Background: The Plan-do-check-act (PDCA) cycle methodology for a continuous improvement project implementation aims for the internal logistics upgrade, which is especially important in the industrial context of a component manufacturing company for the automotive sector. Objectives: The goal is to quantify the gains from waste reduction based on the usage of the PDCA cycle as a tool in the implementation and optimisation of a milk run in an assembly line of a company in the automotive sector by determining the optimal cycle time of supply and the standardisation of the logistic supply process and the materials’ flow. Methods/Approach: The research was conducted through observation and data collection in loco, involving two main phases: planning and implementation. According to the phases of the PDCA cycle, the process was analysed, and tools such as the SIPOC matrix, process stratification, 5S, and visual management were implemented. Results: Using Lean tools, it was possible to reduce waste by establishing concise flows and defining a supply pattern, which resulted in a reduction of movements. The transportation waste was reduced by fixing the position of more than half of the materials in the logistic trailers. The developed Excel simulator provided the logistic train’s optimal cycle time. Conclusions: The assembly line supplied by milk-run was fundamental to highlight a range of improvements in the process of internal supply, such as better integration of stock management systems, greater application of quality, or the adoption of better communication systems between the different areas and employees.

Psychological abuse (PA) is being associated with the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, few studies have focused exclusively in this type of abuse. This study aimed to examine the relationship between PA and PTSD symptoms according to gender and understand the impact of severe PA in identity transformation, in a Portuguese university sample. Using a mixed-methods approach, 158 students answered an e-survey containing closed and open-ended questions. Results indicated a positive correlation between PA and PTSD symptoms. Women were significantly different from men concerning PA, contrarily to PTSD symptoms that did not present significant gender differences. The qualitative analysis revealed two different forms of adjustment, in both genders: positive—indicating personal growth—and negative changes—impacting relationships and emotional states. The more negative changes were described, the more PTSD symptoms were presented, regardless gender. Raising awareness can help young recognize themselves as victims and prevent the development of detrimental mental health status.

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Currently, there is a set of variables that directly and indirectly influence the level and quality of life of human beings. Climate change, pandemic situations and wars raise questions about their survival. Thus, the development of systems allowing efficient monitoring of the surrounding environment seems appropriate. In this sense, since the agricultural sector is a pillar of modern societies, the application of technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things), for its sustainable development is the motivation for this multidisciplinary work. The work carried out uses emerging technologies, wireless communication networks, alternative energy sources, control systems and friendly human-machine interfaces. Communication between the devices uses LoRa (Long Range) technology due to its low consumption. Depending on the location to be monitored, alternative sources of energy, solar and hydropower, are selected individually, using an algorithm that monitors the power available at each instant. Data acquired such as temperature and humidity by several network nodes (peripheral towers), communicate to a gateway (main tower). These data are stored, treated statistically, and presented in a user-friendly application for different users. The system was installed in an urban vegetable garden in the Vila Nova de Famalicão municipality. After its operational validation, the temperatures and humidity values were registered. In conclusion, the developed system is low cost, autonomous, modular, flexible, has a low energy consumption and uses alternative energies, allowing the optimization of techniques and types of cultivation.