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- Predictors of the Intention to Buy Organic Products: A Quantitative and Cross-sectional Study in TunisiaPublication . Zaidi, Saida; Fernandes, António; Ribeiro, Maria IsabelOrganic farming plays a very important role in promoting sustainable agriculture by preserving ecosystems, enhancing biodiversity, and ensuring the production of healthier food. As the demand for organic products continues to rise globally, understanding the factors driving organic food consumption becomes essential for fostering sustainable consumer behavior. Tunisia, with its deep-rooted agricultural heritage and growing interest in organic and sustainable living, presents a unique case for examining these dynamics. Given the country’s ongoing economic development and urbanization, it is crucial to examine the factors influencing consumer choices regarding organic products. Thus, this study aims to analyze the factors influencing organic food consumption in Tunisia by assessing consumer attitudes, purchasing habits, and barriers to its implementation. Using a quantitative and cross-sectional approach, data were collected through a structured survey targeting a diverse sample of Tunisians that explored socio-demographic characteristics, economic constraints, motivations, and challenges of consuming organic food. Statistical analysis was applied to identify key trends and correlations. Findings reveal that 23% of respondents purchase no organic products, with supermarkets dominating distribution channels and limited availability through direct farmer sales or specialty stores. Consumer knowledge is notably deficient, with over 60% of participants demonstrating limited understanding of organic food. Regression analysis reveals that attitudes toward organic food are the strongest predictor of purchase intention, followed by health awareness, while perceived price has a negative impact on consumption. Interestingly, environmental concerns showed no significant association with purchase intention. These results underscore the need for strategies that foster positive attitudes and address price concerns to promote the implementation of organic food in Tunisia.
- Food Consumption Practices and Implications for Mycotoxin Exposure Risk: A Cross-sectional Study in Inhambane and Gaza Provinces, MozambiquePublication . Ribeiro, Maria Isabel; Mussalama, Edson; Manhiça, Agnaldo; Cabo, Paula; Venâncio, Armando; Rodrigues, Paula; Macuamule, CustódiaDiet is considered the main route of exposure to the risk of mycotoxin poisoning. Consequently, given the prevalence of mycotoxins in Mozambique, there is a need to develop studies on the population's consumption habits to implement control and mitigation strategies in a sustainable way. This quantitative and cross-sectional study aimed to report the dietary habits of the population in two provinces of Mozambique and to investigate whether province, place of residence, gender, and age were differentiating factors in dietary habits. Primary data were collected using a food frequency questionnaire adapted from a validated version for Portugal, which was modified to include foods commonly consumed in Mozambique. The data, collected by agricultural technicians between October and November 2022, refer to 300 individuals from 55 households. According to the results, 58.4% of the products consumed by families were of local origin, 40.2% were of national origin, and only 1.4% were imported. Foods such as milk, oil, fresh fish, eggs, rice, bread, sugar, onions, water, mango, and bananas are part of the daily diet of these households. In addition, it was found that the province, environment, and gender of the participants acted as differentiators of eating habits. That is, a greater quantity of foods from all food groups was consumed in the urban environment compared to the rural one. Considering the province, the consumption of fats, bread, and cereals is higher in Gaza, while, in Inhambane, dairy products, fats, fruits, and beverages are consumed in greater quantities. Finally, considering gender, it was found that women consume a greater quantity of dairy products. These results are crucial for the development of sampling strategies that assess fungal and mycotoxin contamination and estimate the risk of exposure to the studied population.
- Pastagens e forragemPublication . Pires, Jaime; Aguiar, Carlos; Moreira, NunoEste trabalho principia com uma contextualização do empreendimento do Complexo Agro-Industrial do Cachão, destacando-se a atualidade das ações e soluções técnicas então preconizadas, com destaque para a introdução de forragens em rotação com culturas herbáceas e sob coberto de espécies frutícolas. Em seguida e feito um contraponto entre o passado e o presente relativamente ao conhecimento técnico e científico disponível e a disponibilidade comercial de espécies e cultivares pratenses e forrageiras, e analisa-se a evolução do uso do solo, dos efetivos pecuários e dos encabeçamentos em Trás-os-Montes e em Portugal Continental desde 1870 a 2019. Com base nestes dados e perante os baixos efetivos pecuários e encabeçamentos atuais, similares aos ocorridos no final do seculo XIX, apontam-se linhas estratégicas e ações a implementar, com base num modelo de ordenamento cultural para Trás-os-Montes, já que a superfície exterior as explorações agrícolas, ocupada por matos e pastagens em 20 15/!9, representa 33 % da superfície territorial da região. São preconizados sistemas agro-pastoris ou agro-silvo-pastoris que integrem a utilização de superfícies exteriores e próprias das explorações agrícolas, destacando-se as principais vantagens destes sistemas. Apresenta-se por último um sistema agro-pastoril como um caso de estudo na Serra do Alvão, atualmente objeto de um projeto "Life".
- Charting the course: navigating the evolving field of research management and administration researchPublication . Santos, José M.R.C.A.; Susi, PoliAs we navigate the increasingly complex landscape of global research and innovation, the role of Research Management and Administration (RMA) professionals has become more critical than ever for enabling research excellence and ensuring the effective delivery of impactful research outcomes. Thus, this role has become not just increasingly visible but also to some extent even acknowledged by leading stakeholders (e.g. policy makers such as the European Commission). RMA professionals are the individuals and teams who, behind the scenes, enable and enhance the entire research lifecycle, from grant applications to impact realization and everything in between, including science diplomacy, science communication, and research strategy development (Agostinho et al., 2020).
- Python-based QSAR modeling protocol for antioxidant activity: a case-study using a library of di(hetero)cyclic amines or amidesPublication . Abreu, Rui M.V.; Mateus, CristianoConstructing a QSAR model involves several critical steps, including chemical structure preparation, molecular descriptor calculation and selection, and model development and validation. This study presents a comprehensive methodology for preparing QSAR models using freely open-source software tools. A detailed, stepby- step protocol outlines the entire process, from compound library preparation to statistical validation. As a case study, we developed a QSAR model to predict the antioxidant activity, specifically radical scavenging activity, of 70 di(hetero)aryl amine and amide compounds. Molecular descriptors (12,072 total) were calculated using the OCHEM platform, and PyQSAR built-in tools were used for descriptor selection and model construction. Four key descriptors (B06[C-O], Eig04_AEA(dm), JGI2, and J_Dz(p)) were selected to develop a MLR model with strong statistical performance (Q2CV = 0.8676, RSRCV = 0.3518). Internal validation showed strong predictive stability, while external validation demonstrated the model’s generalizability with a Q2EXT > 0.5. This study not only demonstrates the application of a freely open-source QSAR approach but also contributes to ongoing efforts in identifying and designing potent antioxidant agents with potential therapeutic applications. All relevant files and the detailed protocol are provided, allowing other researchers to replicate the antioxidant QSAR model and apply the methodology to develop QSAR models for other compound libraries and biological activities.
- The conundrum of managing research and development: how can research managers and administrators leverage industry practices in project management?Publication . Santos, José M.R.C.A.What is new? This short essay addresses the application of industrial project management practices to the field of research management and administration. Beyond specific Project management frameworks and methodologies widely spread in industry contexts, it outlines a set of core tools and techniques that can effectively inform the development of research management activities in this area. What was the approach? Although there is no unique blueprint for ideal research project management approaches, best practices and useful guidelines and tools can be defined to help research managers and administrators fulfil their roles. These are systematized per major project management stage, based on a review of existing literature and the author’s experience with complex research projects. What is the academic impact? The paper summarizes relevant knowledge spread over the specialized project management literature. What is the wider impact? The heterogeneity of partners, strict funder regulations, work uncertainty, and the creative nature of research and development mean that project organization and management should reflect and accommodate these specificities. The findings presented in the paper can assist research managers and administrators in formulating appropriate management strategies for research and development projects, enabling them to make better-informed decisions based on the insights provided.
- RAPIDS - Research Administration Professional IDentity Values ScalePublication . Fischer, Melinda; Santos, José M.R.C.A.; Kerridge, SimonThe RAPIDS project aims to be a significant step forward in the development and professionalization of the research administration field. The creation of a Professional Identity Values Scale for Research Administrators will provide a comprehensive understanding of the values and professional identity of RAs. This, in turn, will benefit individuals by helping them align with their peers and grow professionally, while also supporting organizations and institutions in shaping more effective professional development programs. Moreover, the scale has the potential to attract new talent to the profession, ensuring its continued growth and success. To make this project a success, we urge all members of the research administration community to participate in the survey, as your insights are critical to shaping the future of the profession. Together, we can foster a stronger understanding of the global professional identity of research administrators and ensure the continued excellence of research administration worldwide.
- Entrepreneurial Education as a Tool for Personal and Professional Development in Vocational Training Centers in MozambiquePublication . Leite, Atanásio Francisco; Gonçalves, Bruno F.In a scenario characterized by rapid technological and economic changes, entrepreneurial education emerges as a fundamental tool for preparing students to become resilient and proactive professionals. This article explores the importance of entrepreneurial education in training individuals capable of facing the challenges of the modern job market. Through a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys with students and educators from vocational training centers in Mozambique, the study analyzes different educational approaches and methodologies. It seeks to understand how entrepreneurial education contributes to the development of essential skills such as creativity, innovation, problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. These skills are increasingly valued by companies demanding professionals who can think critically and adapt to new situations. The research presents experiences from institutions that have implemented entrepreneurial education programs and discusses the observed impacts on student engagement and professional preparedness. The findings indicate that programs which combine theoretical foundations with practical experiences—particularly through active learning strategies and real-world market challenges—effectively foster the development of entrepreneurial thinking and collaborative abilities among students. These approaches enhance engagement, encourage initiative, and help bridge the gap between education and professional practice. The study concludes that integrating entrepreneurial education into vocational curricula is essential to prepare future generations with the critical skills and adaptive mindset needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving global economy.
- Risco de Disfagia e Índice de Massa Corporal: Um Estudo em Contexto InstitucionalPublication . Vieira, Maria João Ribeiro; Baía, Mariana Pires; Pereira, Ana Maria Geraldes Rodrigues; Fernandes, AntónioEm Portugal, a esperança média de vida tem aumentado, conduzindo a um acentuado envelhecimento populacional e consequentemente, a uma maior procura pelos serviços de saúde. Este envelhecimento está frequentemente associado a alterações fisiológicas, nas quais a disfagia e a desnutrição coexistem, comprometendo a qualidade de vida na população idosa. Objetivos: Avaliar o risco de disfagia em Indivíduos Institucionalizados e a sua relação com o Índice de Massa Corporal. Metodologia: Realizou-se um estudo de carácter observacional, transversal e quantitativo em Estruturas Residenciais Para Pessoas Idosas, recorrendo-se a uma amostra de 67 indivíduos, obtida através da técnica de amostragem não probabilística. Para a recolha de dados utilizou-se um questionário que incluía a caracterização antropométrica, e o Eating Assessment Total-10, para avaliação de risco de disfagia. Resultados: Verificou-se que 70,1% dos indivíduos eram do sexo feminino com uma idade média de 81,22 ± 9,31 anos, identificando-se um risco de disfagia em 49,3% dos participantes. Ainda se verificou uma correlação significativa entre o Índice de Massa Corporal e risco de disfagia no sexo feminino (r = 0,989; p-value< 0,001), assim como uma correlação da idade com o risco de disfagia no sexo feminino (r = 0,431; p-value< 0,001), sem significância no sexo masculino. Conclusão: A pesquisa destaca a importância de novos estudos que considerem uma abordagem mais abrangente, contemplando fatores como comorbilidades e impacto emocional. Essas investigações são fundamentais para a compreensão das necessidades deste grupo populacional, contribuindo para o desenvolvimento de estratégias mais eficazes de prevenção, diagnóstico precoce e tratamento da disfagia.
- Determinants of the Intention to Purchase Organic Food Products among Portuguese ConsumersPublication . Santiago, Cesário Luís Nobre; Fernandes, António; Ribeiro, Maria IsabelThe demand for organic food products has been increasing over the last few years in Portugal and worldwide because consuming these products benefits health and the environment. Also, its production values animal welfare and promotes economic development, improving the living conditions of rural communities in low population-density territories. Thus, the general objective of this research was to identify sustainable factors that impact the intention to purchase organic food products, allowing the production of knowledge about the attitudes, preferences, habits, and behaviors of Portuguese consumers about these types of products. To achieve this objective, a digital questionnaire was applied between January 9, 2024, and February 6, 2024, to collect the data. It was possible to select a sample of 413 consumers of Portuguese nationality, whose ages varied between 19 and 67 years old. The majority of respondents lived in urban communities (69.2%) of the Bragança (64.0%), Porto (10.4%), and Vila Real (5.1%) districts; had a positive nowledge level about organic food products (83.8%); and, recognized the European Union organic logo 68.0%). The most frequently consumed organic food products were fresh vegetables (62.7%) and fresh fruits 59.6%), which were usually purchased directly from the producer (50.5%). The results revealed that attitudes, environmental concerns, health awareness, and perceived price determine the intention to purchase organic food products. In addition to having a positive impact, these factors explained 57.5% of the variance of this variable, revealing that other equally important factors that were not considered in this study may impact the intention to purchase organic food products.