2024
Autores
Laguna, LV; Fernandes, CS; Campos, J; Ferreira, MC;
Publicação
Smart Health
Abstract
As advancements in the health sector continue to improve, people are living longer and increasingly aging in place. However, aging is often accompanied by disabilities and mobility issues. Whether these issues develop gradually or suddenly, many homes are not equipped to accommodate such changes, resulting in significant mobility barriers. This document presents a systematic review focusing on three key areas: “Home Barriers and Modification”, “Accessibilities and Disabilities”, and “Gamification and Assistive Technologies”. The aim is to synthesize existing knowledge and explore the interconnections among these topics. The primary objective of this review is to examine how gamification can be utilized to identify barriers within the homes of individuals with disabilities. Despite numerous advancements and available technologies, the review reveals a paucity of research on the application of gamification in this context, highlighting a promising area for future investigation. Additionally, the review underscores the benefits of home modifications to enhance accessibility, emphasizing the potential for significant improvements in the quality of life for individuals with disabilities. © 2024 The Authors
2025
Autores
Botelho, TC; Duarte, SP; Ferreira, MC; Ferreira, S; Lobo, A;
Publicação
EUROPEAN TRANSPORT RESEARCH REVIEW
Abstract
The evolution of transport technologies, marked by integrating connectivity and automation, has led to innovative approaches such as truck platooning. This concept involves linking multiple trucks through automated driving and vehicle-to-vehicle communication, promising to revolutionize the freight industry by enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs. This systematic review explores the current state of truck platooning testing literature, focusing on simulator and on-road tests. The objective is to identify key scenarios and requirements for successfully developing and implementing the truck platooning concept. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA) guidelines, we searched the Web of Science and Scopus databases, leading to the inclusion of thirty pertinent articles encompassing simulation-based, on-road, and mixed-environment experiments. In addition to the type of testing environment, these articles were assorted into three groups corresponding to their main thematic scope, human-centered, technology-centered, and energy efficiency studies, each providing unique insights into core themes for the development of truck platooning. The results reveal a commonly preferred platoon formation consisting of three trucks maintaining a constant speed of 80 km/h and a stable distance of 10 m between them. Simulator-based studies have predominantly concentrated on human factors, examining driver behavior and interaction within the platooning framework. In contrast, on-road trials have yielded tangible data, offering a more technology-driven perspective and contributing practical insights to the field. While the literature on truck platooning has grown considerably, this review recognizes some limitations in the existing literature and suggests paths for future research. Overall, this systematic review provides valuable insights to the ongoing development of robust and effective truck platooning systems.
2024
Autores
Amarelo, A; Mota, M; Amarelo, B; Ferreira, MC; Fernandes, CS;
Publicação
CANCERS
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy often face challenges that reduce their physical function and quality of life. Technological resources offer innovative solutions for physical rehabilitation, but the extent of their application in this context remains unclear. This scoping review aims to explore and map the various technological tools used to support physical rehabilitation in cancer patients during chemotherapy, focusing on their potential to improve outcomes and enhance patient care. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines and the PRISMA-ScR framework. Comprehensive searches were performed in the MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and COCHRANE databases. The included studies focused on the technological resources used in physical rehabilitation for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Data extraction followed the World Health Organization's Classification of Digital Health Interventions v1.0 to categorize the technologies. Results: A total of 32 studies met the inclusion criteria. The most commonly used technologies included wearable devices (16 studies), web-based platforms and telerehabilitation systems (7 studies), mHealth applications (6 studies), virtual reality (2 studies), and exergaming (3 studies). These tools were designed to enhance physical function, manage treatment-related symptoms, and improve overall quality of life. Wearable devices were particularly effective for monitoring physical activity, while web-based platforms and mHealth applications supported remote rehabilitation and patient engagement. Conclusions: Technological resources offer significant opportunities for personalized rehabilitation interventions in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. However, further research is needed to evaluate the long-term effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and clinical integration of these tools to ensure broader accessibility and sustainable impact.
2025
Autores
Ferreira, MC; Dias, TG;
Publicação
Lecture Notes in Mobility
Abstract
This study seeks to comprehensively analyze the multidimensional determinants underlying perceptions of safety, security, and comfort in transport mode choice, specifically focusing on private transport, public transport and walking. The research begins with an extensive literature review to identify and delve into the factors influencing perceptions of safety, security, and comfort across various transport modes. This inquiry is further enhanced by organizing two focused group sessions. A total of 35 key factors were identified, forming the basis for subsequent investigation. The study then progressed to the development and administration of a survey aimed at capturing responses from a diverse audience, with the goal of exploring the factors influencing perceptions related to different transport modes. A total of 302 responses were collected and meticulously analyzed to discern the factors impacting various relationships and to identify consistent perceptions across diverse transport modes. Additionally, a factor analysis was conducted to validate the findings derived from the data. The outcomes of this research constitute a significant contribution to the existing literature, offering valuable insights that pave the way for a more holistic understanding of the factors guiding transport mode choices. © The Author(s) 2025.
2025
Autores
Cunha, A; Campos, MJ; Ferreira, MC; Fernandes, CS;
Publicação
Teaching and Learning in Nursing
Abstract
Background: During their training, nurses must develop interprofessional collaboration skills, which are essential in clinical settings. Aim: This study aims to describe the development and testing stages of a virtual escape room, named "Lockdown Treatment", to enhance interprofessional collaboration. Methods: The User-Centered Design methodology was used, involving users from requirement gathering to iterative prototyping. Requirements were established through interviews with 6 healthcare professionals, and a prototype was developed and tested for final assessment. Results: The results identified key areas for improvement, particularly in terms of timing and support during the game and demonstrated the effectiveness of the escape room in promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. This study proves that tools like escape rooms can significantly enrich nursing education. Conclusion: It is essential to integrate innovative methods into interprofessional training, making it more engaging and interactive. However, it is crucial that such tools are meticulously planned and validated to ensure their suitability through a rigorous validation process. Future research should evaluate the ‘Lockdown Treatment’ to assess its long-term effectiveness and applicability in clinical practice and patient outcomes. © 2025 The Authors
2025
Autores
Cerqueira, F; Ferreira, MC; Campos, MJ; Fernandes, CS;
Publicação
COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE
Abstract
Background: The study aims to present and explain the development stages of a mobile app designed to improve health literacy for self-management of oncological diseases. Through the integration of gamification, the app aims to enhance patient engagement and education in an interactive manner. Methods: The methodology of Design Science in Information Systems and Software Engineering was employed, which included stages of needs identification, requirements definition, prototyping, and iterative validation of the developed artifact. A total of 132 participants, consisting of patients and healthcare professionals, were involved in the development of the PocketOnco application. The subsequent implementation of the App, PocketOnco, involved usability testing, System Usability Scale assessment, and the collection of qualitative feedback. Results: The usability testing analysis revealed excellent acceptance of PocketOnco, with the gamified elements such as quizzes and reward systems being particularly appreciated for their ability to consistently engage and motivate users. Conclusion: The various stages in the development of this resource ensure the quality of its purpose. The application proved to be a viable and attractive solution for both patients and healthcare professionals, suggesting a promising path for future digital interventions in the field of oncology.
The access to the final selection minute is only available to applicants.
Please check the confirmation e-mail of your application to obtain the access code.