University Of Porto Research Articles

Introduction: Simulation-based interprofessional (IP) education programs at the undergraduate level remain limited both worldwide [1] and within the Portuguese educational context [2]. The LINKS workshop - Lifting INterprofessional Knowledge through Simulation - is a novel initiative designed for IP teams of healthcare students (medicine and nursing). It aims to enhance team-based behavioural competencies that are essential for effective IP teamwork. This pilot study aims to assess the impact of the LINKS workshop on communication skills within IP undergraduate teams. Methods: This quasi-experimental study involved final-year medical and nursing students participating in a 4-hour, simulation-based IP workshop. Working in mixed teams, students managed two clinical scenarios designed to promote interprofessional communication, each offering equivalent challenges and opportunities to practice key communication strategies. Each scenario was followed by a structured debriefing led by experienced facilitators, focusing on teamwork skills, including key communication strategies. A total of thirteen IP teams participated. The scenarios were video recorded for subsequent analysis of the teams’ performance. Interprofessional communication was assessed using an observational tool for monitoring non-technical skills [3], focusing on four communication strategies: (1) iSBAR (e.g., identification, situation, background, assessment and request/recommendation); (2) cross-checks; (3) closed-loop communication; and (4) summaries/time-outs. Four independent observers reviewed the recordings and scored team performance on each communication skill, using a 3-points scale: 0 - Not observed; 1 - Observed but inconsistent or incorrect use; 2 - Observed consistently and correctly used. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare performance in both scenarios. Inter-rater reliability was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha. This study was approved by the ethical committee of the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Porto, and written informed consent was obtained from all participants. Results: Internal consistency of communication strategies scores was acceptable (Cronbach 0.7 ≤ α < 0.8), for both scenarios. Statistically significant improvements were observed in all four communication strategies and in the overall communication score between the two scenarios (p<0.05, Figure 1). Discussion: Teams demonstrated improved use of communication strategies in the second scenario, suggesting a positive effect of the IP simulation activity combined with a structured debriefing. This pilot study reinforces the value of simulation-based IP educational at the undergraduate level in clarifying professional roles and enhancing team communication. Continued implementation of such programs within clinical training can foster essential teamwork competencies and drive meaningful curriculum reform, preparing students for effective collaborative practice in healthcare settings. Ethics Statement: As the submitting author, I can confirm that all relevant ethical standards of research and dissemination have been met. Additionally, I can confirm that the necessary ethical approval has been obtained, where applicable.

Abstract Background and Aims Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (ADPKD) is the most common monogenic kidney disease, being the cause of the kidney failure (KF) in 5%–10% of incident patients in kidney replacement therapy (KRT). ADPKD is genetically heterogenous, but pathogenic variants in the genes encoding polycystin-1 (PKD1) and polycystin-2 (PKD2) explain most cases (respectively ∼78% and ∼15%). Clinical experience at a major academic hospital in Northwest Portugal (ULSSJ-Porto) suggests that the relative prevalence of ADPKD-PKD2 is significantly higher than reported, mainly due to a founder polycystin-2 nonsense mutation—PKD2 p.(Gln61*); many patients carrying this variant survive to the 9th decade of life without reaching KF. The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiology of ADPKD among patients starting KRT at ULSSJ, and to compare ADPKD-PKD1 to ADPKD-PKD2. Method Medical reports for KRT initiation issued at the ULSSJ between 01/01/1990–31/12/2022 were systematically reviewed to identify patients diagnosed with ADPKD. Genotyping data were obtained from the Genetics Laboratory of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto. For patients who have not been directly tested, the genotype was inferred from genealogical analysis. Data from non-ADPKD patients starting KRT between 2010–2022 were collected for selected comparisons with the general KRT population. Results Out of 6615 medical reports reviewed, 408 ADPKD patients were identified; of the latter, 139 (34.1%) had genotyping information available, which was imputed in 85 (59.0%). Among genotyped patients, prevalences of ADPKD-PKD1 and ADPKD-PKD2 were, respectively, 67.3% and 29.2%. Mean age at KRT initiation was 54.1 years for ADPKD-PKD1 patients and 67.6 years for ADPKD-PKD2. Heterozygosity for the PKD2 p.Gln61* allele was identified in 33 patients (78.6%). Between 2010–2022, prevalence of ADPKD was 7.33% at ULSSJ and 4.90% nationwide (P < .0001). Conclusion Prevalence of ADPKD among incident patients on KRT at ULSSJ was significantly higher than nationwide. This is explained by the higher prevalence of ADPKD-PKD2, particularly associated with the PKD2 p.(61Gln*) variant, in the local population. As expected, ADPKD-PKD1 was associated with KF significantly earlier than ADPKD-PKD2. The prevalence of ADPKD-PKD2 in the local population is higher than estimated in this study, given the lower risk of KF in patients with ADPKD-PKD2.

Abstract Young workers represent a critical segment of the labour market. Their well-being directly affects career development and broader labour market dynamics. However, increasing rates of poor mental health among young people in high-income countries hinder their transition into work, potentially threatening both early career paths and long-term labour market sustainability. Ensuring the mental well-being of young workers is vital both for their personal health and for supporting long-term workforce sustainability. Emerging research highlights significant challenges faced by young workers, including adverse work environments and poor mental health, which may exacerbate health, influence job retention, and hinder career progression. This workshop brings together three interconnected presentations from Denmark, the Netherlands, and Finland, examining the relationship between young workers’ mental health, working conditions, and labour market affiliation. Topics include: • How psychosocial work factors influence labour market exclusion among young adults with psychiatric diagnoses. • The relationship between psychosocial work factors and young workers’ mental health. • The combined role of pain and mental health in sickness absence among younger employees. The workshop includes three 10-minute presentations by early-career researchers: • Dr. Jeppe Karl Sørensen (Denmark) studies psychosocial work factors and labour market participation. • Malte van Veen (the Netherlands) studies mental health and the psychosocial work environment with a focus on young workers. • Dr. Pi Fagerlund (Finland) studies pain and mental health as risk factors for sickness absence among younger Finnish employees. Two experts in public mental health and public health economics Prof. Jutta Lindert (EUPHA section Public Mental Health; University of Applied Sciences Emden/Leer, Germany) and Dr. João Vasco Santos (EUPHA section Public Health Economics; University of Porto, Portugal) will reflect on the presentations, followed by a moderated discussion, encouraging interactive dialogue with the audience. This workshop aims to highlight current research on young workers’ mental health and its implications for labour market participation. We invite critical engagement with our findings and hope to inspire researchers to treat early working life as a sensitive period with significant public health relevance. The workshop contributes to advancing understanding of young workers’ mental health as a critical public health concern. This workshop aims to highlight current research on the mental health and labour market participation of young workers. We welcome a critical discussion of our findings and want to inspire others to consider the early phase of working life as a sensitive period with significant public health relevance. The workshop will contribute to advancing understanding of young workers’ mental health as a critical public health concern. Key messages • Adverse work environments and poor mental health among young workers hinder career development and labour market participation. • Early interventions targeting workplace health and psychosocial factors may improve outcomes for young workers and employers.

Abstract Background Pain can cause work disability and is common already among younger employees. To prevent pain-related work disability, it is important to understand how pain is associated with sickness absence in this age group and the impact of concurrent mental health, other health related factors and workload. Identifying modifiable health and work-related risk factors for recurrent pain and sickness absence among younger employees with pain, can facilitate prevention of pain and sickness absence. Methods Helsinki Health Study survey data, covering 4683 Finnish municipal employees who were 19-39-year-old at phase 1, were collected in 2017 (phase 1) and 2022 (phase 2). Data on pain, work- and health-related factors were derived from phase 1 and data on pain from both surveys. Register data on total and long-term sickness absence (spells >10 workdays) days were obtained from the employer and the Social Insurance Institution of Finland. Results At phase 1, 42 % reported pain, with 20% reporting chronic (≥3 months) pain. Recurrent pain was reported by 25% (pain at phase 1 and 2). Reporting chronic pain, multisite (>1 body site) pain, or poorer mental health were associated with higher total SA during the subsequent year. Employees with chronic or multisite pain and concurrent poorer mental health were at a higher risk of long-term sickness absence in the subsequent year. Obesity, smoking, manual work, and high physical workload were associated with long-term sickness absence during 27-month follow-up among employees with pain. High physical and mental workload, non-daily vegetable consumption, obesity, and sleep duration other than 7-8h associated with recurrent pain. Conclusions Pain affects a large proportion of younger employees. Promoting favorable physical and psychosocial working conditions, encouraging healthy lifestyles, preventing obesity, and supporting mental well-being may help reduce pain and long-term sickness absence among younger employees with pain. Speakers/Panellists Jutta Lindert Hochschule Emden-Leer, Emden, Germany João Vasco Santos University of Porto, CINTESIS, ARS Norte, Porto, Portugal

Abstract Health policy analysis is fundamental to shaping healthcare systems that are both effective and equitable. It serves as a cornerstone for informed decision-making, helping governments, organizations, and stakeholders develop strategies that address population health needs while ensuring fairness and efficiency. However, to significantly enhance its impact, it is essential to adopt a multidimensional and integrated approach to policy analysis. By combining strategic foresight, health impact assessment (HIA), and economic evaluation, policymakers can more effectively navigate the complex and ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, thereby enabling more proactive, evidence-based, and financially sustainable decisions. Strategic foresight, as a critical component, allows policymakers to anticipate the future. By analyzing trends such as emerging health threats, technological advancements, shifts in disease patterns, and demographic changes, this forward-looking approach enhances preparedness and supports proactive decision-making. Strategic foresight ensures that policymakers are better equipped to anticipate challenges. Health impact assessment (HIA) represents another vital tool in health policy analysis. It provides a structured and systematic framework for evaluating the potential effects of proposed policies, programs, or regulatory actions on the health outcomes of individuals and communities. What sets HIA apart is its emphasis on equity and evidence-based planning. Economic evaluation, as a third tool, provides critical insights into the financial dimensions of policy options, analyzing their cost-effectiveness, affordability, and sustainability. By identifying interventions that maximize health outcomes relative to available resources, it ensures optimal allocation of funds and long-term economic sustainability. These three tools are often employed in public health policy analysis. However, which tool to use for which policy research question is not given many considerations, in practice. Also, they are often used independent from each other, while they could be complementary to each other. By integrating strategic foresight, HIA, and health economics health policy analysis can address complex challenges more effectively. This comprehensive approach fosters resilience, equity, and sustainability in healthcare systems, equipping policymakers to design strategies that improve health outcomes and ensure both social and economic value. In this session, a brief overview of the three tools is given, including their strengths and weaknesses. Next, in a round table with the Presidents of the three different EUPHA sections, differences, overlaps and similarities will be identified. The session will end with finding common ground for setting next steps to further integrate these three tools to be better equipped to address complex policy issues. Key messages • Public health policy making can be better supported by integrating different policy analysis methods. • As a public health community we need to collaborate more to deal with the complex challenges of the future. Speakers/Panellists Henk Hilderink RIVM, Bilthoven, Netherlands Piedad Martin-Olmedo Escuela Andaluza de Salud Pública, Granada, Spain João Vasco Santos University of Porto / CINTESIS / ARS Norte, Porto, Portugal

Objectives: A knowledge gap exists concerning how university students—a diverse and transitioning demographic—manage their oral health. This study aims to characterise the oral health practices of university students. Methods: This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate oral health behaviors and perceptions among students at the University of Porto, through an online survey. Results: The findings indicate that while there are positive changes in some areas, such as a slight reduction in sugary drink consumption and increased awareness of oral health, significant areas of concern remain, particularly regarding the frequency of dental floss use and the consumption of sugary foods. Conclusions: While university students demonstrate some positive oral health behaviors, important gaps remain that must be addressed. By implementing targeted educational and support programs that integrate mental health, dietary habits, and stress management, institutions can enhance their students’ oral health and overall well-being, as underscored by this study's comprehensive approach to oral health promotion strategies.

Introduction/Objectives: The continuous progress of information technologies and their increasing use in the health sector have driven the integration of these technologies into the care of the population, including the progressive use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Given the rapid growth of AI, legislation and scientific evidence have been accompanying developments, clarifying the place of this technology in society. This study aimed to determine university students’ perspectives on the use of AI in healthcare, correlating them with sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: Data were collected using an original personal questionnaire to first-year students from four organic units at the University of Porto, between December 2024 and March 2025. Results: A total of 235 responses were obtained from four different Faculties, and no significant differences were found between gender, area of study, or course, regarding perspectives on the inclusion of AI in healthcare. Across the board, students view this inclusion positively, even though they trust a doctor more and do not have uniform positions regarding the system’s accountability. Conclusions: Thus, the study’s results highlight the need to deepen the debate and training on AI in healthcare, to promote the conscious, critical, and ethical integration of these technologies into healthcare.

IntroductionThe MOVE-AIR study was designed to explore the moderating role of movement behaviours on the association between air pollutants and health outcomes in Portuguese children. Secondarily, it aims to characterise the settings (both indoor and outdoor) where children are exposed to air pollutants and to co-create solutions with participants to mitigate the exposure to air pollutants in children’s daily life. This study aims to describe the MOVE-AIR study protocol in detail.Methods and analysisData from 52 primary school children aged 9–11 years will be assessed for indoor and outdoor air pollutants (particulate matter (PM)2.5 and PM10, and carbon dioxide), geo-tracked for distinct settings (ie, home/school, indoor/outdoor) along the day, through an optical monitoring sensor with Global Positioning System incorporated. Health-related biological outcomes, such as interleukin-6, tumour necrosis factor alpha and oxidative parameters, including total antioxidant status and total oxidant status, will be evaluated and the Oxidative Stress Index will be calculated. Children’s cardiopulmonary fitness will be assessed through the shuttle run test, and movement behaviours will be evaluated through accelerometers (wGT3X). Children’s sex, age and parental socioeconomic status will be provided by parents through a questionnaire. The influence of movement behaviours in the link between pollution and health will be analysed through moderating regression models using process for SPSS R software (V.30.0.0). A subsample of class teachers, school leaders, parents and children will be invited to a co-creation process to create solutions to mitigate their daily exposure to air pollutants. The results will contribute to further understanding the moderating role of movement behaviours in the association between air pollution and health, adding a biological layer to the mechanistic links underlying these potential relationships that have not been explored in this target population. Finally, enhancing our comprehension of the living environments and contexts where children are more exposed to air pollution can help to cooperatively create solutions to mitigate their daily exposure to those harmful pollutants.Ethics and disseminationEthical approval was granted by the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Sports from the University of Porto (CEFADE 32–2023), and the study complies with the European Union (EU) General Data Protection Regulation under the supervision of the Data Protection Office of the Institute of Public Health, University of Porto (ISPUP).

Genetic counseling arose as a field in the late 1960s in the United States, with the creation of the first master's level degree. Since then, the profession has expanded globally, with several training degrees being established and genetic counselors integrated into national healthcare systems. In Portugal, though the profession is yet to be recognized, a master's degree in genetic counseling was established in 2009 at ICBAS (University of Porto). Fifteen years later, and with the everlasting progress in the genetics field, to investigate how to continue improving and advancing genetic counseling education in Portugal, a qualitative, exploratory study was designed. Fourteen supervisors from the second-year annual placement of the MSc degree were invited to participate in semi-structured interviews about their expectations and perceptions regarding the master's. Reflexive thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data gathered. Ten supervisors took part in this study, with 17 years as the average experience in the genetics field. Four key themes were constructed from the data. First, supervisors identified specific challenges in genetic counseling education, including limited infrastructure at host institutions-which restricts the type and depth of supervision that can be provided-and the need to adapt internship plans to students' diverse educational backgrounds. They also emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration between educators and supervisors to ensure better alignment between academic preparation and practical training. The second theme centered on the experience of being a supervisor in the genetic counseling master's program. Supervisors' responses revealed diverse supervision styles and limited knowledge of the program's academic components. They also highlighted the students' motivating presence and the strong sense of purpose they felt when training new professionals. The third key theme concerned the integration of genetic counselors within genetic services. Supervisors acknowledged the added value genetic counselors bring to clinical settings, despite ongoing changes in service provision and limited career opportunities. The final theme related to misconceptions about the profession's scope of practice and training. This study provides insightful strategies to continue the development and improvement of the genetic counseling training in Portugal, and enhances the urgency of integrating these professionals into the healthcare system, with the ultimate purpose of promoting a more effective and comprehensive delivery of genetic counseling services in the country.

Stigma towards mental illness is a problem faced by health science professionals, acting as a barrier to providing care and seeking help. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare social stigma among Medical, Pharmacy and Veterinary students from the same university campus and assess the impact of their respective curricula on stigma levels. We performed an observational cross-sectional study, involving first and final-year students of the Integrated Master's in Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, from two Institutions of the University of Porto, Portugal. An online self-report questionnaire, using the preliminary Portuguese version of the Attribution Questionnaire AQ-27, was employed. Additionally, a brief sociodemographic questionnaire was administered, also inquiring about close contact with mental illness. A total of 182 students were considered for analysis. In terms of comparative analysis, first-year pharmacy students exhibited a higher score in the Segregation dimension compared to first-year veterinary medicine and final-year medicine students (p < .001). Younger age and a lower level of education corresponded to higher mean scores in the dimensions of Avoidance (p = .006 and .008) and Segregation (p < .001 for both). However, older students exhibited a lower mean score in the Pity dimension (p = .009). Students who did not report any close relationship with mental health problems demonstrate a higher mean score in the Avoidance dimension (p = .041), whereas those who cohabited with individuals with mental health problems demonstrated a lower mean score in the Segregation dimension (p = .014). This study emphasises the importance of critically design health sciences curricula to address mental health stigma, suggesting that structured evidence-based anti-stigma interventions, particularly those fostering empathy, may be essential to improve students' attitudes and promote more compassionate future healthcare practice.

This paper discusses the design of “I finded,” a mobile app aimed at mapping and promoting second-hand clothing stores within Porto’s historic centre. Developed as part of a master’s thesis at the University of Porto in 2023, the app addresses the rising interest in second-hand clothing and the limited awareness of such shops in Porto. Given the fashion industry’s significant environmental impact, the project encourages sustainable shopping choices to o support eco-conscious consumer behavior and environmental sustainability. The app’s main goal is to make second-hand stores more accessible, featuring a consistent store page format with a summary, image carousel, style description, target demographics, customer reviews, location with map, and contact details. Research methods included questionnaires, interviews, visual analysis, and observation, with a focus on inclusivity, diversity, and usability in design. Two shops, “Kilo” and “Com Sotaque,” served as test cases, each offering unique aesthetics within the second-hand market. By integrating sustainability into design, this project aims to promote environmental conservation and encourage a sustainable future. The app represents a concrete outcome, with the next step being potential collaborations with local institutions to bring it to life.

This article is part of a study undertaken in the Geotechnics Laboratory of Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto (FEUP) in partnership with the Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE) on the deformational behavior of the elastic and plastic phases of a soil-cement reinforced with synthetic microfibers, for use as a primer for low-cost roads. A brief study was first developed on the resistance mechanical behavior of the local soil. Through economic and technical criteria it was established that: cement content (CC) = 5%, maximum dry mass density (γd) = 19.8 kN/m3 and optimum water (wOp) = 11%. After setting the cement content (CC = 5%) the second stage of research began consisting of analyzing the mechanical behavior of the soil-cement mix with added contents of 0.25%, 0.50% and 0.75% of synthetic fibers, 6 mm and 24 mm in length and 18 μm in diameter. At the end of the study, it was found that the 0.75% content of 24 mm fiber offered the highest increase in strength and deformation in the soil-cement-fiber matrix. In the third and last stage of the work, in order to analyze the elastic and permanent deformation of the mixture of soil + 5% cement + 0.75% FibroMac-24, a cyclic triaxial test was performed in a high-pressure chamber. This is a special machine that permitted confining pressure to oscillate parallel with the cyclic distortional axial load. The analysis of the results under these loading conditions helped to extract the following instructions that will be presented in the article: it was found that the soil-cement-fiber mixture presents a reduction in the cyclic deformation modulus when compared to the soil-cement mixture, which also presents higher values ​​of permanent deformation (plastic or irreversible), as it presents less difficulty in relation to the soil-cement mixture.

The Sophia Journal editorial project, initiated at the Faculty of Architecture of the University of Porto (FAUP) and its R&amp;D Centre for Architecture and Urbanism Studies (CEAU), is a pivotal platform for discussing and constructing architectural ideas through photography, film, and other visual media. This initiative fosters international engagement, bridging academia withvarious professional and creative communities interested in architecture, photography, and urban studies.At the core of Sophia Journal’s mission is integrating contemporary visual culture with architectural discourse, significantly influencing scholarly and public debates. This focus is reflected in a range of high-impact publications, including peer-reviewed issues, special thematic volumes, and the organization of international conferences. Since its founding in 2016, Sophia Journal has provided a rigorous academic space for critical inquiry into the intersection of architecture, urban transformation, and visual narratives.The journal’s international conferences, initiated in 2010 with On the Surface, have played a crucial role in fostering dialogue on architecture and visual culture. These events have helped establish a global research network, positioning Sophia Journal as a key reference for exploring the role of photography and film in architectural and urban studies. (...)

This study reviews 24 master's theses from the University of Porto's Medical Informatics program, focusing on advancements in interoperability and graduates' professional trajectories over 15 years. A mixed-methods approach was used to analyze theses, identifying five core areas: Interoperability Standards and Implementation, Clinical Data Coding and Quality, Data Integration and Analysis, Imaging and Radiotherapy Standards, and Health Information Systems and Security. Nearly half of the theses (n=11) focused on implementing standards like HL7, openEHR, and FHIR. A time-based analysis revealed consistent interest in interoperability, with theses spanning 2010-2019. Graduates have pursued careers in healthcare technology, academia, and healthcare providers. Future work should assess the long-term impact of these theses on healthcare systems.

This study analyzes 159 master's theses in Medical Informatics from the University of Porto, spanning 2006 to 2023, to identify key trends, thematic focuses, and research gaps. Frequent topics include application and system development, database management, healthcare policy implementation, interoperability, medical imaging and signal processing, and clinical decision support systems leveraging artificial intelligence. The analysis highlights the program's practical focus on applying informatics to enhance healthcare. Emerging areas such as telemedicine, health information security, and patient-centered technologies present opportunities for further development. The next steps will include a comparative analysis with similar programs internationally, situating these findings within a broader academic and historical framework.

In the spring of 2024, we issued a call for a thematic number titled “Education, antiracism and decoloniality: tensions, resistances, and possibilities” as part of Educação, Sociedade &amp; Culturas [Education, Society &amp; Cultures], a multilingual journal of CIIE – Centre for Research and Intervention in Education of the Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences of the University of Porto, Portugal, as a result of an open call for special issues promoted by the Journal. At the time, the call for contributions stated that, in the face of particularly vicious contemporary colonial and racist violence, it is vital to call upon all antiracist and decolonial powers to understand current struggles and envision transformed futures. Keeping engaged in critical reflections about antiracist and decolonial struggles seems more necessary than ever as contexts become more urgent and demanding, and we witness a growing – and increasingly more explicit – backlash against diversity, antiracism and decoloniality.

Does moving away from the climate disaster signal a departure from the hydrogen economy? According to Adélio Mendes, a Full Professor at the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto (FEUP), moving away from the climate disaster does indeed signal a departure from the hydrogen economy, presenting a third pathway to consider. Europe is struggling; it is losing competitiveness because of a lack of innovation and high energy costs. Here, we present a very compelling strategy for low-cost, decarbonised, and locally produced energy, which can also protect our automotive industry.

The veterinary profession is rapidly evolving, requiring curricular renewal to address emerging challenges and enhance graduate preparedness. A survey was conducted among students and alumni of the School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences of the University of Porto (n = 279), Portugal, to evaluate the need for an updated veterinary curriculum. Respondents conveyed a strong preference for companion animal medicine, likely influenced by sociocultural factors and media representation. To address current and future demands, it was recommended to re-evaluate curricular structures (e.g., course duration and electives), incorporate non-technical skills, and enhance practical education. Additional reforms should be supported by feedback mechanisms and stakeholder consultations. Alumni expressed dissatisfaction with the job market, which should be addressed through continuous education and specialization and greater intervention of the Portuguese Veterinary Board. In summary, areas for improvement and increased stakeholder involvement were identified as opportunities for veterinary curricular renewal.

This paper investigates the transformative impact of video learning and artificial intelligence (AI) on enhancing the learning experience in mechanical engineering education. Through a quantitative and qualitative study using a survey, 145 undergraduate mechanical engineering students at the Faculty of Engineering of University of Porto, Portugal, provided insights into their utilization and perceptions of video learning and AI-based tools. The results showed a widespread acceptance and utilization of video resources as supplementary learning aids, particularly for reinforcing understanding of complex concepts in engineering subjects. Moreover, students recognize AI's potential to revolutionize traditional education systems. Unlike traditional video learning, AI offers innovative solutions to enhance interactive learning experiences for students. However, while video learning is often employed for comprehending complex subjects, AI-based tools, despite their interactive nature, are currently considered more advantageous for addressing less intricate topics. Challenges and ethical considerations surrounding the integration of AI in education are also addressed. The study underscores the need for educators to strike a balance between technological innovation and traditional pedagogical approaches to ensure that AI and video learning enrich rather than replace the learning experience. Ultimately, by increasing the strengths of AI and video learning, educators can cultivate engaged, empowered, and proficient mechanical engineering graduates prepared to navigate the complexities of the modern technological landscape.

Heritage Impact Assessments (HIA) are essential tools for heritage management, balancing potential development plans with heritage safeguarding. This is especially important in what concerns the evaluation of impact on Outstanding Universal Value (OUV) of World Heritage (WH) properties. This paper aims to present how an HIA was adapted to access the possible impacts of the construction of the “New Metro Bridge over the Douro River” in the immediate vicinity of the Faculty of Architecture of the University of Porto (FAUP). This demonstrates an integrated methodology supported on ICOMOS and UNESCO Guidelines, as well as on a cross-cutting analysis of different techniques and tools: documents, interviews, fieldwork and landscape simulations. Hence, this case study provides a valuable pilot reference to be implemented in other case studies, demonstrating HIA as a tool that can be applied in different stages (upstream advice, preliminary assessment, nomination preparation and management planning) of a nomination process, strongly contributing to the credibility and consistency of the WH List.