Portuguese Population Research Articles

State of oral health in the Portuguese population and associated psychological and social aspects

Abstract Background Oral diseases are a global public health challenge and remain among the most prevalent non-communicable diseases. This study aims to characterize the self-assessment of oral health state, degree of edentulism, oral rehabilitation and the quality of life, namely chewing capacity, and the associated psychological and social aspects in the Portuguese Population. Methods Data were collected by telefone survey, on the 2nd half of 2018 and 1st half of 2019, using the Portuguese population representative, ECOS panel. Descriptive statistics, as well as prevalence estimates, were obtained with weighting for age, sex, region and sample design, for 95% confidence intervals. The modified F-statistic, a variant of the 2nd order Rao-Scott chi-square adjustment, was used to test the bivariate analyses. Results For 53% of the population, the health status of the mouth was perceived as Good or Very Good, for 37% Fair and, in 11% of cases as Bad or Very Bad. It is estimated that around 76% of the population has good oral hygiene habits, approximately 26% have all of their teeth and 8% the total absence of teeth. It is estimated that only around half (49%) underwent rehabilitation using, in the vast majority of cases (78,5%), removable prostheses. It is estimated that 32% of its users have difficulty chewing hard foods and, of these, around 20% have great difficulty or are unable to chew at all. Psychological discomfort due to oral health was higher in the Portuguese population when compared to the European population (17% vs 7 %), psychological limitations due to the appearance of teeth or dentures were equally higher (7% vs 4%), as were social limitations (8,8% vs 4%). Conclusions The oral health panorama in Portugal remains bleak, so strengthening the application and deepening of the national oral health promotion program should constitute a priority aspect in the development of public policies in the country Key messages • Integrating oral health into general health promotion strategies and assessing oral health needs to include psychological and social aspects in the Portuguese Population. • Strengthening the strategies that have been developed in the context of health promotion, prevention and early treatment of oral diseases in Portugal.

GJA4 gene inhibition may represent a potential target for novel antithrombotic therapies

Abstract The GJA4 gene encodes a protein called connexin 37, a component of gap junctions in vascular endothelial cells, crucial in regulating endothelial function and influencing inflammation, platelet adhesion and thrombus formation. This gene deletion in mice diminished thrombus formation in vitro in human blood. In these circumstances, connexin inhibition with pharmacological agents may represent potential avenues for developing novel antithrombotic agents. Aim To investigate whether the GJA4 rs618675 T>C variant is a risk factor for progressing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular (CV) events in an asymptomatic free of apparent CAD from a Portuguese population. Methods A prospective study was performed with 1421 individuals without apparent CV disease (73.6% male, aged 52.2±8.3 years) followed during an extended period of 7.2±5.1 years). GJA4 rs618675 T>C variant was genotyped by TaqMan real-time PCR technique (Applied Biosystems). Conventional, anthropometric, biochemical and clinical risk factors were studied. Bivariate analysis and multivariate Cox regression adjusted for age, gender, traditional risk factors, biochemical markers, and the genotypes under study was performed to determine which variables were, significantly and independently, associated with CV events. Kaplan-Meier's estimate assessed the prognosis. Results Bivariate analysis showed that 50.6% of wild genotype (TT) carriers had CV events vs. 66.2% without events. Of the risk genotype (CC) carriers, 10.1% had CV events, and 3.4% did not. After the Kaplan-Meier analysis, the TT carriers had 90% CV event-free survival time and the CC risk carriers had only 64% of event-free survival. Finally, after adjustment, CC genotype remained in the equation with an HR of 3.1 (p=0.003) and CT heterozygous with HR of 1.6 (p=0.043), together with Hypertension (HR 3.0; p<0.0001), Smoking habits (HR 2.3; p=0.001) and Diabetes (HR 1.9; p=0.015). Conclusion: The CC risk genotype of the GJA4 rs618675 represented an independent risk factor for progressing atherosclerosis and CV events in a Portuguese Population. Thrombus formation often begins with the adhesion of platelets to the endothelium, and connexin 37 may influence this process. The inhibition of connexin 37 emerges as a promising candidate for future cardiovascular prevention as well as for the development of new antithrombotic drugs.

Portuguese Version of the Oral Frailty Index-8: Instrument Validation Study.

The concept of oral frailty has gained scientific and clinical relevance in recent years, and early detection can facilitate timely intervention to manage its progression. The Oral Frailty Index-8 (OFI-8) was developed to assess community-dwelling older adults at risk for oral frailty. This study aims to investigate the psychometric validity of the OFI-8 in the Portuguese population, named the Portuguese version of the OFI-8 (OFI-8-PT), which may serve as a reference for future studies related to longevity and oral function. This study included 2 main phases, involving patients aged 60 years or older, Portuguese speakers, and those who consented to participate in the study. First, the researchers translated and cross-culturally adapted the original questionnaire to make it suitable for native Portuguese speakers. The translated tool was then assessed for psychometric validation, which consisted of test-retest reliability, internal consistency, construct validity, and sex invariance measurement. A total of 159 older adults participated in the baseline survey, with almost equal numbers of male (n=79, 49.7%) and female participants (n=80, 50.3%). The OFI-8-PT demonstrated good reliability (Cronbach α=0.95) and construct validity (goodness-of-fit index=0.96; comparative fit index=0.85; and root mean square error of approximation=0.05, 90% CI 0.00-0.09). The study found sex invariance, indicating that the OFI-8-PT is equally valid for male and female participants, and the tested-retest reliability of the OFI-8-PT was good, indicating consistent results over time. The OFI-8-PT showed psychometric validity and good reliability to be used in the Portuguese population.

The effect of the LPA gene on aortic valve calcification in a Portuguese population

Abstract Introduction Aortic valve calcium (AVC) deposition is one of the mechanisms behind aortic sclerosis and stenosis. There is a known association between LPA gene rs3798220 T>C polymorphism and the development of severe aortic stenosis. However, it is still unknown if it has been a driving factor since the early stages of the disease. Objective Investigate, in our population, the association between the LPA gene variant rs3798220 T>C and aortic valve calcification. Methods AVC was measured in 451 consecutive individuals from the prospective arm of the GENEMACOR study with a mean age of 63.4±9.7 years, 58.8% male. AVC score was performed by cardiac computed tomography and reported as Agatston units. Results were separated into two groups (Group A: AVC=0; Group B: AVC>0). Lp(a) levels were analyzed in the different groups. Each individual was genotyped for LPA rs3798220 T>C. This variant has a minor allele frequency (MAF)<2%; hence, the risk homozygous CC is a rare genotype, and we used the heterozygous CT in our analysis. The bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis evaluated the presence of AVC adjusting to traditional risk factors (TRFs) and the LPA heterozygous genotype (CT). Results LP(a) levels were higher in the CT allele versus the homozygous TT, but this difference did not reach a statistical significance. After multivariate analysis, the heterozygous LPA rs3798220 T>C polymorphism remained an independent risk factor for the presence of aortic valve calcification (OR=12.14, p=0.002) together with age (OR=1.13, p<0.0001), arterial hypertension (AHT) (OR=1.96, p=0.006) and alcohol consumption (OR=2.46, p=0.016). Conclusion The LPA gene variant rs3798220 T>C is associated with the presence of aortic valve calcification in a Portuguese population. In such an age-dependent disease as aortic stenosis, the inversion in the age pyramid will see a dramatic increase in the prevalence of aortic stenosis. The early identification of high-risk individuals might enable prompt traditional risk factors control and disease prevention. Larger population studies may help to determine if this difference is driven by Lp(a) levels.

Which is better for predicting and discriminating cardiovascular events: a traditional risk score, a calcium score or a genetic risk score?

Abstract Background The most effective approach to prevent coronary artery disease (CAD) in the general population remains to quantify the individual risk of CAD followed by controlling risk factors. There has been a lot of curiosity to investigate several scores individually for improving risk prediction. However, whether one would be better than the other in the same population is still unclear. Aim To evaluate the performance of the three individual scores, European SCORE2, Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) and a Genetic risk score (GRS), in predicting and discriminating cardiovascular (CV) events in an asymptomatic Portuguese population. Methods Prospective, observational population-based study, including 1002 asymptomatic subjects (mean age 53.1±6.8 years, 73.8% male) selected from a normal Portuguese population, without apparent CAD and diabetes at baseline. Data were recorded at the end of an extended follow-up (average 6.5±4.9 years). The European SCORE2, a computed tomography CACS, and a GRS were created to evaluate CV events’ predictive and discriminative ability through Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) analysis and Harrell’s C-statistics. Results ROC curve analysis showed 0.723 for SCORE2, 0.815 for CACS and 0.649 for GRS. Harrell’s C-statistics were 0.731 in the SCORE2, 0.785 for CACS and 0.684 for GRS. Conclusion The CAC score was the best individual score to predict and discriminate CV events in our asymptomatic population. Its capacity to identify high-risk individuals and those asymptomatic with subclinical atherosclerosis may improve CV risk management strategies to prevent future cardiovascular events. This result can be explained because CAC score, more than a risk marker, represents the existence of disease in the vessel wall.

From hesitancy to decision: shifts from intentions to uptake of Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines

Abstract Background Vaccine hesitancy is context-related and risks coverage. In a context of growing hesitancy, this study aims to characterize and identify factors underlying shifts in Influenza and COVID-19 vaccines intention and uptake. Methods Questionnaires were administered to a random sample of the 60+ years old Portuguese population (n = 1400), before (Q1) and at the end of the campaign (Q2). Sociodemographic, clinical data and intention to Influenza/COVID-19 vaccine uptake, using a Likert-scale (0-2: refusal; 3-7: hesitancy; 8-10: acceptance), were assessed on Q1. On Q2, self-reported vaccination status and motives. A logistic regression was performed to identify underlying factors. Results COVID-19 vaccine: 26.2% of those reporting acceptance went for non-uptake (214/818), stating low susceptibility/severity and fear of side effects. Factors associated were not having chronic disease (OR 2.07, p<.05) and age 60-64 (OR 4.16, p<.05). 25.5% of those who refuse went for vaccine uptake (27/106), stating self-initiative. Age 65 + (OR 43.82, p<.05) was associated with the shift; 56.4% of the hesitant individuals went for non-uptake (154/273). Higher education associates with non-uptake (OR 0.53, p<.05). Influenza vaccine: 11.5% of reported acceptance went for non-uptake (100/873), stating low susceptibility/severity. Associated factors were age 60-64 (OR 5.85, p<.05), not having chronic diseases (OR 2.64, p<.05) and living alone (OR 2.34, p<.05). 23.4% of those refusing decided for vaccine uptake (29/124), stating self-initiative/risk awareness. Associated factor was age 60-64 (OR 6.41, p<.05). 69.5% of hesitancy went for uptake (139/200). Chronic disease associates with non-uptake (OR 0.26, p<.05). Conclusions Intention is a good predictor but not decisive for uptake. This research provides better understanding of shifts in intention versus vaccine uptake, as well as factors and motives for hesitancy, allowing more robust interventions ahead of a vaccination campaign. Key messages • For the Influenza vaccine, 13% of individuals reporting acceptance or refusal changed their mind. From the group reporting hesitancy, 70% decided for vaccine uptake. • For the COVID-19 vaccine, 26% of individuals reporting acceptance or refusal changed their mind. From the group reporting hesitancy, 56% decided for non-vaccine uptake.

Gender differences in long-term survival after coronary artery bypass surgery is womens cardiovascular health at risk?

Abstract Introduction Cardiovascular healthcare for women tends to be influenced by various factors. This patient group is generally associated with a worse prognosis following coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). Aims To assess the impact of gender on long-term survival after CABG and the potential effect of age on this association; to compare the survival of these patients with the expected survival of the general national population, and to compare immediate postoperative outcomes between genders. Methods Longitudinal, retrospective, single center study, involving consecutive patients who underwent isolated primary CABG between 2004 and 2014. Exclusion criteria included emergency/salvage surgeries or the use of extracorporeal circulation without aortic clamping. Included patients were categorized into age subgroups: ≤60, 60-70, and ≥70 years. All-cause mortality was assessed in February 2023, and a time-to-event analysis was performed using Kaplan-Meier curves, Log-Rank tests, and multivariable Cox regressions. To compare expected mortality (matched for sex and age with the general population) with observed mortality in the patient cohort, survival tables for the years 2004-2022 were consulted. Kaplan-Meier curves for the reference population, stratified by gender, were constructed and compared to the surgical cohort using one-sample Log-Rank tests with specific software. Standardized mortality ratios (SMR) were estimated. The mean follow-up time was 11 years, with a maximum of 19 years. Results From 3978 patients included patient’s, 21% were women (W). W were older (mean age 67±9 vs. 63±10 years, p<0.001) and had a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and severe chronic kidney disease compared to men (M). M more frequently had peripheral arterial disease and smoking habits. Although three-vessel disease was similar between sexes (p=0.111), W were less frequently implanted with ≥3 grafts (p<0.001). At 5,10 and 15 years of follow-up, cumulative survival for MvsW was 89%vs88%, 73%vs68%, and 57%vs46%, respectively (Log-rank test p<0.001). After stratification by age, Log-Rank tests showed no differences between sexes. Multivariable adjustment did not identify gender as an independent predictor of long-term survival in any age subgroup. However, a time-stratified analysis at 10 years of follow-up in the ≥70 years subgroup showed that W had a higher risk than M after 10 years of follow-up (HR:0.7[0.5-0.9],p=0.03). Comparing with the survival of the Portuguese population, CABG allowed M to equalize the risk of mortality to what was expected (SMR =1.1;95%CI:0.9-1.1), but W showed a higher risk of mortality after CABG than W in the reference population (SMR =1.6,95%CI:1.3-1.8). Conclusion Women undergoing isolated primary CABG at an age >70 years, with longest periods follow-up, exhibited poorer long-term survival than men of the same age.Women demonstrated inferior survival outcomes compared to the general population.

Determinants in disaster preparedness of nurses in the Azores

Abstract Background Disasters are situations of complexity and unpredictability, increasingly frequent and more destructive. They require rapid and effective action from different teams from different contexts, with preparation and qualifications for an adequate response to victims, recovering the environment, and restoring living conditions, and nurses play a significant role in these events. Understanding the level of preparedness of nurses for disasters is fundamental for defining the competency framework in the disaster management cycle. Objectives To analyze the preparation of nurses in the Azores for a catastrophe. Methods A cross-sectional study was performed with 160 nurses from the Azores. The questionnaire validated for the Portuguese population “Disaster Preparedness Evaluation Tool (DPET ®): Preparation of nurses in the face of a catastrophe” was applied. It was approved by the Ethics Committee. Results More than half of respondents (n = 137, 71%) indicated that they were not fully prepared to respond to disasters, while 29% (n = 46) acknowledged that they felt adequately prepared. Of the 160 respondents, only 20% (n = 30) participated in the development of emergency plans and only 14% (n = 22) participated in the creation of emergency plans that contribute to improvements at the local level. Training through simulation training was cited as important in disaster preparedness (n = 129, 78%). Discussion The present study identified little involvement of RAA nurses in preparing emergency plans and less than half feel poorly prepared in responding to a catastrophe. This finding is consistent with studies by Baker, Alamri, & Aboshaiqah (2019) and Emaliyawati et al. (2021). Conclusions This study was conducted in a region prone to natural disasters. It is vital to invest in the training of these professionals throughout the disaster cycle so that they can contribute to reducing the impact that the catastrophe will have on the individual/family and community. Key messages • Strengthening capabilities through regular disaster training based on effective information. • Low participation in the development of emergency plans that contribute to improvements at the local level.

How ambient NO2 impacts the mortality burden of ischemic heart disease in Portugal (2011-2021)?

Abstract Background Air pollution is a major environmental risk to human health, contributing to premature death and disease. Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a pollutant of significant public health concern, associated with increased risks of all-cause mortality, particularly in cardiovascular and respiratory deaths. In 2021, NO2 exposure exceeding the World Health Organization Air Quality Guidelines resulted in 69,000 deaths in the European Union. This study aims to estimate the impact of ambient NO2 exposure on ischemic heart disease (IHD) in Portugal, from 2011 to 2021, estimated in years of life lost (YLL). Methods Data on ambient NO2 levels were obtained from the Portuguese Environment Agency’s online database QualAr. Only monitoring stations that reported valid data for at least 75% of the time in a year were considered. The number of IHD mortality cases from 2011 to 2021 was sourced from Statistics Portugal. The burden of IHD attributed to NO2 exposure was estimated in YLL for the Portuguese population aged 25 years and older, categorized by five-years age groups, regions of mainland Portugal and sex, using the population attributable fraction (PAF). Results Between 2011 and 2021, mainland Portugal experienced a declining trend in NO2 mean levels, with occasional fluctuations. Regarding IHD YLL attributed to NO2 exposure, the same trend was followed with an overall decline over the study period. In total, 94,843.75 (95% CI 53,408.35-134,766.17) IHD YLL were attributed to NO2 exposure, with an estimated number of IHD YLLs higher for males than for females. Conclusions These findings underscore the significant impact of air pollution on human health. Despite an overall reduction in YLL across mainland Portugal, persistent health effects emphasize the need to reduce NO2 concentrations, with informed decision-making being crucial to mitigate these impacts and protect public health. Key messages • Ambient NO2 exposure significantly impacts ischemic heart disease mortality in Portugal. • These estimates underscore the necessity of well-informed decision-making to safeguard public health.

Evolution and future prospects in quantifying the chemical burden in Portugal

Abstract The quantification of the burden associated with chemicals is essential for comprehending their impact on public health and implementing effective risk management strategies. This presentation underscores the significance of conducting such assessments at both national and local levels, taking into account the exposures and vulnerabilities of those populations. Our objective is to provide an overview of past burden quantification exercises in the Portuguese context while identifying ongoing and future initiatives. Drawing from past experiences, we have initially characterized the burden of the Portuguese population’s exposure to mycotoxins through food consumption, particularly aflatoxins, and the consequent health burden. This laid the groundwork for discussing the potential consequences of climate change in this context and the associated burden. Subsequently, various exercises have been undertaken, incorporating diverse data sources, including human biomonitoring. Currently, several exercises are ongoing or planned, addressing different chemicals and contexts. These include arsenic and its association with various types of cancer, mercury and lead linked to cognitive impairment, and air pollution (e.g., PM2.5 and NO2) and its impact on health (e.g., cardiovascular diseases, lung cancer, asthma). Given the evolving challenges posed by climate change and emerging contaminants, understanding the burden of chemicals assumes increased importance, reinforcing the role of these assessments in safeguarding public health, guiding policy decisions, and highlighting the necessity of prioritizing research and surveillance efforts to protect human health and mitigate the adverse effects of chemical exposures.

Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 27B (SCA27B): A Hereditary Ataxia in Portugal.

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 27B (SCA27B) is a recently discovered hereditary disease caused by (GAA)≥250 repeat expansion in the fibroblast growth factor 14 (FGF14) gene, and multiple studies have recognized it as one of the most common causes of autosomal dominant ataxia in the European population. We present the case of a 62-year-old Portuguese patient who developed a slowly progressive gait impairment associated with wide-base ataxic gait, dysarthria, left upper limb dysmetria, and dysdiadochokinesia. This pure cerebellar phenotype had an episodic worsening induced by intense physical activity and alcohol intake. The patient had an older brother with a late-onset cerebellar ataxia of unknown cause. Genetic testing detected a heterozygotic intronic FGF14 repeat expansion with complete penetrance (> 360 repeats), confirming the diagnosis of SCA27B. To our knowledge, we present the first reported case of SCA27B in the Portuguese population.

Development and Validation of the Teachers’ Perceptions of Classroom Climate Scale for the Portuguese Population

To improve learning outcomes, evidence-based processes suggest that classroom climate is a means of creating more sustainable schools committed to improving the quality of teaching and learning. Therefore, valid measures of classroom climate are necessary to enable comparative studies focused on teachers' perceptions, including important dimensions such as cooperation. As no validated instruments exist for the Portuguese context, we developed and validated the Teachers' Perception of Classroom Climate (TPCC), consisting of five dimensions: teacher support, peer support, academic competence, satisfaction with the school, and cooperation. Following a quantitative research approach, the construct validity was analyzed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis, internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach’s Alpha coefficient, and test-retest reliability was assessed using univariate and multivariate General Linear Models and Spearman’s rho correlations. The study supported the five-factor structure of the TPCC and demonstrated good psychometric properties. These results support the use of the TPCC to evaluate teacher perceptions of classroom climate.

Microelimination of Hepatitis C in Patients with Substance Use and Dual Disorders - a Portuguese Study.

Chronic hepatitis C (CHC) is a serious condition of public health importance. In Portugal, the prevalence of detectable hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibodies is approximately 0.54%, with a higher prevalence in high-risk groups. Compared with the general population, the prevalence of HCV infection is higher in individuals with psychiatric disorders. As no studies have reported the prevalence of HCV antibodies in Portuguese patients with psychiatric conditions and substance use disorders, we conducted an observational, prospective study of patients followed in the Dual Pathology Outpatient and Inpatient Unit of Coimbra Hospital and University Center (CHUC), Patients were tested for HCV antibodies. Of the 149 patients, 17.4% were positive for HCV antibodies and 7.4% had detectable HCV RNA indicating CHC. Most patients with confirmed CHC were male inpatients, aged 50 to 59 years, and reported unprotected sex with more than one concurrent partner in the past 6 months. Their most common psychiatric diagnosis was "Disorders due to use of multiple specified psychoactive substances, including medications." The prevalence of HCV antibodies and confirmed CHC were higher in patients followed in the Dual Pathology Outpatient and Inpatient Unit than in the general Portuguese population.

The Portuguese Version of Victim Empathy Distortion Scale: Adaptation and Psychometric Properties

AbstractVictim empathy is a common intervention target in intervention programs designed for individuals who perpetrated child sexual abuse (CSA). Researchers have developed the Victim Empathy Distortion Scale (VES), an instrument designed to assess empathy for victims of CSA. The present study aims to adapt the VES for the Portuguese population and examine its psychometric properties. One hundred and twelve individuals who perpetrated CSA and 245 individuals from the community participated in this study. The confirmatory factor analysis did not show satisfactory indices for the structures previously tested. Consequently, the search for an alternative model revealed a two-factor structure, explaining approximately 50% of the total variance. Results also indicated good internal consistency, discriminant validity, and known-groups validity. Overall, the results support the claim that the Portuguese version of the VES is a valuable and psychometrically reliable instrument for measuring victim empathy in forensic and non-forensic settings.

Psychometric Properties of Post-Critical Belief Scale and Centrality of Religiosity Scale: Portuguese Versions.

The primary objective of this research is to confirm the four-dimensional structure of the Post-Critical Belief Scale (PCBS) and the five-dimensional structure of the Centrality of Religiosity Scale (CRS), specifically for the Portuguese population. Additionally, the study aims to investigate the relationship between these religious scales. The research employed both exploratory factorial analysis with a polychoric matrix (suitable for ordinal data) and confirmatory factorial analysis with maximum likelihood estimation. The reliability, convergent validity, and discriminant validity of the scales were evaluated using measures such as Cronbach's alpha coefficient, composite reliability (CR), average variance extracted (AVE), and AVE squared roots. Pearson correlations were calculated to explore the associations between the two instruments. The Portuguese adaptations of both the PCBS and CRS exhibited strong model fits. Significant correlations were observed among the instruments and with religious identity. The study identified variations in dimensions of PCBS and CRS concerning sociodemographic variables. This research contributes validated instruments for assessing religiosity within the Portuguese population.

Psychometric Properties and Gender Invariance of the Portuguese (European) Version of the Aging Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes Scale.

The sexuality of older people was understood as non-existent or as something outside the prevailing norm. In this sense, analysing people's sexual knowledge and attitudes towards older people is a challenge for theory and practice. The aim of this study is to translate and validate the Aging Sexual Knowledge and Attitudes Scale (ASKAS) for the Portuguese population. A sample of 994 Portuguese adults (70.9% women, n = 705) completed the ASKAS-PT along with a series of self-report measures. Confirmatory factor analysis and the psychometric properties of the Portuguese (European) version of ASKAS-PT were investigated, particularly reliability, temporal stability, and convergent and critical validity. This study also examined the gender measurement invariance of the ASKAS-PT. After confirmatory factor analysis, a two-factor model fit the Portuguese version best. Reliability and validity results also showed good results, and the ASKAS-PT appears to be a gender-invariant measure. Overall, the Portuguese version of the ASKAS showed good psychometric properties and appears to be a valid and reliable measure for assessing knowledge and attitudes about aging.

Inorganic contaminants and micronutrients in foods consumed by the vegetarian Portuguese population

Inorganic contaminants and micronutrients in foods consumed by the vegetarian Portuguese population

The Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire: Validity evidence from Portugal

AbstractBackgroundFamily resilience refers to a family's capacity to face and manage adversities, emerging as a stronger and more resourceful unit. A family system approach enlarges the lens to the broad relational network, identifying potential resources for resilience within the immediate and extended family. This approach emphasizes a family's innate ability to adapt in the face of adversities.ObjectiveThis study aims to test the psychometric properties of the Walsh Family Resilience Questionnaire (WFRQ) using a sample of Portuguese caregivers with children aged between 10 and 15 years.MethodA total of 267 caregivers of children aged 10 to 15 years completed a sociodemographic questionnaire and the WFRQ. Analyses were performed to evaluate the WFRQ's validity evidence based on the internal structure (i.e., dimensionality and reliability) and on its relationship to other variables.ResultsThe findings supported a 31‐item version of the WFRQ with one third‐order latent factor, three second‐order factors, and nine first‐order factors for the Portuguese population. The WFRQ exhibited satisfactory validity evidence based on the internal structure and relation to other variables.ConclusionOverall, the results of this study demonstrate the suitability of the WFRQ as a holistic measure to gauge resilience at the family level, going beyond individual assessments.ImplicationsThis instrument holds significant utility in family resilience research and clinical interventions involving families.

Career indecision profile-short version: validity evidence

AbstractThe Career Indecision Profile-65 items (CIP-65) is an instrument with four empirically validated dimensions of career indecision: Neuroticism/Negative Affect (NNA), Choice/Commitment Anxiety (CCA), Lack of Readiness (LR), and Interpersonal Conflicts (IC). The aim of this study is to adapt and validate the CIP-65 for the Portuguese population. On the basis of a sample of students (n = 442), the results demonstrate the presence of the four theoretically proposed factors. Thus, this study evidence suggests that the CIP-65 is a measure of career indecision with cross-cultural validity, and it can be utilized in the assessment of difficulties in the decision-making of young Portuguese people.

Evaluation of Portuguese Population’s Perspectives on Chemical Innovations for Sustainable Development

Evaluation of Portuguese Population’s Perspectives on Chemical Innovations for Sustainable Development