An Alternative Press? New Forms of News Reporting in Brazil

This study examines the emergence of alternative forms of news production in Brazil within the context of an increasingly unstable democracy. It focuses on different genres of not-for-profit journalism to understand the roles of alternative news producers, their relationships with traditional journalistic practices, such as the norm of objectivity, and their approach to financial sustainability. Drawing on alternative media studies, this thesis combines semi-structured interviews with independent news producers and qualitative content analysis. Interviewees include both citizen journalists and professional journalists with experience in legacy newsrooms who are now engaged with small-scale alternative news outlets. Content analysis examines the production of four cases: an independent investigative outlet that covers human rights violations; a journalism agency covering the Amazon region; a community media collective from one of Rio de Janeiro’s largest favelas; and a feminist outlet from São Paulo focused on women from peripheral areas. n exploring what kinds of stories they convey, how they are organised, and to what extent their production enables a better understanding of the issues afflicting a country in crisis, this study sheds light on the relevance of alternative journalism and reflects on changing journalistic boundaries. Although their practices are very heterogeneous, the research demonstrates that alternative journalists are challenging the agenda-setting process of commercial media by tackling misrepresentation, stereotypes and discrimination against particular communities with a nuanced adaptation of fundamental journalistic norms. Alternative news sites also reject the traditional business model of mainstream media and seek diversification of revenue-generating activities. This research highlights the emergence of new players in the Brazilian news media ecosystem and points to their significance in the diversification of the news agenda in a country where a few private groups own mass media corporations. Their attempts to be more than a temporary presence in the media landscape create counter-hegemonic spaces to enhance debates on issues such as racism, state repression and social and gender inequality in Brazil

Correlation equalities and upper bounds for the transverse Ising model

Starting from an exact formal identity for the two-state transverse Ising model and using correlation inequalities rigorous upper bounds for the critical temperature and the critical transverse field are obtained which improve effective results.Comment: 8 pages, 1 figur

Exploring the role of norms and habit in explaining pro-environmental behavior intentions in situations of use robots and AI agents as providers in tourism sector

In a pandemic situation, with climate change around the world, studies analyzing changes in travel patterns are welcome. This study combines three theories to propose a model on proenvironmental behavior intentions, namely, the theory of planned behavior, value–belief–norm theory and habit theory. This study aims to examine the role of social norms, personal norms and habit strength to explain pro-environmental behavior intentions. The authors collected 316 usable questionnaires from tourists in the well-known touristic Belem location in Lisbon. Personal norms were revealed to have the strongest association with pro-environmental behavior intentions, followed by habit strength. The study also identified different broad challenges to encouraging sustainable behaviors and use these to develop novel theoretical propositions and directions for future research. Finally, the authors outlined how practitioners aiming to encourage sustainable consumer behaviors can use this framework to achieve better results.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

A spatially explicit approach for estimating space use and density of common genet

Un método espacialmente explícito para estimar el uso del espacio y la densidad de la jineta común Muchas especies que se presentan en bajas densidades no se estiman con precisión utilizando métodos de captura y recaptura, puesto que tales técnicas suponen que las poblaciones están bien definidas en el espacio. Para resolver este sesgo, recientemente se han elaborado modelos de captura y recaptura espacialmente explícitos (SECR). Estos modelos incorporan el movimiento y pueden determinar las zonas en la que es más probable que los individuos concentren su actividad. En el presente estudio, utilizamos datos obtenidos con cámaras de trampeo en estudios sobre la jineta común (Genetta genetta) en Serra da Malcata (Portugal) concebidos para comparar las estimaciones de abundancia producidas por los modelos de SECR y los modelos tradicionales de captura para una población cerrada. Utilizando los modelos de SECR, observamos la existencia de heterogeneidad espacial en la distribución de la jineta y las estimaciones de la densidad fueron aproximadamente dos veces inferiores a las obtenidas en los modelos para poblaciones cerradas. Las estimaciones del modelo no espacial se limitaron al tamaño de la cuadrícula de muestreo y probablemente infravaloraron los movimientos, lo que conllevaría que se sobreestimara la densidad. Los estudios futuros deberían sopesar la incorporación de modelos de carga–distancia que puedan incluir hipótesis explícitas sobre la forma en que las variables medioambientales influyen en la métrica de la distancia.Un método espacialmente explícito para estimar el uso del espacio y la densidad de la jineta común Muchas especies que se presentan en bajas densidades no se estiman con precisión utilizando métodos de captura y recaptura, puesto que tales técnicas suponen que las poblaciones están bien definidas en el espacio. Para resolver este sesgo, recientemente se han elaborado modelos de captura y recaptura espacialmente explícitos (SECR). Estos modelos incorporan el movimiento y pueden determinar las zonas en la que es más probable que los individuos concentren su actividad. En el presente estudio, utilizamos datos obtenidos con cámaras de trampeo en estudios sobre la jineta común (Genetta genetta) en Serra da Malcata (Portugal) concebidos para comparar las estimaciones de abundancia producidas por los modelos de SECR y los modelos tradicionales de captura para una población cerrada. Utilizando los modelos de SECR, observamos la existencia de heterogeneidad espacial en la distribución de la jineta y las estimaciones de la densidad fueron aproximadamente dos veces inferiores a las obtenidas en los modelos para poblaciones cerradas. Las estimaciones del modelo no espacial se limitaron al tamaño de la cuadrícula de muestreo y probablemente infravaloraron los movimientos, lo que conllevaría que se sobreestimara la densidad. Los estudios futuros deberían sopesar la incorporación de modelos de carga–distancia que puedan incluir hipótesis explícitas sobre la forma en que las variables medioambientales influyen en la métrica de la distancia.Many species that occur at low densities are not accurately estimated using capture–recapture methods as such techniques assume that populations are well–defined in space. To solve this bias, spatially explicit capture–recapture (SECR) models have recently been developed. These models incorporate movement and can identify areas where it is more likely for individuals to concentrate their activity. In this study, we used data from camera–trap surveys of common genets (Genetta genetta) in Serra da Malcata (Portugal), designed to compare abundance estimates produced by SECR models with traditional closed–capture models. Using the SECR models, we observed spatial heterogeneity in genet distribution and density estimates were approximately two times lower than those obtained from the closed population models. The non–spatial model estimates were constrained to sampling grid size and likely underestimated movements, thereby overestimating density. Future research should consider the incorporation of cost–weighed models that can include explicit hypothesis on how environmental variables influence the distance metric

Iberian lynx conservation in Portugal: Dilemmas and solutions

A team of biologists and field assistants conducted, between January 2002 and May 2003, a survey on the status of the Iberian lynx in Portugal. The survey was performed on previously identified lynx areas, during studies carried out in the 1970-s and 1990-s Intensive search for lynx scats, for DNA analysis, and camera trapping provided a basis for identifying potential lynx areas. Over 4200 km were covered during a global searching effort of 1975 man-hours. This effort resulted in the collection of 168 potential scats that were submitted to genetic validation with no positive lynx amplifications. Camera trapping was applied in a total effort of 5647 camera days, in three lynx potential areas. No positive detections were achieved. At the same time, a study on wild rabbit distribution reveals that most historical nuclei do not support lynx viable populations. Although we can not confirm extinction, the scenario is highly pessimistic. The Iberian lynx is presently in the verge of extinction. Intensive rabbit regression and massive habitat destruction are identified as the main causes of decline in recent decades. In the Portuguese lynx historical range, we could only identify significant areas suitable for lynx in the South-eastern part of the country, particularly in the Andalusian border, where we lack on recent evidence of lynx presence. Being aware of the considerable difficulties pointed above, the ICN developed a Conservation Action Plan for the Iberian lynx in order to provide a consistent and effective approach to conserve the species in Portuguese territory. This proposal describes guidance that retains future options, provides management consistent, offers necessary flexibility, in order to achieve the maximum goal of conserving the lynx in Portugal. Conservation measures have the goal of provide guiding lines for conservations agents in order to conduct actions that can positively affect lynx and/or to help avoid negative impacts through thoughtful planning of activities. The proposal of Action Plan will be applied in all the areas located in the lynx historical distribution geographic area, that present suitable characteristics for the species presence or landscape features that can be optimize for lynx survival and that can be relevant for the species life-cycle, independently of their protection status. The goal of this plan is to apply pre-release strategic reintroduction activities to make possible, in a long-term, the reintroduction of Iberian lynx, in order to assure the viability of the species, as a fundamental element of Mediterranean ecosystems. For achieving this goal it will be necessary to establish a suitable connection between ex-situ and in-situ actions

A crise social desenhada pelas crianças: imaginação e conhecimento social

A crise social e económica que tem atingido o mundo desde 2008, com efeitos especialmente sentidos nos países do Sul da Europa, causou impactos fortes e visíveis na infância, como o aumento das taxas efetivas e de risco de pobreza e a vulnerabilidade e a exposição a fatores de risco social e de perda consistente de direitos. A análise dessas incidências tem vindo a ser trabalhada num conjunto de relatórios nacionais e internacionais, de ONG’s e estudos académicos. No entanto, poucos estudos têm dedicado atenção ao modo como a interpretação das representações das crianças sobre a crise é feita e sobre as expressões específicas que estas assumem na sua vida quotidiana. As crianças são capazes de observar os modos como a crise impacta o seu próprio grupo geracional, bem como os adultos que mais lhe são próximos. Da mesma forma, promovem interpretações económicas sobre os fenómenos, sejam elas mais “ingénuas” ou mais complexas. Este artigo incide sobre as representações das crianças sobre a crise social e económica em Portugal. São especialmente analisadas narrativas gráficas produzidas por crianças oriundas de classes trabalhadoras, com idades compreendidas entre os 6 e os 10 anos de idade. Por meio dessas narrativas, as crianças constroem formas visuais a partir da sua imaginação sobre a sua condição. Assim, a imaginação das crianças é um modo de acesso ao conhecimento na sociedade onde se inserem e aos seus modos próprios de compreensão de realidades complexas.The social and economic crisis that has hit the world since 2008, with effects strongly felt in the countries of Southern Europe, has had fierce and visible impacts in childhood with the increase of the effective rates, the risk of poverty and vulnerability, and the exposure to factors of social risk and consistent loss of rights. The analysis of these incidents has been worked on in a series of national and international reports from NGOs and academic studies. However, few studies have devoted attention to the way in which the interpretation of the representations of children about the crisis is made and the specific expressions that they assume in their daily lives. Children are able to observe the ways in which the crisis affects their own generational group as well as the adults closest to them. In the same way, they promote economic interpretations of phenomena, whether “naïve” or more complex. This article focuses on the representations of children about the social and economic crisis in Portugal. Graphical narratives produced by children from working classes, aged between 6 and 10 years old, are given focus. From these narratives, children construct visual forms from their imagination about their social condition. Thus, the child’s imagination is a way of accessing knowledge in the society they belong to and their own way of understanding complex realities.CIEC - Centro de Investigação em Estudos da Criança, IE, UMinho (UI 317 da FCT), Portugalinfo:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Making museums attractions to tourists: serious leisure, meaningfulness and emotions as drivers to engagement

The aim of this study is to explore the relationships among the concepts of serous leisure, meaningfulness, emotions, word-of-mouth and passionate desire, as antecedents and outcomes of engagement with museums. The proposed model is tested with a sample of 461 visitors (from Portugal and abroad) in a culturally specific setting of Lisbon museums (where improvements and innovations were implemented). The findings contribute to a better understanding of visitors’ perceptions about museums acting as tourist attractions. Several implications can be pointed out from the study findings, and interesting directions for future research are provided.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Relationship marketing on social software platforms

Relationship marketing strategies are typically designed to gather information in order to help firms to identify and retain customers or guests. Firms organize relationship marketing programmes, described as ‘the ongoing process of engaging in cooperative and collaborative activities and programmes with immediate and end-user customers to create or enhance mutual economic value at reduced cost’ (Parvatiyar and Sheth 2000: p. 9). Examples of programmes include: (1) loyalty card programmes, (2) company credit cards, (3) opting in for personalized offers delivered via mailing and (4) via e-mail lists, and (5) rebate offers (Noble and Phillips 2004).info:eu-repo/semantics/acceptedVersio

The roles of vitamin d and cathelicidin in type 1 diabetes susceptibility

Type 1 diabetes has an increasingly greater incidence and prevalence with no cure available. Vitamin D supplementation is well documented to reduce the risk of developing type 1 diabetes. Being involved in the modulation of cathelicidin expression, the question whether cathelicidin may be one of the underlying cause arises. Cathelicidin has been implicated in both the development and the protection against type 1 diabetes by mediating the interplay between the gut microbiome, the immune system and ß cell function. While its potential on type 1 diabetes treatment seems high, the understanding of its effects is still limited. This review aims to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the potential of vitamin D and cathelicidin as adjuvants in type 1 diabetes therapy.This work was financed by FEDER – Fundo Europeu de Desenvolvimento Regional funds through the COMPETE 2020 – Operacional Programme for Competitiveness and Internationalization (POCI), Portugal 2020, and by Portuguese funds through FCT – Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia/ Ministério da Ciência, Tecnologia e Ensino Superior in the framework of the project PTDC/MED-OUT/30466/2017 and ‘Institute for Research and Innovation in Health Sciences’ (FCT – UID/BIM/04293/2019). Cecília Cristelo and Alexandra Machado would like to thank to Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT), Portugal for financial support (SFRH/BD/139402/2018 and SFRH/BD132000/2017, respectively)

An empiric analysis of the online market for the adventure travel tourism industry in Germany

The present article analyses the potential e-commerce in the tourism industry, particularly in the niche market of adventure travels. Tourists are increasingly booking travels using online platforms, especially Generation Y. This trend leads to the reduction the number of offline and traditional travel agencies and gives the opportunity to maximise the online travel market. E-commerce business is increasing as well as the market for adventure tourism. In this article we analyse existent online platforms for booking adventure travels and employ a survey to get the consumer perception about such platforms. The sample of 310 questionnaires analysed together with the nethnography conducted allow us to have useful information in order to better understand the phenomenon and give insights to managers and improve the service provided.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio