Nuno Eduardo Moura dos Santos da Costa Taveira

Traditional PCR methods often lack precision due to amplification biases and difficulties in quantifying low-abundance bacteria. Digital PCR (dPCR) offers a highly sensitive, accurate, and reproducible method of quantification, enabling absolute measurement of bacterial DNA without the need for standard curves. This project focuses on developing advanced digital PCR (dPCR) assays to accurately quantify specific oral bacteria. Oral microbiota play a crucial role in both oral and systemic health, with imbalances linked to diseases like periodontitis, dental caries, and even cardiovascular issues. Accurate quantification of bacterial populations is essential for understanding these connections and developing targeted therapeutic interventions.

4h

Paulo Mascarenhas

The objective of this research project is to investigate the microbiological organisms, including spores, present in the air-conditioning devices of various environments within an institutional setting, such as cabinets, laboratories, and canteens. The study will concentrate on the identification and quantification of the microbial load, the assessment of microorganism diversity, and the evaluation of potential health risks associated with their presence. The findings will contribute to better air quality management and help mitigate health risks, while also offering educational opportunities in microbiological research and environmental health.

3h

Pedro Silva Rodrigues

The teaching, learning, and review of anatomical knowledge rely on vast amounts of textual information, often accompanied by photos and illustrations, which are typically overloaded with labels and annotations. Textual descriptions are linear and sequential, which limits the understanding of topographical relationships between anatomical features. Converting text into visual information, such as anatomical graphics, allows users to better perceive anatomical topography, the constituent elements, and their spatial relationships. This project aims to transform large amounts of traditionally textual information into image or graph formats. The goal is to determine whether anatomical graphs can help create mental maps that support the teaching of anatomy, including their integration into Virtual Reality simulators. For further clarification, the researcher can provide video support for the project if interested.

2h

Lucinda J. Bessa

This study aims to investigate the use of antibiotics at the Egas Moniz Dental Clinic (CDEM), with the objective of analyzing prescription patterns, clinical efficacy, and the incidence of antimicrobial resistance. Prior approval from the Ethics Committee will be required. The investigation will be conducted through the analysis of clinical records and questionnaires administered to the clinic's healthcare professionals, covering a representative sample of patients treated. Initially, the study will begin with a literature review on the use of antibiotics in dental medicine, highlighting relevant national and international guidelines. This study will provide a comprehensive overview of antibiotic use at CDEM, helping to identify areas for improvement and contributing to the prevention of antimicrobial resistance.

5h

Iris Almeida

Analyse the relationship between genetic factors and the psychosocial development of individuals with a history of drugs abuse.

8h

Ana Margarida Ribeiro

In veterinary practice, rehabilitation modalities are often used to help in the recovery of animals affected by Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD), a condition frequently observed in chondrodystrophic dog breeds and can lead to Spinal Cord Injury (SCI), resulting in pain, motor impairments and neurological deficits, but there is a lack of objective assessment tools for patient evolution. In this work, an innovative approach using surface Electromyography (sEMG) is proposed to be applied in the field of veterinary medicine rehabilitation. This project aims to optimize a surface Electromyography (sEMG) device for Small Animal Medicine, targeting non-invasive assessment of the muscular activity of the paraspinal muscles in healthy Dachshunds and in Dachshunds affected by Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). This will contribute to a more in-depth knowledge of the application of sEMG in Veterinary Medicine, with the possibility of developing an objective and measurable assessment tool, that could not only be valid for the early detection of muscle activity problems, but also for evaluating the effectiveness of the different therapeutic modalities applied in neurorehabilitation.

2h

Gil Alcoforado

This project aims to develop a new flap design for bone regeneration.

5h

Elisabete Matos

Project Food4Thought aims to design, implement and evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention that can contribute to change attitudes and beliefs of high school and college students regarding food sectors with a negative public perception, specifically aquaculture and insects as food. Both these sectors are expected to grow in the next decade, and it’s imperative that future consumers’ awareness is improved, to ensure higher success.

3h

Pedro Silva Rodrigues

This project consists of the creation of a virtual reality simulator using virtual reality glasses and haptic technology for teaching Operative Dentistry and Implantology, respectively in the context of undergraduate and postgraduate education in Dental Medicine.

2h

Pedro Silva Rodrigues

This project will focus on: 1. Explore the benefits and limitations of anatomy maps in Extended Reality (XR) and in Physicalizations (physical visualizations of information) as an educational tool for teaching and learning anatomy. 2. Create new anatomical labeling techniques that enhance current medical visualization possibilities in the context of preoperative surgical planning. 3. Create new educational tools using Extended Reality and Physicalizations for teaching and learning in Surgical Anatomy.

2h

Luciano Maia Alves Ferreira

The objective of this study is to analyze the effect of Repeated Peripheral Magnetic Stimulation (rPMS) in patients with chronic low back pain. This is a controlled, randomized, multicenter clinical trial (Brazil x Portugal). A sample will be presented by individuals with chronic low back pain with a score between 40 and 80 on the Oswestry scale, who will be randomly divided into 2 groups: control (CG) and intervention (IG). The instruments used for evaluation will be: visual analog pain scale (VAS), brief pain inventory (BPI), McGill questionnaire, Roland Morris scale and WHOQOL-BREF. Both groups used the EMP device, with 10 sessions over a period of 2 weeks, in the IG applied in the flat tangential orientation lasting 20 minutes and a stimulation protocol consisting of 5 seconds of stimulation at a frequency of 20 Hz followed by 25 seconds of rest with a minimum intensity of 20% up to maximum intensity to induce sufficient contraction of the paraspinal muscle and in the CG in transverse orientation with the stimulus intensity level set at 5% of the maximum output of the stimulator to minimize stimulation, both in the most painful low back region. Keywords: Low back pain, neuromodulation, PMS, pain.

4h

Sérgio Filipe Calado Valério

Creatine is a popular sports supplement used by athletes to increase muscle mass, strength, and endurance, however, improper use or excessive doses can lead to liver or kidney issues. In Portugal, there are currently no guidelines for creatine intake or dosage, making it important to study and verify its usage. The main objective of this study is to determine if there are statistically significant differences in urine creatinine levels between creatine users and non-users. Secondary objectives include describing the assessed levels and identifying potential differences based on diet, other supplement intake, and supplement frequency. The study will involve gym athletes attending a Higher Education Institution in the Lisbon metropolitan area.

4h

Maria João Hilário

Saliva is a biological sample excreted into the oral cavity and plays an important role in the organism's homeostasis. Although the oral mucosa acts as a defense barrier, it is directly exposed to tobacco smoke, which can alter antimicrobial protection and salivary pH. The study aims to measure and compare oral pH in saliva samples from different groups (smokers and non-smokers). Secondary objectives include analyzing changes in oral pH over time, differences in salivary consistency between smokers and non-smokers, and the impact of different types of tobacco on oral pH.

4h

Luciano Maia Alves Ferreira

Specific stress is a condition that affects mental and physical health, leading to a series of neuropsychiatric and somatic disorders. Several non-invasive neuromodulation techniques, such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve (tVNS), have been investigated as potential treatments for these disorders, with promising results, but still lacking further scientific exploration in relation to stress. This study aims to evaluate the effects of non-invasive neuromodulation on the symptoms of specific stress in adult individuals. The main objective is to determine whether tDCS, applied to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (F3/F4), and TVS, applied to the auricular branch of the vagus nerve, are effective in reducing stress intensity. In addition, the effects of these interventions on associated factors such as sleep disorders, mental rumination and cognition will be evaluated. The results of this study may contribute to the development of new non-pharmacological therapeutic approaches for the management of specific stress, providing accessible, safe and effective alternatives for populations vulnerable to this condition. Keywords: chronic stress, neuromodulation, tDCS, tVNS, neuropsychiatric disorders.

4h

Luís Proença

The field of dentistry has undergone significant transformations in recent years, driven by advancements in technology, changes in patient expectations, and the global challenges posed by the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic. The efficacy and satisfaction of dental treatments, particularly in university-based clinics, are contingent upon patient perceptions and the broader economic and social contexts within which they operate. Notwithstanding the growing importance of these factors, there is a paucity of understanding regarding the manner in which they intersect, particularly in relation to their impact on the management, accessibility and cost-efficiency of dental care within national health systems. The objective of this project is to examine the social, economic, and clinical impacts of dentistry in the present context. This will entail an analysis of patient satisfaction, the challenges posed by the pandemic, and the economic sustainability of dental care services, with a particular focus on the public healthcare system. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of how these factors influence dental practice and to propose strategies to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of oral healthcare in modern societies.

2h

Alexandra Bernardo

Several studies report handwriting analysis as a noninvasive tool to monitor forearm muscle activity and correlate writing patterns with disease progression. The present study aims to: 1. Characterize and compare the handwriting before and after the implementation of a specific rehabilitation program in Parkinson's disease. 2. Evaluate how disease severity, cognition and depression states, resulting from disease progression and rehabilitation, influences the handwriting ability, specifically in dynamic features.

10h

Pedro Silva Rodrigues

To contribute and improve teaching and learning of Head and Neck surgical and descriptive Anatomy by developing Virtual Reality Tools using Anatomy Graphs. We aim to improve the retention of contents in learning descriptive and topographic human anatomy, both in the academical and oral surgery contexts.

2h

Mariana Mendes Morgado Duarte

The field of health education has undergone substantial transformations in recent years, shaped by rapid advancements in educational technology, evolving student expectations, and the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery. While innovative teaching methods and student engagement have become pivotal factors in the transformation of educational practices, particularly in healthcare-related fields, there remains a knowledge gap regarding the impact of these changes on the effectiveness and motivation of students. Furthermore, the broader societal and technological shifts have created new challenges in adapting curricula and teaching strategies, which are of paramount importance for the production of skilled healthcare professionals. The aim of this project is to investigate the potential of innovative learning approaches to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes in health education. The study will assess the impact of various methods, including problem-based learning, digital tools, and case-based teaching, on student motivation, comprehension, and overall educational experience. The objective is to gain insights into how these methods can be integrated into health education in order to enhance the quality of teaching and better prepare students for real-world healthcare challenges.

3h

António HS Delgado

The aim of this project is to propose alternative ways to bond to tooth tissues, since there are still a number of flaws and constrainments in current practice. We aim to secure ways which do not follow a conventional approach (i.e., the creation of a hybrid layer in dentin which is bound to degrade with time). Such alternative strategies are expected to be compatible with hydrophobic self-adhesive composites. New formulations of these materials are also included in this aim, by optimizing the properties of composites already developed in previous work, up until this date. The final outcome is the creation of new-generation restorative materials.

6h

Lucinda J. Bessa

Modern medicine currently faces a significant challenge that threatens public health: antibiotic resistance. The goal of this project is to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of various compounds and extracts, whether natural or synthetic. This activity will be tested against several bacterial strains, both Gram-positive and Gram-negative, as well as multidrug-resistant clinical isolates. Methods such as the agar diffusion method and microdilution will be used to determine the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Compounds that demonstrate activity will be further tested to assess their ability to inhibit bacterial biofilm formation through 1) biomass quantification using 0.5% crystal violet staining and 2) microscopic visualization after Live/Dead staining.

6h

Ana Sintra Delgado

Integrating the One Health approach into public health education offers a valuable opportunity to improve health literacy, particularly in oral health. As global health challenges become more interconnected, recognizing the links between human, animal, and environmental health is crucial. While One Health is increasingly recognized across sectors, its application in oral health education, especially in schools, remains underexplored. This research aims to develop educational models that equip children with the knowledge to navigate complex health issues. By incorporating One Health into curricula, the project seeks to promote integrated health approaches, fostering healthier communities and sustainable health education practices.

2h

Lucinda J. Bessa

The study of complex microbial communities, such as those found in soil, the intestine, or the oral cavity, increasingly relies on culture-independent methods based on direct DNA (or RNA) analysis without any culturing step. These methods involve protocols where the total DNA (or RNA) is directly extracted from the sample. This project aims to: 1) process samples, such as oral swabs, feces, and milk, to optimize protocols for microbial genomic DNA extraction; and 2) optimize qPCR protocols for detecting and quantifying specific pathogenic bacteria in these samples.

6h

Catarina Izidoro

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease that leads to the destruction of the tooth's supporting tissues, characterized by a decrease in homeostasis due to polymicrobial aggression. Halitosis, or bad oral odor, is one of the main complaints of periodontitis patients, with a negative impact on their interpersonal relationships and self-esteem. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of periodontal treatment on intra-oral halitosis, as well as self-perception of disease before and after periodontal treatment.

4h

Catarina Izidoro

Periodontitis is an inflammatory disease that leads to the destruction of the tooth's supporting tissues, characterized by a decrease in homeostasis due to polymicrobial aggression. Halitosis, or bad oral odor, is one of the main complaints of periodontitis patients, with a negative impact on their interpersonal relationships and self-esteem. The aim of the project is to assess the association between periodontitis and intra-oral halitosis and to evaluate patients' self-perception of periodontitis and halitosis with their diagnosis.

4h

Ricardo Castro Alves

This project will focus in the use of photodynamic therapy in the treatment of periodontitis and peri-implantitis.

5h

Alexandre Trindade

Canine lymphoma is a common and heterogeneous type of hematological cancer, being similar to human non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Although treatments are likely to lead to remission, most dogs end up recidivating and dying, in contrast to NHL. A multidisciplinary approach will be used here to construct a canine lymphoma biobank to compare untreated versus relapsed samples from the same dogs. We hope to discover new therapeutic leads and prognostic tools.

6h

Iris Almeida

The PROMOTE Project – Promoting Integrated Professional Development for Prison Practitioners in Vocational Excellence for Offender Integration focuses on the reskilling of prison practitioners to support offenders’ re-integration into society.

8h

Iris Almeida

The present study aims to analyze the relationship between psychosocial risks, burnout, psychopathological symptoms and personality in health and justice professionals.

8h

Iris Almeida

Evaluation of the current Domestic Violence Risk Assessment Instrument (RVD) used by portuguese police since 2014.

8h

António HS Delgado

We propose the synthesis of novel nanoparticles, containing functional chemical groups that may bring advantages to the formulation of next generation, potentially self-adhesive materials. The aim is to synthesize particles able to interact with mineralized tissues, superficially etching the substrates and bonding to the underlying tissue. These particles will then be included in the formulation of composites, and these materials will be tested, using normal physico-chemical property screening and ex vivo tooth models.

6h

António HS Delgado

New formulations of self-adhesive composites and alternative ways to prepare dentin for bonding procedures are the main focus of the project. Specifically, this project aims to test the effect of heating self-adhesive composites on the material properties and bonding behaviour, using ex vivo tooth models and laboratory assays.

6h

Noémia Lopes

The present study is organized around a set of analytical dimensions through which the lifestyles and perceptions of well-being of the elderly population living alone will be characterized. There are four analytical dimensions structuring this approach to this population: their consumption patterns of psychopharmaceuticals and/or natural products for the same purposes; their patterns of everyday sociability; their feelings of (in)security and vulnerability concerning crime risk; their self-assessment of well-being. The target population for this project are people aged 65 and over, living alone or in care homes (having previously lived alone), residing in the municipality of Almada. Methodologically the study will adopt a mixed methods approach, comprising both a survey (n=400) and semi-structured interviews (n=24). The final goal for the study is also to develop a comparative analysis, as it follows-up on an equivalent study, conducted a decade ago, on the “Senior Generation of Almada”.

h

José João Mendes

The global dental community is increasingly recognizing the urgent need to adopt sustainable practices. This project aims to explore the potential of sustainable dentistry to mitigate environmental impact, promote ethical principles, and enhance patient care. By examining the current state of dental sustainability, identifying innovative practices, and evaluating their ethical implications, this research seeks to contribute to the development of a more environmentally responsible and socially conscious dental profession.

2h

Iris Almeida

The goal of the project is to validate the evaluation and intervention protocols, extended to different criminal typologies, based on practice in the field and reinforced by the literature, which the project has also produced in the Victims Information and Assistance Office, in the Forensic Psychology Office and in the Technical Advisor Office – Egas Moniz Forensic and Psychological Sciences Laboratory.

8h

Iris Almeida

The present investigation aims to analyze the relationship between attachment (Hazan & Shaver, 1987), the presence of psychopathology in adulthood (Dutton et al., 1994; Hazan & Shaver, 1987) and Intimate Partner Violence (Almeida et al., 2023).

8h

Dinis Pereira

Research on emerging and established methods for diagnosing tooth size discrepancies.

3h

Ana Vanessa Antunes

This project explores the use of virtual reality (VR) to design immersive and interactive learning environments tailored to perioperative nursing education. In the complex and high-stakes context of surgical care, VR offers a powerful tool to simulate operating room settings, patient preparation, sterile techniques, instrumentation, and teamwork dynamics. Through experiential learning, students can safely engage in critical decision-making and procedural skills, enhancing both competence and confidence. Students participating in this project will investigate current applications of VR in perioperative nursing education—such as anatomy visualization, surgical procedure walkthroughs, patient safety training, and teamwork simulations— while identifying key pedagogical challenges that immersive technologies can help address, including low motivation and limited access to practical experiences. They will contribute to the co-design of VR-based learning modules focused on perioperative scenarios (e.g., preoperative assessments, intraoperative roles, postoperative recovery), develop storyboards or low-fidelity prototypes, and conduct small-scale usability tests or walkthroughs with peers or professionals. The project emphasizes critical reflection on the cognitive, emotional, and educational impact of immersive simulation, supporting the development of innovative tools that enhance patient safety and nursing education.

3h