important to create/use sustainable repair materials that also ensure compatibility and durability of interventions. Geopolymers were studied as a potential sustainable and compatible repair material. Two commercial metakaolins ARGICAL-M 1200S and ARGICAL-M 1000 were used as precursors in geopolymer pastes and tested. The purpose of this research was to assess the potential of geopolymers in the restoration of the glazed ceramic tiles, both in the filling of gaps and the bonding of ceramic fragments. The physical, chemical and mineralogical analyses of these materials were performed. Additionally, in order to evaluate possible use in conservation interventions, tile lacunae filling, glazing reintegration and bonding of ceramic fragments were studied. Several tests were performed in order to analyse the compatibility and durability of the designed geopolymers and the ceramic/geopolymer system. The results suggest that the geopolymers had a better performance in the bonding of ceramic fragments and can have potential to be applied in the conservation and restoration of tile facades. Thus, as a general conclusion, it was possible to develop sustainable materials to apply in conservation of buildings facades.

A 39-year-old woman with systemic lupus erythematosus treated with anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab was admitted to our hospital with COVID-19 pneumonia. Despite receiving dexamethasone, she developed hypoxaemia and persistent lung opacities. As bronchoalveolar lavage was suggestive of cryptogenic organising pneumonia, high-dose corticosteroid was administered, and she received antimicrobial therapy for opportunistic infections without improvement. Reverse transcription PCR was repeatedly positive for SARS-CoV-2, and virus replication was confirmed in cell cultures. As no anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were detected more than 100 days after symptom onset, she was treated with convalescent plasma with fast clinical improvement, returning home days later. Our case shows that persistent SARS-CoV-2 infection in an immunocompromised patient may be overturned with the appropriate treatment.

A trial was conducted to evaluate fish meal (FM) replacement with meat and bone meal (MBM; 53% CP, 15% CL, 27% Ash) in diets for gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) juveniles. Three extruded experimental diets were formulated (45% CP; 20% CL) to include 0, 50 and 75% of protein from MBM (diets MBM0; MBM50; MBM75). Triplicate groups of seabream (IBW = 25 g) were fed these diets to satiety for 12 weeks. Growth performance and feed efficiency were similar with the diets MBM0 and MBM50, but were lower with diet MBM75, while the opposite was true for feed intake. Whole-body composition was not affected by diets composition except for crude lipid and energy content, which were lower with the diet MBM75. Protein and essential amino acids retention were unaffected by diet composition, while energy retention was lower with the diet MBM75. In terms of economic efficiency, diets with MBM resulted in a lower production costs, with the lowest economic conversion ratio (€ kg− 1 fish produced) being obtained for the MBM diets while the maximum economic profit (€ kg fish− 1) was obtained for diet MBM50. Overall, up to 50% of FM protein can be replaced by MBM protein in diets for gilthead seabream juveniles, without compromising growth performance, feed utilization, and nutrient retention. Statement of relevance Replacing 50% of fishmeal protein improved economic return.

The decade of Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) ended in January 2015 but to some extent this subject remains unknown to many Portuguese citizens. Geoethics has strong links to the three pillars of Sustainable Development (environmental, economic and social) and is evolving rapidly, but the public understanding of its relationship to Sustainable Development is rather poor and the subject is even neglected in Portuguese classrooms.The environmental pillar was undoubtedly the ESD component that has been more widely implemented in Portuguese school classrooms. Nonetheless, the economic and social pillars of ESD require further thought and concern. Indeed, experts in the field found several difficulties in their attempt to integrate ESD into academic programs. For the purpose of analysing the links between knowledge related to ESD and Geoethics Teaching, an interview-based survey was undertaken with 187 Portuguese citizens. As the results showed a very low knowledge of ESD but a possible linkage with Geoethics Teaching, eight interviews were conducted with basic and secondary science teachers. The purpose of this study is to highlight the possibility of teaching Geoethics throughout the Geoscience Curriculum. Otherwise, the valuable contribution that Geoethics has to offer to Sustainable Development may be lost.

O recurso à modelação como metodologia de ensino é relevante no processo de recriação e simulação de fenómenos naturais, nomeadamente fenómenos geológicos e ambientais. Pretendendo-se verificar se o recurso à modelação é uma metodologia significativa no sucesso da aprendizagem dos estudantes de riscos naturais do ensino superior português, foram analisadas as fichas das unidades curriculares que abordam temáticas de riscos naturais nas universidades públicas portuguesas, tendo-se optado por selecionar apenas unidades curriculares do primeiro ciclo de estudos – licenciatura. No total foram analisadas, com recurso a uma grade de análise, oito fichas de unidades curriculares, ministradas em sete universidades públicas portuguesas. Asevidências encontradas indicam que nenhum dos documentos em análise contempla a utilização da modelação como metodologia de ensino de temáticas de riscos naturais, predominando um ensino essencialmente tradicional, sobressaindo a necessidade de intervenção ao nível das metodologias de ensino valorizando-se a manipulação e a exploração de modelos no ensino superior.

A study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of dietary fishmeal (FM) replacement with Hermetia illucens prepupae larvae meal (HM) on oxidative stress indicators and fillet quality traits during shelf-life of European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) juveniles. HM was used replace 0%, 15%, 30% and 45% of dietary FM, corresponding to an inclusion level of 0%, 6.5%, 13%, and 19.5% of HM. After a feeding period of 62 days, fillet quality traits were analysed immediately after sampling (T0) and after three days of storage at +2/4 °C (T3). At the end of the feeding trial, hepatic lipid peroxidation and activities of superoxide dismutase decreased, catalase activity decreased at intermediary HM inclusion levels, while glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase activities were unaffected with the dietary inclusion of HM. Irrespectively of the diet, storage time did not affect the skin and fillet (dorsal and ventral regions) colour, while fillet pH was higher at the highest dietary HM inclusion level. Biometry traits, slaughter yield, fillet proximate composition, and liver fatty acid (FA) profile were not affected by dietary treatment. Fillet fatty acid profile was also unaffected by diet or storage time, except total C18-FA that decreased at the two intermediary levels of HM inclusion, n-6 PUFA that was higher in fillets from fish fed the HM-based diets, and total n-3 PUFA that decreased with the increase of dietary HM level at T3. The n-3/n-6 ratio was not affected by the diets but decreased with the refrigeration time. Docosapentaenoic acid (DPA; 22:5n-3) decreased with the storage time, irrespectively of the dietary treatment. Fillet lipid peroxidation increased with storage time but decreased with the dietary inclusion of HM. Overall, dietary replacement of fish meal by HM up to 19.5% (22.5% of total dietary protein) did not affect the fillet quality traits and shelf-life of European seabass while reducing fillet lipid oxidation.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of replacing fish meal by poultry by-product meal (PBM) in actual commercial standard diets for gilthead seabream juveniles on growth performance, diet digestibility, digestive function, intestinal microbiota, and provide an economic analysis of using PBM in practical diets. Six isoproteic and isolipidic diets were formulated including increasing levels (from 0 to 37.5%) of PBM in replacement of fish meal, corresponding to a fish meal protein replacement in the diets up to 83%. Each diet was randomly assigned to triplicate groups of fish (IBW 63 g) and the growth trial lasted 70 days. No differences between groups were observed on growth performance, voluntary feed intake, feed efficiency, nitrogen utilization, and whole-body composition. Digestive enzymes activity and the ADC of protein, phosphorus, and energy were also not affected by dietary treatment. Regarding gut microbiota, fish fed diet PBM22.5 showed higher species richness and diversity of digesta microbiota, but no differences between groups were observed in mucosa OTUs, richness, and diversity indices. The cost of diet formulation decreased with the dietary replacement of FM by PBM, highlighting the potential of poultry by-products inclusion in commercial diets. Overall, this study indicates that dietary FM could be replaced at least up to 83% with PBM in diets for gilthead seabream juveniles without affecting growth performance and feed utilization while improving the economic efficiency of these diets.

The possibility of using geopolymers to fill gaps/lacunae in glazed ceramic tiles (azulejos) has been studied. Since the 15th century, glazed ceramic tiles are characteristic elements of the Portuguese architectural heritage and their use as external rendering elements has made them prone to degradation. On the other hand, civil construction is a sector with a high consumption of natural resources and CO2 emissions. In order to respond a necessary increase of sustainability in conservation/restoration processes, it is important to create/use sustainable repair materials, that also ensure compatibility and durability of interventions. Geopolymers were studied as a potential sustainable and compatible repair material. Two commercial metakaolins ARGICAL-M 1200S and ARGICAL-M 1000 were used as precursors in geopolymer pastes and tested. The purpose of this research was to assess the potential of geopolymers in the restoration of the glazed ceramic tiles, both in the filling of gaps and the bonding of ceramic fragments. Several tests were performed in order to analyse the compatibility and durability of the designed geopolymers and the ceramic/geopolymer system. The results suggest that the geopolymers had a better performance in the bonding of ceramic fragments and can have potential to be applied in the conservation and restoration of tile facades.

There are evidences and records concerning clay exploitation for pottery in the island of Santa Maria (Azores, Portugal) in the past. Nowadays this activity is almost extinct but this is the only island in the archipelago with abundant residual and sedimentary clay deposits. To evaluate the applicability of clays from this island for modern ceramics, a campaign made in May 2017 allowed collecting twenty samples in several outcrops all over the island. All samples were subsequently analyzed in terms of granulometry, mineralogy, chemical composition and physical properties. Results revealed to be interesting, namely concerning mineralogical composition, where phyllosilicates such as Kaolinite are in high percentages. Granulometry also revealed that most part of the samples is composed by fine grain size particles (

Adobe is an extremely simple form of earth construction and with this technique the shrinkage associated with the construction of large structures is avoided. In Portugal, earthen materials have been used in load-bearing walls in the form of adobe or rammed earth for the construction of buildings especially in the southern and central coast. Most conventional consolidation treatments used in the past have not succeeded in providing a long-term solution because they did not tackle the main cause of degradation, the expansion and contraction of constituent clay minerals in response to humidity changes. Clay swelling could be reduced significantly by transforming clay minerals into non-expandable binding materials with cementing capacity using alkaline activation. in this study it was being developed adobes with water, and alkaline activated with NaOH and KOH. The obtained results allowed to conclude that the adobes with NaOH and KOH have an increase of its properties.

Sea urchin population harvest in the North Atlantic coast of Portugal was characterized in terms of gonad yield, nutritional composition and important market-related traits, over one reproductive cycle (March 2016 to March 2017). Most of the quality attributes showed a seasonal variation strongly dependent on sea urchin sex. Maximum gonad yield (18%) was observed in March 2017. A single spawning event occurred between May and July. Gonads are rich sources of protein (12–18% WW) with low fat content (≤6% WW), that increase during the gametogenic stages of recovery and growing (November-December). Polyunsaturated fatty acids were the dominant class in both sexes (4.2–14.7 mg.g−1 WW), being preferentially accumulated in females. Total gonads carotenoid varied seasonally, with the highest level being observed in males during spawning season. Echinenone was the main pigment present in gonads, showing highest concentrations in males during spawning and gonad recovering. During the growing and early maturation period gonads were more reddish, yellowish and brighter, as well as more firm, irrespectively of the sex. Based on all seasonal changes affecting gonad yield and quality, the period between November and February seems the most suitable to harvest high quality gonads in the Atlantic coast of Portugal.

Addition of pozzolanic materials increases the mechanical characteristics of construction materials and contributes towards a higher durability. Metakaolin is an artifical pozzolan obtained by calcination of kaolinitic clays at an adequate temperature. Geopolymers are inorganic materials from mineral origin, composed of a precursor, an alkaline activator and a solvent. New geopolymer formulations were designed by sodium silicate/NaOH/KOH activation of metakaolin, zeolites, diatomites and red mud mixtures. The effects of source materials on the microstructure and mechanical properties were studied. Mineralogical and chemical compositions were assessed as well as microstructure, specific surface area, compressive strength and adsorption. In general, incorporation of red mud, zeolite filler and diatomites to metakaolin in medium of alkali activators of low concentration provided formation of more eco-friendly materials with high mechanical resistances and water treatment capabilities.

This study investigates Portuguese science teachers’ and Portuguese high school students’ views regarding nature of science, scientific models and Geoscience models and explores the relations between their views. It also examines how Portuguese science teachers value and use models in science classroom. A survey was applied to 145 science teachers and 415 students of the last year of secondary school, who answered to 14 multiple choice questions. Descriptive analyses showed that teachers and students hold intermediate views regarding nature of science and scientific models. Some errors were also detected concerning Geoscience models. T-test analyses showed significant differences between teachers and students’ views, as teachers gave globally more informed answers. Authors considered that more attention should be given to teachers training regarding those issues and that more research is needed in order to understand how teachers deal with nature of science teaching and how they value and use models in classes.

Problem-Based Learning, a methodology that builds on problems to develop students’ new knowledge, can also be useful in helping students to learn Nature of Science. Prospective science teachers’ conceptions regarding Nature of Science and its teaching through Problem-Based Learning were analyzed by applying a semi-structured interview. Nine respondents recognized that this methodology promote research activities and contribute to the learning of some aspects of scientific inquiry. Moreover, they specifically considered that Problem-Based Learning may foster the understanding of the tentative nature of scientific knowledge and of the role of creativity implicit in scientific endeavor. Authors consider that more attention should be given to the contemporary Nature of Science views and to its consistent teaching through this methodology.

Learning has an important position in the development of employees and their expertise. This article focuses on the role and utilization of intra and interorganizational formal and informal learning within different types of learning networks. Specifically, [the authors] investigate different types of networks (inter- or intraorganizational) and different types of learning (formal or informal) that can occur within such networks. [The] qualitative case study is based on 46 expert interviews involving 49 interviewees, through which [the authors] explore how formal and informal learning was used in the development and implementation of quality improvement initiatives at a large public teaching hospital in Portugal. [The] analysis suggests that formal and informal learning can take place within different types of learning networks that draw on internal resources as well as on the collaboration with external entities. The article argues that it is important for [human resource development] HRD managers, seeking to support organizational learning, to understand how different types of learning take place, and which features of learning networks support these processes.

The long-term inclusion of 10% seaweed meal (Ulva rigida and Undaria pinnatifida) was evaluated in diets for Senegalese sole (Solea senegalensis). Triplicate groups of fish with an initial body weight of 23 g were fed the experimental diets (ULVA and UNDARIA) and compared to fish fed a control diet with no seaweed included (CTRL), both in juvenile (after 5 months of feeding, up to 60 g) and on-growing stages (after 9 months of feeding, up to 160 g). In the early juvenile phase, the inclusion of seaweeds did not affect fish growth, but final body weight was significantly lower in on-growing fish fed the UNDARIA diet. Overall, growth performance was also reduced in fish fed the UNDARIA diet, with a significantly lower daily growth index. Whole-body composition and nutrient retention (% intake) remained unaffected by the dietary treatment, but by the end of the growth trial fish fed the UNDARIA diet had a significantly lower protein gain associated with significantly lower intestinal villi width. At the end of the experiment, fish fed the UNDARIA diet had a significantly higher iodine flesh content (375.7 μg kg −1 ) than those fed the CTRL (187.5 μg kg −1 ) or ULVA (199.3 μg kg −1 ) diets, whereas selenium content was similar in all groups of fish. In conclusion, U. rigida seems a valid ingredient for Senegalese sole diets without affecting fish growth or nutrient utilization. Undaria pinnatifida was an effective way of naturally fortifying the nutritional value of sole fillets for human consumption, but resulted in growth impairment, so a lower inclusion level should be further evaluated. © 2018, Springer Science+Business Media B.V., part of Springer Nature. Funding information This study was partially supported by MARINALGAE4aqua BImproving bio-utilisation of marine algae as sustainable feed ingredients to increase efficiency and quality of aquaculture production^ ERA-NET COFASP/004/2015 and by the Structured R&D&I Project INNOVMAR—Innovation and sustainability in the management and exploitation of marine resources (ref. NORTE-01-0145-FEDER-000035) within the research line BINSEAFOOD— Innovation and valorization of seafood products: meeting local challenges and opportunities^, founded by the Northern Regional Operational Programme (NORTE2020) through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Vegetable oils (VO) are generally accepted as valuable alternatives to fish oils but are devoid of n-3 LC-PUFA (Long-Chain-Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids) and rich in C18-PUFA. Marine fish have limited capacity to express Δ6/Δ5 desaturases (FADS1 and FADS2) and elongases of very-long-chain fatty acids (Elovl), which severely limits their capacity to produce LC-PUFA from C18-PUFA. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary essential fatty acids(EFA) ratios, arachidonic (ARA), eicosapentaenoic (EPA), and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids on growth performance, feed utilization, whole-body composition, hepatic and intestinal activity of key-enzymes of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, and expression of lipid metabolism-related genes. Diets were formulated to include ARA/EPA/DHA ratios of 2.0/0.2/0.1 (Diet A); 1.0/0.4/0.4 (Diet B); 0/0.6/0.6 (Diet C); and 0/0.3/1.5 (Diet D) and were fed to triplicate groups of gilthead sea bream juveniles for 56 days. Dietary EFA ratios did not affect growth performance and whole-body composition. Nevertheless, feed and protein utilization were higher with diet B than diets C or D. Except for ARA, muscle EFA profile followed that of the diets. Plasma triglycerides were higher with diet B and C than A, and plasma cholesterol decreased in fish fed the higher DHA diet. Hepatic ELOVL5 and phospholipase A2 were upregulated in fish fed diet C compared to diet A. In the intestine, ELOVL5 levels were down-regulated in fish fed diet A and D compared to fish fed diet B. Overall, results showed that besides EPA and DHA, adequate dietary ARA level needs to be provided to optimize feed utilization efficiency of gilthead sea bream juveniles.

Nowadays, meaningful learning takes a central role in science education and is based in mental models that allow the representation of the real world by individuals. Thus, it is essential to analyse the student’s mental models by promoting an easier reconstruction of scientific knowledge, by allowing them to become consistent with the curricular models presented in the classroom. In this context, the study aims to examine, through the application of a diagnostic instrument (Two-Tier Diagnostic Test), what students consider to be the seismic effects on soils and buildings, to analyse and to compare their mental models about some of these issues related to seismology, applying a questionnaire to 52 students from a Portuguese University attending an undergraduate degree in Geology and a master course in Biology and Geology teaching. The analysis of the data allowed concluding that undergraduate students have more inconsistent mental models than master students, mainly concerning the factors which influence the seismic risk, such as hazard and vulnerability, and the soils characteristics which influence the intensity of earthquakes. During their academic formation in the university, teachers present some curricular models to students which allow them to reconstruct their mental models and turn them scientifically consistent, enhancing the educational implications of this study that points to the need for teachers to be aware of the importance of the diagnosis of the students’ mental models and to promote meaningful learning and scientific literacy autonomously and dynamically.

Animal mitotic spindle assembly relies on centrosome-dependent and centrosome-independent mechanisms, but their relative contributions remain unknown. Here, we investigated the molecular basis of the centrosome-independent spindle assembly pathway by performing a whole-genome RNAi screen in Drosophila S2 cells lacking functional centrosomes. This screen identified 197 genes involved in acentrosomal spindle assembly, eight of which had no previously described mitotic phenotypes and produced defective and/or short spindles. All 197 genes also produced RNAi phenotypes when centrosomes were present, indicating that none were entirely selective for the acentrosomal pathway. However, a subset of genes produced a selective defect in pole focusing when centrosomes were absent, suggesting that centrosomes compensate for this shape defect. Another subset of genes was specifically associated with the formation of multipolar spindles only when centrosomes were present. We further show that the chromosomal passenger complex orchestrates multiple centrosome-independent processes required for mitotic spindle assembly/maintenance. On the other hand, despite the formation of a chromosome-enriched RanGTP gradient, S2 cells depleted of RCC1, the guanine-nucleotide exchange factor for Ran on chromosomes, established functional bipolar spindles. Finally, we show that cells without functional centrosomes have a delay in chromosome congression and anaphase onset, which can be explained by the lack of polar ejection forces. Overall, these findings establish the constitutive nature of a centrosome-independent spindle assembly program and how this program is adapted to the presence/absence of centrosomes in animal somatic cells.

Purpose Research on accreditation has mostly focused on assessing its impact using large scale quantitative studies, yet little is known on how quality is improved in practice through an accreditation process. Using a case study of an acute teaching hospital in Portugal, the purpose of this paper is to explore the dynamics through which accreditation can lead to an improvement in the quality of healthcare services provided. Design/methodology/approach Data for the case study was collected through 46 in-depth semi-structured interviews with 49 clinical and non-clinical members of staff. Data were analyzed using a framework thematic analysis. Findings Interviewees felt that hospital accreditation contributed to the improvement of healthcare quality in general, and more specifically to patient safety, as it fostered staff reflection, a higher standardization of practices, and a greater focus on quality improvement. However, findings also suggest that the positive impact of accreditation resulted from the approach the hospital adopted in its implementation as well as the fact that several of the procedures and practices required by accreditation were already in place at the hospital, albeit often in an informal way. Research limitations/implications The study was conducted in only one hospital. The design of an accreditation implementation plan tailored to the hospital’s context can significantly contribute to positive outcomes in terms of quality and patient safety improvements. Originality/value This study provides a better understanding of how accreditation can contribute to healthcare quality improvement. It offers important lessons on the factors and processes that potentiate quality improvements through accreditation.

Model-based learning is a teaching methodology that facilitates the learning process through the construction of models, which represent the conceptual models taught in geosciences lessons, promoting the construction of students’ scientific knowledge and the development of a meaningful learning. It is crucial that teachers know how to apply it in schools in order to support students’ learning process, but also because models are important tools for dissemination of science concepts. Having this in mind, it becomes relevant, beyond the analysis of its importance for both teaching and disseminating geosciences in Portuguese high schools, to provide some guidelines and recommendations about the use of models in geosciences teaching, based on the literature, seeking to prepare teachers to apply the methodology in science lessons and for making them more informed about the importance of dissemination of science. To achieve this purpose, the attitudes of Portuguese high school students towards the importance of model-based learning in teaching and disseminating the dependence of earthquakes effects on soils and buildings were analysed. The data were collected through a scale for model evaluation named Seismological Models’ Evaluation Scale (SMES), applied to 126 students who participated in Faculty of Sciences’ Open Days to Schools. This instrument was validated by two experts in geosciences teaching, and its fidelity was also determined.

Made available in DSpace on 2018-11-26T17:42:46Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 0 Previous issue date: 2017-01-01. Added 1 bitstream(s) on 2019-10-09T18:27:10Z : No. of bitstreams: 1 S0034-89102017000100608.pdf: 219010 bytes, checksum: cfde40eaed30b3da8e3235d5aa60c65a (MD5) Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP) To summarize the historical events and drivers underlying public policy for the prevention and control of healthcare-associated infections in Brazil and in the United Kingdom. In doing so, the article aims to identify lessons and recommendations for future development of public policy. The analysis is based on a historical overview of national healthcare-associated infections programs taken from previously published sources. Findings highlight how the development of healthcare-associated infections prevention and control policies followed similar trajectories in Brazil and the United Kingdom. This can be conceptualized around four sequential phases: Formation, Consolidation, Standardization, and Monitoring and Evaluation. However, while we identified similar phases of development in Brazil and the United Kingdom, it can be seen that the former entered each stage around 20 years after the latter. Univ Sao Paulo, Dept Enfermagem Saude Colet, Escola Enfermagem, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil Queens Univ Belfast, Queens Management Sch, Belfast, Antrim, North Ireland Univ Nottingham, Nottingham Univ, Business Sch, Nottingham, England Univ Sao Paulo, Dept Enfermagem Med Cirurg, Escola Enfermagem, Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Fac Med Botucatu, Dept Doencas Trop, Botucatu, SP, Brazil Univ Estadual Paulista, Fac Med Botucatu, Dept Doencas Trop, Botucatu, SP, Brazil FAPESP: 2014/50506-0

This article examines how the built environment impacts, and is impacted by, healthcare staff day to day practice, care outcomes and the design of new quality and patient safety (Q&PS) projects. It also explores how perceptions of the built environment affect inter-professional dynamics. In doing so, it contributes to the overlooked interplay between the physical, social, and symbolic dimensions associated with a hospital's place. The study draws on 46 in-depth semi-structured interviews conducted at a large teaching hospital in Portugal formed by two buildings. Interview transcripts were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. The major contribution of this study is to advance the understanding of the interactions among the different dimensions of place on Q&PS improvement. For example, findings indicate that some of the characteristics of the physical infrastructure of the hospital have a negative impact on the quality of care provided and/or significantly limit the initiatives that can be implemented to improve it, including refurbishment works. However, decisions on refurbishment works were also influenced by the characteristics of the patient population, hospital budget, etc. Likewise, clinicians' emotional reactions to the limitations of the buildings depended on their expectations of the buildings and the symbolic projections they attributed to them. Nevertheless, differences between clinicians' expectations regarding the physical infrastructure and its actual features influenced clinicians' views on Q&PS initiatives designed by non-clinicians.