2025
Authors
Pires, R; Torres, P; Valente, NA; Solteiro Pires, EJ; Reis, A; Moura Oliveira, PBd; Barroso, J;
Publication
HCI (72)
Abstract
Forest fires represent a significant and growing threat to natural ecosystems and human settlements, with their unpredictable behavior and capacity for rapid expansion over time, creating substantial challenges for effective prevention, control, and mitigation. This paper presents the development of a forest fire simulator designed to model and predict fire spread under varying environmental conditions. Such a simulator must consider how fire spreads in different locations and climate conditions, showing the final shape of the fire in a given period of time. Using the NetLogo agent-based modeling platform, a simulated forest environment was created in which trees function as autonomous agents interacting with one another and the environment. Identifying and understanding the risk factors that increase the likelihood of a fire occurring, as well as those that contribute to its spread and intensity, is essential for the development of an accurate forest fire simulator. Such a simulator can integrate the complex interactions among these variables to produce dynamic visualizations of fire progression, allowing users to evaluate different scenarios and make informed decisions for preventing, controlling and fighting forest fires. By incorporating key factors—such as vegetation density, temperature, humidity, topography, and wind direction—the system calculates the probability of fire propagation and generates visual representations of fire behavior over time. This tool allows users to forecast fire behavior and assess response strategies proactively, thereby improving the accuracy and efficiency of firefighting efforts. In addition, the simulator yields significant social benefits, especially for older adults residing in fire-prone areas, by supporting early warning systems, enabling prompt evacuations, and mitigating their susceptibility to fire-related risks through enhanced preparedness and coordinated response measures. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2026.
2025
Authors
Pilarski, L; Luiz, LE; Gomes, GS; Pinto, T; Filipe, VM; Barroso, J; Rijo, G;
Publication
2025 IEEE CONFERENCE ON ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, CAI
Abstract
Digital twins are increasingly used, as they allow the creation of detailed virtual representations of physical products and systems. They face, however, significant challenges such as heterogeneous data integration and high costs. This article presents an innovative methodology that uses Large Language Models to unify information and automate the generation of Digital Twin models. The proposal comprises several modules, covering the stages of data collection, semantic processing, modular construction and validation of the Digital Twin. In this way, the proposed model guarantees interoperability, efficiency and scalability for various domains.
2025
Authors
França, TJF; Sao Mamede, JHP; Barroso, JMP; dos Santos, VMPD;
Publication
INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS WITH APPLICATIONS
Abstract
The rapid evolution of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping Human Resource Management (HRM), with growing interest in its role in talent identification. While AI has demonstrated effectiveness in analysing structured data, its limitations in assessing qualitative attributes such as creativity, adaptability, and emotional intelligence remain underexplored. This study addresses these gaps through an exploratory mixed-methods design, combining a global survey (n = 240) with semi-structured interviews of HR professionals. Quantitative analysis highlights patterns of association between key competencies, while qualitative findings provide contextual insights into perceptions of fairness, bias, and cultural resistance. The results suggest that AI can complement, but not replace, human judgement, supporting a Hybrid Evaluative Model that integrates algorithmic efficiency with human interpretation. The study contributes rare empirical evidence to a nascent field, highlights the ethical imperatives of bias mitigation and transparency, and underscores the importance of cultural context (collectivist versus individualist orientations) in shaping the acceptance and effectiveness of AI-enabled HR practices. These findings offer practical guidance for organisations and advance theory-building at the intersection of AI and HRM.
2025
Authors
Pataca, B; Barroso, J; Santos, V;
Publication
Communications in Computer and Information Science - Technology and Innovation in Learning, Teaching and Education
Abstract
2025
Authors
Oliveira, J; Rocha, T; Barroso, J;
Publication
Technology for Inclusion and Participation for All: Recent Achievements and Future Directions
Abstract
2025
Authors
Reis, A; Barroso, J; Rocha, T;
Publication
PROCEEDINGS OF THE 18TH ACM INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON PERVASIVE TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO ASSISTIVE ENVIRONMENTS, PETRA 2025
Abstract
This paper presents ElderMind, a mobile application designed to promote cognitive stimulation and engagement among older adults. Developed using a User-Centered Design (UCD) approach, the application incorporates gamified elements to enhance usability. ElderMind features three cognitive games-memory, puzzle, and maze-solving-each with adjustable difficulty levels, ensuring accessibility for diverse user needs. Key functionalities include performance tracking, customizable font sizes, and multilingual support, making it a versatile tool for aging populations. Accessibility and usability assessments were conducted to refine the application iteratively, addressing issues such as visual contrast and touch target sizes. Preliminary usability testing with participants aged 50-64 demonstrated ease of use, with most tasks rated as not difficult at all. Feedback highlighted the application's simplicity and accessibility while identifying areas for improvement, such as interface aesthetics and game variety. ElderMind represents a preliminary solution toward inclusive digital solutions for cognitive health and user engagement.
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