Frequência e atividade funcional das células T Vδ1 em leucemia linfocítica crónica e linfocitose B monocional

Mestrado em Bioquímica - Bioquímica ClínicaA leucemia linfocítica crónica (LLC) é uma doença linfoproliferativa crónica de células B caracterizada pela proliferação descontrolada de linfócitos B patológicos. É uma doença de curso geralmente indolente, mas que pode em alguns casos progredir rapidamente e necessitar de tratamento. Com vista a melhorar o prognóstico destes doentes, imunoterapias baseadas em células T têm vindo a ser desenvolvidas, com especial interesse numa subpopulação minoritária dos linfócitos T: células T γδ. Estas células representam, normalmente, menos de 10% dos linfócitos T circulantes, apresentando características distintas dos linfócitos αβ, o que lhes confere vantagem quando selecionadas para terapia celular. Dentro deste grupo de células, os linfócitos T Vδ1 parecem exibir atividade citotóxica contra células B de LLC, e como tal podem vir a ser utilizadas em protocolos de imunoterapia anti-tumoral. No entanto, o comportamento destas células in vivo é francamente desconhecido tanto em situações de normalidade, como de doença. O objetivo deste projeto foi estudar a frequência das células Vδ1 em sangue periférico e avaliar, através de estudos imunofenotípicos, a sua atividade efetora e citotóxica (expressão de CD27, CD69 e granzima B) em casos de LLC, de linfocitoses B monoclonais (LBM) e num grupo controlo. Os resultados mostraram uma expansão do compartimento efetor em todas as subpopulações de linfócitos T, particularmente nas células TCD8+ e nas células T Vδ1, o que se correlacionou com um aumento destas células a expressar granzima B desde o grupo controlo até ao grupo de LLC com estádio mais avançado da doença. A percentagem de células a expressar o marcador de ativação CD69 foi marcadamente mais alta nas células T Vδ1, mas no grupo controlo. Assim, os resultados obtidos sugerem que as células TVδ1 parecem apresentar um fenótipo efetor citotóxico, com características semelhantes às células TCD8+ e restantes subpopulações de células T γδ, o que parece evidenciar que conjuntamente com outras células, as células TVδ1 podem contribuir para uma atividade na resposta antitumoral contra células B de LLC.Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is a B-cell chronic lymphoproliferative disease characterized by an uncontrolled proliferation of pathological B lymphocytes. This disease is normally of indolent progression, but it may, in some cases, progress rapidly and require treatment. In order to improve the prognosis of these patients, T-cell based immunotherapies have been developed, with special interest in a minor subpopulation of T lymphocytes: γδ T cells. These cells represent, normally, less than 10% of circulating T lymphocytes and exhibit distinct characteristics comparing to αβ T lymphocytes providing them with advantages when selected for T cell therapy. Within this group, Vδ1 T lymphocytes seem to display cytotoxic activity against B cells from CLL, conferring to these cells the ability to be used in antitumoral immunotherapies. However, the behaviour of these cells in vivo is frankly unknown in both normal and disease situations. The objective of this project was to study the frequency of Vδ1 T cells on peripheral blood and to evaluate, through immunophenotypic studies, their effector and cytotoxic activity (expression of CD27, CD69 and granzyme B) in CLL, monoclonal B cell lymphocytosis (MBL) and controls. Our results disclosed an expansion of effector compartment in all subpopulations of T lymphocytes, particularly for CD8+ T cells and Vδ1 T cells, which correlated with an increase in these cells expressing granzyme B from control group to advanced stages of CLL. CD69 expression was markedly higher in Vδ1 T cells, in the control group. In conclusion, the results obtained suggest that Vδ1 T cells appear to present an effector cytotoxic phenotype, with similar characteristics to CD8 + T cells and the remaining γδ T cells, which might point to a contribution to an antitumor response against CLL cells, mediated by the interplay between these cells

What is the potential of the luxury resale market in Portugal?

The purchase of pre-owned luxury goods is becoming a worldwide trend. With growing concerns over sustainability and the search for different and unique pieces, new ways of consuming luxury have emerged, especially among the younger generations, giving a boost to the second hand luxury market. However, in the Portuguese market this trend is almost non-existent and have just started to give its first step early this year. In an attempt to study the potential of growth for this market in Portugal, 14 in-store observations to the already established luxury resale business models were conducted, as well as 31 in-depth interviews to luxury consumers and 3 interviews to luxury resale retailers. Results showed that there is an interest both to purchase and sell second hand luxury items, suggesting the high potential of the market in Portugal. Moreover, it was found that the best business model to be applied to the Portuguese market is a closed-doors system, with a personalized and exclusive service similar to a luxury store with an omnichannel interaction with a physical store and an online website

Equity research - Carlsberg A/S

Mestrado em FinançasEste projecto consiste numa avaliação da Carlsberg A/S, com base no desempenho histórico da empresa nos últimos cinco anos, bem como a informação publicamente disponível até á data de 8 de julho de 2019 que considerei relevantes para minhas análises e pressupostos. Qualquer evento posterior não está refletido na avaliação. Adicionalmente, este projecto foi desenvolvido de acordo com o formato e recomendações do CFA Institute. Após desenvolver a análise adequada e os pressupostos para o período projetado, foram aplicados três modelos diferentes de avaliação: Adjusted Present Value, Dividend Discount Model and Relative Valuation through multiples, sendo que todas as variáveis ​​associadas aos mesmos foram exclusivamente calculadas por mim. O APV foi considerado o modelo principal, com um preço-alvo de DKK 1206, atingindo um potencial de crescimento 32,87% em comparação com a cotação de 8 de julho de 2019, DKK 908. Esta avaliação levou a uma recomendação final de STRONG BUY.This report contains a detailed Equity Valuation of Carlsberg A/S, based on the company's historical performance of the last five years as well as the public information that was available until 8th July 2019 that I consider relevant for my analysis and forecasts. Any further event is not reflected on this valuation. Also, this report was developed according to the CFA's institute format and guidance. After developing the proper analysis and future estimates for the projected period, three valuation models were applied: Adjusted Present Value, Dividend Discount Model and Relative Valuation through multiples, with all the associated variables computed by me. APV was considered the primary model, with a target price of DKK 1206, reaching an upside potential of 32,87%, compared to the closing price of 8th July 2019, DKK 908. This valuation lead to a STRONG BUY final recommendation.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

The Symbolic Importance of the “Exotic” in the Portuguese Court in the Late Middle Ages

SFRH/BD/84622/2012 UID/HIS/04666/2013This paper aims at presenting the work in progress of our PhD thesis, entitled Images of Power. The “exotic” in the Portuguese Court in the Renaissance. It is generally accepted by the historiography that the Portuguese court seems to have been characterized by less complex and sophisticated forms of representation when compared to the French, Italian or Burgundian courts, which were undeniably more formal and refined. Our dissertation intends to evaluate the accuracy of this perspective. For this, we will focus on the importance of the “exotic” in ceremonial and politically relevant moments for the Portuguese monarchy. We will start by analysing the presence of African and Asian animals, products and objects in gift-giving practices and in political and ceremonial rituals –such as weddings, parades and banquets– of the Portuguese Monarchy in the 15th and 16th centuries. The figures of Henry the Navigator and Kings John II and Manuel I will be particularly emphasized as figures of transition, who used these “exotic” elements as an intrinsically medieval form of symbolic representation. The famous embassy sent by Manuel I to the Pope Leo X in 1514, which included the Indian elephant Hanno, is the most ostentatious and significant episode, but other examples will be addressed. It is important to mention that this subject will be studied in close comparison to a broader European cultural context. However, instead of adopting the 17th century Kunstkammern of the Habsburgs as a term of comparison, we will look at previous practices of gift-giving and consumption, since we can identify a use of non-European animals as living heraldry and signs of power, ever since the Arab Abbassid Caliph Harun al-Rashid sent and elephant to Charlemagne. The main purpose of this paper is, thus, to underline the presence of “exotic” elements in the Portuguese court in the 15th and 16th centuries as part of a medieval cultural phenomenon, as opposed to an exclusively early modern tendency.publishersversionpublishe

Valuation and risk analysis of : fixed coupon express certificate linked to Euro Stoxx 50 index

Mestrado Bolonha em FinançasThis project has the primary objective of valuating and analysing an Express Certificate, a type of autocallable structured product. This type of product is mostly known and traded in German markets and its not a common object of academic or professional research. The product consists of an autocallable certificate that is intended to pay a regular annual coupon along with the notional amount at maturity or early termination. The product can be called back for early termination if the underlying level is at or above the strike price on an autocallable observation date. On the last observation date, if the underlying level is below the barrier level, the payoff is directly linked to the underlying asset. The valuation process starts with the decomposition of the Express Certificate into a callable bond along with a short position in a down-and-in put option. The pricing of the product was performed using Monte Carlo simulation with Geometric Brownian Motion. The further analysis of the certificate focuses on risk and return measures, namely stress testing, internal rate of return, value-at-risk and conditional value-at-risk and, finally, greek sensitivities. The previously mentioned analysis was performed in 5 different models, each with 5 different volatilities, while all other assumptions remained the same. 2 of these models were the product of a factor push stress testing. The principal conclusions drawn from the project are the consequences of an increase in volatility, which are mainly: the decrease in the product’s value, the decrease of the interest rate of return, an increase in value at risk and a decrease in overall greek sensitivity.O presente projeto tem como objetivo primário a analise de um Certificado Express, um tipo de produto estruturado com possível chamada antecipada. Este tipo de produto é mais conhecido e transacionado no mercado alemão e não é um objeto comum de investigação académica ou profissional. O produto consiste num certificado com possível chamada antecipada, estruturado de modo a pagar um cupão anual juntamente com o principal na maturidade ou data de chamada antecipada. O produto pode ser chamado antes da maturidade se o nível do ativo subjacente for igual ou superior ao preço de exercício numa data de observação. Na última data de observação, se o nível do subjacente for inferior ao nível da barreira, o pagamento final está diretamente relacionado com o nível do ativo subjacente. O processo de avaliação do certificado inicia com a sua respetiva decomposição numa obrigação com possível chamada antecipada e uma opção de venda com barreira. Para o cálculo do valor do produto foi utilizada a simulação de Monte Carlo com movimento browniano geométrico. De seguida, é realizada uma análise de risco e retorno, onde foram calculados o valor em risco e valor em risco condicionado, as sensibilidades do produto às letras gregas e taxa de juro interna. Os resultados foram alcançados através de 5 modelos distintos, cada um com uma volatilidade diferente. Os restantes parâmetros permaneceram inalterados. 2 dos referidos modelos estudados foram resultado de cenários de stresse onde um dos parâmetros é alterado para representar o comportamento do mercado financeiro em condições extremas. As conclusões principais deste projeto são as consequências do aumento da volatilidade, nomeadamente: a diminuição do valor do produto, a diminuição da taxa de juro interna, um aumento no valor em risco e uma diminuição na sensibilidade do produto às letras gregas.info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersio

Machine Learning Algorithms – Application on Big Data to Predict Retention Actions Needs

The use of Machine Learning techniques is increasingly commonplace in multiple practical applications. Nowadays, the results of the application of these techniques are already routinely influencing our life and day-to-day tasks. Suggestions of videos to visualize; which route to take to a destination; facial recognition in biometric and security systems; all are practical examples of the advances made in this area. Many Machine Learning models are black box, given the complexity of the problems addressed and their algorithmic nature and, sometimes, do not offer a perception of their decision-making processes or are not directly interpretable when it comes to the reasons that originate their forecasts and results. The use of Explanatory Methods highlights patterns in the data, allowing a more assertive interpretation of results. Thus, this dissertation intends to develop a prototype that combines Machine Learning techniques with Explanatory Methods in order to improve the evaluation and validation of indicators, making the process of obtaining results by the algorithm and how it is affected more consistent and assertive. From a commercial point of view, based on the results of the models applied to the data, the consequent definition or reengineering of strategies obtains better operational results and the continuous improvement of indicators. With this prototype I intend to demonstrate that, from a practical point of view, obtaining representative indicators of customer permanence/loyalty in an organization, applying Machine Learning techniques on real data, and using explanatory methods, once the influence and weight of the characteristics are interpreted from the data on the model/s, it will be possible to redefine and fine-tune operational strategies. Specifically, as a practical case of this dissertation, it is expected that corporate systems such as Customer Relationship Management systems can benefit from the results of this dissertation through the application of Machine Learning techniques and the interpretation of Explanatory Methods

STRUCTURE-FUNCTION ANALYSIS OF MULTI-COPPER OXIDASES

Dissertation presented to obtain the Ph.D degree in Biochemistry, Structural BiochemistryDioxygen is a ubiquitous electron acceptor in aerobic biological systems, playing a vital role in many biological processes upon its activation and reduction. However, the precise routes through which such mechanisms occur are still poorly understood for many enzyme families. The work presented in this dissertation focuses on Multi-copper oxidases (MCOs), a family of enzymes able to couple the one-electron oxidation of a vast array of substrate molecules with the four-electron reduction of dioxygen to water.(...

Avaliar em educação física: a necessidade de um quadro conceptual

A avaliação é considerada parte integrante do processo educativo, imprescindível em qualquer proposta de educação. Esta encontra-se ligada ao processo ensino e aprendizagem, contudo sabemos que na prática pedagógica esta fica muitas vezes desvinculada neste processo. Muitas vezes a avaliação é apenas vista como uma mera atribuição de notas, dando aos alunos um ”rótulo” e não como um meio de o mesmo orientar a sua prática indo deste modo ao encontro das reais necessidades dos seus alunos. Consideramos que este tema é bastante complexo, contudo pretendemos compreender como a mesma pode ser um instrumento facilitador e de reflexão das práticas, buscando assim progredir na construção do conhecimento. A avaliação feita nos moldes tradicionais e sem qualquer objetivo parece-nos estar descontextualizada, estamos em crer que a mesma deve ser inovadora que leve o aluno a assimilar informações e utilizá-las em contextos adequados, de modo a que possa tomar decisões autónomas e criativas. O importante é a aprendizagem efetiva que existe. Mas se pensarmos na origem deste tema podemos compreender este pensamento, contudo está desatualizado e descontextualizado na nossa realidade. O mais importante é saber o que avaliar? Quem? Como? Porquê? E com que resultados. Neste sentido com esta comunicação procuramos mostrar a necessidade de um quadro conceptual, de modo a que todos possam saber qual o caminho a seguir e que opções tomar.N/

A gestão do relacionamento com o cliente na era das redes sociais

Atualmente, as prioridades das empresas estão focadas na relação que desejam manter com os seus clientes. Criar e manter relações duradouras com os clientes constitui uma das suas principais preocupações. Neste contexto, muitas empresas já recorrem a sistemas de CRM (Customer Relationship Management) para gerir e organizar todos os contactos de clientes, através de softwarebaseado na web que oferecem suporte para estas ações. Adicionalmente, os websites de redes sociais apresentam-se como um canal com um enorme potencial e assumem um papel crescente e preponderante nas relações entre as empresas e os clientes. O presente trabalho avalia o grau de utilização e impacto dos websites de redes sociais na gestão do relacionamento com o cliente, de empresas do distrito de Aveiro, por via da aplicação de inquérito por questionário a 184 empresas de diferentes áreas de atividade. Os resultados indicam que as empresas estão conscientes desta nova realidade das redes sociais como veículo de divulgação ou comunicação, mas não têm uma visão inicial das redes sociais enquanto ferramenta para potenciar e gerir o relacionamento com o cliente.Nowadays, companies’ priorities are focused on the relationships that they shall keep with their clients. Creating and maintaining long-term relationships with clients is one of companies’ biggest concerns. It is based on this context that many companies are already using CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tools to store, manage and organize their customers’ contacts throughout web-based softwares which support this kind of actions. Besides social networks’ websites are potential channels and assume a growing and prevailing part on relationships between companies and costumers. This investigation paper assesses the level of use and the impact of social networks on customers’ relationship management. Within this framework, an empirical study based on quiz enquiry has been made to 184 companies in of Aveiro’s district. Results indicate that companies are conscious of this new reality of social networks as a drive to spread and to communicate, but on the other hand they do not visualize them as a tool to grow and manage client’s relationship

Influence of computers in students’ academic achievement

Simões, S., Oliveira, T., & Nunes, C. (2022). Influence of computers in students’ academic achievement. Heliyon, 8(3), 1-13. [e09004]. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09004 ---------- This work was supported by FCT (Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia) under project DSAIPA/DS/0032/2018 (DS4AA).With fast-growing technology, schools have to adapt and use technology constantly as a tool to grow. This study aims to understand the influence of computer factors on students' academic achievement. We propose a model on the influence of computer attitudes, computer learning environments, computer learning motivations, computer confidence, computer use, computer self-efficacy, loneliness, mothers' education, parents' marital status and family size on academic achievement (AA). To validate the conceptual model, 286 students aged 16–18 years old answered an online questionnaire. The most important drivers that positively affect AA are computer use, employment motivations, and mothers' education. While enjoyment attitudes, school environment, interest motivations, and loneliness influence AA negatively. Also, family size and computer self-efficacy work as moderators, and computer use works as a mediator between computer learning environments and academic achievement.publishersversionpublishe