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Objective: The Bioethics Teaching in Secondary Education (Project BEST) aims to promote the teaching of bioethics in secondary schools. This paper describes the development and implementation of the programme in Portugal. Design: Programme development involved two main tasks: (1) using the learning tools previously developed by the US Northwest Association of Biomedical Research and the Council of Europe and (2) applying the project in classrooms, conducting lectures on bioethics for students and teachers, and then using the previously developed learning tools. Setting: 32 schools representing the most densely populated regions of Portugal. Methods: Two surveys, based on previously validated measures, were used to evaluate the project. Results: The surveys were answered by the 179 students and 16 teachers attending a conference held by the project, which concluded the project's implementation phase. The findings point to the positive impact of this project. Conclusion: Based on evidence collected to date, it is clear that (1) students can develop reflective skills using this kind of an approach, (2) the project is well suited to secondary school syllabuses and to the age range of students from secondary schools, and (3) the teaching of values should start earlier at school, thereby helping young people develop a critical perspective on problems linked to scientific development and its implications on human health.

Thymus capitellatus Hoffmanns & Link is an endemic species of the Iberian Peninsula listed as near-threatened, due to its restricted geographical distribution, occurring mainly in Portugal's mainland. In this work, we detail for the first time T. capitellatus extracts' phytochemical composition, as well as an evaluation of bioactivities to point out potential health benefits. Aqueous decoction (AD) and hydroethanolic (HE) extracts were obtained, both rich in flavonoids. However, quercetin-(?)-O-hexoside was identified as the main compound in T. capitellatus HE extract, while the phenolic acid rosmarinic acid was the main component of AD extracts. In addition, HE extract presents significant amounts of salvianolic acids and of the terpenoids oleanolic and ursolic acid. Both extracts showed antioxidant activity, evaluated by their capacity to scavenge ABTS and superoxide radicals, as well as an ability to prevent lipid peroxidation. AD extracts were also effective in scavenging hydroxyl and nitric oxide radicals. As potential functional foods, T. capitellatus extracts presented neuroprotective and anti-diabetic activity, in addition to time- and dose-dependent anti-proliferative activity against Caco-2 (colorectal adenocarcinoma) and HepG2 (hepatic carcinoma) cells. HE extract presented higher cytotoxicity than AD extract, and HepG2 cells were more resistant than Caco-2 cells. After 24 h exposure to HE extract, the IC50 values were 330 μg/mL and 447 μg/mL for Caco-2 and HepG2 cells, respectively. T. capitellatus has potential as a functional food or as a source of bioactive molecules. These results also highlight the need to preserve species with as yet unknown molecular compositions and potential medicinal applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The Montado is a characteristic ecosystem of the Mediterranean region, where agricultural activities, animal production and forestry coexist alongside tourism, hunting and leisure activities. Animal grazing is fundamental for the conservation of the Montado, and it is imperative to clearly understand its interactions with the pasture floristic composition (PFC) of the Montado. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of sheep grazing, stocking rates and dolomitic limestone application on the floristic composition of permanent dryland pastures, in the Montado agroforestry system of Southern Portugal. The type of grazing influences the PFC, which may be positively or negatively impacted, depending on the adopted system. Deferred grazing seems to benefit the disappearance of undesirable plants and the appearance of desired plants. The results of this study allow for more informed management decisions and a potential increase in animal production but also improve the knowledge of conservation strategies in the Montado. The Montado is a complex agroforestry–pastoral ecosystem due to the interactions between soil–pasture–trees–animals and climate. The typical Montado soil has an acidic pH and manganese toxicity, which affect the pasture's productivity and pasture floristic composition (PFC). The PFC, on the other hand, can also be influenced by the type and intensity of grazing, which can lead to significant decreases in the amount of biomass produced and the biodiversity of species in the pasture. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of grazing type, by sheep, and different stocking rates on the PFC throughout the vegetative pasture cycle in areas with and without dolomitic limestone application. Thus, four treatments (P1UC to P4TC) were constituted: P1UC—without limestone application (U) and continuous grazing (CG); P2UD—U and deferred grazing (DG); P3TD—with the application of limestone (T) and DG; P4TC—T and CG. In DG plots, the placement and removal of the animals were carried out as a function of the average height of the pasture (placement—10 cm; removal—3 to 5 cm). The PFC was characterized in winter, at the peak of spring and in late spring. The PFC data were subjected to a multilevel pattern analysis (ISA). The combination of rainfall and temperature influenced the pasture growth rates and consequently the height of the pasture at different times of the year. Therefore, with the different growth rates of the pasture throughout the year, the sheep remain for different periods of time in the deferred grazing treatments. In the four treatments, 103 plant species were identified. The most representative botanical families in the four treatments were Asteraceae, Fabaceae and Poaceae. ISA identified 14 bioindicator species: eight for the winter period, three for the late spring vegetative period and three for the TC treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allometric, growth, and biomass estimation models for the quantification of missing parameters in trees are widely used to estimate the productivity of a stand. However, regarding species with lower economic interest, or exotic invasive species, the creation of these tools did not occur in the same way as for other species, lacking the development of relationships to allow a deeper study of these species. Thus, data were collected in a settlement of Acacia dealbata Link. in Portugal, in an area known for the current infestation of this species. After a bibliographic review, some of the identified models were tested to select those who best fit the characteristics of this stand, which were used to develop relationships that, based on the data collected, would be able to estimate parameters, such as height, volume, or mass. It was found that the models established, at least for the initial 20 years of the life of the trees, followed close to a linear model. However, the model still presents some weaknesses. For being considered an invasive species in Portugal, A. dealbata is frequently controlled, and for this reason it is very difficult to find trees older than 20 years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Knowledge of invasive alien plant (IAP) ecology and plant community succession (synphytosociology) is crucial for successful restoration and prevention of (re)invasions; nevertheless, these two fields are rarely combined. Our case study aims to demonstrate how they can be integrated, by analysing the variation of IAP distribution within biogeographic territories, identifying the potential native plant communities and the ecological conditions that favour (or prevent) each IAP. Location: Southern Portugal. Methods: Several native plant indicators and nine selected IAPs were surveyed in 60 1‐km2 sampling plots across the four biogeographic sectors of the study area. The native plant indicators were then used to identify the vegetation series in which IAPs occurred. Ecological requirements favouring the establishment of each IAP were inferred based on expert knowledge and on the characteristics of published vegetation series and bioclimatic data. Results: Littoral areas were more invaded, particularly those with sand dune habitats, which are highly dynamic and exposed to disturbance. The most frequent IAPs were Acacia dealbata, Arundo donax, Acacia longifolia and Opuntia ficus‐indica. Riparian vegetation series were the most invaded, especially ash woodlands and willow galleries, as well as the littoral psammophilous cork oak and maritime turbinate juniper series. The most adequate native species to recover each of these invaded communities varies, and examples are provided for each situation. Conclusions: Integrating knowledge about IAP ecological requirements and the dynamics of native vegetation series can help practitioners select native plants that are more likely to function as efficient natural barriers to (re)invasion, predict areas more prone to invasion by IAPs and establish management priorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two distinct series of Variscan granitic rocks have been distinguished in the Gravanho-Gouveia area of Portugal, based on field work, variation diagrams for major and trace elements, rare earth patterns and δ18O versus total FeO diagram of rocks, anorthite content of plagioclase, BaO and P 2 O 5 contents of feldspars and AlVI versus Fe2+ diagram for magmatic muscovite. One series consists of a late-orogenic porphyritic biotite > muscovite granite (G1), less evolved beryl-columbite pegmatites and more evolved beryl-columbite pegmatites showing gradational contacts. The other series consists of post-orogenic porphyritic muscovite > biotite granodiorite to granite (G2), slightly porphyritic muscovite > biotite granite (G3) and lepidolite pegmatites. In each series, pegmatites are derived from the parent granite magma by fractional crystallization of quartz, plagioclase, K-feldspar, biotite and ilmenite. Some metasomatic effects occur like muscovite replacing feldspars, chlorite in pegmatites of the first series and a late muscovite in pegmatites of the second series, probably due to hydrothermal fluids. The lepidolite pegmatites contain cassiterite and two generations of rutile. The first magmatic generation consists of homogeneous crystals and the second generation occurs as heterogeneous zoned crystals derived from hydrothermal fluids. The beryl-columbite pegmatites and lepidolite pegmatites also contain the first magmatic generation and the late hydrothermal generation of zoned columbite-group minerals. More evolved beryl-columbite pegmatites were converted into episyenite by intense hydrothermal alteration and regional circulation of fluids in the granitic rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to investigate the effects of O3 in protein content and immunoglobulin E (IgE)-binding profiles of Acer negundo, Platanus x acerifolia and Quercus robur pollen. Pollen was exposed to O3 in an environmental chamber, at half, equal and four times the limit value for the human health protection in Europe. Pollen total soluble protein was determined with Coomassie Protein Assay Reagent, and the antigenic and allergenic properties were investigated by SDS-PAGE and immunological techniques using patients' sera. O3 exposure affected total soluble protein content and some protein species within the SDS-PAGE protein profiles. Most of the sera revealed increased IgE reactivity to proteins of A. negundo and Q. robur pollen exposed to the pollutant compared with the non-exposed one, while the opposite was observed in P. x acerifolia pollen. So, the modifications seem to be species dependent, but do not necessarily imply that increase allergenicity would occur in atopic individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Economic measures still lead as most frequently used performance measurements [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using two-hundred eleven (211) Portuguese public sector project managers, this study examines the changing role of project leaders and its impact on a project's success in challenging Portuguese public sector environment. Factors which include the characteristics of the project managers, managerial know-how and availability of information are studied for this purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – The increasing importance placed on organizational performance in a highly competitive global business environment has been unmistakable in recent years. The performance of entry-level managers contributes significantly to the effectiveness of the overall organizational performance. The purpose of this paper is to explore the nature and dimensions of entry-level managers' performance-related variables for a cross sectional sample of Portuguese organizations. Design/methodology/approach – Using a sample of 106 executives from Portuguese organizations, factor analysis was used to extract the underlying dimensions of effective performance of entry-level managers. Multiple regression analysis was used to explore the relationships between the critical performance dimensions revealed by factor analysis. Findings – The results of this study reveal the significance of personality-related aspects, learned aspects, and cognitive capacities on shaping the effective performance of entry-level managers. The practical implications of the results to business organizations and organizations of higher learning are examined. Research limitations/implications – The sample used in this study is specific in nature. It consists of executives from Portuguese organizations representing different industries. Thus, the results should be interpreted accordingly. Practical implications – Based on the results of this study, some important organizational implications regarding managerial training and development are advanced. Originality/value – This study empirically examines the Portuguese executives' opinions regarding entry-level managers' desired performance-related characteristics. It offers significant implications to both business and higher learning organizations, as they engage in joint ventures aimed at promoting effective managerial performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - Given the increasing emphasis on performance measurement and improvement, the purpose of this paper is to examine the current views of manufacturing executives on key aspects of performance measures. Specifically, this research focuses on current practices related to extent of use, predictive value and availability of information for 63 performance measures. Design/methodology/approach - This study was survey based. The research instrument used to collect the data was constructed based on the literature. Several statistical analysis procedures including regression analysis, cluster analysis and gap analysis are utilized to accomplish the objective of this study. Findings - The results are compared to findings obtained from a previous study, conducted five years ago, to assess any potential changes with regard to the issues studied. The comparison of the findings from both studies revealed some similarities and significant differences attributed to the changing environment. Research limitations/implications - The focus of this study was Portuguese manufacturing organizations. It is quite possible that the findings may or may not hold in a global context. Since this study was survey based, it had all the limitations of survey-based research. Practical implications - Despite some limitations, this study provides practicing managers with useful information regarding performance measures and measurement practices. It has significant and direct implications to organizational performance information systems. Originality/value - This paper represents an important step toward refining the theory and practice of performance measurement in manufacturing organizational operational context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to examine the Portuguese public sector organizations' familiarity with, and willingness to utilize, project management tools, as these organizations attempt to enhance their operational performance through carefully crafted organizational change. Design/methodology/approach - Using a sample of 102 public officials, 30 project managers' characteristics, 23 project management variables, and information availability on these variables are studied and classified. Findings - In general, the results clearly showed the familiarity of the participants with the important characteristics and variables of effective project management practices. Some exceptions were attributed to the specific nature of public sector operational systems. Research limitations/implications - The sample used in this study is specific in nature. It consisted of Portuguese public sector officials at the middle-level rank in the managerial hierarchy. Thus, the results should be interpreted accordingly. Practical implications - Based on the results of this study, some important organizational implications regarding training and systems development were advanced. Originality/value - This study empirically examines the public sector officials' knowledge and attitude regarding project management practices. It offers significant implications to public sector organizations, as they pursue a more open system operational orientation to meet growing environmental pressures and citizens' demands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prunus lusitanica L. is a paleotropical relic species with an Ibero-Maghrebian distribution, which is presently considered as an endangered species, recognized by the Natura 2000 Network (92/43/EEC) as a priority habitat for conservation in Europe. The mountains in the Portuguese mainland central region offer the best location for this species to occur. The main objective of this study is to measure the current conservation status of the communities of P. lusitanica, through the collection of field data, such as the number of existing individuals of each population and their location, which will then be comparatively analyzed based on the previous literature, published at least 15 years ago. Soil characterization analysis was carried out and the main threats to conservation were identified. As a result, a decline of approximately 40% was observed in the number of individuals and in the quality of their habitat. The main threats to their conservation were found to be the seasonal occurrence of rural fires and the expansion of invasive species, such as Acacia dealbata Link and Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle. Finally, we present the main management methodologies that should be considered for the valorization of this important vegetational relic in the central region of mainland Portugal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rocky habitats of southern Portugal are ecosystems with extreme xericity conditions, associated with special abiotic strains. In these unstable ecological conditions, a considerable diversity of plant communities occurs. The objective of this study, carried out in the Algarve and Monchique, and the Mariánica Range biogeographical sectors, is to compare chasmo-chomophytic communities of the southwestern Iberian Peninsula, using a phytosociological approach (Braun–Blanquet methodology) and numerical analysis (hierarchical cluster analysis). From these results, two new communities were identified, Sanguisorbo rupicolae-Dianthetum crassipedis and Antirrhinetum onubensis, as a result of floristic and biogeographical differences from other associations already described within the alliances Rumici indurati-Dianthion lusitani and Calendulo lusitanicae-Antirrhinion linkiani, both included in the Phagnalo saxatilis-Rumicetea indurate class. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological invasions are of complex solution, consuming resources for their control and eradication. However, in many of the documented processes that are available, this is an attempt with no solution in sight. The possibility of increasing the pressure over these species while creating value chains has been presented as a method for ensuring the sustainability of their control and eradication processes. In the case of invasive forest species in Portugal, such as Acacia dealbata Link, this control is becoming increasingly important. In addition to the negative impacts on biodiversity, the proliferation of this species has economic implications due to its competition with forest production species such as Pinus pinaster Aiton and Eucalyptus globulus Labill. Another critical aspect to be considered is the increase of the risk of rural fires, which is enhanced by the accumulation of low-value biomass around production forests. In this work, the possibility of using this species as a vehicle for the capture and sequestration of carbon in the medium and long-term was evaluated from a perspective of providing ecosystem services as a measure to mitigate climate change. However, due to its highly heliophilous character, it was found that the growth capacity of this species is rapidly conditioned by the position of each tree within a stand, not being able to maintain that capacity in the medium and long term. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Portugal is a country with a territorial dimension of approximately 90,000 km2. However, the forest occupies a prominent position, since it represents about 35% of the total area of the country. Portuguese people always had a very close connection with the forest, which has provided the necessary resources for the development of its communities. The geological substratum of continental Portugal is very old and may therefore have witnessed the evolution of its plants, from the early beginning to the present time, as well as all sort of historical and environmental landmarks such as glacial periods or mass extinctions. Also, from the perspective of human occupation, Portuguese territory was crossed by hunter-gatherer populations who, initially, were constantly moving and looking for sustenance, but at a later stage, chose to settle. This relationship between human populations and the forest is, thus, very old and demonstrates the interdependence between the subsistence of the populations and the resources exploitation. Currently, the main national economic groups are based on forest industries, which depend directly on the exploitation of the three dominant species, Eucalyptus globulus Labill., Pinus pinaster Aiton and Quercus suber L., demonstrating the human role in the development of the forest, motivated by the satisfaction of its needs. This work reviews the historical development of the forest in mainland Portugal, from geological times to the present, including the arrival of exotic species that later acquired invasive behaviors and now occupy significant areas of the national territory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate changes are a phenomenon that can affect the daily activities of rural communities, with particular emphasis on those directly dependent on the agricultural and forestry sectors. In this way, the present work intends to analyse the impact that climate changes have on forest risk assessment, namely on how the occurrence of rural fires are affecting the management of the forest areas and how the occurrence of these fires has evolved in the near past. Thus, a comparative analysis of the data provided by IPMA (Portuguese Institute of the Sea and the Atmosphere), was carried out for the period from 2001 to 2017 with the climatic normal for the period between 1971 to 2000, for the variables of the average air temperature, and for the precipitation. In this comparative study, the average monthly values were considered and the months in which anomalies occurred were determined. Anomalies were considered in the months in which the average air temperature varied by 1 °C than the value corresponding to the climatic norm, in at least 50% of the national territory. The same procedure was repeated for the variable precipitation, counting as anomaly the occurrence of a variation in precipitation of 50%, also in 50% of the national territory. Then the calculation of the moving averages for cycles of 3, 5 and 7 periods were applied, and the trend lines were projected. Subsequently, the relationship between the results obtained and the occurrence of rural fires as well as the spatial distribution of forest area, species and structure were analyzed. From the results obtained it was possible to confirm the existence of a tendency for the occurrence of climatic anomalies, highlighting the occurrence of an increasing number of months with temperatures higher by at least 1 °C. It was possible to foresee the relation between the occurrence of rural fires and the periods of anomaly and absence of precipitation. From the results obtained it is also possible to infer that, analyzing the tendency for these phenomena to occur, it can be necessary to change the "critical period of rural fires", since it is verified that what is currently in use does not covers the entire period where anomalies occur and where large-scale rural fires potentially can happen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Portuguese forests have always played an essential role in the socioeconomic development of national rural areas, but also in several forest-based industrial sectors, such as the cork, pulp and paper, and wood panels industries. In addition to these dominant sectors, there are also several other uses for forest timber, such as being the major raw materials to the production of furniture or devoted to the growing biomass pellets production industry. This review article presents the evolution of the forest industrial sector throughout the recent past, and its impact on the development of the rural environment, from a socioeconomic perspective, namely concerning the jobs and value-added creation, as well as the importance of the forest in national industrial development. It shows the importance of sustainable forest management for the development of the rural environment, as an essential sector for the creation of wealth and for the establishment of populations in the interior regions of the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]