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- Game-based balance training in older adults: systematic review and meta-analysisPublication . Tome, Ana Maria; Castro, Sílvia; Rosa, Marlene; Tomás, Maria Teresa; de Almeida Fontes, Ana Paula; Pais, SandraFunctional decline in older adults is a major contributor to both falls and increased fall risk. Nevertheless, such decline may be mitigated through multidimensional interventions. Game-based and gamified interventions have emerged as promising alternative strategies. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of these approaches in improving balance and reducing fall risk among community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and over. The research question was: Do serious games and gamification improve balance and reduce fall risk in community-dwelling older adults, compared with exercise programmes, non-gamified interventions, or control conditions? A systematic search of randomised controlled trials was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, resulting in the inclusion of nine studies from 634 records screened. Meta-analysis demonstrated significant improvements in the Functional Reach Test and the Berg Balance Scale. However, no significant overall effects were observed for the Timed Up and Go Test or the Single-Leg Stance Test. Although game-based interventions may improve specific dimensions of balance in community-dwelling older adults, the findings should be interpreted with caution. The limited number of studies, small sample sizes, heterogeneity of interventions, and reliance on balance-related surrogate outcomes rather than direct measures of fall incidence highlight the need for further high-quality research
- Flowering and fruiting of pitaya ( S. undatus ): insights into reproductive processes and farming potential for the Algarve, PortugalPublication . Trindade, Ana Rita; Matias, Pedro; Zarcos Duarte, Beatriz; Trindade, D.; Duarte, AmilcarThe pitaya (Selenicereus spp.), valued for its unique appearance and health benefits, ranks among the most commercially valuable fruits. However, its complex reproductive biology affects crop productivity, especially outside its native habitat. Understanding this is crucial for optimizing fruit set, fruit growth and yield. The reproductive biology of pitaya involves several key processes. Floral induction, triggered by environmental factors like temperature and photoperiod, signals the shift from vegetative growth to flowering. To better understand the reproductive processes of pitaya, this study explores floral induction to provide insights for optimizing agricultural practices. Flower induction trials were carried out in Algarve, Portugal, in which shading and artificial lighting were tested for their effect on production (extension of the productive period and yield). Shading reduced production, as plants in direct sunlight performed better. While lighting increased floral buds and fruits, it did not extend the productive period, due to temperature constraints. However, plants grown in full sun, without supplementary lighting, yielded significantly more. This study suggests a promising outlook for pitaya cultivation in Algarve’s climatic conditions without artificial lighting or shading.