DSpace Collection:

Impacts of Sustainable Mindset Vs. Fixed Mindset on Psychological Well-being in Portuguese Youth.

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Impacts of Sustainable Mindset Vs. Fixed Mindset on Psychological Well-being in Portuguese Youth. Authors: Félix, Adriana; Candeias, Adelinda Abstract: This study investigates the impact of a sustainable mindset on psychological well-being and stress levels among 736 Portuguese students from secondary schools and universities. Using validated psychometric instruments, the research examines relationships between well-being, stress, optimism, age, sex, and mindset orientations (Growth Mindset and Fixed Mindset). Findings indicate that higher psychological well-being is significantly associated with a Growth Mindset, correlating with better mental health and lower stress levels. In contrast, a Fixed Mindset is linked to lower well-being and higher stress. Gender differences were noted, with females exhibiting higher Growth Mindset scores and males showing higher Fixed Mindset scores. Multiple regression analyses reveal that well-being and age are strong predictors of mindset orientations for both genders. This study underscores the importance of developing youth policies focused on enhancing well-being and managing stress to promote adaptive mindsets and sustainable attitudes. Such initiatives could foster resilience and positive behavioral changes necessary for long-term sustainability in educational settings. The results provide a foundation for future research and practical applications aimed at integrating psychological sustainability into educational practices.

Validation of the Medication Management Ability Assessment Tool (MMAA) for the Portuguese Older Adults

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Validation of the Medication Management Ability Assessment Tool (MMAA) for the Portuguese Older Adults Authors: Advinha, Ana Margarida; Cachão, Rita; Raposo, Ana Catarina; Domingos, Miguel; Afonso, Anabela; Serralheiro, Ana; Lopes, Manuel José; Oliveira-Martins, Sofia Abstract: This study aimed to validate1 the Medication Management Ability Assessment (MMAA) and determine the level of functional ability of older adults to manage a simulated therapeutic regimen, understand their main limitations when facing alterations and determine the relationship between the functional ability to manage medication and cognitive function. The adaptation was initiated with the translation and back-translation by four independent bilingual experts. The cultural dimension was developed through an external experts meeting, with a screening of concepts and constructs of the tool. The pilot study of MMAA-PT was run on a sample of 100 Portuguese community-dwelling elders. Three additional instruments were used to characterize the sample and to convergent analysis, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Clock Drawing Test (CDT), and the Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). Descriptive analysis, correlations, and convergent validity were conducted using Microsoft Office Excel (2022) and SPSS Statistics (v.27). Of the 100 subjects, 70% were women, and the general mean age was 75.44 (±6.68) [65.00–94.00] years. The MMAA-PT mean score was 18.75 (±8.72) [0.00–33.00]. The convergent validity of the MMAA-PT was verified using the Spearman coefficient, with MMSE and CDT. It obtained an r-value of 0.44 in both correlations (p < 0.001), being, therefore, two significant positive correlations of moderate strength, which indicates that better scores on the MMAA-PT are associated with better cognitive function. A European Portuguese version of the MMAA with acceptable convergent validity was obtained, which can be used in future research and clinical settings, namely in the medication reconciliation process.

The ICF (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health) as a reference in the assessment of functioning and needs of children with multiple disabilities.

Sun, 01 Jan 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Title: The ICF (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health) as a reference in the assessment of functioning and needs of children with multiple disabilities. Authors: Candeias, Adelinda; Saragoça, M.J.; Portelada, A.; Galindo, E. Abstract: The chapter "The ICF (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health) as a reference in the assessment of functioning and needs of children with multiple disabilities" focuses on utilizing the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) as a standardized framework for evaluating the functioning and support needs of children with multiple disabilities. The key aim is to move beyond mere diagnostic labels by employing the ICF to map the intricate relationship between a child's health condition, various contextual factors (environmental and personal), and their domains of participation. This structured approach is considered vital for developing individualized and inclusive intervention plans that effectively target and optimize the child's overall quality of life.

Energetics of Male Reproduction

Thu, 01 Jan 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Title: Energetics of Male Reproduction Authors: Bastos, Ana; Alves, Marco G.; Silva, Branca M.; Oliveira, Pedro F.; Rato, Luís Editors: Skinner, Michael Abstract: Spermatogenesis is a finely tuned process marked by specific metabolic adjustments at each stage of germ cell differentiation and sperm production. The Sertoli cell, often referred to as the "nurse cell," assumes a pivotal role in furnishing germ cells with the requisite metabolic substrates for their sustenance and differentiation. This dynamic establishes a continual metabolic partnership between Sertoli cells and developing germ cells. Notably, Sertoli cells are subject to perpetual regulation by endocrine, paracrine, environmental factors, and metabolic signals. Any deviations in the metabolic profile of testicular cells pose a potential threat to spermatogenesis, consequently impacting male fertility. This chapter offers a succinct overview of testicular and spermatozoa metabolism, elucidating the intricate mechanisms governing these processes. Additionally, it delves into the energetic aspects of male reproduction, shedding light on the energy dynamics inherent to the spermatogenic process.