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Publications

2026

AI-Enabled Flexible Design of Resilient Forest-to-Bioenergy Supply Chains Under Wildfire Disruption Risk

Authors
Gomes, R; Ribeiro, JP; Silva, RG; Soares, R;

Publication
SUSTAINABILITY

Abstract
The forest-to-bioenergy supply chain is significantly vulnerable to natural disruptions, including wildfires, heavy snowfall, and windstorms. The increased occurrence of these disruptive events has caused severe challenges in forest biomass harvesting and transportation processes, which are difficult to manage. With the need to support decision-makers in designing resilient supply chains (SCs), we propose a Decision Support System (DSS) combining a two-stage stochastic programming framework with various flexibility mechanisms, such as dynamic network reconfiguration and operations postponement. The DSS incorporates an AI-based methodology to identify the most appropriate datasets and resilience metrics, capturing different supply chain dimensions (supply, demand, and operations). This integrated framework supports the selection of effective resilience-enhancing strategies to mitigate large-scale disruptions, with a particular focus on wildfires. The proposed approach is applied in a real case study in Portugal, where the most significant risk factor is wildfires. We perform computational studies and sensitivity analysis to evaluate the applicability and performance of the model and to drive managerial insights. The results show that adopting the model solutions can significantly reduce supply chain logistics and operational costs under more severe disruptive scenarios. Moreover, the results indicate up to a 60% increase in the tons of forest residues that can be removed and processed.

2026

Integration challenges faced by immigrant entrepreneurs: Multiple case study in Portugal

Authors
Almeida, F; Morais, J;

Publication
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF INTERCULTURAL RELATIONS

Abstract
This study aims to explore the integration challenges faced by immigrant entrepreneurs in Portugal. It employed a multiple case study approach, drawing on semi-structured interviews with nine immigrant entrepreneurs from three distinct communities in Portugal. The findings of this study highlight the role of social networks in enabling and shaping the entrepreneurial journeys of immigrants in Portugal. These networks act as a bridge to help immigrants overcome barriers such as unfamiliarity with local markets, restricted access to resources, and cultural differences. In this context, community knowledge and referrals play a particularly significant role. Furthermore, the findings also identify five types of challenges faced by these communities including the financial, regulatory, social, institutional, and psychological dimensions. This study is relevant due to the role of immigrants in fostering economic growth and social cohesion. Understanding and addressing the integration challenges is key to enabling their success, which in turn strengthens local economies and promotes inclusive growth. Additionally, exploring these issues helps policymakers and organizations develop targeted strategies to support immigrant entrepreneurs, ensuring they can fully realize their potential and contribute positively to the host society.

2026

Aligning education systems' achievements with strategic goals for European Union countries

Authors
Osório, FJ; Barbosa, F; D'Inverno, G; Camanho, AS;

Publication
ANNALS OF OPERATIONS RESEARCH

Abstract
This paper proposes an innovative directional Benefit-of-the-Doubt (BoD) model for setting benchmarking targets on the frontier of the Production Possibility Set (PPS) in alignment with strategic goals defined a priori by experts or decision makers. The proposed model iteratively adjusts the directional vectors assigned to each Decision Making Unit (DMU) ensuring that once specific goals are achieved, further improvement efforts are directed towards indicators with remaining performance gaps. This mechanism enables a dynamic prioritization of improvement consistent with strategic objectives. Additionally, we define a Composite Indicator (CI) that measures the overall effectiveness of each DMU relative to a strategy-based reference. The CI can be decomposed into a technical score - reflecting proximity to the PPS frontier - and a strategical score - capturing the extent to which goals remain unmet upon reaching the frontier. The framework proposed is illustrated and validated through an empirical assessment of 27 European countries using 2022 data from the 'Education and Training 2030' indicators.

2026

Before the Interface

Authors
Giesteira, B; Santiago, E; Sousa, A; Amado, P; Gonçalves, F;

Publication
Reshaping Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Through Digital Innovation

Abstract
This chapter explores the innovative development and integration of tailored user research instruments to inform digital health solutions for People Living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (PALS) exhibiting characteristics of partial Locked-In Syndrome (LIS). Addressing the complex interplay of motor, cognitive, and emotional impairments typical of this population, the study proposes a synergistic framework combining three adapted instruments: the ALS Functional Rating Scale-Revised (ALSFRS-R/EX), the User Experience Questionnaire Plus (UEQ+), and a bespoke Cognitive-Motor-Emotional (CME) Observation Grid. These instruments were tailored to detect subtle variations in user function, affect, and interaction. Results show how embodied and sensory drawing participatory methods and customisation of instruments, along with semi-structured questionnaire and interviews with caregivers, can yield actionable insights for designing a model for solutions in neurodegenerative or communication-limiting contexts beyond Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

2026

Use of Focus Groups for Planning, Action and Analysis of Sessions: First Step Towards the Design of Optimized Interfaces Through Co-design

Authors
Rocha, T; Nunes, R; Reis, A; Barroso, J;

Publication
Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems

Abstract
Within the scope of the Mobilizing Agenda for the Development of Intelligent Green Mobility Products and Systems (A-MoVeR), PPS2 defined the presentation of a “new electric motorcycle, with high autonomy, aimed at promoting comfortable, efficient and efficient urban mobility. green”. In this context, the need to develop interfaces that meet the expectations of end users, promoting user experience and security are crucial. Therefore, following a User-Centered Design (DCU) methodology, a co-design perspective and UX data collection methods, this article presents the steps and preliminary results of the preparation, face-to-face session and subsequent analysis of results of a preliminary moment of acquiring knowledge on how to optimize motorcycle user interfaces. Specifically: script planning, requirements and analysis of user feedback collected through audiovisual recording, in a focus group, are described. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2026.

2026

Ikigai Play

Authors
Giesteira, B; Souza, T; Sousa, A; Rodrigues, L; Maior, GV;

Publication
Reshaping Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Through Digital Innovation

Abstract
This chapter is grounded in the results of the ERASMUS+ funded project SmartAgeCare, which investigated active and healthy ageing strategies across eight European countries. The project aims to foster digital inclusion, civic participation, and psychosocial well-being among older adults by exploring innovative models of engagement. This chapter introduces the concept of 'Ikigai Play' as a transdisciplinary framework rooted in a meta-narrative review and inspired by the Japanese philosophy of Ikigai—meaning 'reason for being'. Synthesising evidence from national studies and digital ageing strategies, the chapter identifies regional disparities, psychosocial drivers, and the transformative potential of inclusive technologies. 'Ikigai Play' is proposed as a culturally adaptive model to support autonomy, well-being, and digital health equity.

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