bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The diminishing association between adolescent mental disorders and educational performance from 2006–2019
Authors: Nordmo Magnus , Kleppestø Thomas H. , Reme Bjørn‐Atle , Sunde Hans Fredrik , von Soest Tilmann , Torvik Fartein Ask
Published: May 2024

Background

A rising prevalence of adolescent mental disorders in the Western world has been widely reported, raising concerns for adolescent development and well‐being. Mental disorders are known to negatively impact educational performance. Yet it remains uncertain whether the relationship between mental disorders and educational outcomes has also changed over time and if the change is more pronounced among high compared to low performing students. The aims of this paper are to (1) describe the change over time in the prevalence of common mental disorders in adolescence; (2) determine whether the change in prevalence of common mental disorders differs between high and low performing students; and (3) assess whether the associations between mental health disorders and educational performance have changed over time.

Methods

To address these issues, this study examines potential shifts in the associations between diagnoses of ADHD and internalizing disorders and educational performance among 843,692 Norwegian students graduating from lower secondary education between 2006 and 2019. We utilize population‐wide register data on ADHD and internalizing disorders from primary and specialist care combined with educational outcomes.

Results

Our analysis revealed a marked rise in ADHD prevalence, from 1.0% in 2006 to 2.6% in 2019. Concurrently, diagnoses of internalizing disorders also increased from 1.9% to 4.2%. This increasing trend in diagnoses spanned across all high school grade point average (GPA) categories, thereby not supporting the notion that the rise is predominantly observed among high‐performing adolescents. Importantly, the strength of the associations of internalizing disorders and ADHD with GPA diminished significantly over time. For instance, the difference between the average GPA standardized score for boys with and without an ADHD diagnosis shrunk from 1.0 in 2006 to 0.73 in 2019.

Conclusions

We discuss various potential explanations for this observation and suggest that changes in diagnostic thresholds is a contributing factor.
Age–rank correlations and firm‐level outcomes: The moderating role of environmental dynamism
Authors: De Meulenaere Kim , Kunze Florian , Bruch Heike
Published: May 2024

Traditionally, older employees have held higher positions in the organizational hierarchy. However, today, there is significant variation among firms in the extent to which age is correlated with rank. In this study, we integrate the career timetable and social exchange theory to propose that age–rank correlation is related to organizational performance, serially mediated by the perceived age discrimination climate and organizational innovation. We further suggest that the direction of this indirect relationship depends on firms' environmental dynamism. We find support for our moderated serial mediation framework using multisource data from 12,829 employees, 68 top HR representatives, and 229 top managers in 68 firms. Under lower levels of environmental dynamism, age–rank correlation was negatively related to perceived age discrimination climate and had a positive indirect relationship with organizational performance. Under higher levels of environmental dynamism, age–rank correlation was positively related to perceived age discrimination climate and had a negative indirect relationship with organizational performance. Our study provides a more nuanced view of the fading link between age and rank, which has typically been viewed negatively and from an individual perspective only. Additionally, our results have important practical implications for organizations navigating a shifting workforce demographic in increasingly dynamic environments.
Separation, identification, and fingerprinting of antioxidant components in persimmon (Diospyros kaki) leaves by offline two‐dimensional liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection and tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Yang Xijin , Shao Qiju , Luo Qiong , Wang Yan , Chun Zeli , Li Zhirong , Jiao Lingyi , Zhou Yaping , Chen Rongxiang
Published: May 2024

In this work, the antioxidant components in persimmon (Diospyros kaki) leaves were separated by offline two‐dimensional liquid chromatography‐electrochemical detection (LC×LC‐ECD) and identified by LC‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). A total of 33 antioxidants, mainly proanthocyanidins, and glycosides of kaempferol and quercetin, were identified. The antioxidant assays demonstrated that the fractions collected from the first‐dimension LC (1D‐LC) possessed considerable radical scavenging capabilities, with correlation coefficients of peak area versus radical scavenging capability of 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl and 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid) being 0.9335 and 0.9116, respectively. The fingerprinting showed that 37 peaks were present in all samples. The major antioxidant components of persimmon leaves were the glycosides of kaempferol and quercetin. Finally, fourteen antioxidants were quantitatively assessed. Offline LC×LC provided high peak capacity and separation; ECD enabled specific screening and detection of antioxidant components; and MS/MS provided excellent identification capability. In this study, the combination of the three approaches was utilized to screen for antioxidant components in persimmon leaves, with satisfactory findings. In conclusion, this technique is an effective means for rapid analysis of antioxidant components and quality control of medicinal plants, achieving rapid separation of congeners and facilitating more accurate qualitative and quantitative analyses.
Smurf1‐targeting microRNA‐136‐5p‐modified bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells combined with 3D‐printed β‐tricalcium phosphate scaffolds strengthen osteogenic activity and alleviate bone defects
Authors: Duan Gang , Lu Ya‐Fei , Chen Hong‐Liang , Zhu Zi‐Qiang , Yang Shuo , Wang Yun‐Qing , Wang Jian‐Qiang , Jia Xing‐Hai
Published: May 2024

Suitable biomaterials with seed cells have promising potential to repair bone defects. However, bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), one of the most common seed cells used in tissue engineering, cannot differentiate efficiently and accurately into functional osteoblasts. In view of this, a new tissue engineering technique combined with BMSCs and scaffolds is a major task for bone defect repair. Lentiviruses interfering with miR‐136‐5p or Smurf1 expression were transfected into BMSCs. The effects of miR‐136‐5p or Smurf1 on the osteogenic differentiation (OD) of BMSCs were evaluated by measuring alkaline phosphatase activity and calcium deposition. Then, the targeting relationship between miR‐136‐5p and Smurf1 was verified by bioinformatics website analysis and dual luciferase reporter assay. Then, a rabbit femoral condyle bone defect model was established. miR‐136‐5p/BMSCs/β‐TCP scaffold was implanted into the defect, and the repair of the bone defect was detected by Micro‐CT and HE staining. Elevating miR‐136‐5p‐3p or suppressing Smurf1 could stimulate OD of BMSCs. miR‐136‐5p negatively regulated Smurf1 expression. Overexpressing Smurf1 reduced the promoting effect of miR‐136‐5p on the OD of BMSCs. miR‐136‐5p/BMSCs/β‐TCP could strengthen bone density in the defected area and accelerate bone repair. SmurF1‐targeting miR‐136‐5p‐modified BMSCs combined with 3D‐printed β‐TCP scaffolds can strengthen osteogenic activity and alleviate bone defects.
Challenges to Improve Extrusion‐Based Additive Manufacturing Process of Thermoplastics toward Sustainable Development
Authors: Patti Antonella
Published: May 2024

This review aims to present the different approaches to lessen the environmental impact of the extrusion‐based additive manufacturing (MEX) process of thermoplastic‐based resins and protect the ecosystem. The benefits and drawbacks of each alternative, including the use of biomaterials or recycled materials as feedstock, energy efficiency, and polluting emissions reduction, have been examined. First, the technological option of using a pellet‐fed printer was compared to a filament‐fed printer. Then, common biopolymers utilized in MEX applications are discussed, along with methods for improving the mechanical properties of associated printed products. The introduction of natural fillers in thermoplastic resins and the use of biocomposite filaments have been proposed to improve the specific performance of printed items, highlighting the numerous challenges related to their extrusion. Various polymers and fillers derived from recycling are presented as feeding raw materials for printers to reduce waste accumulation, showing the inferior qualities of the resulting goods when compared to printed products made from virgin materials. Finally, the energy consumption and emissions released into the atmosphere during the printing process are discussed, with the potential for both aspects to be controlled through material selection and operating conditions.
A Fluorescent Hydrogel with AIE Emission for Dehydration‐Visualizable Wearable Sensors
Authors: Liu Yanru , Li Yali , Yu Shengsheng , Niu Kaikai , Liu Hui , Xing Ling‐Bao , Ma Shuanhong
Published: May 2024

Hydrogel‐based wearable sensors eventually experience dehydration, which negatively impacts their function, leading to decreased sensitivity. Monitoring the real‐time water retention rate and sensing performance of wearable flexible sensors without dismantling them remains a significant difficulty. In this study, a molecule having aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) properties in an aqueous environment has been developed and produced, which can combine with anionic guar gum and acrylic acid to create an AIE hydrogel. Wearable sensing electronic devices have the capability to track motion signals at various joints of the human body. Additionally, they can effectively and visually monitor dehydration status during extended periods of operation. The fluorescence intensity of the hydrogel is primarily influenced by the level of aggregation of luminous monomers inside the network. This level of aggregation is predominantly governed by the hydrogel's water retention rate. Hence, the extended duration of hydrogel dehydration can be manifested through alterations in their fluorescence characteristics, which are employed for strain sensing. This approach enables users to assess the water retention of hydrogels with greater efficiency, eliminating the requirement for disassembling them from the completed electrical gadget. In summary, the use of AIE‐based fluorescent hydrogels will advance the progress of intelligent wearable electronics.
Adults of color face multitude of barriers to mental health treatment
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: May 2024

A new analysis from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) takes a deep dive into the factors associated with racial disparities in mental health care, citing issues such as stigma and problems finding providers of similar backgrounds as major contributors.
Interference characteristics of leaking SF6 on photoacoustic detection of dissolved C2H4 in transformer oil
Authors: Mo Bingyu , Zhou Shanghu , He Yanjiao , Han Xiao , Han Menglong , Li Chenxi , Chen Ke
Published: May 2024

SF6 leaked from gas insulation equipment will interfere with the detection of dissolved characteristic gases in transformer oil. In order to determine the impact of SF6 on the detection of dissolved C2H4 gas in oil, a photoacoustic (PA) C2H4 detection system based on the combination of mid‐infrared thermal radiation source and near‐infrared laser was constructed. The excitation light from two bands was incident on a non‐resonant PA cell. The thermal radiation light source and the laser light source were switched to evaluate the interference level of SF6 on the detection of C2H4. The experimental results show that SF6 has significant interference to C2H4 when using a mid‐infrared thermal radiation light source. The interference coefficient is 2014%. The near‐infrared laser based on PA detection method can effectively suppress the interference of SF6 on C2H4. The minimum detection limit of C2H4 reaches 0.6 ppm when the average time is 60 s.
Physicochemical evaluation of polyvinyl alcohol films crosslinked with saturated and unsaturated dicarboxylic acids: A comparative study
Authors: Gautam Leela , Warkar Sudhir G. , Jain Manish
Published: May 2024

In this study, crosslinked films of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) were prepared using two dicarboxylic acids: saturated succinic acid (SA) and unsaturated maleic acid (MAL) as crosslinkers. The crosslinking capabilities of these acids were compared through physical, chemical, mechanical, morphological, thermal analysis, and swelling measurements to investigate their impact on the physicochemical properties of the resulting films. Attenuated total reflectance fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the occurrence of an esterification reaction between PVA and the dicarboxylic acids. Based on the degree of crosslinking and thermal properties, it was noted that the crosslinking achieved with maleic acid is more effective for PVA compared with succinic acid. The crosslinking degree of PVA‐MAL was determined to be 6.47 times higher than that of the PVA‐SA film. In terms of thermal stability, the decomposition temperature for crosslinked PVA‐MAL was measured at 365.57°C, whereas PVA‐SA exhibited a slightly lower decomposition temperature of 362.58°C. The findings indicate that the PVA‐MAL film displays lower crystallinity and a higher contact angle (80.60°) in contrast to PVA‐SA (76.0°) and PVA (30.4°). Atomic force microscopy analysis indicated that the PVA‐SA film exhibited more surface roughness compared with the smoother PVA‐MAL film. Also, crosslinked films displayed enhanced elasticity and resilience in comparison with neat PVA, which may be due to the difference in crosslinking density, disruption in intermolecular hydrogen bonding due to crosslinking, and incorporation of flexible crosslinkers.

Highlights

PVA was crosslinked using SA and MAL.

Unsaturated MAL exhibited superior crosslinking density over saturated SA.

PVA‐SA film exhibited a porous surface compared to PVA‐MAL film.

PVA crosslinked with unsaturated MAL showed higher thermal stability than SA.

Both the films showed enhanced elasticity and resilience compared with neat PVA.
The Influence of Alloy Disorder Effects on the Anisotropy of Emission Diagrams in (Al,Ga)N Quantum Wells Embedded into AlN Barriers
Authors: Ibanez Alexandra , Leroux Mathieu , Nikitskiy Nikita , Desrat Wilfried , Moret Matthieu , Valvin Pierre , Cassabois Guillaume , Brault Julien , Gil Bernard , Chugenji Fumiya , Taiga Kirihara , Khan Muhamad Ajmal , Hirayama Hideki
Published: May 2024

The polarized photoluminescence emitted on the edge of a series of aluminum‐rich (Al,Ga)N‐AlN quantum wells (QWs) grown by molecular beam epitaxy on AlN templates deposited by metal organic chemical vapor deposition on c‐plane sapphire is measured. The contrast and the principal axis of the emission diagrams for 2 nm‐thick (Al,Ga)N QWs grown for aluminum compositions between 40% and 90% are studied. The light is emitted on the edge of the QWs at wavelengths going from 280 nm down to 209 nm. The emission diagram, a change from oblate to prolate with respect to the in‐plane orientation, for an aluminum composition is found to occur around 72%, that is, at an emission wavelength of about 235 nm. The orientations and shapes of the edge‐emission diagrams indicate that the fluctuations of the composition of the (Al,Ga)N confining layer are deep enough for producing intravalence band mixings. This property, that acts in concert with the built‐in strain and quantum‐confined Stark effect, contributes to the anisotropy of the light emission when the aluminum composition reaches 60–70%, that is, for an emission wavelength of 260–235 nm.
Myosteatosis and not low muscle mass is associated with lower survival in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Huitfeldt Sola Kristoffer N.D. , Genberg Helena M. , Avesani Carla M. , Brismar Torkel B.
Published: May 2024

Background

Myosteatosis, that is muscle fat infiltration, is an important marker of muscle quality, affecting quality of life and survival in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the connection between myosteatosis, skeletal muscle index (SMI) and survival in kidney transplant (KTx) recipients remains unclear.

Methods

This retrospective observational study included a cohort of consecutive adult kidney recipients transplanted between 2010 and 2017 in Stockholm. Preoperative abdominal computed tomography (CT) images obtained after diagnosis of CKD 5 and within 36 months of transplantation were collected. Using established criteria, we measured muscle area at the third lumbar vertebra (L3 level) and identified low attenuation muscle, indicating myosteatosis. Each area was divided by height squared providing the SMI, and fatty muscle index (FMI). Given that there is no commonly accepted definition of sarcopenia, two cut‐offs for SMI were used to define low muscle mass, Cut‐off 1 (≤32.8 for women and ≤44.7 for men) and Cut‐off 2 (≤38.5 for women and ≤52.4 for men). Average radiodensity of skeletal muscle and Charlson comorbidity index were calculated for each patient. The influence on survival from SMI, FMI, SMI/FMI ratio, and radiodensity was analysed.

Results

Out of 582 KTx recipients, 266 (46%) had a pre‐transplant abdominal CT available. Applying SMI Cut‐off 1, 30 recipients (11%) had sarcopenia compared with 106 (40%) with Cut‐off 2. Neither SMI nor FMI was associated with survival. Yet there was an association between SMI/FMI ratio and survival, patients with the lowest quintile SMI/FMI ratio having a significantly lower survival when compared with the highest quintile, both in the crude model and when adjusted for age, gender, and comorbidity. Additionally, FMI, radiodensity, and SMI/FMI, but not SMI, were significantly associated with Charlson comorbidity index (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The SMI/FMI ratio may be associated with both pre‐transplant comorbidity and post‐transplant survival even though the significance of SMI is unclear. This suggests that SMI/FMI ratio is a better indicator of muscular impairment than skeletal muscle quantity alone. The finding may reflect the complex interplay between muscle mass, muscular fat infiltration and metabolic health, all important determinants of wellness and longevity. In summary, our study underscores the potential of the SMI/FMI ratio as a predictor of outcome after KTx, a finding possibly transferable to other patient populations.
Update on the equine grass sickness biobank, database and research project
Authors: Wells Beth
Published: May 2024

Beth Wells, equine grass sickness project lead at the Moredun Research Institute, encourages vets to report any equine grass sickness cases they encounter and explains how case reports and samples are being used to support research into this complex disease.
Speaking up for Scottish members
Authors: Knowles‐Bacon Megan
Published: May 2024

BVA's policy and public affairs manager Megan Knowles‐Bacon reflects on BVA's recent prestigious annual dinner held at the Scottish Parliament.
An Iminophosphinite Pincer Iridium Complex: Synthesis and Catalytic Tool for Alkane Transfer Dehydrogenations
Authors: Cardozo Jesvita , He Ouchan , Ma Wanli , Ray Kallol , Braun Thomas
Published: May 2024

A [(POCN)Ir(H)(OAc)] complex bearing an iminophosphinite pincer ligand was synthesized. The complex showed catalytic transfer dehydrogenation of various linear and cyclic alkanes with reasonable conversions and a maximum TON of 400 for n‐octane. A catalytic isomerization of 1‐octene to yield internal octenes was also possible. It is notable that the catalyst could perform catalytic transfer dehydrogenation even at a temperature of 100 °C with a TON of 100.
Public Organizations’ Social Responsibility and Its Impact on Citizens’ Trust in Public Administration
Authors: Xanthopoulou Panagiota , Sahinidis Alexandros , Horák Jakub , Antoniadis Ioannis , Panagopoulou Maria
Published: May 2024

This study seeks to contribute to the existing body of literature by exploring the relationship between public organizations’ social responsibility initiatives and the level of citizens’ behaviors. By investigating how public organizations’ engagement in socially responsible practices influences citizens’ perceptions of their administrations, this study aims to provide actionable insights for policymakers and administrators. The authors used a quantitative study and data were gathered through online questionnaires from a convenient sample of 104 individuals. Findings showed that socially responsible actions have no significant impact on citizens’ trust on public administration, however, they prefer more responsible public organizations, which promote transparency and protect human rights. The practices that were mainly mentioned referred to the protection of human rights and the protection of the natural environment of the local community where the organization operates. This research serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers aiming to enhance the effectiveness and accountability of public administration through socially responsible actions.
Characteristics of Romanian Travel Bloggers and Generated Content During COVID-19
Authors: Briciu Victor-Alexandru , Briciu Arabela , Bularca Maria Cristina , Dogaru Georgiana
Published: May 2024

Tourism plays a vital role in the global economy and its promotion relies on a variety of methods, including advertising, social media, and blogging. Traditional travel writing has evolved into digital platforms such as blogs, micro-blogs, and travel apps, changing the way travellers document their journeys. This paper examines the phenomenon of travel blogging and its impact on the tourism industry, focusing on Romanian travel bloggers. We used content analysis to explore our research objectives: to understand the demographics of bloggers, to explore their travel interests, to analyse the topics covered, and to assess the effectiveness of travel blogs. This is particularly important given the challenges facing the tourism industry during the pandemic. In addition, our findings highlight the importance of travel-related blog posts, such as those discussing travel conditions and restrictions during the pandemic. These findings are valuable in both stable and disrupted travel industry contexts. In conclusion, this study reveals the evolving role of travel blogs and their importance in destination development and highlights the adaptability and relevance of travel blogs in different tourism scenarios.
Health Tourism in Greece: The Fertility Center in Crete
Authors: Athanasopoulou Pinelopi , Giovanis Apostolos N. , Gdonteli Krinanthi
Published: May 2024

According to global health tourism data there were over 23 million health tourists in 2019 and medical tourism is growing rapidly. Greece is one of the most preferred destinations for medical tourism and particularly for fertility treatment. However, research on medical tourism is limited. The purpose of this study is to investigate the inbound tourism for fertility treatment in Greece. A survey was administered to a sample of 60 women that came for fertility treatment in a fertility Centre in Crete. Results show that most patients come from Russia, Italy and the Netherlands and select Greece because of high success rates, positive word of mouth, wide range of treatment options available, ease of travel and the perceived safety of Greece as a country. Sources of information include their doctor, direct communication with a clinic, the internet and word of mouth from past customers or personal sources. The perceived quality of services is high and 75% of respondents believe their treatment was effective and are willing to recommend the Fertility Center to friends/relatives. Also, 55% of respondents combined the fertility treatment with a vacation. Results have implications for the management of businesses that offer medical tourism services and of Greece as a medical tourism destination in terms of targeting, promotion and brand building.
Job Role Description and Skill Matching in a Rapidly Changing Labor Market Using Knowledge Engineering
Authors: Stalidis George , Kyriazidou Selini
Published: May 2024

The job market is continuously evolving and suffers from skill mismatch, while digital platforms for job seeking, human resource management and training planning are widely adopting intelligent matching engines. Efficient job description and successful skill matching require standard terminologies for job positions and their requirements/qualifications, such as the ‘European Skills, Competences, Qualifications and Occupations’ (ESCO). The aim of this paper is to search whether ESCO—as the most representative job-related information model—has been adopted in the current rapidly evolving job market and the degree in which standardized job roles and their related skillsets are in line with the content found in the current job ads. Additionally, we intend to identify possible missing elements of this framework, towards its wider adoption and advanced skill-matching recommendation systems. As a representative case, the study was focused on selected IT professions in the Greek labor market. To this end, we applied a text mining process to 400 job ads, in order to capture the skillsets required by recruiting companies. The identified requirements for the selected job roles were used to model part of the Greek IT labor market. This model was then compared with the suggested requirements of the ESCO framework. It was found that the degree of matching between the skills in ads and the skills suggested by ESCO, is notably small and that the skills frequently requested in current IT job ads that were not included in ESCO, were mostly related to recently developed technologies and to soft skills.
Exploring the Impact of Blockchain Technology on Branding in the Luxury Spa Tourism Industry
Authors: Coita Dorin-Cristian , Trip Diana Teodora
Published: May 2024

In the world of luxury spa tourism, brands offer unique value propositions that make a spa different from all the others. Luxury spas should use technology to attract guests, such as integrating blockchain technology to enhance brand trust and authenticity. Blockchain technology can influence branding by enhancing trust, improving loyalty programs, and addressing trust issues in the digital space. It can make the luxury spa tourism industry more efficient, transparent, and trustworthy. It can also help spas better meet their customers’ needs and attract new customers worldwide. A systematic review of the pertinent academic literature was undertaken to delineate the constituent components arising from the integration of blockchain technology and their prospective impact on branding within the luxury spa tourism domain. This comprehensive analysis encompassed scrutiny of 50 scholarly articles focused on the application of blockchain technology in tourism. Through a rigorous examination of this corpus, 24 recurrent facets were identified, having the potential to mold the landscape of branding in the luxury spa hospitality industry.
Digital Heritage Narrative: Principles and Practice. The Case of the UNESCO-Listed Archaeological Site of Philippi, Greece
Authors: Papathanasiou-Zuhrt Dorothea
Published: May 2024

With stories being fundamental to human nature, digital storytelling is the ideal space to incorporate the most diverse media in support of the stories. Under the umbrella of the EU funded project BSB/831/HERiPRENEURSHIP “Establishing long-lasting partnerships to upgrade heritage-based offers and create new investment opportunities in tourism and the cultural and creative industries”, a new digital storytelling pattern has been introduced for the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Philippi, Greece. The main aim is to elicit cognitive-emotional experiences at places of cultural significance by effectively communicating cultural values to non-captive audiences. A multimedia eBook, Birthplace of the Empire, strives to weave a cohesive digital cultural heritage narrative for non-captive audiences focusing on the cognitive-emotional aspect and by exploiting the powers of the Cultural and Creative Industries to support interactivity with e-readers and onsite visitors. We argue that (a) by relying on the socio-historical content to deliver the sense of the place, (b) by creating the unexpected art momentum in the digital form, and (c) by managing cognitive loads to facilitate perception and understanding, a new digital artwork is created, where the audience is inspired to engage in critical thinking and replace gazing with participatory practices in the cultural space. The provision of novelty, variation, surprise, and exploration ensures allows a multicultural and multigenerational audience to discover site values and assuming different hero roles within the realm of Graeco-Roman and Christian Philippi.
Breaking the Seasonality Barrier in Tourism. A Literature Review of Policies and Strategies
Authors: Gkarane Sofia , Vassiliadis Chris
Published: May 2024

Tourism seasonality is a widely recognized and significant concern in academic literature as it affects the majority of tourism destinations. This phenomenon, which is one of the most notable characteristics of tourism, is recognized as a problematic issue which leads to negative economic and socio-cultural impacts during non-peak seasons, as well as environmental consequences during peak seasons. While it is acknowledged that tourism seasonality cannot be completely eliminated, the academic literature offers various policies and strategies to address and mitigate its effects. This paper aims to provide an overview of these initiatives aiming to effectively tackle seasonality in the tourism industry. Specifically, through an in-depth literature review from 2003 to 2023, this study identifies and analyzes the proposed approaches to shed light on the advancements of understanding and managing tourism seasonality focusing on the most recent trends. The selected papers, totaling 32 in number, are reviewed, categorized and analyzed based on the year of publication and the policies suggested. The findings will serve as a valuable resource for future-analysis and will also provide a decision-making guide for the tourism industry in effectively addressing seasonality.
Tourism, Leisure Development and Quality of Life for Local People
Authors: Sobczak Anna
Published: May 2024

Sustainable development of tourism is an important tool to stimulate the development of tourist areas. An important role in this process is played by the local community, which is an important capital in the development of tourism, as well as a beneficiary of changes. Their attitudes, behaviors and involvement in development processes have a key impact on achieving environmental, social and economic goals of sustainable tourism development. The analysis will consider the role of residents in the following aspects: co-creator of the tourist product, beneficiary of the introduced improvements and changes, and direct recipient of the positive and negative effects of the development of tourism and recreation. The development of tourism has contributed to the significant development of regions frequently visited by tourists, but the dissatisfaction of local communities with the inappropriate attitude of tourists and their impact on the quality of life is growing. The aim of the work is to identify the factors of the quality of life of the inhabitants, on the example of Poland, which stimulate and the development of tourism in a sustainable process. The author of this study obtained the consent of selected communes to publish the survey on their websites. A total of 4257 respondents were surveyed. There is a change in the standard of living of users and socio-economic changes in the scale of a territorial unit. These changes are local in nature and are noticeable to both residents and tourists. The author's research, the results of which are presented, indicate that there are groups of local communities that have different views on the implementation of local tourist goals. There are strong links between the quality of life of the local population and their contribution to the tourism product and the problems that tourism brings. The study complements the analysis of individual tourist regions in Poland presented so far and provide a broader view of the opportunities and threats in sustainable development.
Human Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence in Professional Translations — Redesigning the Translator Profession
Authors: Constantin Felicia , Pop Anamaria-Mirabela , Sim Monica-Ariana
Published: May 2024

Human intelligence (HI) has used artificial intelligence (AI) in professional translations for many years. What has been so far a helpful tool for translators, turns out to be a formidable competitor. The article tackles the topic of the danger represented by the dramatic reconfiguration of a job, which risks losing much of its consistency, getting closer and closer to post-editing. HI and AI performances in the translator profession are approached from an economic perspective, setting as criteria for analysis the elements that define the price and survival on the market: source language, target language, type of document, content subject, delivery date, the volume of text to be translated, the competence of the translator, availability of the translator, capability to learn, costs, accuracy and risk of errors. The methodological analysis of a representative sample of different texts from the economic field translated into five foreign languages, reveals that the results provided by AI are fully acceptable and competitive with the versions generated by HI. In this context, the article warns about the need to rethink the training of translators and the sustainability of their activity in the economic market.
Contemporary Social Context and New Trends in Hospitality Interior Design. Reference to a Semiotic Reading of the Interaction
Authors: Efstathiou Anna , Vergopoulou Christina
Published: May 2024

Hospitality design covers a vast range of temporary living and use of a space, a variety of needs and target groups. The design of those spaces is inseparable from external factors. A revised background for tourism and travelers is defined in the contemporary era by the pandemic, the energy crisis, the escalating climate change and the environmental crisis. In the present paper some of the new requirements and trends resulting from the above-mentioned conditions and affecting hospitality design will be discussed. Health and wellness are of major significance among them Additionally, the importance of wellbeing defined the demand towards wellness activities and products and re-mapped the facilities spectrum in hospitality. Moreover, sustainability, green and ecological design are very seriously taken into consideration in contemporary society by companies, hosts and the travelling public. Reuse, recycling, upcycling, energy saving construction techniques, energy saving choice of materiality are some of the design trends in favour of a greener and more sustainable hospitality design. The Covid-19 era introduced alternative ways of communication and modes of work and an unprecedented growth of people working online, defined as digital nomads, combine work with entertainment. Flexibility, adjustability, advanced technological standards and smart technologies became important features for a competitive hospitality design. The interaction between meanings, ideologies and concepts related to the above-mentioned trends and their designed interpretation into material formations and visual manipulations provides the ground for a semiotic reading and an educational study.
Exploring Gender Differences: The Relationship Between Personality and Teleworking Preferences
Authors: Xanthopoulou Panagiota , Patitsa Christina , Tsaknis Panagiotis , Sotiropoulou Kyriaki , Giannakouli Venetia , Sahinidis Alexandros , Gkika Eleni C.
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the link between the Big Five personality traits and the well-being of teleworkers while considering potential gender differences. The sample consisted of 230 teleworkers who answered an online questionnaire. Then, a path analysis was employed to explore the relationships between the variables. Findings indicate that distinct personality traits can affect employees’ attitudes towards teleworking, with a discernible impact on their subjective well-being. While both genders exhibit similar patterns of relationships between personality traits and telework outcomes (positive feelings for extraversion and agreeableness, and negative feelings for neuroticism), there are differences in the magnitude and significance of some of these relationships, particularly in the case of conscientiousness, where its impact on negative feelings towards telework is more pronounced for men. Findings have important practical implications for organizations and individuals in the evolving work landscape.
Tourism Industry’s Synergies with Cultural and Creative Industries as Marketing Tools: The Case Study of Film-Induced Tourism in Greece
Authors: Papadaki Eirini
Published: May 2024

The synergy of film and tourism industries has been the subject of much research, focusing on the ways a film can promote possible destination images, adding to the growth of tourism in the location the film is filmed. By creating associations with the location and the story, films motivate potential tourists to visit the lands, re-experience the depicted scenes and/or personalize the film seen. Greece is one of the countries that has appeared in many Hollywood film productions. From The Boy on a Dolphin (1957) to Mamma Mia 3 (2023), research shows an increase in visitor numbers at the filmed locations. The paper uses content analysis in 11 films filmed in Greece, in order to examine the visual mechanisms used to highlight the signs that denote Greekness. The paper shows that film productions shot in Greek locations—seen as important destination marketing tools—single out specific destination images and promote specific Greek signs—mostly familiar and recognizable “markers”.
Τhe Evaluation Process in the Greek Public Sector in Its Restructuring (Law 4940/2022)
Authors: Passas Panagiotis , Stranis Dimitrios
Published: May 2024

In the era of post-modernity, which defines an ever-changing global economy, effective governance in public administration and employee skills are crucial parameters for citizens' welfare in European Union member states with soft skills acquiring a prominent role in addressing modern occupational challenges. This study examines the evolution of employee evaluation processes in the Greek public sector, focusing on the institutional and organizational perspectives. It closely examines the evaluation system established by Law 4940/2022. While historical references to employee evaluation exist in Greek legislation since the 1950s, some previous attempts at implementation have been proved mostly unsuccessful. The enactment of Law 4940/2022 marks a notable institutional innovation, introducing a comprehensive evaluation system tied to goal setting and soft skills, part of broader reform efforts for the Greek public sector. The study aims to highlight key aspects of the framework established by Law 4940/2022, trace its evolution, compare it with EU member states' systems and assess its effectiveness. A literature review methodology was adopted. Implications are also discussed.
Art Infusion to Ιncrease Perceptions of Luxury: Ηow Global Brands Leverage on Acculturation to Global Consumer Culture
Authors: Koronaki Eirini , Jaimes Hernan Miranda , Vlachvei Aspasia , Panopoulos Anastasios
Published: May 2024

Luxury brands increasingly engage in art infusion in their marketing activities. While the positive outcomes these activities are linked to have been frequently discussed, the factors leading to these outcomes are not clear yet. This paper aims explore the mechanism through which positive outcomes from art infusion arise. We draw a connection to luxury brands’ perceived brand globalness and consumers’ acculturation to global consumer culture. To be specific, the indirect effect of perceived brand globalness on purchase intention through the serial mediation role of acculturation to global consumer culture and perceived luxuriousness is examined. A cross-sectional study was designed and a survey with a sample of 125 luxury consumers was launched, while the results confirmed our hypothesis. The study adds to the literature by explaining how acculturation to global consumer culture is linked to art infusion for luxury brands. Managerial implications and limitations are discussed.
Boosting Multilingualism of Websites in Digital Cultural Heritage with Chat Generative Pre-training Transformer (ChatGPT) in Accredited Museums, Romania
Authors: Constantin Felicia , Kavoura Androniki
Published: May 2024

In the context of the creative industries, the museum serves as a promoter of tourism, economic development, education, and science. In the era of the onslaught of Artificial Intelligence (AI), we are witnessing an expansion of opportunities to optimize its role as a communicator of values and information. In order to openly serve communities, a modern museum employs marketing and digital promotion techniques and creates a communication strategy. Within this strategy, adopting a linguistic approach can strengthen a museum’s brand, stimulate cultural mediation, and enhance visitor services. Taking into consideration the European concern for multilingualism in digital cultural heritage, we employed content analysis to examine the multilingualism on the websites of all 133 accredited museums and museum sections in Romania in 2023. On one hand, the paper highlights the lack of systematic consideration towards multilingualism, as physical and virtual visitors are generally left to “manage” with the languages. On the other hand, the research presents relevant solutions for providing websites in multiple languages: among these solutions, we suggest ChatGPT, which is starting to stand out as a revolutionary tool capable of translating diverse content for free, instantly, and accurately in multiple languages. Managerial implications are discussed since a website with comprehensive content in multiple foreign languages, strengthens the brand image and exponentially expands its global reach.
Investigation of Tourists’ Satisfaction from the Furniture Equipment and Decoration of Hotels in Greece
Authors: Papadopoulos Ioannis , Mamalis Grigorios , Trigkas Marios
Published: May 2024

The design of the hotel’s interiors can help guests enhance their experience. Hotel interior design also directly affects the profitability and success of hotels in the hospitality industry. Therefore, it is considered important to maintain a high level of interior design of hotels in order to provide a destination of choice that satisfies guests and offers them unique amenities and experiences, while at the same time ensuring economic efficiency for the owners. The aim of this research is to develop a comprehensive pre-approach to tourists’ preferences for hotel furniture in Greece. The research was conducted by using convenience sampling of 340 tourists of hotel accommodation in various tourist areas in Greece. The results showed that, respondents’ satisfaction is influenced both by the hotel's decoration and the configuration of the rooms, while the existence of new technologies plays an important role for them, which positively influences their choice. There is a strong tendency to prefer wood as the main material of furniture construction, while most tourists claim that they wish to have elements of Greek culture and civilization in the furniture of Greek hotels. The research is expected to contribute further to the existing literature on this topic. Furthermore, the results can be particularly useful to hotel owners who wish to incorporate green practices in their hotels, or to use eco-friendly and smart furniture in their hotel equipment.
Management Optimization of Crop Storage Processes Using Vision Techniques
Authors: Szwedziak Katarzyna , Detyna Beata , Doleżal Petr , Kavoura Androniki
Published: May 2024

The paper presents a method of using vision techniques and artificial neural networks to assess the degree of contamination of cereal grain during grain reception and storage. The aim of the work is to optimize the management of the process of evaluation of contaminants in grain mass in the warehouse and during purchase using vision techniques based on computer image analysis in order to expedite laboratory work. On the basis of the conducted research and analysis of the results, a technology of optimization of quality assessment of stored grain using vision techniques as a quick assessment method was developed. Artificial neural networks were used to analyze the obtained results. Implications for marketing managers and the farming enterprise for sustainable practices and economic advantages are discussed.
Using Social Media as a Marketing Tool in Sport Tourism Firms
Authors: Gdonteli Krinanthi , Athanasopoulou Pinelopi , Papaiakovou Nikos
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of Social Media (SM) as a marketing tool by Greek sport tourism businesses at each stage of the consumer decision making process. Specifically three stages are analyzed, before, during, and after the consumption experience. In total, 20 interviews were conducted with managers of Sport Tourism businesses using a semi-structured questionnaire. The sample was split into two groups, 6 companies that have scientific knowledge of marketing and use it in their strategy (A Group) and 14 firms that treat marketing as a supplementary process that is not very important (B Group). Data was analyzed based on this categorization by using content analysis. Results show that Group A have a specific marketing strategy that includes the strategic use of social media for segmentation, targeting and positioning whereas group B have a passive strategy in the market and wait for customers to come to them. There is no active segmentation, targeting and positioning and they expect the Greek Tourism Organization to promote sport tourism activities. Results show that sport tourism businesses need to use social media strategically in all stages of the consumer decision making process and recruit specialized staff that will handle a social media marketing strategy. Future research can extend the sample, use quantitative methodologies, research different sport tourism activities or events or different types of customers.