17 results on '"Sofia Fialho"'
Search Results
2. Impacto dos ungulados em comunidades mediterrânicas de micromamíferos: um estudo de caso no Vale do Côa
- Author
-
Sabino, Ana Sofia Fialho, Carvalho, João Luís Oliveira, and Rosalino, Luís Miguel do Carmo
- Subjects
Portugal ,Rewilding ,Ungulates ,Rodents ,Insectivorous - Abstract
The Côa Valley is a biodiversity hotspot, however, in recent decades, the rural abandonment, the restoration of some areas and the agroforestry policies adopted have made the landscape of this region particularly vulnerable to rural fires. The introduction or reintroduction of ungulate species in a semi-wild regime has been tested as a way to control phytovolume and plant biomass, and thus decrease the probability of fire occurrence. As keystone species of the Mediterranean ecosystem, ungulates exert a range of impacts not only on vegetation, but also on other vertebrate communities. In this study, small mammals were defined as a model group in order to evaluate the impacts of ungulate grazing at different levels of pressure on wildlife communities. Small mammals play a fundamental role in food chains, with top-down effects on plant and invertebrate communities and bottom-up effects on the mammals and birds that feed on them, being important bioindicators with a relatively fast response time to disturbances. In this study, small mammals were captured in four areas with different levels of ungulate pressure (two replicates per plot) in the Faia Brava reserve, Quinta do Sol and Quinta de São Paulo. At each sampling point, the captured species, body metrics and parasite load were recorded. Camera trapping was used to determine the effective use that ungulates and mesocarnivores make of the sampled areas. During the two sampling periods (autumn 2020, spring 2021), individuals from four species were captured: the rodents Apodemus sylvaticus, Mus spretus and Eliomys quercinus and the insectivore Crocidura russula. Here, I used Generalized Linear Mixed Models (GLMM) to determine which variables determine the abundance and body condition of small mammals. The abundance of small mammals was higher in the exclusion area and reduced in the area with high density of ungulates. The intermediate-pressure area revealed high values in the abundance of small mammals and the highest richness of rodents, ungulates and mesocarnivores. The area of intermediate-pressure was characterised by the highest percentage of vegetation, shelter and food for small mammals. The results showed a negative influence of high grazing intensity on the abundance of small mammals, with the exception of A. sylvaticus. Body condition of A. sylvaticus was positively influenced by the presence of ungulates. The body condition of C. russula presented very similar values in all areas with a slight increase in the intermediate-pressure area, while M. spretus were negatively impacted. These results revealed that the reintroduction of ungulates at intermediate densities does not cause a marked disturbance in the small mammal community, as it contributes to maintain landscape heterogeneity and favours different densities of shrubs and tree cover. These results represent an important step towards the restoration of the functionality of Mediterranean ecosystems. O Vale do Côa é um hotspot de biodiversidade, contudo, nas últimas décadas, o abandono rural, a renaturalização de algumas áreas e as políticas agroflorestais adotadas, tornaram a paisagem desta região particularmente vulnerável aos incêndios rurais. Desta forma, a introdução ou reintrodução de espécies de ungulados em regime semisselvagem tem sido testada como uma forma de controlar o fitovolume e biomassa vegetal, e assim diminuir a probabilidade de ocorrência de incêndios. Como espécies-chave do ecossistema Mediterrânico, os ungulados exercem um conjunto de impactos não apenas na vegetação, mas também noutras comunidades de vertebrados. Neste estudo, os micromamíferos foram definidos como grupo-modelo de forma a avaliar os impactos do pastoreio de ungulados a diferentes níveis de pressão na estrutura das comunidades. Os micromamíferos desempenham um papel fundamental nas cadeias alimentares, com efeitos “top-down” nas comunidades de plantas e invertebrados e “bottom-up” nos mamíferos e aves que destes se alimentam, sendo bioindicadores importantes com um tempo de resposta a perturbações relativamente rápido e mensurável. No âmbito deste trabalho, foram capturados micromamíferos em quatro áreas com diferentes níveis de pressão de ungulados (duas réplicas por parcela) na reserva da Faia Brava, Quinta do Sol e Quinta de São Paulo. Em cada ponto de amostragem foram registadas as espécies capturadas, métricas corporais e carga parasitária, procedendo-se, igualmente, à armadilhagem fotográfica de ungulados e mesocarnívoros de forma a perceber qual o uso efetivo que os ungulados e mesocarnívoros fazem das áreas amostradas. Ao longo das duas amostragens (outono 2020, primavera 2021), foram capturados indivíduos pertencentes a quatro espécies: os roedores Apodemus sylvaticus, Mus spretus e Eliomys quercinus e o insectívoro Crocidura russula. De forma a determinar quais variáveis que determinam a abundância e condição corporal dos micromamíferos, foram usados Modelos Lineares Generalizados Mistos (GLMM). A abundância de micromamíferos revelou ser superior na área de exclusão e reduzida na área com elevada densidade de ungulados. A área de pressão intermédia revelou também valores elevados na abundância de micromamíferos, para além de ter sido a área com maior riqueza específica de roedores, ungulados e mesocarnívoros. Os resultados demonstraram uma influência negativa do pastoreio a níveis elevados de densidade de ungulados sobre a abundância de micromamíferos. A exceção foi a espécie A. sylvaticus que revelou ser influenciada positivamente. No caso da condição corporal, esta revelou ser influenciada positivamente pela presença de ungulados no caso do A. sylvaticus. A espécie C. russula apresentou valores muito semelhantes em todas as áreas, com um ligeiro aumento na área de pressão intermédia, enquanto a espécie M. spretus sofreu um impacto negativo. Estes resultados revelaram que a reintrodução e manutenção das populações de ungulados a densidades intermédias não provoca uma perturbação acentuada e negativa na comunidade de micromamíferos, dado que proporciona uma heterogeneidade que favorece diferentes densidades de coberto arbustivo e arbóreo, sendo possível desta forma restaurar a funcionalidade e a resiliência dos ecossistemas Mediterrânicos. Mestrado em Biologia Aplicada more...
- Published
- 2022
Catalog
3. Refletindo acerca da Prática Pedagógica do 1.º CEB e de Matemática e Ciências Naturais no 2.º CEB
- Author
-
Ferreira, Patrícia Sofia Fialho and Rebelo, Isabel Sofia Godinho da Silva
- Subjects
Ensino básico do 2º ciclo ,Ciências Sociais::Ciências da Educação [Domínio/Área Científica] ,Ensino básico do 1º ciclo ,Ensino das Ciências Naturais ,Aprendizagem ,Ensino da matemática - Abstract
O presente relatório retrata o percurso da professora-investigadora ao longo da Prática Pedagógica Supervisionada no Mestrado em Ensino do 1.º CEB e de Matemática e Ciências Naturais no 2.º CEB. Este encontra- se dividido em duas partes, a primeira, a dimensão reflexiva e a segunda, a dimensão investigativa. A dimensão reflexiva contempla uma análise crítica acerca das situações vivenciadas pela estudante, ao longo das Práticas Pedagógicas no 1.º e 2.º CEB, que contribuíram para suas aprendizagens mais significativas quer a nível profissional, pessoal e social. Na dimensão investigativa é apresentado um estudo realizado no 4.º ano do 1.º CEB, acerca dos contributos da implementação de uma sequência pedagógico-didática sobre o som. A investigação trata-se de um estudo de caso, de caráter qualitativo, sendo a questão de investigação: De que modo a participação numa sequência pedagógico-didática centrada na produção, propagação e receção do som promoveu a evolução de conceções e a mobilização de competências por alunos do 4.º ano do 1.º CEB?. Os dados recolhidos e posteriormente analisados ainda que revelando uma evolução nas ideias das crianças, sobre os assuntos em estudo, permitiram uma reflexão sobre as propostas de atividades da sequência pedagógico-didática e o desenvolvimento profissional da professora-investigadora. Os dados indicam ainda que os alunos mobilizaram competências de áreas identificadas no Perfil do Aluno à Saída da Escolaridade Obrigatória. more...
- Published
- 2022
4. Integrative toolbox to assess the quality of freshwater sediments contaminated with potentially toxic metals
- Author
-
Patrícia Palma, Alexandra Marchã Penha, Maria Helena Novais, Sofia Fialho, Ana Lima, Adriana Catarino, Clarisse Mourinha, Paula Alvarenga, Maksim Iakunin, Gonçalo Rodrigues, Miguel Potes, Manuela Morais, Maria João Costa, and Rui Salgado more...
- Subjects
guadiana basin ,History ,Polymers and Plastics ,ecotoxicological endpoints ,meteorological parameters ,land cover / land uses ,contamination indices ,Business and International Management ,sediments quality ,Biochemistry ,Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering ,General Environmental Science - Abstract
The Guadiana Basin is a transnational basin, presenting historical contamination with potentially toxic metals (PTM), which origin can be both natural and anthropogenic. This study explores the use of a set of observational, chemical and ecotoxicological assays with Heterocypris incongruens, Vibrio fischeri, Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata, Thamnocephalus platyurus, identifying the most sensitive to be included in a toolbox to analyze the quality of freshwater sediments related to this type of contamination. The study included the analysis of a reservoir and streams sediments of Guadiana basin, in two consecutive years with different climate conditions 2017 (dry year) and 2018 (normal year). The results showed high chemical variability along the basin, with greater contami- nation with PTM in the reservoir sediments. The calculated Enrichment Factors (EF) indicated high anthropo- genic contamination by Cd, followed by Pb (EF > 1.5). The geoaccumulation index (Igeo) revealed that the sediments were severely polluted with Cd, and slightly polluted with Pb and Cu, inducing a higher sublethal toxicity to Heterocypris incongruens. Among the parameters evaluated, and after the use of multivariate statistical techniques, the toolbox for assessing sediments quality, in similar climate and geological conditions, should include the analysis of: meteorology, land use/cover in the area, granulometry, organic matter content, PTM concentrations, contamination indices (e.g., Igeo and EF), and sublethal bioassays with H. incongruens (total sediment analysis) and Vibrio fisheri luminescence inhibition (pore water analysis). info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion more...
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
5. Occurrence and risk assessment of pesticides in a Mediterranean Basin with strong agricultural pressure (Guadiana Basin: Southern of Portugal)
- Author
-
Cristina Postigo, Patrícia Palma, Adriana Catarino, Luis Simón Monllor-Alcaraz, Maria João Costa, Ana Lima, Manuela Barbieri, Sofia Fialho, M. López de Alda, Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (España), Postigo, Cristina, López de Alda, Miren, Postigo, Cristina [0000-0002-7344-7044], and López de Alda, Miren [0000-0002-9347-2765] more...
- Subjects
Mediterranean climate ,Environmental Engineering ,010504 meteorology & atmospheric sciences ,010501 environmental sciences ,Risk maps ,01 natural sciences ,Mediterranean Basin ,Risk Assessment ,chemistry.chemical_compound ,Rivers ,Environmental Chemistry ,Pesticides ,Water pollution ,Waste Management and Disposal ,Ecosystem ,0105 earth and related environmental sciences ,Plant protection products ,Portugal ,business.industry ,Aquatic ecosystem ,Terbuthylazine ,Pesticide ,Environmental risk assessment ,Pollution ,chemistry ,Agriculture ,Environmental science ,Water resource management ,Risk assessment ,business ,Water Pollutants, Chemical ,Environmental Monitoring - Abstract
The study aimed to assess the occurrence and the environmental risk of a group of 51 selected pesticides in the Guadiana Basin (a biodiversity hotspot, in the Mediterranean). The most abundant pesticides were bentazone and 2,4-D, while terbuthylazine together with terbutryn constituted the most ubiquitous pesticides. Eighteen out of the 38 pesticides detected are no longer approved in Europe, and 5 of them are included in the list of priority substances. The risk assessment showed that azinphos ethyl, diflufenican, irganol, imidacloprid, and oxadiazon occurred occasionally, but always in concentrations above their respective ecotoxicological threshold value. Contrary, bentazone, terbuthylazine, and terbutryn presented a high risk in most of the sampled locations and periods. The site-specific risk assessment showed a spatial and temporal pattern, with a higher risk occurring mainly in intermittent streams, in the drought period. The presence of pesticides banned from the EU market since 2009 showed the importance of improving the monitoring process, to identify the main sources of pollution and the fate of these emerging compounds. The results showed the need of implementing actions to improve the sustainable use of pesticides in agricultural areas, working with farmers and management entities to reduce the contamination of aquatic ecosystems. Transboundary water governance is also required to solve potential transboundary contamination problems., he present research is co-funded by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund, included in the COMPETE 2020 (Operational Program Competitiveness and Internationalization) through the ICT project (UIDB/04683/2020) with the reference POCI-01-0145-FEDER-007690, the ALOP project (ALT20-03-0145-FEDER-000004), and through the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development through the FitoFarmGest Operational Group (PDR2020-101-030926). It has been partially funded also by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation (Project CEX2018-000794-S) and the Government of Catalonia (2017 SGR 01404). LSMA acknowledges the support provided by the “National System of Youth Guarantee” contract within the National Operational programme on Youth Employment 2014-2020 (Youth Employment Initiative and the European Social Fund). more...
- Published
- 2021
6. Water-Sediment Physicochemical Dynamics in a Large Reservoir in the Mediterranean Region under Multiple Stressors
- Author
-
Maria Helena Novais, Maria João Costa, Miguel Potes, Clarisse Mourinha, Paula Alvarenga, Maksim Iakunin, Ana Lima, Manuela Morais, Anabela Rosado, Sofia Fialho, Rui Salgado, Gonçalo C. Rodrigues, Patrícia Palma, and Alexandra Marchã Penha more...
- Subjects
Mediterranean climate ,lcsh:Hydraulic engineering ,Water-sediment dynamics ,010504 meteorology & atmospheric sciences ,Geography, Planning and Development ,Land cover ,010501 environmental sciences ,Aquatic Science ,01 natural sciences ,Biochemistry ,Water scarcity ,Ecosystem services ,lcsh:Water supply for domestic and industrial purposes ,Water column ,lcsh:TC1-978 ,Climate variability ,0105 earth and related environmental sciences ,Water Science and Technology ,lcsh:TD201-500 ,Land use ,Alqueva reservoir ,Land cover/ land uses ,Water resources ,Environmental science ,Water resource management ,Eutrophication - Abstract
Nowadays, the Mediterranean freshwater systems face the threat of water scarcity, along with multiple other stressors (e.g., organic and inorganic contamination, geomorphological alterations, invasive species), leading to the impairment of their ecosystem services. All these stressors have been speeding up, due to climate variability and land cover/land use changes, turning them into a big challenge for the water management plans. The present study analyses the physicochemical and phytoplankton biomass (chlorophyll-a) dynamics of a large reservoir, in the Mediterranean region (Alqueva reservoir, Southern Portugal), under diverse meteorological conditions and land cover/land use real scenarios (2017 and 2018). The most important stressors were identified and the necessary tools and information for a more effective management plan were provided. Changes in these parameters were further related to the observed variations in the meteorological conditions and in the land cover/land use. The increase in nutrients and ions in the water column, and of potentially toxic metals in the sediment, were more obvious in periods of severe drought. Further, the enhancement of nutrients concentrations, potentially caused by the intensification of agricultural activities, may indicate an increased risk of water eutrophication. The results highlight that a holistic approach is essential for a better water resources management strategy. more...
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
7. A pratica do design como disciplina potenciadora de novos formatos e significados
- Author
-
Dias, Marta Sofia Fialho and Silva, Marco António Neves da
- Subjects
Interactivity ,Crianças ,Jornal impresso ,Interatividade ,Communication design ,Children ,Newspaper ,Design de comunicação - Abstract
Dissertação de Mestrado com a especialização em Design de Comunicação apresentada na Faculdade de Arquitetura da Universidade de Lisboa para obtenção do grau de Mestre. O jornal existe para servir o mundo. É o meio que reporta os acontecimentos sociais, políticos e económicos; a vida das pessoas; os acidentes e incidentes do dia a dia. O jornal torna-se essencial, significativo e indispensável quando mantém viva a credibilidade e nos faz pensar e refletir sobre o que está para além da notícia. A presente investigação pretende promover uma reflexão sobre o jornal impresso enquanto objeto e considerar de que modo se pode adaptar e inovar num contexto dominado por tecnologia digital. Assim, recorreu-se a noções de design de interação com o intuito de dinamizar o jornal impresso, pelas suas características que favorecem a conceção de objetos mais inovadores e conscientes da importância de aproximação aos utilizadores, através da constituição de uma experiência. Também se revelou importante introduzir este meio de comunicação aos mais novos com o intuito de consciencializar e criar novos hábitos de leitura, como também, para preservar a existência do modelo físico do jornal de modo a resistir às novas tecnologias digitais. Para uma melhor compreensão sobre os temas em evidência, foi aplicada uma metodologia intervencionista e não intervencionista, de base qualitativa. Em primeiro lugar, foi fundamental uma revisão da literatura, de modo a enquadrar e a reunir toda a teoria essencial para a produção deste projeto, que foi complementado com o estudo de casos de interação em objetos de comunicação. Em seguida, concretizou-se uma investigação ativa, onde se integram as fases de conceção do projeto, de testes de usabilidade e de iterações e melhorias. O projeto consistiu no desenvolvimento de um objeto experimental no âmbito educacional, mais especificamente um protótipo de jornal impresso, direcionado a crianças entre os 8 e 12 anos de idade, com recurso a técnicas de interatividade. Pretendeu-se auxiliar a preservar o jornal enquanto modelo físico, cuja existência útil persiste, apesar das vantagens das tecnologias digitais. ABSTRACT: The newspaper exists to serve the world. It is the medium that reports social, political and economic events; people’s lives; accidents and day-to-day incidents. The newspaper be-comes essential, meaningful and indispensable when it keeps credibility alive and makes us think and reflect on what is beyond the news. This investigation aims to promote a reflection on the printed newspaper as an object and consider how it can adapt and innovate in a context dominated by digital technology. Thus, notions of interaction design have been used in order to make the printed newspaper more dynamic, due to its characteristics that favor the conception of more innovative objects and aware of the importance of approaching users, through the constitution of an experience. It also proved important to introduce this means of communication to the younger ones in or-der to raise awareness and create new reading habits, as well as to preserve the existence of the newspaper’s physical model in order to resist the new digital technologies. For a better understanding of the themes in evidence, an interventionist and non-interventionist methodology was applied, with a qualitative basis. In the first place, a litera-ture review was fundamental, in order to frame and gather all the essential theory to pro-duce this project, which was complemented with the study of cases of interaction in com-munication objects. Then, an active investigation was carried out, where the project design phases, usability tests and iterations and improvements are integrated. The project consisted in the development of an experimental object in the educational field, more specifically a printed newspaper prototype, directed to children between 8 and 12 years of age, using interactivity techniques. It was intended to help preserve the newspa-per as a physical model, whose useful existence persists despite the advantages of digital technologies. N/A more...
- Published
- 2021
8. Risk Assessment of Irrigation-Related Soil Salinization and Sodification in Mediterranean Areas
- Author
-
Alexandra Tomaz, Maria João Costa, Patrícia Palma, Paula Alvarenga, Rui Salgado, Miguel Potes, Sofia Fialho, Ana Lima, and GeoBioTec - Geobiociências, Geoengenharias e Geotecnologias
- Subjects
Mediterranean climate ,Irrigation ,soil salinity ,Soil salinity ,lcsh:Hydraulic engineering ,Geography, Planning and Development ,010501 environmental sciences ,Aquatic Science ,01 natural sciences ,Biochemistry ,lcsh:Water supply for domestic and industrial purposes ,lcsh:TC1-978 ,Soil retrogression and degradation ,SDG 13 - Climate Action ,Drainage ,SDG 2 - Zero Hunger ,0105 earth and related environmental sciences ,Water Science and Technology ,SDG 15 - Life on Land ,lcsh:TD201-500 ,Land use ,Soil sodicity ,soil sodicity ,04 agricultural and veterinary sciences ,Risk evaluation ,Arid ,Water quality for irrigation ,water quality for irrigation ,Soil water ,040103 agronomy & agriculture ,0401 agriculture, forestry, and fisheries ,Environmental science ,Mediterranean regions ,Water resource management ,risk evaluation - Abstract
UIDB/04683/2020 POCI-01-0145-FEDER-007690 ALT20-03-0145-FEDER-000004 UIDP/04035/2020 Salinization and sodification are important processes of soil degradation affecting irrigated lands. A large proportion of the global irrigated area is affected by some degree of soil salinity or sodicity caused by the intensification of irrigation. The increase of the frequency of adverse climatic conditions, like high temperatures and variations in precipitation patterns caused by climate change, will potentially amplify these processes in arid, semi-arid, and Mediterranean areas. The use of integrated approaches for the spatial and temporal prediction of the risk of salinization and sodification in irrigated areas is of great value, helping in the decision-making regarding land uses and choice of more suitable agricultural practices. In this study, based on key criteria for the assessment of irrigation-related salinization processes (e.g., climate, topography, soil drainage, water quality for irrigation, and crop irrigation method), we developed a methodology for the prediction of soil salinity and sodicity risk in irrigated lands, using two composite indices, the Salinization Risk (RSA) index and the Sodification Risk (RSO) index. The application of these indices to a real scenario (a Mediterranean area in Southern Portugal) showed that 67% of the potentially irrigated area presented a low risk of salinity development, 68% had a moderate risk of sodification, and 16% was of high risk of sodicity development. Areas under moderate risk of salinization (26%) were mostly characterized by low slopes and fine-textured soils, like Luvisols and Vertisols, with limited drainage conditions. Areas with high risk of soil sodification presented a large incidence of low slope terrain, moderate-to-restricted soil drainage, in high clay content Luvisols, Vertisols and Cambisols, and land use dominated by annual crops irrigated with surface or sprinkler systems. These risk prediction tools have the potential to be used for resource use planning by policymakers and on-farm management decision by farmers, contributing to the sustainability of irrigated agriculture in Mediterranean regions. publishersversion published more...
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
9. 'UrCloset' loja de venda de roupa em 2ª mão: alternativa de consumo sustentável de moda
- Author
-
Alcântara, Ana Sofia Fialho and Barbosa, João
- Subjects
Economia circular ,Sustentabilidade ,Moda ,Ciências Sociais::Economia e Gestão [Domínio/Área Científica] ,Roupa em segunda mão - Abstract
As alterações climáticas estão hoje, mais do que nunca, presentes nas notícias, no nosso dia-a-dia, na nossa vida e consequentemente na nossa mente, a mente do consumidor. Mais cedo ou mais tarde as Instituições Públicas, na figura do Estado, terão de tomar uma atitude, todos nós teremos de mudar os nossos hábitos de consumo. A indústria têxtil é uma das mais poluentes no Mundo, responsável por um impacto ambiental desastroso, motivado pelo fast fashion. É estritamente necessário que se reduza o consumo de peças, que se valorize mais cada uma, e ainda que se consumam peças por meios ou origens mais sustentáveis. Este projecto tem como objectivo contribuir para a economia circular desta indústria, através da reutilização de peças para revenda (roupa em segunda mão), doação ou reciclagem. Informar os consumidores sobre o impacto das suas decisões, quer seja positivo ou negativo, é também um dos pilares da marca. Consumidores informados, tomam decisões informadas, que se esperam conscientes a nível ambiental e social. Para que não seja apontada a falta de alternativas como factor impeditivo para a alteração de hábitos de consumo, este projecto apresenta-se como uma alternativa sustentável de consumo de moda. Os resultados obtidos, a partir da análise qualitativa em forma de entrevista e, a partir da análise quantitativa em forma de questionário, permitiram compreender quais os factores de sucesso a ter em conta na concretização do projecto e que viabilizam a sua implementação. Climate change is now, more than ever, present in the news, in our daily lives and consequently in our minds, the consumer’s mind. Sooner or later the Public Institutions and Governments will have to take action, all of us will have to change our consumption habits. The textile industry is one of the most polluting in the world, responsible for a disastrous environmental impact, motivated by fast fashion. It is strictly necessary to reduce the consumption of clothes, to value each one more, and to consume clothes by more sustainable ways and sources. This project aims to contribute to the circular economy of this industry, through the reuse of clothes for resale (second-hand clothes), donation or recycling. Keeping consumers informed about the impact of their decisions, whether positive or negative, is also one of the pillars of the brand. Well informed consumers make informed decisions, which are expected to be more environmentally and socially conscious. In order not to point out the lack of alternatives as an obstacle to change consumption habits, this project presents itself as a sustainable fashion consumption alternative. The obtained results, from the qualitative analysis in the interview form and from the quantitative analysis in the questionnaire form, made it possible to understand which success factors should be taken into account in the implementation of the project. more...
- Published
- 2020
10. Land-Cover Patterns and Hydrogeomorphology of Tributaries: Are These Important Stressors for the Water Quality of Reservoirs in the Mediterranean Region?
- Author
-
Ana Lima, Sofia Fialho, Miguel Potes, Patrícia Palma, Maria Helena Novais, Alexandra Marchã Penha, Paula Alvarenga, Clarisse Mourinha, Maria João Costa, Manuela Morais, and Anabela Rosado
- Subjects
Watershed ,lcsh:Hydraulic engineering ,010504 meteorology & atmospheric sciences ,Geography, Planning and Development ,STREAMS ,Land cover ,010501 environmental sciences ,Aquatic Science ,01 natural sciences ,Biochemistry ,flow regime ,lcsh:Water supply for domestic and industrial purposes ,hydrogeomorphology ,lcsh:TC1-978 ,water quality assessment ,0105 earth and related environmental sciences ,Water Science and Technology ,land use/land cover (LULC) ,Hydrology ,lcsh:TD201-500 ,Land use ,land use/land cover ,Hydrogeomorphology ,Sediment ,15. Life on land ,6. Clean water ,Guadiana watershed ,13. Climate action ,Environmental science ,Water quality ,Surface runoff - Abstract
Four streams in the Guadiana watershed were followed up to assess hydrogeomorphological and physicochemical characteristics, and to analyze its correlation with land use/land cover (LULC), analyzing their possible influence in reservoir water quality and possible influence in the reservoir water quality. The highest amounts of organic descriptors and nutrients were quantified in streams with the major percentage of olive groves and vineyards and urban land cover classes. Streams more influenced by agro-silvo-pastoral class presented better water quality, as this type of LULC acts as a bu er of the contamination runo . The results highlighted that the hydrogeomorphology of the streams may influence the transfer of pollutants loads to reservoirs. Hence, in intermittent streams characterized by coarse particles in the sediment, high amounts of pollutants are accumulated when the flow ceases, and are further transported to the reservoirs when the flow retakes. On the contrary, streams with sediments characterized by a great percentage of fine particles and organic matter do not induce so much stress in reservoirs, since these allow the adsorption of nutrients and trace elements, without their transfer to reservoirs info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion more...
- Published
- 2020
11. Pharmaceuticals in a Mediterranean Basin: The influence of temporal and hydrological patterns in environmental risk assessment
- Author
-
Maria Helena Novais, Sandra Pérez, Nicola Montemurro, Miren López de Alda, Sofia Fialho, Maria João Costa, Ana Lima, Patrícia Palma, European Commission, Montemurro, Nicola, Perez, Sandra, López De Alda, Miren, Montemurro, Nicola [0000-0002-7496-203X], Perez, Sandra [0000-0002-3179-3969], and López De Alda, Miren [0000-0002-9347-2765] more...
- Subjects
Environmental Engineering ,010504 meteorology & atmospheric sciences ,STREAMS ,010501 environmental sciences ,01 natural sciences ,Risk Assessment ,Rivers ,Environmental Chemistry ,Ecosystem ,Waste Management and Disposal ,0105 earth and related environmental sciences ,Trophic level ,Portugal ,Aquatic ecosystem ,Contamination ,Guadiana Basin ,Environmental risk assessment ,Pollution ,6. Clean water ,Water quality ,Wastewater ,Pharmaceutical Preparations ,13. Climate action ,Environmental chemistry ,Environmental science ,Pharmaceuticals ,Sewage treatment ,Water Pollutants, Chemical ,Environmental Monitoring - Abstract
Occurrence of pharmaceuticals in the aquatic environment is nowadays a well-established issue that has become a matter of both scientific and public concern. Tons of different classes of pharmaceuticals find their way to the environment at variable degrees, after their use and excretion through wastewater and sewage treatment systems. The main goal of this study was to correlate the dynamics and the environmental risk of pharmaceuticals with different temporal and hydrological patterns, at the Guadiana Basin (South of Portugal). Water samples were collected bimonthly during 2017 (classified as a drought year) and 2018 (post-drought year) in: Zebro, Álamos and Amieira (intermittent hydrological streams), and Lucefécit (perennial hydrological stream). The pharmaceuticals quantified in higher concentrations, out of 27 investigated, were diclofenac (up to 4806 ng L−1), ibuprofen (3161 ng L−1), hydrochlorothiazide (2726 ng L−1) and carbamazepine (3223 ng L−1). Zebro and Álamos presented the highest contamination by this group of environmental hazardous substances, which may be correlated with the presence of wastewater treatment plants upstream the sampling point of each stream. Furthermore, the highest concentrations occurred mainly during the dry period (2017), when the flow was nearly inexistent in Zebro, and in Álamos after the first heavy rainfalls. In specific periods, the high concentrations of pharmaceuticals detected may induce risk for the organisms of lowest trophic levels, damaging the balance of the ecosystems at these streams. The risk quotient optimised approach (RQf) integrating exposure, toxicity and persistence factors, ranks the pharmaceuticals investigated in terms of risk for the aquatic ecosystems as follows: diclofenac, ibuprofen and carbamazepine (high risk), clarithromycin (moderate risk), acetaminophen, ofloxacin and bezafibrate (endurable risk), and hydrochlorothiazide (negligible risk)., The present research is co-funded by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund, included in the COMPETE 2020 (Operational Program Competitiveness and Internationalization) through the ICT project (UID/GEO/04683/2013) with the reference POCI-01-0145-FEDER-007690, the ALOP project (ALT20-03-0145-FEDER-000004), and through the Engage SKA (POCI-01-0145-FEDER-022217) and by the European Union through the EU FP7 project SOLUTIONS (603437). more...
- Published
- 2020
12. Spatial and temporal dynamics of irrigation water quality under drought conditions in a large reservoir in Southern Portugal
- Author
-
Rui Salgado, Alexandra Tomaz, Sofia Fialho, Miguel Potes, Ana Lima, Paula Alvarenga, and Patrícia Palma
- Subjects
Irrigation ,Salinity ,Soil salinity ,Agricultural Irrigation ,010504 meteorology & atmospheric sciences ,Climate Change ,drought ,010501 environmental sciences ,Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law ,water salinity ,01 natural sciences ,Soil ,Water Supply ,Soil retrogression and degradation ,Water Quality ,Sodium adsorption ratio ,water quality assessment ,Precipitation ,0105 earth and related environmental sciences ,General Environmental Science ,Hydrology ,Portugal ,Mediterranean Region ,Sodium ,Water ,Agriculture ,General Medicine ,Pollution ,Droughts ,irrigation areas ,Soil water ,Environmental science ,Water quality ,Seasons ,Environmental Monitoring ,SAR - Abstract
Water is a scarce resource in the Mediterranean region where adverse climatic conditions promoting water shortages tend to increase with climate change. Under water scarcity conditions and high atmosphere evaporative demand, the risks of decreased water quality, and land salinization are major threats to the sustainability of irrigated agriculture in this region. The assessment of the quality of irrigation water is increasingly important to ensure the maintenance of long-term salt balance at a crop, farm, and regional scale. This study is focused on the spatial and temporal variability of water quality for irrigation in the Alqueva reservoir (Southern Portugal). The assessment was performed every 2 months during a distinctive drought year (2017) and included inorganic ions (Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, NH4 +, Cl−, F−, SO4 2−, NO3 −, and NO2 −), pH, and electric conductivity (ECW) of water. Sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) was calculated, and potential soil permeability problems were estimated. The assessment showed significantly higher values of the physicochemical parameters in the most upstream sites, located near tributaries inflows, and an upward trend in ion concentrations throughout the year, with significantly higher concentrations of Na+, Mg2+, Cl−, and SO4 2, registered through May to November, reflecting the severe drought felt in the summer, autumn, and winter. The evaluation of water quality for irrigation indicated a slight to moderate risk of reduced infiltration rates, which should be considered whenever sprinkler irrigation is used, mainly in fine-textured soils, which are prevalent in the irrigated area. The multivariate statistical approach, using principal component analysis and factor analysis, identified two principal components related to salinity and nutrient concentrations. The cluster analysis revealed three groups of similarity between samples pointing to a more time- than space-controlled pattern. Overall, the temporal dynamics of the water physicochemical parameters could indicate that an abnormal annual distribution of precipitation and temperature may distort seasonal differences. To prevent water and soil degradation, a more frequent assessment of the water quality should be considered, allowing for the selection of appropriate soil and water management measures in irrigated areas info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion more...
- Published
- 2020
13. Acercar Lisboa ao Tejo
- Author
-
Aleixo, Joana Sofia Fialho, Costa, João Pedro de Abreu, and Vale, David de Sousa, coorientador
- Subjects
Mobility ,Frente ribeirinha ,Santa Apolónia ,Waterfront ,Urban regeneration ,Regeneração urbana ,Mobilidade - Abstract
Dissertação de Mestrado Integrado em Arquitetura, com a especialização em Urbanismo apresentada na Faculdade de Arquitetura da Universidade de Lisboa para obtenção do grau de Mestre. O presente relatório constitui a base teórica que suporta e justifica o Projeto Final de Mestrado Integrado em Arquitetura com especialização em Urbanismo. Baseado no tema das Frentes Ribeirinhas em Cidades Pós-Industriais e nas intervenções de regeneração urbana que se têm assistido nestes territórios, focando-se, também, na importância que os transportes tiveram no desenvolvimento da cidade. A intervenção situa-se na zona oriental de Lisboa, por se considerar uma área com potencial mas que se encontra desvalorizada devido aos vários constrangimentos urbanos que impedem uma continuidade urbana. As infraestruturas como a linha férrea de Santa Apolónia e o porto de Lisboa, criam o efeito barreira, impedindo não só, a relação entre a cidade em si, como a relação da cidade com o rio. Além disso, criam um ambiente hostil que tanto caracteriza esta Lisboa Oriental. Desde a criação da Estação do Oriente que Santa Apolónia tem vindo a perder importância, enquanto estação de comboios. Apesar do seu valor simbólico, considera-se que o comboio é um transporte inadequado para o centro da cidade. Com o intuito de resolver este problema, a intervenção passa pela Reconversão do Sistema Ferroviário Oriental como Motor da Regeneração Urbana, criando uma alternativa à existência do comboio. Com intervenção urbana entre Santa Apolónia e Xabregas. ABSTRACT: This report constitutes the theoretical basis that supports and justifies the Final Project of Integrated Master in Architecture specializing in Urbanism. Based on the theme of the Waterfront in Post-Industrial Cities and urban regeneration interventions observed in these territories, also focusing on the importance that transportation had in the development of the city. The intervention is located in the eastern Lisbon area, due to its potential, but devalued by various urban constraints that prevent an urban continuity. Infrastructures like the Santa Apolonia railway line and the Lisbon port, creating a barrier effect, preventing not only the link between the city itself and also between the city and the river. In addition, they create an hostile environment characterising East Lisbon. Since the creation of the Oriente Station, the Santa Apolonia station has been losing its importance. Despite its symbolic and cultural value, the train is nowadays considered an inadequate mean of transportation to the city center. To solve this issue, the intervention involves the Reconversion of the Eastern Railway System as Motor of Urban Regeneration, creating an alternative to the outdated train. With urban intervention between Santa Apolonia and Xabregas. N/A more...
- Published
- 2018
14. Membranes technology used in water treatment: Chemical, microbiological and ecotoxicological analysis
- Author
-
Sofia Fialho, Paula Alvarenga, Luísa A. Neves, C. Cavaco, Teresa Brás, Patrícia Palma, Catarina E. Santos, Ricardo Gomes, and G. Palma
- Subjects
Biochemical oxygen demand ,Water resources ,Environmental Engineering ,Population ,Membrane technology ,Water conservation ,02 engineering and technology ,Efficiency ,Wastewater treatment ,Water filtration ,010501 environmental sciences ,01 natural sciences ,Laws and legislation ,Water supply ,020401 chemical engineering ,Sustainable development ,Parameter estimation ,Environmental Chemistry ,Chemical analysis ,Water treatment ,0204 chemical engineering ,education ,Waste Management and Disposal ,0105 earth and related environmental sciences ,education.field_of_study ,Membranes ,Toxicity ,Reverse osmosis ,Osmosis membranes ,Chemical oxygen demand ,Quality control ,Pollution ,Chlorine compounds ,Nanofiltration ,Membrane ,Water quality ,Wastewater ,Environmental chemistry ,Environmental science - Abstract
The increment of world's Human population, with the consequent demand for water supply, plus the need for sustainable development and the conservation of water resources, highlights the urgency of improving water treatment technologies and management actions.The aim of the present study was to characterize and evaluate the efficiency of nanofiltration (NF90, NF270) and reverse osmosis (SW30) membranes, in improving the quality of three types of waters: irrigation, municipal supply and wastewater. The efficiency of using this technology was assessed by: (i) the study of water permeability and rejection of some chemical parameters, such as total nitrogen, total phosphorus, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), feacal coliforms, nitrates, chlorides, iron and manganese; and (ii) the evaluation of their ecotoxicological effects, through the use of representative species of different taxonomic and functional groups (Vibrio fischeri, Thamnocephalus platyurus, Daphnia magna, and Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata). Results indicated that all three membranes have high rejection percentages for the majority of the studied parameters (>90%). All parameters concentrations in the permeate stream were below the limit values from Portuguese legislation and European Directives. With respect to the ecotoxicological effects, in general, the use of membranes removed the toxicity detected in the initial samples (which exhibited significant toxicity). The SW30 membrane showed a greater efficiency for toxicity removal, comparing with the nanofiltration membranes. Further, among the nanofiltration membranes used, the NF90 promoted a greater decrease in the toxicity of the samples. Thus, treatment with the membranes NF90 and SW30 allowed obtaining waters with high quality and low ecotoxicological potential, without risks for human populations and endangering the environmental balance. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. more...
- Published
- 2016
15. Análise da associação entre a satisfação e a frustração das necessidades psicológicas básicas no trabalho e as estratégias motivacionais utilizadas por profissionais de exercício físico
- Author
-
Simões, Ana Sofia Fialho and Palmeira, António Labisa, orient.
- Subjects
PHYSICAL EXERCISE ,MESTRADO EM EXERCÍCIO E BEM-ESTAR ,SATISFAÇÃO ,EXERCÍCIO FÍSICO ,PHYSICAL EDUCATION ,SATISFACTION ,MOTIVATION ,PEDAGOGICAL STRATEGIES ,SPORT ,PSYCHOLOGICAL NEEDS ,MOTIVAÇÃO ,ESTRATÉGIAS PEDAGÓGICAS ,DESPORTO ,NECESSIDADES PSICOLÓGICAS ,EDUCAÇÃO FÍSICA - Abstract
A satisfação e frustração dos profissionais de saúde parece influenciar a sua capacidade de trabalho e as respetivas estratégias motivacionais por eles utilizadas. Contudo, é uma temática na qual existem poucos estudos e as amostras são reduzidas ou com indivíduos de várias profissões. A presente dissertação pretendeu analisar a associação entre a satisfação e a frustração das necessidades psicológicas básicas (NPB) no trabalho e as estratégias motivacionais utilizadas por profissionais de exercício físico. Em primeira instância foi realizada uma revisão sistemática de literatura para analisar a literatura publicada sobre a satisfação e frustração no trabalho das necessidades psicológicas básicas em profissionais de exercício físico. Posteriormente foi realizado um estudo observacional transversal para analisar a associação entre a satisfação e a frustração e as estratégias motivacionais utilizadas no local de trabalho (n=174 profissionais). Os resultados indicaram que na satisfação das necessidades psicológicas básicas, existe um conjunto de fatores externos que promovem o bem-estar psicológico e o sentimento de autonomia, promovendo o sentimento de satisfação e prazer no trabalho e aumento da autoestima. Já a frustração pode conduzir à exaustão emocional, risco de esgotamento, preocupações com a imagem corporal e transtornos alimentares. Relativamente às estratégias motivacionais pode-se verificar uma associação positiva entre a satisfação das necessidades psicológicas básicas e a perceção de apoio. Os homens, se satisfeitos nas NPB, utilizam estratégias motivacionais de suporte, mas se ficam frustrados nas NPB ficam mais predispostos a utilizar estratégias motivacionais de controlo. Nas mulheres, apenas a satisfação de competência conduz à adoção de estratégias motivacionais de suporte mas a frustração mas parece não levar a estratégias motivacionais de controlo., Satisfaction and frustration the basic psychological needs (BPN) of health professionals seem to influence their ability to work and the respective motivational strategies used by them. However, it is a matter on which there are few studies and samples are reduced or with individuals from various professions. This dissertation wanted to examine the association between satisfaction and frustration of basic psychological needs at work and the motivational strategies used by the exercise professional. In the first instance, a systematic literature review was conducted to analyse the published literature on satisfaction and frustration in the work of basic psychological needs in exercise professionals. Subsequently, a cross-sectional observational study was directed to examine the association between satisfaction and frustration and motivational strategies used in the workplace (n=174 profissionais). The results indicated that the satisfaction of basic psychological needs, there is a set of external factors that promote psychological well-being and sense of autonomy, promoting feelings of satisfaction and pleasure in work and increased self-esteem. Already frustration can lead to emotional exhaustion, depletion risk, concerns about body image and eating disorders. Relative to motivational strategies can verify a positive association between the satisfaction of basic psychological needs and perceptions of support. Men if satisfied in the BPN, uses motivational strategies to support, but when the BPN are frustrated, they are more likely to use motivational strategies of control. Women, just the satisfaction of competence leads to adoption for motivation and support but frustration does not seem to lead to motivational control strategies., Orientação: António Labisa Palmeira more...
- Published
- 2014
16. Atitudes maternas face à amamentação
- Author
-
Fernandes, Cláudia Sofia Fialho Nisa, Ferreira, Manuela Maria Conceição, orient., and Duarte, João Carvalho, orient.
- Subjects
Mãe ,Aleitamento materno ,Papel do enfermeiro ,Mothers ,Breast feeding ,Health policy ,Atitude perante a saúde ,Attitude to health ,Política de saúde ,Psicologia ,Prevalence ,Psychology ,Prevalência ,Nurse's role - Abstract
Enquadramento: Verifica-se que a amamentação para além de nutrir, protege e favorece o desenvolvimento cognitivo, a criação do vínculo afectivo entre mãe e filho. É um momento único e rico de carinho, afecto, doação e troca. O aleitamento materno (AM) depende de vários factores, tais como: sócio culturais, profissionais, nível de educação e da acção dos profissionais de saúde e dos media e reúne benefícios para a criança, mãe, família e sociedade. Objectivos: É nossa intenção com este estudo, determinar se o perfil sócio demográfico, as variáveis obstétricas, o aleitamento materno e o contacto pele a pele na primeira horas de vida e o alojamento conjunto influenciam as atitudes maternas face à amamentação. Métodos: Trata-se de estudo de natureza quantitativa, transversal, de carácter descritivo correlacional e explicativo, sendo a amostra não probabilística por conveniência (n=312). A recolha de dados efectuou-se através de um questionário sócio demográfico, o inventário do afecto materno e a escala de atitudes maternas face à amamentação. Foi aplicado às mães na consulta de saúde infantil dos 2 anos de idade, no período de 1 de Outubro de 2010 a 30 de Dezembro de 2011 nos centros de Saúde dos concelhos da Covilhã, Fundão, Guarda e Viseu. Resultados: O estudo realizado permitiu verificar que as mulheres com melhores atitudes maternas face à amamentação são as que têm idades entre os 19-35 anos, casadas/união de facto, residentes em vila, com ensino superior e trabalhadores qualificados, numa situação profissional empregada a tempo inteiro. O estado civil e a escolaridade o nº de gestações anteriores, o tipo de parto, o tipo de gravidez (termo/prematuridade) a existência de filhos com amamentação anterior, o tempo de amamentar e a introdução da chupeta, são preditoras das atitudes maternas face à amamentação. Conclusão: Embora o aleitamento materno seja um processo biologicamente determinado é influenciado pelo ambiente que rodeia a mulher, o número de gestações anteriores, o tipo de parto, o contacto pele a pele, bem como algumas características sócio demográficas. Assim, estas variáveis devem ser consideradas nas políticas de promoção do aleitamento materno. Palavra-chave: Amamentação, Atitudes Maternas. ABSTRACT Background: It appears that breastfeeding beyond nourishing, protects and promotes cognitive development, creating the emotional bond between mother and child. It is a unique and rich in love, affection, giving and sharing. Breastfeeding (BF) depends on several factors, such as socio-cultural, professional, educational level and work of health professionals and the media and brings benefits to the child, mother, family and society. Objectives: It is our intention with this study was to determine whether the socio demographic, obstetric variables, breastfeeding and skin to skin contact in the first hours of life and rooming influence attitudes to breastfeeding mothers face. Methods: This study was a quantitative, cross-sectional correlational descriptive and explanatory nature, being a non-probabilistic sample of convenience (n = 312). Data collection was carried out through a socio-demographic questionnaire, the inventory of maternal affection and scale of attitudes to breastfeeding mothers face. Was administered to the mothers in child health consulting 2 years of age, during the period 1 October 2010 to 30 December 2011 for health centers of municipalities of Covilha, Fundão, Viseu and Guarda. Results: The study showed that women with better attitudes to breastfeeding mothers face are those that are aged between 19-35 years, married / unmarried, living in town, with higher education and skilled workers, employed in a professional situation full time. The marital status and education the number of previous pregnancies, type of delivery, type of pregnancy (term / preterm) the existence of children with breastfeeding previous time breastfeeding and introduction of pacifiers, are predictors of maternal attitudes in the face of breastfeeding. Conclusion: Although breastfeeding is biologically determined process is influenced by the environment surrounding the woman, the number of previous pregnancies, type of birth, skin to skin contact, as well as some sociodemographic characteristics. Thus, these variables must be considered in policies promoting breastfeeding. Keyword: Breastfeeding, Maternal Attitudes. more...
- Published
- 2013
17. Depressão e tiróide
- Author
-
Santos, Cláudia Sofia Fialho dos and Saraiva, Carlos Manuel Braz
- Subjects
Hormonas tiroideias ,Depressão ,Tiróide - Abstract
Trabalho de projecto de mestrado em Medicina (Psiquiatria), apresentado à Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Coimbra perturbações do foro psiquiátrico cedo despertou o interesse dos investigadores, e ao longo das últimas décadas muito foi dito sobre a relação entre o eixo hipotálamo-hipófise-tiróide e a depressão. O objectivo deste trabalho é fazer uma revisão da literatura existente sobre este tema, com foco nas alterações do eixo hipotálamo-hipófise-tiróide, na interacção das hormonas tiroideias com sistema nervoso central e no papel das hormonas tiroideias no tratamento da depressão. Apesar das expectativas iniciais, a investigação do eixo hipotálamo-hipófise-tiróide acabou por não alcançar conclusões definitivas, mas ainda assim, alcançou alguns dados importantes. Os testes periféricos das hormonas tiroideias obtiveram resultados inconsistentes, sendo as alterações mais frequentemente encontradas, uma elevação dos níveis de tiroxina, que diminui com a recuperação da depressão, uma diminuição da resposta da tirotrofina à respectiva hormona estimuladora e uma alteração do ritmo circadiano da tirotrofina com ausência do seu pico nocturno. A nível central, foi repetidamente encontrada uma elevação dos níveis de hormona estimuladora da secreção tirotrofina. Apesar da relativa prevalência destas alterações, a maioria dos pacientes deprimidos eram analiticamente eutiróides. Uma maior prevalência de anticorpos antitiroideus foi também observada nos pacientes deprimidos. Evidências de uma interação entre as hormonas tiroideias e o sistema nervoso central resultaram também de diversas observações, tais como, a presença de receptores nucleares, a nível central, para as hormonas tiroideias, o transporte activo destas hormonas através da barreira hemato-encefálica, e ainda uma documentada influência das hormonas tiroideias nos sistemas serotoninérgico e noradrenérgico, na regulação da expressão génica e no metabolismo e perfusão cerebrais. As hormonas tiroideias, em especial a triidotironina, revelaram-se também eficazes na potenciação do tratamento antidepressivo, existindo evidências de que a sua acção antidepressiva não estará apenas relacionada com a 5 correcção de distúrbios do eixo hipotálamo-hipófise-tiróide. Apesar de toda a investigação realizada, os exactos mecanismos da relação entre a patologia depressiva e a tiróide são ainda pouco claros, pelo que mais estudos serão necessários para esclarecer as controvérsias existentes. The observation of a common symptomatology involving thyroid disease and some psychiatric disturbs, soon grew the researchers interest, and for the last decades, a lot was said about the relationship between depression and the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis. This paper aims to make a review of the existing literature concerning that relationship, with focus on the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis abnormalities, the thyroid-brain interaction and the role of thyroid hormones in depression treatment. Despite the initial expectations, hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis investigation did not accomplish strong conclusions, although some important findings were achieved. Peripheral thyroid hormone tests achieved incongruent results, with the most consistent results being, elevated thyroxine concentrations, which declined with depression recovery, blunted thyrotropin response to thyrotropin-releasing hormone and absence of the normal nocturnal thyrotropin surge. While these abnormalities presented with a significant prevalence, most depressed patients were euthyroid. An elevated prevalence of antithyroid antibodies was also found among depressed patients. Evidence from a thyroid-brain interaction was provided from several observations, such as: large distribution of thyroid nuclear receptors in central nervous system, active 6 transport of these hormones across de blood-brain barrier, and a documented influence of thyroid hormones in the serotonergic and noradrenergic systems, in genetic expression and in brain perfusion and metabolism. Thyroid hormones, especially triiodothyronine, also revealed efficacy in the augmentation of antidepressive treatment, with existing evidence of an antidepressive action besides a hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis abnormality correction. However, the precise relationship mechanisms between thyroid and depression remain unclear, requiring further studies to clarify the existing controversies. more...
- Published
- 2011
Discovery Service for Jio Institute Digital Library
For full access to our library's resources, please sign in.