Determinants of Indebtedness in Expanding Portuguese Hotels

The hotel industry has been one of the fastest-growing economic sectors in Portugal in recent years. According to the European Best Destinations website, Portugal has consolidated itself as a destination of excellence. The explanation of the capital structure of firms remains relevant in financial research. However, prior international empirical evidence is not exclusive and is still scarce in the Portuguese hotel sector, which motivated this research. This study aimed to analyse the influence of determinants on the capital structure of 821 Portuguese hotels between 2011 and 2019 (until the constraints of the COVID-19 pandemic affected the international tourism sector) and to determine whether strategies were conducted according to trade-off and pecking order theories. This study used an econometric approach based on the static panel data model, with tests recommending the fixed effects model estimated by the least squares dummy variables (LSDV) within. The analysed determinants were return on assets, size, tangibility, growth opportunities, risk and other tax benefits besides debt in order to explain the indebtedness through three alternative measures. The results of this research show that managers sought an optimal combination of equity and debt, which was weighted between tax savings and the cost of financial distress. However, they pursued this objective through the hierarchical sequencing of funding sources in order to minimise the costs of information asymmetry. © 2023 by the authors.

Work context and clinical manifestations of COVID-19 in health professionals

To analyze associations between work context and clinical manifestations of COVID-19 in health professionals. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, with health professionals from the northeast of Brazil, from the medical, nursing and physiotherapy categories from different areas of expertise. A Google Forms questionnaire was sent through social networks, gathering demographic, academic, work context, clinical manifestations and data related to testing for COVID-19 (the test performed was not specified) and whether the result confirmed infection active or presence of antibodies (categorized as positive). Pearson's chi-square test and multivariate binary logistic regression analysis were performed, with Wald's chi-square test, considering p-value <0.05, Odds Ratio and 95% confidence interval. Results: A total of 1,354 professionals agreed to participate in the study. Of these, 324 reported a positive test for COVID-19, with a prevalence of 23.9% (324/1,354). There was a statistical association between symptom onset and positive result (p=0.000). The work context characteristics related to the number of jobs, practice setting, contact with critically ill patients and employment in the capital were the independent variables associated with a positive result for COVID-19 (p<0.05). It was identified that 54.8% of the dependent variable can be related to the work sector, number of jobs, fever, loss of smell and taste. Conclusion: Health professionals from urban centers, hospitals, critical care units and those with more than one job are more affected by COVID-19, with the positive test result being closely related to the symptoms of fever, loss of smell and taste that are characteristic of the illness. © 2022 Departamento de Enfermagem/Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo. All rights reserved.

Meanings of social isolation for young Brazilians during the covid-19 pandemic

Introduction: The covid-19 pandemic has left a high number of infected and dead in the world, where several social measures have been imposed on the population, especially social isolation. Objective: Given this scenario, based on Vygotsky's socio-historical theory, this original article aimed to identify the meanings of social isolation in the covid-19 pandemic for Brazilian youth. Method: A survey was carried out, with the participation of 571 young Brazilians, women and men aged between 18 and 25, who answered a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Free Word Association Method (FWAM), analyzed with the help of IRaMuTeQ. Results: The results showed that virtualized socialization is insufficient for the social demand of young people, as evidenced by the most evoked words in category 1, "Homesickness” (χ² = 55,41);"Boredom” (χ² = 50,06);"Anxiety” (χ² = 42,67);"Loneliness” (χ² = 37,15);"Sadness” (χ² = 32,78). It was also identified that their routine was transformed with the insertion of obligations and leisure primarily in the home environment, demonstrated by the prevalence of words like "House” (χ² = 116,18);"Home Office” (χ² = 26,06);"Movie” (χ² = 26,06);"Mask” (χ² = 24,96);"Alcohol” (χ² = 21,67);"Lockdown” (χ² = 21,67), in category 2. Still, young people brought their resignifications in this period, in the face of collective responsibility, indicated by the choice of words in category 3, such as "Care” (χ² = 84,05);"Responsibility” (χ² = 59,21);"Respect” (χ² = 55,03);"Prevention” (χ² = 52,68);"Empathy” (χ² = 34,06);"Protection” (χ² = 21,99). Conclusions: It is concluded that isolation brought negative consequences on relationships and mental health of young people, but also a greater social awareness. © 2023, Universidad Simon Bolivar. All rights reserved.

Quality of life of higher education students at the Polytechnic Institutes of Santarem and Leiria during the COVID-19 pandemic

Objective: This study aims to determine the quality of life of higher education students at the Polytechnic Institutes of Santarem and Leiria during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: The population consists of 6483 students attending higher education, from both Institutes. A total of 775 participants selected by convenience sampling, participated in the study. Study with a quantitative, descriptive, correlational character, aiming to describe phenomena and, in addition, identify and explore possible relationships between variables. The WHOQOL-Bref instrument adapted from WHO was applied. The data treatment and analysis were performed using descriptive, correlational and inferential statistics. Results: Students' self-assessment about Quality of Life is globally superior to the self-assessment with their satisfaction with health, where the female students have lower average values than the male students. The WHOQOL-Bref domains referring to Quality of Life with higher values were the Physical and Environment domain, with the Social Relations and Psychological domains having the lowest values. Conclusion: The results point to the need for intervention to promote the Quality of Life of students, focusing on psychosocial factors, due to the conditions imposed during the confinement period, by the pandemic COVID-19.

Anxiety among undergraduate Nursing students with mandatory curricular internship during the COVID-19 pandemic

Objective: to compare the average anxiety among undergraduate Nursing students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: it was a cross-sectional study conducted with 101 undergraduate Nursing students. Data collection took place through WhatsApp (R), by sending a link containing a consent form, a Google Forms (R) instrument and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. The analysis was carried out through central tendency, absolute and relative frequency, and analytical tests. Results: trait anxiety and state anxiety presented medium (52.5%) and high (67.3%) levels, respectively, with mean state anxiety (48.1) higher than the mean trait anxiety (42.3) and positive correlation (r=0.479) between the two scales (p<0.000). They were high among students who lived with family members with risk factors for COVID-19 aggravation, underwent social isolation, without confirmatory tests for the disease, and performed an internship in internal medicine. Conclusion: significant percentages of anxiety levels were identified among undergraduate Nursing students in mandatory internship during the COVID-19 pandemic, thus revealing the need for preventive actions for this public. Contributions to practice: based on these findings, proposals to prevent mental health problems in this public can be developed seeking to change the current mental health scenario.

The effect of COVID-19 pandemic on admissions for cannabis-induced psychotic disorder

Introduction: Cannabis-induced psychotic disorder (CIPD) is defined by the development of psychotic symptoms during or briefly after intoxication with cannabis or withdrawal from cannabis. The social measures and restrictions implemented following the COVID-19 pandemic might have had an impact on cannabis availability, as suggested by patients from our clinical practice, reporting a shortage of the substance. Objective(s): To compare sociodemographic, clinical characteristics and admission rates of inpatient treatment for cannabis-induced psychotic disorder in COVID-19 pandemic period and prepandemic period. Method(s): Retrospective observational study of inpatient admissions for CIPD in a psychiatry inpatient unit of a tertiary hospital. The statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, version 27.0. Result(s): Our sample included 120 inpatient admissions, corresponding to 80 patients. Compared to 2018 and 2019, in 2020 there was an overall reduction of 21.5% in inpatient admissions (n=618, 549 and 458, respectively). The number of admissions for CIPD in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 up to september were, respectively, 29, 32, 10 and 31 (5.2%, 6.1%, 2.2% and 7.2% of respective annual admissions). We found no statistically significant differences regarding sociodemographic and clinical characteristics in patients admitted for CIPD during 2020. Conclusion(s): These results suggest a disproportionate reduction of inpatient admissions due to CIPD in 2020, followed by an expressive increase in the number of admissions in 2021up to september. This might be related to cannabis availability returning to regular levels. However other factors must be considered, such as the delay of treatment due to reduced accessibility to health care.

The impact of Covid-19 on the Mental Health of the Portuguese Population

Introduction: Covid-19 does not only have repercussions on the physical level, representing a new way of life, both individually and in society. The pandemic results in invisible consequences for the population's mental health. Objective(s): This study aimed to explore the consequences of Covid-19 on mental health in Portugal with a view to understanding and promoting the well-being and happiness of the Portuguese. Method(s): The study included 111 young people and adults, aged between 18 and 58 years (M= 21.81, SD= 5.34), with 43.7%males and 52.7% females. A sociodemographic questionnaire was applied to all participants, as well as the Echelle de Mesure des Manifestations du Bien-Etre Psychologique (EMMBEP;Masse et al., 1998 - Portuguese translation by Monteiro, Tavares & Pereira, 2012) which translates into a response scale 5-point Likert type, with five subscales, including happiness. In addition, a semistructured interview with data collection instruments was administered. Result(s): The results obtained demonstrate the negative impact of Covid-19 on the level of well-being, regardless of the participant's gender or age. Conclusion(s): The data presented point to the need to sensitize individuals to the risk of the pandemic in terms of mental health, thus increasing society's awareness of the psychological effects of this new global disease. Therefore, coping mechanisms are essential to promote well-being and successfully overcome the pandemic.

How can fear impact economic decisions in pandemic contexts at the light of decision-making systems? An approach to the COVID-19 case

Fear is an important emotion in contexts of uncertainty. With the spread of COVID-19 disease, the process of decision making in the day-to-day economic life is studied considering the way in which fear can impact these decisions in the pandemic context. Our study analyses the situation in Brazil, the way fear can emerge through a process of communication, particularly involving the media. It is possible to conclude about the importance of studying the impact of fear in this context of pandemic, by observing that fear is involved when individuals make non-optimal decisions in such a process of decision-making systems. Copyright © 2022 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.

The usefulness of e-mental health tools to promote maternal mental health in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic

Background The COVID-19 pandemic imposed specific contingencies on perinatal population, with increased risks for women's mental health. Specific interventions are needed to prevent emotional disturbance and the burden felt by health services in high-demand times. Aims and Objectives Building on the experience of Be a Mom we aimed to develop and test the preliminary effectiveness of a brief psychological intervention, in the form of a mobile application (Mind the Mom), containing information, exercises and cognitive-behavioural strategies adapted to the pandemic context. Methods The sample consists of 233 pregnant women recruited in health services and online, who used and evaluated the Mind the Mom mobile app, after completion of self-report assessment instruments. Results The participants mainly lived in urban areas, had a university degree, and 60% reported no previous need for mental health services. 70% of the participants assessed every module and the whole app as very or extremely useful, with 80% intending to continue to use the strategies proposed, and 73,7% stating they would recommend it to other pregnant women. These results were analysed in relation to their self-reports of psychopathology symptoms and positive mental health. Interpretation/Discussion The strategies proposed by Mind the Mom app seem to provide participants with useful tools to enhance their well-being while pregnant through stressful times. Women with past or present history of anxiety or depression seem to benefit from this intervention, although it may be insufficient to assure a positive adjustment to the challenges of pregnancy. Conclusions E-health programs based on cognitive-behavioural strategies may be useful in promoting well-being of women during pregnancy. Further studies are needed to enlighten who benefits more from these programs, and how it can be suited to best serve the mental health needs of pregnant women from distinct backgrounds.

Impact of COVID-19 on oral health care professionals

Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify the physical, psychological, social, and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the daily lives of oral health professionals in Portugal. Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out in the form of an online questionnaire with 32 questions through Google Forms. The survey’s link was shared with oral health professionals in Portugal through institutional e-mail addresses and social networks. Results: The questionnaire obtained 364 responses. Regarding the impact of COVID-19 on clinical practice, 48.1% of professionals reported that the number of work hours decreased, and more than 74% reported a decrease in their monthly income. When asked about the affluence of patients, 43% indicated that it decreased. Approximately 30% of survey takers indicated that the current situation had affected the quality of the treatments carried out. As for the impact of COVID-19 on physical and mental health, the participants reported a considerable increase in tiredness and stress/anxiety levels. The vast majority (74%) admitted that they could not disconnect from work-related stress. Finally, 92.3% are aware and apply the directives for removing personal protective equipment. Conclusions: The present study concluded that the COVID-19 pandemic had a clear psychological, social, physical, and economic impact on oral health professionals in Portugal. Therefore, we believe that national public health institutions must transmit that dental practices are safe environments and create psychological and financial support mechanisms for the most affected professionals.

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the Influenza vaccination coverage of healthcare workers in a portuguese general hospital: a 9-year study comparison

Introduction: Influenza seasonal infection claims half a million lives in the world every year due to complications. The most effective tool to prevent the seasonal flu infection is with an annual Influenza vaccine. Healthcare workers (HCW) are part of a high-risk occupational category, since they contact directly with flu patients, therefore the vaccination of these workers is paramount. After the breakout of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the prevention of the viral respiratory infections resurfaced to the public attention, including to HCW. The aim of this study is to evaluate the Influenza vaccination coverage of HCW in a general hospital located in Portugal (Centro Hospitalar do Baixo Vouga, Aveiro), in a 9-year timeframe. Material and Methods: This study determined the percentage of our hospital HCW who received the Influenza vaccine by our Occupational Health and Work Medicine Service, from 2012 to 2020. Results and Conclusions: Data shows a record-high vaccination coverage in 2020, the same year which the COVID-19 pandemic reached Portugal. Comparing to the previous year, data shows a 30% increase in the percentage of vaccinated HCW from all types (48,5% vs 37,4%). In comparison to 2019, the percentage of vaccinated nurse practitioners increased 24% (44,9% vs 36,1%) and the percentage of vaccinated physicians increased 46% (64,0% vs 43,9%). Although is not possible to assume causality, this study suggests a correlation between the breakout of the COVID-19 pandemic and the increase in HCW Influenza vaccination coverage of this hospital.

Notified Occupational Diseases Among Healthcare Workers in a Portuguese Hospital and the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Data from a 5-year period

Introduction: Occupational diseases are annually responsible for the death of approximately 2.0 million people worldwide. Healthcare workers are at higher risk of developing several occupational diseases such as infectious diseases, musculoskeletal disorders and mental distress. This study aims to provide a profile of the main notified occupational diseases and the affected workers in a Portuguese hospital over the last 5 years. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted using data from the Occupational Health Service of Centro Hospitalar do Baixo Vouga for the notified occupational diseases in hospital workers between July of 2016 and June of 2021. Results and Conclusions: A total of 355 cases of occupational diseases were notified among hospital workers in these 5 years. Our data showed that COVID-19 infection was the most reported disease since the onset of the current pandemic, with a total of 269 cases, 72 in the year 2020 and 197 in the first semester of 2021. Musculoskeletal disorders were the second most notified group of diseases, representing about 20% of all cases, and the most commonly reported diseases in the pre-pandemic years. Occupational diseases were more prevalent in nurses, followed by hospital aides and physicians. The notification of these diseases was highest among female workers. Ultimately, changes in working conditions and the introduction of new agents may give rise to emerging occupational health risks and diseases. The detection and investigation of these new diseases are essential from a perspective of early recognition and prevention.

Hepatitis B immunity status and COVID-19 vaccination coverage among nurse aides working in the emergency department in a secondary hospital in Portugal

Introduction: Emergency healthcare workers (HCW) are the first point of contact for patients with traumatic injuries and acute illnesses. These professionals are at increased risk for respiratory and blood borne infections, as is the case of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Vaccination is a major tool for preventing HBV infections. The protection provided by the COVID-19 vaccines are yet under evaluation. The objective of this study is to evaluate the HBV and COVID-19 vaccination coverage and the serological hepatitis B immunity among nurse aides working in the emergency department (EM) in a secondary hospital in Portugal. Material and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted by analyzing the Occupational Health Service database of Centro Hospitalar do Baixo Vouga in Aveiro, considering active nurse aides working in the EM in August 2021. Results and Conclusions: Of the total 71 workers included in the study, 61 (85.9%) had completed the vaccination against HBV. From these fully vaccinated HCW, 45 (73.7%) had confirmation of protective Hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) levels (>10 mIU/mL) and 11 (18.3%) had unknown HBsAb levels. Regarding COVID-19 vaccination, 68 (95.7%) of the 71 total workers, had complete vaccination. From these, 43 (63.2%) had the last shot more than 6 months ago. Overall, there is a good adherence of nurse aides working in the EM to HBV and COVID-19 vaccination. In what concerns to HBV vaccination, it is important to implement a more robust system to diminish cases of workers only partially vaccinated or with unknown immunity status.

Geodesign Brazil: Trees for the Metropolitan Area of Sao Paulo

Trees are central in the Nature-based Solutions for promoting simultaneously quality of life and biodiversity while providing mitigation and adaptive ecosystem services in the cities. Based on the Geodesign framework using the GIS-Colab Platform, the impact of decision-making scenarios on tree-cover changes, as well as the consequences it will have for carbon sequestration, was evaluated for 2020, 2035 and 2050 in the Metropolitan Area of Sao Paulo (MASP). This metropolitan area is one of the largest urban conglomerates in the world with more than 22 million people. It lies on the Atlantic Rainforest Biome, a tropical moist broadleaf forest regarded as a world hotspot of biodiversity. First, a diagnostic of the current conditions was elaborated using available layers of geospatial data from the MASP. Then the future tree cover was discussed according to three scenarios: i) the non-adopters that represent the business as usual;ii) the late-adopters that develop innovative actions from 2035;and iii) early-adopters that undertake innovative interventions of urban greening from 2020. The vegetation cover was estimated to be reduced by 4% considering the current non-adopter scenario by 2050. On the other hand, vegetation cover has the potential to increase 30% in 2050, once there is an early adoption of innovative interventions, promoting various ecosystem services and co-benefits that support the quality of life and the biodiversity in the MASP, while fostering the carbon credit in the city through vegetation carbon sink. This article points to possible pathways required to attain desired afforestation goals in the MASP following the Geodesign framework. This framework proved to be effective even though it was based only on remote meetings, imposed by the social distancing during the pandemic of COVID-19.

Interrupted dreams: memories and emotions of travel experiences during COVID-19 breakthrough

This work aims to understand the experiences of tourists who traveled during the Covid-19 breakthrough, exploring the emotions and memories of in a chronological context of the trip. The method is qualitative, based on 21 in-depth interviews with Brazilian tourists who started trips between January and March 2020, contemplating experiences in every continent of the world. The data analysis data was based on grounded theory, through open, axial and selective coding. The results demonstrate the particularities experienced in travel experiences during the pandemic, with emotions that permeate happiness, fear, frustration, tension and relief. Still, it discusses how tourists got involved with travel planning, were pressured socially and made risk assessments before traveling. During the trip, unexpected experiences generated the transfiguration of the trip previously planned, the precarious service and helplessness, as well as self-protection behavior (or not) were listed. Finally, tourists reflected on the trip and its consequences. The contributions involve the classification of studies on tourism and Covid-19, and the proposal of a theoretical framework which discusses the emotions and memories of travelers before, during and after the travel experience.