2026
Authors
Bastardo, R; Pavao, J; Rocha, NP;
Publication
EMERGING TRENDS IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGIES, WORLDCIST 2025, VOL 1
Abstract
Virtual Reality (VR) applications hold significant promise for enhancing healthcare training by providing immersive and interactive environments for skills development. This scoping review analyzed the methods, and instruments used for usability assessment in VR applications designed to support healthcare training. An electronic database search identified 19 studies meeting specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. The included studies focused on two primary objectives: (i) usability assessment, and (ii) usability and feasibility assessment, evaluating not only the usability but also the practicality and sustainability of VR applications in healthcare training settings. The findings reveal inconsistencies in the reporting of methodological details essential for robust usability assessment, particularly in terms of methods' triangulation and participants' sample sizes. This review highlights the need for more rigorous and comprehensive approaches that combine both test and inquiry methods to ensure that VR applications present good usability, which is impactful for sustainable healthcare training applications.
2026
Authors
Rodrigues, HS; Garcia, JE; Silva, A;
Publication
OPTIMIZATION, LEARNING ALGORITHMS AND APPLICATIONS, OL2A 2025, PT II
Abstract
essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in regions aiming to balance energy efficiency, waste management, and urban development. This study explores the application of multicriteria decision-making and statistical techniques to evaluate municipal sustainability, with a focus on renewable energy, using the Alto Minho region of Portugal as a case study. The analysis incorporates 12 SDG indicators across ten municipalities, addressing energy consumption, urban renewal, and waste management. Cluster analysis revealed distinct groups of municipalities, highlighting disparities in sustainability performance. Municipalities such as Melgaco and Moncao excelled in energy-related metrics, while others showed strengths in waste management and urban renewal. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) emphasized the importance of renewable energy indicators, revealing notable changes in rankings when energy-related criteria were prioritized. Ponte de Lima and Melgaco ranked highest under energy-focused weighting schemes, showcasing their leadership in energy efficiency and renewable adoption. The findings underscore the need for targeted policies to enhance sustainability across municipalities, particularly in regions lagging in energy performance.
2026
Authors
da Fonseca, MJS; Lopes, SV; Garcia, JE; Andrade, JG; Sousa, BB;
Publication
EMERGING TRENDS IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGIES, WORLDCIST 2025, VOL 5
Abstract
The study aimed to explore how communication can influence young individuals to become blood donors. It sought to answer a key question: how do communication strategies impact the recruitment of donors within this age group? The research was structured around four primary objectives. First, it evaluated young people's knowledge about blood donation through a content analysis of 14 campaigns. Second, it examined the communication strategies implemented by the Portuguese Institute of Blood and Transplantation (IPST) via an exploratory interview with an expert from the organization. Third, it investigated the motivations and barriers affecting young people's willingness to donate, using a survey conducted with 390 participants, which revealed that more than half of respondents were not blood donors. Finally, it identified the most effective communication strategies and actions to promote blood donation. The findings suggest that future campaigns should prioritize precise segmentation based on behavioral criteria and adopt integrated marketing communication more broadly. This approach is expected to enhance the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at increasing donor recruitment among young people.
2026
Authors
Garcia, JE; Andrade, JG; Sampaio, A; Pereira, MJS; da Fonseca, MJS;
Publication
EMERGING TRENDS IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND TECHNOLOGIES, WORLDCIST 2025, VOL 5
Abstract
This paper aims to examine how Portugal and Brazil leveraged digital marketing to redefine their country brands during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. By focusing on the application of innovative digital strategies in tourism and culture, the research highlights the transformative potential of digital tools in overcoming pandemic-related challenges. Specifically, the study identifies key approaches such as the use of social media, data analytics, virtual reality, and influencer marketing that were strategically employed to maintain global engagement, foster international visibility, and support economic recovery. The results demonstrate that integrating digital marketing into country branding strategies not only sustained international recognition but also accelerated the adoption of sustainable tourism practices. By analyzing the cases of Portugal and Brazil, this paper provides actionable insights for policy-makers and practitioners seeking to align tourism growth with global sustainability goals. These findings underscore the critical importance of digital transformation in enhancing the resilience and competitiveness of the tourism sector in a post-pandemic world.
2026
Authors
Garcia, JE; Sousa, BB; Fonseca, MJS;
Publication
Advances in Computational Intelligence and Robotics
Abstract
2026
Authors
Fernandes A.C.; Fonseca M.J.; Garcia J.E.; Rodrigues H.S.;
Publication
Aip Conference Proceedings
Abstract
This study aimed to develop a strategic marketing plan for the Polytechnic University of Viana do Castelo. The methodology applied was a questionnaire survey applied in person to the students of the Polytechnic University of Viana do Castelo, during the class period. A total of 1762 valid responses were obtained. Although some answers indicate the necessary improvements to be made, most respondents are satisfied with the UPVC, pointing it out as young, welcoming and accessible higher education institution.
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