Repositório Institucional da Fernando Pessoa
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Applications, capabilities, and limitations of artificial intelligence in forensic odontology: a scoping review protocol
Publication . Guimarães, Maria Inês; Pinto, Rafael; Lopes Cardoso, Inês
Introduction: Forensic odontology plays an essential role in legal investigations by facilitating human identification through dental records, bite marks, and age estimation. Historically dependent on expert-driven, manual evaluations, this field is being reshaped by technological advancements. The integration of artificial intelligence, including machine learning, deep learning, and computer vision—offers new possibilities to automate and enhance analyses, improving diagnostic accuracy, accelerating case processing, and reducing subjectivity.
Objectives: The general objective of this study is to map and understand the implications, capabilities, and limitations of artificial intelligence technologies for forensic practitioners and legal stakeholders. To facilitate a targeted data extraction strategy, this review will address specific operational objectives, namely: to identify the primary areas of forensic dentistry where artificial intelligence is currently applied; to assess the reported capabilities and performance outcomes of various artificial intelligence models in these applications, to categorize the technical limitations and challenges reported in the literature, such as data quality, sample size, and lack of standardization, and to map the ethical and legal implications surrounding the use of AI in forensic contexts, including algorithm transparency and biometric data privacy.
Methodology: A scoping review will be performed according to the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The protocol is registered on the Open Science Framework. Searches will be conducted across five scientific databases and grey literature, using specific keywords. Studies published between 2023 and 2025 in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French will be considered. Study selection and screening will be managed via Rayyan.
Conclusion: This scoping review will clarify the current state of evidence regarding the use of artificial intelligence in forensic identification. The findings may guide future research and support the development of ethical, standardized frameworks for implementing these technologies in medicolegal investigations.
Non-pharmacological interventions for anxiety relief in patients undergoing dental care and dental procedures: a scoping review protocol
Publication . Oliveira, Lídia; Guimarães, Maria Inês; Lopes Cardoso, Inês; Moreira, Teresa
Introduction: Dental anxiety is a significant challenge in oral healthcare, affecting patients of all ages and potentially compromising treatment adherence, cooperation during procedures, and overall clinical outcomes. Non-pharmacological interventions have increasingly been used as complementary strategies to reduce anxiety and promote patient comfort during dental care and procedures.
Objectives: To identify and map the existing scientific evidence on non-pharmacological interventions used to reduce anxiety in patients undergoing dental care and procedures.
Methodology: A scoping review will be conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodological guidance and reported in line with the PRISMA-ScR recommendations. The literature search will be conducted in PubMed, MEDLINE Complete, CINAHL Ultimate, Scopus, Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection, RCAAP, and BASE. Search strategies will combine controlled vocabulary, where applicable, with free-text terms structured around three conceptual blocks: anxiety or dental fear, dental/oral healthcare and procedures, and non-pharmacological interventions. Quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods, observational, experimental, quasi-experimental, descriptive, and case studies meeting the eligibility criteria will be considered for inclusion. Study selection and data extraction will be conducted independently by two reviewers, with disagreements resolved through discussion and, when necessary, consultation with a third reviewer. The study selection process will be documented using a PRISMA-ScR flow diagram. The protocol has been registered and made publicly available through the Open Science Framework 10.17605/OSF.IO/J59PG.
Expected Results: The review is expected to identify and categorise the range and characteristics of non-pharmacological interventions investigated for anxiety management during dental care and procedures, including complementary and holistic approaches, and to map the outcomes assessed and gaps in the existing evidence.
Conclusion: This scoping review is expected to provide a comprehensive mapping of non-pharmacological strategies for anxiety management in dental care, supporting evidence-informed, patient-centred practice and identifying priorities for future research.
Comparison of spectroscopic and molecular methods for estimating age and sex for medico-legal purposes: protocol for a systematic review
Publication . Lopes Cardoso, Inês; Loibl, Beatriz; Rodrigues, Carolina; Moreira, Teresa; Guimarães, Maria Inês
Introduction: In forensic contexts, accurate estimation of age and sex is fundamental for the identification of human remains. Spectroscopic methods, offering non-destructive and precise data insights, have emerged as promising alternatives/complements to traditional morphological and genetic techniques.
Objective: This protocol outlines a systematic review aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of spectroscopic and molecular methods for estimating age and/or sex based on dental samples in medicolegal settings.
Methodology: This review will be conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Databases to be searched include PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, LILACS (via BVS), Cochrane Library (Protocols), MEDLINE (via EBSCOhost), Academic Search Complete (via EBSCOhost), CINAHL (via EBSCOhost) and grey literature. The eligibility criteria follow the PICOS framework. Risk of bias will be assessed using the QUIN tool for in vitro studies. Data synthesis will involve both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The protocol of this review has been registered in PROSPERO (CRD420250650858).
Results: This review is expected to identify a range of spectroscopic techniques applied to dental samples for age and sex estimation, including mass spectrometry, Raman spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, and X-ray fluorescence, as well as molecular methods such as amelogenin analysis, DNA methylation, and telomere length assessment. The evidence is anticipated to vary regarding study design, sample characteristics, analytical protocols, and reported outcome measures. The review will synthesize the available evidence on the accuracy, applicability, and methodological characteristics of these approaches within medico-legal contexts.
Conclusion: This systematic review will provide a comprehensive overview of the available evidence regarding the use of spectroscopic and molecular methods for age and sex estimation from dental samples. By identifying the methodologies currently employed, their reported outcomes, and existing research gaps, the review may contribute to future research directions and support evidence-based decision-making in forensic and medico-legal practice, particularly in contexts where non-destructive analytical approaches are desirable.
The role of metals in cancer and the use of metal chelators as a potential treatment strategy
Publication . Leal, Fernanda; Rocha, Daniela Alves; Lopes Cardoso, Inês
Biometals such as iron, copper, zinc, manganese, cobalt, and selenium play crucial roles in cellular respiration, immunity, apoptosis, and signaling. However, their excessive accumulation can induce chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and trigger carcinogenesis. Iron addiction stands out for its importance in tumor cell replication and survival.
Cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Given the limitations of conventional therapies, new approaches have been explored, namely the use of metal chelators, with the aim of selectively modulating metal homeostasis in tumor cells. Metal chelation represents a promising therapeutic approach in the treatment of cancer. Metal chelators such as DFO and DFX demonstrate antineoplastic activity, although limited by low selectivity and systemic toxicity. Thiosemicarbazones, particularly Triapine, have demonstrated anticancer and antimetastatic activity in preclinical models, with clinical trials currently underway to treat tumors. SK4 appears to be a promising alternative, with greater selectivity for tumor cells, inducing apoptosis, demonstrating superior efficacy and lower toxicity. Its efficacy in preclinical models and selective profile support the need for clinical validation, potentially integrating more targeted, safe, and effective oncological therapy. Thus, the aim of this manuscript is to analyze the role of metals in cancer and evaluate the therapeutic potential of metal chelators.
A literacia matemática na construção da cidadania: o ensino fundamental em Jaguaretama (Ceará)
Publication . Teixeira, Maria Lúcia Lima Diógenes; Freitas, Judite A. Gonçalves de
A presente investigação analisa a relação entre o ensino da Matemática e a formação cidadã no contexto do Ensino Fundamental brasileiro, com especial incidência no município de Jaguaretama, Ceará, entre 2015 e 2025. Fundamentada em uma abordagem teórica que articula a Matemática como prática social, e apoiada na Teoria da Objetivação e na Sequência Fedhati, esta tese busca compreender como a literacia Matemática pode contribuir para o desenvolvimento de competências cidadãs nos alunos da rede pública de ensino. O estudo parte da conceção da Matemática não apenas como um conjunto de conteúdos e técnicas, mas como instrumento essencial para a leitura crítica da realidade, para a participação social e para o exercício da cidadania. Assim, a pesquisa delineia um quadro teórico sobre literacia Matemática, percorrendo suas dimensões epistemológicas, sociais e pedagógicas, e analisando suas implicações nas políticas curriculares e práticas de sala de aula. A metodologia de investigação adota uma abordagem qualitativa e quantitativa, utilizando questionários aplicados a professores e alunos, observações, e análise de indicadores educacionais. O estudo de caso no município de Jaguaretama examina as condições estruturais, socioeconômicas e curriculares que influenciam o ensino da Matemática, destacando perceções docentes e discentes sobre a integração entre Matemática e cidadania. Os resultados evidenciam desafios significativos, como limitações na formação docente e na disponibilidade de recursos pedagógicos, mas também revelam práticas inovadoras e potencialidades para fortalecer o vínculo entre o ensino matemático e o desenvolvimento cidadão. Conclui-se que a promoção da literacia Matemática em contexto escolar requer políticas educativas integradas, formação docente continuada e metodologias participativas que fomentem o pensamento crítico, o engajamento e a responsabilidade social dos alunos. A tese propõe, por fim, um modelo de formação em conhecimento matemático voltado à cidadania, capaz de orientar práticas pedagógicas contextualizadas e comprometidas com a inclusão, a equidade e a emancipação cidadã, contribuindo para repensar o papel da Matemática na escola e na sociedade algorítmica contemporânea.