The 7th episode of podNECE presents a study published in Technovation, focused on developing an integrated approach for businesses to adapt to the paradigms of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Society 5.0, and smart cities in response to rapid global urbanization. The authors present a multi-criteria analysis system utilizing cognitive mapping and the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) technique within a neutrosophic environment to structure and analyze the complex, subjective factors involved. This methodology helps identify cause-and-effect relationships among criteria grouped into four clusters: Legislation and Public Policies, Technology, Performance, and People. Ultimately, the study offers a sociotechnical framework intended to support strategic decision-making and policy formulation for sustainable, human-centric urban development while contributing to relevant Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

podNECE is a podcast by NECE - Research Centre for Business Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Portugal.

The 6th episode of podNECE presents an article from the journal of Tourism and Hospitality Research titled "Exploring gastronomic experiences: Tourists’ emotions, quality of life and behavioural intentions.". The research focuses on the affective-cognitive process of tourists during gastronomic events, specifically analyzing how their sensorial and intellectual experience affects their emotional arousal and quality of life. Using a survey of 180 tourists at a cheese fair and employing Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), the study confirms the relevance of sensory elements over intellectual ones as determinants of both quality of life and emotional arousal. Ultimately, the findings suggest that positive emotional and well-being outcomes encourage positive future behavioral intentions toward both the experience and the tasted gastronomic product.

podNECE is a podcast by NECE - Research Centre for Business Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Portugal.

The 5th episode of podNECE features a study that examines how female leadership impacts environmental sustainability, organizational ambidexterity, and decent work in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the European Union. The study utilizes microdata from 7,560 SMEs in 16 EU countries, employing partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) for analysis. Findings indicate that female leadership directly enhances environmental sustainability and indirectly contributes through fostering ambidextrous capabilities and promoting decent work practices. The results highlight the strategic importance of gender-diverse leadership in enabling SMEs to align internal resources with sustainability objectives. This work integrates established theoretical constructs into a unified empirical model, offering practical insights for policymakers and managers seeking to embed sustainability into core SME strategies.

podNECE is a podcast by NECE - Research Centre for Business Sciences, University of Beira Interior, Portugal.