Cookies Policy
The website need some cookies and similar means to function. If you permit us, we will use those means to collect data on your visits for aggregated statistics to improve our service. Find out More
Accept Reject
  • Menu
Publications

2025

Learning Mobile Robotics: An Approach Based on a Classroom Competition

Authors
Brancalião L.; Alvarez M.; Coelho J.; Conde M.; Costa P.; Gonçalves J.;

Publication
Lecture Notes in Educational Technology

Abstract
Robotic competitions have been popularly applied in the educational context, proving to be an excellent method for fostering student engagement and interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). In this context, this paper presents the application of mobile robots in a classroom competition, in order to encourage students to enhance mobile robotics concepts learning in a dynamic and collaborative environment. The mobile robot prototyping is presented, and the methodology, including the Hardware-in-the-loop approach applied in the classrooms, is also described, together with the competition rules and challenges proposed for the students. The results indicated an improvement in students’ motivation, teamwork, communication, and the development of technical skills, computational thinking, and problem-solving.

2025

IILABS 3D: iilab Indoor LiDAR-based SLAM Dataset

Authors
Ferreira Ribeiro, Jorge Diogo; Sousa, Ricardo B.; Martins, João; Aguiar, André; Baptista Neves dos Santos, Filipe; Sobreira, Héber;

Publication

Abstract

2025

Digital Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Older Adults with symptoms of depression: a feasibility study (Preprint)

Authors
Amarti, K; Schulte, MHJ; Kleiboer, A; van Genugten, C; Oudega, M; Rocha, A; Riper, H;

Publication

Abstract
BACKGROUND

Depressive symptoms are common among older adults and can significantly impact their quality of life. Yet, many older adults face barriers to accessing psychological treatment. Internet-based cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) is a promising alternative to face-to-face treatments, but its feasibility among older adults is less researched.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the feasibility of guided iCBT for adults aged 55 and older with mild to moderate depressive symptoms recruited from the general population.

METHODS

Single-group, pretest-post-test design (N = 21) in which all participants received guided iCBT for 8 weeks. Assessments were taken at baseline (T0), and postintervention (T1). The primary outcome is feasibility conceptualized as satisfaction, usability, engagement and uptake with iCBT. Secondary outcome measures included depression severity, working alliance, and technical alliance.

RESULTS

Participants were mostly highly educated (62%), female (86%), had an average age of 59.85 (range 55 – 68), and reported moderate digital literacy on average. Feasibility outcomes indicated high satisfaction and engagement, and moderate usability. Working alliance was rated as good by both participants and coaches and technical alliance was rated as moderate by the participants. There was a non-significant modest decrease in depressive symptoms (Cohen’s d=0.47). Of the 20 participants that started the intervention, all completed the first two modules, but completion declined across the remaining six modules, with only one participant completing all modules.

CONCLUSIONS

This study found that guided iCBT can be a feasible option for older adults experiencing depressive symptoms, with participants reporting generally positive satisfaction, engagement and a moderate therapeutic bond with their coaches. However, below average usability ratings and a moderate technical alliance suggest that some aspects of the platform require improvement. Future research should focus on improving usability, adherence, and testing the intervention in larger, more diverse population.

2025

Burning Reality: Experiencing Climate Change through Virtual Reality

Authors
Federico Calà; Mariana Magalhães; António Coelho; Antonio Lanata;

Publication
2025 IEEE 14th Global Conference on Consumer Electronics (GCCE)

Abstract

2025

The impact of contracts on hydrogen and electricity markets under a joint Cournot equilibrium

Authors
Rozas, LAH; Campos, FA; Villar, J;

Publication
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HYDROGEN ENERGY

Abstract
Volatility in energy prices, alongside the European Commission's decarbonization strategy, has led to reforming the European electricity market and the creation of a hydrogen strategy. Hydrogen and electricity have a symbiotic relationship: hydrogen production through electrolysis relies on electricity, while its production provides flexibility to the power system utilizing renewable energy surpluses. This research provides a joint electricity and hydrogen market model based on Cournot equilibrium, solved with an equivalent optimization problem, incorporating contracts for both goods. Results for the MIBEL show that contracts increase market competition, reduce prices, and enhance renewable energy utilization. Wholesale electricity and hydrogen prices decrease by 10 % and 8 %, respectively, while electrolytic hydrogen production rises by 10 %. Profits increase by over 20 %, with the hydrogen sector doubling its gains. The model also identifies contract prices that ensure profitability and emissions reduction. These findings highlight the potential of PPAs and HPAs to support energy transition goals.

2025

Post-stroke upper limb rehabilitation: clinical practices, compensatory movements, assessment, and trends

Authors
Rocha, CD; Carneiro, I; Torres, M; Oliveira, HP; Pires, EJS; Silva, MF;

Publication
PROGRESS IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING

Abstract
Stroke, a vascular disorder affecting the nervous system, is the third-leading cause of death and disability combined worldwide. One in every four people aged 25 and older will face the consequences of this condition, which typically causes loss of limb function, among other disabilities. The proposed review analyzes the mechanisms of stroke and their influence on the disease outcome, highlighting the critical role of rehabilitation in promoting recovery of the upper limb (UL) and enhancing the quality of life of stroke survivors. Common outcome measures and the specific targeted UL features are described, along with emerging supplementary therapies found in the literature. Stroke survivors often develop compensatory strategies to cope with limitations in UL function, which must be detected and corrected during rehabilitation to facilitate long-term recovery. Recent research on the automated detection of compensatory movements has explored pressure, wearable, marker-based motion capture systems, and vision sensors. Although current approaches have certain limitations, they establish a strong foundation for future innovations in post-stroke UL rehabilitation, promoting a more effective recovery.

  • 103
  • 4400