bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Threat Called Candida haemulonii Species Complex in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil: Focus on Antifungal Resistance and Virulence Attributes
Authors: Ramos Lívia S. , Figueiredo-Carvalho Maria Helena G. , Silva Laura N. , Siqueira Nahyara L. M. , Lima Joice C. , Oliveira Samuel S. , Almeida-Paes Rodrigo , Zancopé-Oliveira Rosely M. , Azevedo Fabio S. , Ferreira Adriana L. P. , Branquinha Marta H. , Santos André L. S.
Published: May 2022

Although considered rare, the emergent Candida haemulonii species complex, formed by C. haemulonii sensu stricto (Ch), C. duobushaemulonii (Cd) and C. haemulonii var. vulnera (Chv), is highlighted due to its profile of increased resistance to the available antifungal drugs. In the present work, 25 clinical isolates, recovered from human infections during 2011–2020 and biochemically identified by automated system as C. haemulonii, were initially assessed by molecular methods (amplification and sequencing of ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 gene) for precise species identification. Subsequently, the antifungal susceptibility of planktonic cells, biofilm formation and susceptibility of biofilms to antifungal drugs and the secretion of key molecules, such as hydrolytic enzymes, hemolysins and siderophores, were evaluated by classical methodologies. Our results revealed that 7 (28%) isolates were molecularly identified as Ch, 7 (28%) as Chv and 11 (44%) as Cd. Sixteen (64%) fungal isolates were recovered from blood. Regarding the antifungal susceptibility test, the planktonic cells were resistant to (i) fluconazole (100% of Ch and Chv, and 72.7% of Cd isolates), itraconazole and voriconazole (85.7% of Ch and Chv, and 72.7% of Cd isolates); (ii) no breakpoints were defined for posaconazole, but high MICs were observed for 85.7% of Ch and Chv, and 72.7% of Cd isolates; (iii) all isolates were resistant to amphotericin B; and (iv) all isolates were susceptible to echinocandins (except for one isolate of Cd) and to flucytosine (except for two isolates of Cd). Biofilm is a well-known virulence and resistant structure in Candida species, including the C. haemulonii complex. Herein, we showed that all isolates were able to form viable biofilms over a polystyrene surface. Moreover, the mature biofilms formed by the C. haemulonii species complex presented a higher antifungal-resistant profile than their planktonic counterparts. Secreted molecules associated with virulence were also detected in our fungal collection: 100% of the isolates yielded aspartic proteases, hemolysins and siderophores as well as phospholipase (92%), esterase (80%), phytase (80%), and caseinase (76%) activities. Our results reinforce the multidrug resistance profile of the C. haemulonii species complex, including Brazilian clinical isolates, as well as their ability to produce important virulence attributes such as biofilms and different classes of hydrolytic enzymes, hemolysins and siderophores, which typically present a strain-dependent profile.
DNA Hypermethylation and a Specific Methylation Spectrum on the X Chromosome in Turner Syndrome as Determined by Nanopore Sequencing
Authors: Fan Xin , Zhang Beibei , Fan Lijun , Chen Jiajia , Su Chang , Cao Bingyan , Wei Liya , Qin Miao , Gong Chunxiu
Published: May 2022

The molecular genetic mechanism of Turner syndrome (TS) still leaves much to be discovered. Methods: TS (45X0) patients and age-matched controls (46XX and 46XY) were selected. The nanopore sequencing combined with trio-whole exome sequencing (trio-WES) were used for the first time to investigate TS. Results: Thirteen TS (45X0) patients and eight controls were enrolled. Trio-WES analysis did not find any pathogenetic or likely pathogenic variants except X chromosome (chrX) deletion. The average methylation levels and patterns of chrX in 45X0 and 46XY were similar, and significantly higher than in 46XX (p = 2.22 × 10−16). Both hyper-methylation and hypo-methylation were detected in the CpG island (CGI), CGI_shore, promoter, genebody, and PAR1-region, while in the transposon element inactivation regions of the chrX and hypermethylation were predominant. A total of 125 differentially methylated genes were identified in 45X0 compared to 46XX, including 8 and 117 hypermethylated and hypomethylated genes, respectively, with the enrichment terms of mitophagy, regulation of DNA-binding transcription factor activity, etc. Conclusions: The results suggest that the methylation profile in patients with TS might be determined by the number of X chromosomes; the patterns of methylation in TS were precisely associated with the maintenance of genomic stability and improvement of gene expression. Differentially methylated genes/pathways might reveal the potential epigenetic modulation and lead to better understanding of TS.
Male Sexual Dysfunction and Infertility in Spinal Cord Injury Patients: State-of-the-Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: Di Bello Francesco , Creta Massimiliano , Napolitano Luigi , Califano Gianluigi , Passaro Francesco , Morra Simone , Giovanni Angelo di , Fusco Giovanni Maria , Cirillo Luigi , Abate Marco , Morgera Vincenzo , Cacace Gianluigi , De Luca Luigi , Spena Gianluca , Collà Ruvolo Claudia , Calace Francesco Paolo , Manfredi Celeste , La Rocca Roberto , Celentano Giuseppe , Turco Carmine , Capece Marco , D’Alterio Carlo , Giordano Alessandro , Mauro Ernesto di , Trama Francesco , Amicuzi Ugo , Arcaniolo Davide , Fusco Ferdinando , Longo Nicola
Published: May 2022

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a relevant medical and social problem. According to the World Health Organization, the commonly estimated worldwide annual incidence of SCI is 40 to 80 cases per million population. After the SCI experience, most men present with sexual dysfunction (erectile dysfunction (ED) and ejaculatory dysfunction), fertility problems (such as impaired spermatogenesis, abnormalities in sperm viability, motility, and morphology), and systemic disorders such as genitourinary infection and endocrine imbalances. The best options available for managing the ejaculatory disorders in patients suffering from SCI are penile vibratory stimulation (PVS) and electroejaculation (EEJ). Furthermore, the treatment of ED in SCI patients consists of medical therapies including phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), intracavernosal injections (ICI), vacuum erection devices (VEDs), and surgical as penile prosthesis (PP). This review provides a snapshot of the current evidence for the mechanisms of sexual dysfunction and infertility in SCI patients, discusses the best management strategies for these conditions, and offers our perspective on the direction of future research.
Functional Capacity in Patients Who Recovered from Mild COVID-19 with Exertional Dyspnea
Authors: Dotan Yaniv , Weiner Elite , Zucker-Toledano Merav , Solomonov Anna , Fuchs Eyal , Dawood Hanna , Mor Elad , Hanna Moneera , Naser-Aldeen Rihan , Bentur Lea , Bar-Yoseph Ronen
Published: May 2022

Background: Post mild COVID-19 dyspnea is poorly understood. We assessed physiologic limitations in these patients. Methods: Patients with post mild COVID-19 dyspnea (group A) were compared (pulmonary function tests, 6-min walk test (6MWT), echocardiography and cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET)) to post moderate/severe COVID-19 (group B) and to CPET and spirometry of patients with unexplained dyspnea (group C). Results: The study included 36 patients (13 in A, 9 in B and 14 in C). Diffusion capacity was lower in group B compared to group A (64 ± 8 vs. 85 ± 9% predicted, p = 0.014). 6MWT was normal and similar in both patient groups. Oxygen uptake was higher in group A compared to groups B and C (108 ± 14 vs. 92 ± 13 and 91 ± 23% predicted, p = 0.013, 0.03, respectively). O2 pulse was normal in all three groups but significantly higher in the mild group compared to the control group. Breathing reserve was low/borderline in 2/13 patients in the mild group, 2/9 in the moderate/severe group and 3/14 in the control group (NS). Conclusions: Patients with post mild COVID-19 dyspnea had normal CPET, similar to patients with unexplained dyspnea. Other mechanisms should be investigated and the added value of CPET to patients with post mild COVID-19 dyspnea is questionable.
Patient and Clinician Preferences for Genetic and Genomic Testing in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: A Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Fifer Simon , Ordman Robyn , Briggs Lisa , Cowley Andrea
Published: May 2022

Precision (personalised) medicine for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) adopts a molecularly guided approach. Standard-of-care testing in Australia is via sequential single-gene testing which is inefficient and leads to tissue exhaustion. The purpose of this study was to understand preferences around genetic and genomic testing in locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC. A discrete choice experiment (DCE) was conducted in patients with NSCLC (n = 45) and physicians (n = 44). Attributes for the DCE were developed based on qualitative interviews, literature reviews and expert opinion. DCE data were modelled using a mixed multinomial logit model (MMNL). The results showed that the most important attribute for patients and clinicians was the likelihood of an actionable test, followed by the cost. Patients significantly preferred tests with a possibility for reporting on germline findings over those without (β = 0.4626) and those that required no further procedures over tests that required re-biopsy (β = 0.5523). Physician preferences were similar (β = 0.2758 and β = 0.857, respectively). Overall, there was a strong preference for genomic tests that have attribute profiles reflective of comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) and whole exome sequencing (WES)/whole genome sequencing (WGS), irrespective of high costs. Participants preferred tests that provided actionable outcomes, were affordable, timely, and negated the need for additional biopsy.
Methods and means of visual and dimensional tests of hard-to-reach nodes of rocket and space equipment
Authors:   Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow Bauman Moscow State Technical University, Moscow, Batshev V.I. , Machikhin A.S. ,   Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow Moscow Power Engineering Institute, Moscow NPO Energomash named after academician V.P. Glushko, Khimki, Moscow Region, Gorevoy A.V. ,   Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow Moscow Power Engineering Institute, Moscow, Khokhlov D.D. ,   Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow Moscow Power Engineering Institute, Moscow, Naumov A.A. ,   Scientific and Technological Center of Unique Instrumentation of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow Perfilov A.M., NPO Energomash named after academician V.P. Glushko, Khimki, Moscow Region, Kaloshin V.A. ,   NPO Energomash named after academician V.P. Glushko, Khimki, Moscow Region
Published: May 2022

The most machine vision-oriented industries are metallurgical, food, household chemicals, automotive and mechanical engineering, as well as pharmaceutical production. These are the areas in which there are increased requirements for the quality of products. An important role in increasing the demand for machine vision technologies was also played by the introduction of a national labeling and product tracking system. However, in the space industry, issues related to machine vision have not been fully resolved by non-destructive testing methods. For the first time in Russia, a prototype measuring stereoscopic video endoscope was developed, manufactured and tested. The authors have developed the software that allows obtaining textured three-dimensional models of objects, measure their geometric parameters, estimate the measurement error, calibrate and configure the system. The technical characteristics of the video endoscope have been confirmed at the level of analogues produced by the world's leading manufacturers. A method of designing probe stereoscopic systems has been developed and applied in practice.
Forming a production system with the optimal level of reliability
Authors:   MSTU im. N. E. Bauman, Moscow, Ganina G. E.
Published: May 2022

Increasing the reliability of the production system has a significant impact on the organizational and economic performance of the enterprise, while there are both positive and negative organizational economic consequences. That is why good governance reliability of the PS with the instability of its elements is of particular interest the heads of industrial enterprises. It is proposed to form a PS optimal level of reliability with further maintenance of this state during the period of operation of the system under given conditions. In the article two criteria for optimizing the reliability of the production system are considered. we: minimum cost and maximum profit. Choice Based determining criterion, the algorithm for the formation of production systems of optimal level of reliability. It is shown that when organizing pro- of the production process, its main indicators are planned in the form of deterministic values, a simulation model is developed production, taking into account its level of reliability. The result of the study of the model is to determine the optimal level of reliability of the production system stems based on the choice of the defining optimization criterion. Hence, PS reliability management ensures its organizational and economic sustainability in a market economy.
HEAVY CONCRETE BASED ON POLYDISPERSE BINDER WITH COMPLEX POLYMER MODIFIER WITH INCREASED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Authors:   National Research Moscow State Civil Engineering University, TKACH E.V. , FILIMONOVA YU.S. ,   National Research Moscow State Civil Engineering University, KORNEEV A.I. ,   Tver State Technical University
Published: May 2022

The main task of obtaining concrete, in particular for irrigation and drainage construction, with increased performance by modifying their structure and properties with complex additives is becoming more and more relevant every year. Within the framework of these studies, issues related to the modification of the composition of heavy concrete with the use of a complex chemical additive consisting of the superplasticizer Melflux 5581 F and the water-soluble polymer additive Polydon-A were considered. The aim of the study is to develop a scientifically based technological solution that provides the production of heavy concrete based on a polydisperse binder with a complex polymer modifier (Melflux + Polydon-A) for agricultural construction. The object of study is heavy concrete based on a polydisperse binder with a complex polymeric modifier for agricultural construction. Research results: The resulting modified concrete is characterized by an increase in compressive and tensile strength in bending, a conditional stress intensity factor, water absorption, water resistance and frost resistance, which makes it possible to recommend it for the production of building products and structures operating in harsh operating conditions, in particular, for trays irrigation systems.
THE EVALUATION OF ULTIMATE RESISTANCE OF STEEL BEAMS TO COMBINED SHEAR AND PATCH LOADING BY FINITE ELEMENT METHOD
Authors:   Belarusian National Technical University, NADOLSKI V.V. , PODYMAKO V.I. ,   Belarusian National Technical University
Published: May 2022

Thin-web steel girders attract with their efficiency in bending work. For such girders, the issue of ensuring local stability becomes very relevant. Calculation formulas in most cases are complex and have a limited scope of application. While the calculations based on FE models make it possible to more universally consider all the specifics of the designed element. The article deals with the calculation of the stability of the web girder under the combination of patch and shear loading by finite element modelling. Numerical models have been created and a comparative analysis with experimental results has been carried out. A description of the principles for constructing FE models (mesh size, material model, etc.), which must be observed when assessing the resistance and behaviour of beams with thin web, is presented. Sensitivity analysis of the FE model to the input parameters revealed the most important parameters (yield strength of steel, web thickness), the uncertainty of which must be taken into account when creating FE models. The convergence of the results allows the use of the finite element method in the design of steel beams for a qualitative and quantitative assessment of the resistance. However, further development of unified principles for creating FE models and their verification on a larger amount of experimental data is required, as well as the determination of partial factors to take into account the variability and uncertainty of the results obtained, taking into account the regulated reliability parameters.
DISCLOSURE OF THE FEATURES OF THE INFLUENCE OF ARCHITECTURE OF MOSCOW AND THE ZAMOSKOVNY REGION ON THE ESTATE CONSTRUCTION OF THE KURSK REGION IN THE 1st HALF OF THE 18TH CENTURY: SOURCES AND OBJECTS OF RESEARCH
Authors:   Research Institute of Theory and History of Architecture and Urban Planning (NIITIAG) Branch of the Federal State Budgetary Institution ", KHOLODOVA E.V. ,   TsNIIP of the Ministry of Construction of Russia"
Published: May 2022

For the first time, comprehensive surveys of urban and suburban estates of the Kursk Territory are carried out. 18th century (measurements, photo fixation, natural sketches), archival and printed sources are identified that resurrect images of lost noble and merchant estates, and a general analysis of the topic under study is carried out. An important result of the study is the disclosure of the peculiarities of the influence of the architecture of Moscow and the Zamoskovskiy Territory on other regions of the country (on the example of the Kursk Territory), which opens up new pages of the multifaceted culture, architecture and construction of the Russian province. Introduction into scientific circulation of specific architectural monuments of the Zamoskovskiy and Kursk regions of a given period, their in-depth study can be used in scientific literature, lecture courses and design and security documentation. The publication was made as part of the theme according to the Plan of the FNI RAASN and the Ministry of Construction of Russia for 2022.
FAST-HARDENING WORKABLE CONCRETE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF BORED
Authors:   L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, ALTYNBEKOVA A.D. , LUKPANOV R.E. ,   L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, YENBEKAEV S.B. ,   L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, DYUSSEMBINOV D.S. ,   L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University, YERZHANOVA N.K. ,   M.Kh. Dulaty Taraz Regional University
Published: May 2022

The article presents the results of the effect of a complex additive on improving the physical and mechanical characteristics of the material. The evaluation of the physical and mechanical characteristics of concrete was made for four types of concrete. The main parameters were: setting time, compressive and flexural strength, water absorption. In the presented work the authors used a complex additive containing in its composition alkali (caustic soda), post-alcoholic bard (alcohol production waste) and hardening regulator (gypsum) in different ratios. It is shown that the combined use in the composition of a complex additive, which has well-compatible mechanisms of their influence on the processes of hydration, setting and hardening of the cement mass, mutually complements and enhances the effect of each ingredient of the additive. Increasing the concentration of the complex additive in the cement mixture up to 7% of the cement mass not only affects the process of cement mortar liquefaction, shortening the time of setting and hardening of the cement mass, but also increases the compressive strength of the cement in all periods of hardening. The analysis suggests that the complex additive provides a reduction in water absorption of concrete. It has been revealed that concrete with the studied complex additive has high physical and mechanical properties. The optimum dosages of the considered additive have been found and used in the present work.
A Review of the Monograph by Yu. Bilan, O. Chygryn, S. Kolosok “Environmental and Economic Impacts of Energy Transformation: Concepts Innovation and Business Models”
Authors: Miskiewicz Radoslaw
Published: May 2022

In recent decades, there have been dramatic changes in the energy sector, which significantly influence other areas of activity. It is widely believed that traditional energy sources are the leading cause of air pollution, although they play the most prominent role in electricity generation. Such dependence on fossil energy sources is a significant challenge on the path to sustainable development. The introduction of sustainable business models and innovative concepts in the energy sector is a tool for transitioning from traditional to "green" energy to reduce the negative impact on the environment. Therefore, it is essential to estimate the effects of energy transformations and identify the environmental and economic effects of the deployment of such solutions. Sustainable business models can solve environmental problems associated with harmful emissions from the energy sector. These models are more environmentally friendly and are part of "green" growth. They ensure the creation and maintenance of the organizations’ values and provide competitive advantages in the industry. Although moving to sustainable business models is quite complex, they contain alternative solutions to avoid a global collapse due to energy shortages and climate change. In this regard, the priorities are to improve regulatory policy in the energy sector, the formation of environmentally friendly competitive advantages of energy companies, the description of opportunities to deploy smart energy networks, development of sustainable business models for energy sector transformation, optimization of energy financing.
Cyber-Physical System based E-Health: Knee Joint Physical Therapy Monitoring
Authors: ATAMTÜRK Fatih , YİĞİT Halil
Published: May 2022

A cyber-physical system (CPS) uses sensors/actuators to associate the physical world with a system capable of computing. CPSs include software systems, communication technologies, and sensors/actuators, including intelligent embedded system technologies to interact with the real world. It is possible to monitor and control all physical processes without human factors by connecting the mechanical systems equipped with information technologies and establishing communication among themselves. In this study, a CPS system that offers a cost-effective and easy-to-apply physical therapy opportunity is proposed for post-hospital home follow-up of knee osteoarthritis, which can be seen in many people over a certain age. The proposed system consists of a hardware module consisting of two potentiometers, a microcontroller and a WiFi module, and a software module to monitor the movement of the knee joint point daily and to save the data in the database. Maximum knee flexion angle, exercise duration and success rate measurements were used to measure the progress of physical therapy. The CPS prototype developed for the healthcare field will make significant contributions to reducing the duration of physical therapy and increasing its reliability by eliminating the possibility of wrong/incomplete exercises.
Two Dimensional and Stereo PIV Comparison for Port Applications
Authors: YELKEN Burak , SAVCİ İsmail Hakki , DÜLGER Zafer
Published: May 2022

Fuel-air movements in-cylinder are one of the most critical diesel engine parameters to determine engine performance and emission. Swirling movement in the engine combustion chamber is investigated advanced experimental techniques to improve the air intake design.

Honeycomb measurement method and PIV (particle image velocimetry) method are used to measure the swirling airflow. The honeycomb measurement method can directly measure the swirl. However, it does not give detail information about the flow field. On the other hand, the PIV technique is one of the non-invasive measurement methods for swirl measurement. PIV can directly measure the velocity vector of the cylinder section.

In this study, the honeycomb measurement method was performed to measure the swirl ratio of 13L and 9L engines. The uncertainty analysis was determined for the reliability ratio of the measurement. In addition, PIV measurements are performed to understand the velocity field of the cylinder section. This velocity field gives detailed information about the center of the swirl and the velocity index of the velocity field.
Promotion of destinations through interactive digital marketing: collaborative model for smart cities
Authors: Cunha Carlos R. , Mendonça Vítor , Martins Márcio , Carneiro Manuela
Published: May 2022

Smart cities are, by nature, spaces with a richness and diversity of technologies incorporated in their physical spaces, in such a way that they can be seen as a single intelligent and collaborative space. As technological pillars, two important layers arise – the sensory layer and the actuator layer, both of which are strongly interconnected with each other, emerging as a large Internet of Things network. This scenario reveals an enormous potential for marketing science and for the creation of innovative strategies to promote territories as touristic destinations. Within the multiple opportunities, there is space for the development of an interactive marketing experience, revolutionizing, through creative rethink, the way destinations interact with their visitors, and make known all their potential. Although in the context of tourism, there are three main moments in the visit process – the before, the during and the after, this work focuses on the moment of the destination visit – the during.

In order to understand how creative rethink can be carried out to create innovative strategies to promote touristic destinations, an introduction is carried out, substantiating the concepts of digital marketing, smart cities and Internet of Things.

Then, the methodology that governed the creation of a collaborative model for smart cities is clearly defined, being contextualized the importance of destinations-communication, the concept of a smart city and some of the major technology that support this concept.

After contextualization and methodological aspects, this article presents a conceptual model where its components are described and where it is discussed how the model can take advantage of the variety of technologies that exist in a smart city, in order to allow innovative digital marketing strategies and innovating in the interaction between the city and the visitant, and vice versa – the vision of interactive digital marketing. In the model discussion, some interaction-scenarios and their main benefits are highlighted, which serve as examples for validating the proposed model. Finally, we present the work limitations and mains conclusions.
The Future of Brand Awareness and Brand Loyalty on Travel Agencies
Authors: Santos Sara , Monteiro Joana , Espírito Santo Pedro , Augusto Luísa , Oliveira Adriana
Published: May 2022

Tourism has emerged as one of the great activities of the 21st century; however, due to globalization and the development of the Internet, travel agencies see some of their business principles being changed by new technologies. Furthermore, the impacts of the pandemic crisis (SARS-COV2) have been highly negative.

In the field of tourism, travel agencies have been one of the parts that have undergone the most changes. Countless people have gone to a travel agency to book their trips in the past decade. However, this process is not always carried out in the same way. With the appearance and constant development of new technologies, the first online travel agencies emerged. In addition, the consumer becomes increasingly independent in their travel purchases, and the travel agent's work is limited.

Online travel agencies advertise more, offering more attractive prices and other conditions that attract customers to buy their trips without going to a travel agency in a physical space. The relationship between agency and tourist is essentially online.

Thus, it is essential to analyze the role of travel agents who have their physical spaces open and intend to increase their business by strengthening customer relationships. It is necessary to focus on consumer trust and loyalty while creating and establishing brand or company value.

Thus, the results obtained in this study, through a self-administered questionnaire, from a sample of 512 observations, demonstrate that the perceived quality of the relationship influences the brand's awareness and customer loyalty: consumer satisfaction and trust. In this context, this study highlights the importance of the human relationship in selling tourist products and the tourist's previous experience in loyalty to the travel agency.
Customer Engagement with VR-enabled Tourism Activities at Cultural Heritage Sites
Authors: Hacikara Ahmet , Zhang Tingting (Christina) , Weinland Jeff
Published: May 2022

Despite the tremendous amount of academic interest in virtual reality (VR), the existing conceptual models that presented VR attributes as antecedents of users’ acceptance and attitudes, failed to examine the power of VR technologies in promoting the alternative attractiveness of virtual tourism compared to traditional onsite visitation. This is of great significance to the solution of over-tourism issues frequently seen in the today’s tourism destinations, especially world-famous cultural heritage sites. Therefore, the present study fills the literature gap and empirically validates a conceptual framework that shows how visitors’ engagement with VR-enabled tourism activities could lead to an enhanced alternative attractiveness of virtual tourism, and their pro-cultural behaviors. A total of 571 valid responses from US visitors that have adopted VR-enabled tourism activities were collected to confirm the role of four VR attributes, i.e., immersion, vividness, presence, and enjoyment, in motivating users’ engagement behaviors with VR tourism activities. The study findings also testified that visitors who engaged with VR tourism activities are likely to adopt pro-cultural behaviors in the future and assessed the alternative attractiveness of VR tourism against the traditional onsite visitation. The findings will provide valuable implications for policymakers who aspire to preserve the cultural heritage sites while promoting cultural heritage destinations through advanced VR technologies.
An Examination of the Sustainable and Green Practices of Portuguese Hotels
Authors: Ferreira Fernandes José , Maguire Kelly , Lima Santos Luís
Published: May 2022

The concept of sustainability in the hospitality and hotel industry has been the topic of much discussion and debate in tourism and leisure management literature over the last decade. Key industry stakeholders including hospitality and hotel operators, policymakers and DMO’s have been tasked with the challenge of transitioning operations towards more heightened levels of sustainable practice which has stemmed from EU, national and local level policies and guidelines. In Portugal, several strategies and plans have been developed with the aim of improving sustainable practices in hospitality and hotel industry, which focus on developing a more sustainable, competitive, and resilient sector moving into the future. However, there exists a current gap in knowledge in relation to the adoption and utilization of effective tools and models to measure and monitor sustainability performance in the hospitality and hotel industry in Portugal. It has been acknowledged that GDP from tourism in Portugal experienced a 75% drop, with overnight tourist stays in Portugal decreasing to 60% following a period of disproportionate impacts experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. Such shortfalls have accentuated the need to effectively measure and monitor sustainability performance moving into the future as destinations now begin to re-emerge and re-imagine the way they operate. Through the adoption and utilisation of sustainable approaches and practices, the hospitality and hotel industry in Portugal could save costs in the short and longer term, they could benchmark success year on year and ultimately lead to the development of more sustainable and competitive industries moving forward. This research, while in its early stages, will aim to critically examine what, if any, sustainable and green practices are being adopted and implemented at present by Portuguese hotels. It will also permit an insight into whether or not Portuguese hotels are currently measuring and monitoring sustainability performance and looking to achieve greater levels of sustainability within the industry.
Debt of Hotel Companies: The Impact of Company Characteristics and Crisis Periods
Authors: Alves Jorge
Published: May 2022

This paper studies the financial determinants of debt of Portuguese hotel companies using the main indicators suggested by the Trade-Off and the Pecking Order theories. The main objective of this study was to analyse the determinants that most contribute to the debt of Portuguese companies in the hotel industry. The study also aimed to understand the impact of crisis periods on the debt. Since data collected refers to the period between 2005 and 2020 it also analyses the impact of the 2008 financial crisis and, more recently, the global pandemic COVID-19. The results show that debt is negatively associated with profitability and age, and is positively associated with size, growth opportunities and tangibility. These results are in line with the Pecking Order theory, ranking the choice of financing methods. We can also conclude that the way hotels finance their assets will affect their level of debt. We also evidence that debt of Portuguese hotels companies increases in periods of crisis.

Keywords: Debt; Hotels companies; Crisis; Capital Structure
Tourism and Big Data in a post-COVID-19 world: the utopian and dystopian rhetoric
Authors: Vaz Maria João , Machado Helena
Published: May 2022

The tourism sector has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, making it one of the most affected economic areas worldwide. Simultaneously, the pandemic created contexts for the expansion and consolidation of trends already experienced in the recent past, namely the increasing adaptation of tourism to the digital society. One prominent example is the use of techniques known as “Big Data”, which carry out a massive mining of data from different sources, in order to define “profiles” of tourist consumption. This paper aims to map the social and ethical controversies associated with the use of Big Data by addressing the “technological optimism” that tends to surround the use of these techniques in the tourism sector.

Through a review of literature about Big Data in tourism, we conclude that the rhetoric surrounding the use of Big Data techniques is both utopian and dystopian. On the one hand, according to literature in disciplinary areas related to the development of technology, Big Data is considered an indispensable tool for improving competitiveness in the tourism sector and for helping to understand the tourist more effectively. On the other hand, however, social sciences tend to frame Big Data as an astute representation of Big Brother, challenging the protection of personal privacy in tourism consumption and highlighting the lack of awareness and legal regulations, as well as the possibility of decontextualisation and false correlations that may jeopardize the touristic experience. For this reason, it has become urgent to develop a critical reflection on the ethical challenges posed by the uses of Big Data in tourism and consider routes of an anticipatory governance of these technologies.
Developing Hospitality Management Core Competencies Framework
Authors: Marneros Stelios , Papageorgiou George , Efstathiades Andreas
Published: May 2022

Developing a unique set of Core Competencies should be of primary concern to any business operating in the hospitality industry. This paper presents a framework for competency development, which is based on the views of both educators and industry professionals. By integrating knowledge from a variety of contexts and countries around the world, a set of generic core competencies has been derived via a systematic classification process. Specifically, forty competency statements have been posited taking the form of questions given to both educators and industry professionals. Subsequently, the responses have been analysed and, using taxonomy, a framework of seven core competency categories has been developed. The competency categories involve aspects of Human Resource Management (HRM); Professional Image; Operational Knowledge; Leadership; Communication; Information Management; and People Relationship Management. Specific competency items include essential capabilities for the hospitality industry such as: communicating effectively with clients and customers, identifying and solving problems, making decisions under pressure or in a crisis situation, and understanding the factors that influence the profitability of the hospitality enterprise. The proposed framework is meant to serve as a basis for developing a set of core competencies suitable for creating a sustainable competitive advantage for the hospitality industry. Further, the framework would be useful to educators, professionals and graduate students as a guide for cultivating a set of key competencies for success in the hospitality sector.
Mobilides, Context Costs and Heritage in Tourism and Leisure Realtions on the Border of Central Portugal with Spain
Authors: Fernandes Gonçalo
Published: May 2022

The persistence of borders has been based on the fact that they are crucial for the reproduction of territoriality and of national identity narratives. In this context, and considering the border as a line that separates, divides and controls the existence of areas/territories, it implies that the effects (context costs) disappear with distance, in addition to the emergence of new meanings and dynamics depending on their accessibility, resources held, forms of settlement and economic activities. The Luso-Spanish border is the most stable and, at the same time, the one with the most critical development indexes, due to its penalising demographic evolution, productive disarticulation and differentiated administrative policies. Tourism development is seen as an instrument for the diversification of economies in peripheral and often underdeveloped frontier regions. These areas have, through their history and natural heritage, resources of great value, of which the international rivers, the classified natural areas, the castles and fortresses, the historical villages, the traditions and festivities, the gastronomy and the presence of different cultures stand out in the central Iberian border. Facing this panorama and considering formal and informal relations, cooperating or competing, we try to identify dynamics and forms of cooperation in the construction of a resilience space, in the face of existing constraints and heritage values held, capable of generating new attractions and functions in the oldest European border. Under favourable conditions, these territories contribute to tourism development in the framework of neighbourly relations and interests. In the case of Portugal central border with Spain, it is possible to speak of a porosity that is historical, with the territory(ies) coming together, either through public policies (EU, national, regional and local), or through private investments. The study aims to analyse and systematise the factors of tourism promotion, the political developments and the permeability of the border, in the construction of a tourism and leisure destination.
Theoretical Reflection on the Importance of Branding to Promote Thermal Destinations
Authors: Antunes Vera , Gonçalves Gisela , Estevão Cristina
Published: May 2022

Based on a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), the aim of this article is to present a conceptual approach to the importance of communication in thermal destinations. Through an in-depth analysis of scientific publications, characteristics of thermalism are identified that may be important for the creation of a brand strategy to promote thermal destinations.

An SLR was conducted, using the PRISMA Statement method, carried out in May 2021 using the Web of Science and Scopus databases. A total of 133 articles were found, of which only 31 were used for the qualitative analysis. EndNote20 and Nvivo software were used to identify the articles for the study, their analysis and systematisation of the collected information.

The results, among others, identified important characteristics of thermalism, presenting a framework of destination attributes in the international context of thermalism. By elaborating a conceptual model contributes to identifying operationalised strategies and guidelines impacting on publications for the strategic creation of a thermal destination brand. The main contribution of this study is to leverage the characteristics of thermalism to generate unique and differentiating brands that reflect the way customers perceive them, providing relevant findings for better understanding of the destination perspective in the international thermal tourism context for future research and the practices of a destination's tourism communication strategy. The analysis highlights the need to develop further knowledge in a sector with great potential for growth, the thermalism.
Accessibility of national cultural heritage to deaf tourists
Authors: Escudeiro Paula Escudeiro Maria de Sá , Escudeiro Nuno , Campos Márcia , Cunha Bruno
Published: May 2022

Individuals with hearing impairments face numerous obstacles when engaged in touristic activities or using infrastructure and services in touristic spots. When tourism is considered a social good of first necessity, new concerns arise and pressure for inclusion in the sector stimulates the advance of innovative solutions for inclusive tourism. There are also economic interests in inclusive tourism, an unexplored market niche that might compensate the expected drop on the tourism growth rate in comparison to recent years in Portugal. The ICHT project – Inclusive Cultural Heritage Tourism – aims to promote the accessibility of deaf tourists to cultural heritage by embedding new technology-aids, online and on-site, to raise awareness, to attract deaf tourists, to assist them while visiting us, and to exploit their experience as a new dissemination channel. ICHT is focused on creating digital tools and digital content in sign language to be available online, on mobile devices and on-site at cultural touristic attractions in the North of Portugal through innovative channels like games, holography, and collaborative platforms. ICHT advocates the integration of novel high-tech sign language user interfaces in tourism destinations and stimulates local operators to learn the basics of sign language communication to welcome deaf tourists in Portugal. ICHT brings in R&D world-class results in the field of automatic sign language translation qualifying Portugal to guide Inclusive Tourism worldwide and become a pioneer leading the Tourism of the Future. The full system includes an on-site application using holography, a game to play on a mobile device (before, during, and after visiting the attraction), an online collaborative platform to assist deaf and non-deaf tourists, and a set of International Sign training courses. The ICHT system will be available in five pilot installations at Torre dos Clérigos, Lello bookshop, Maia Zoo, Port wine cellars, and Viseu thermae. ICHT brings a new approach to teach sign language to the professionals in the touristic sector opening new opportunities for a more inclusive society. The sign language training together with the assistive technology tools developed by ICHT generate inclusive environments for the deaf. ICHT has the potential to become a PIN project in the Tourism sector.
Impacts of Covid-19 on Staff Training within the Aviation Sector
Authors: Patala Teemu
Published: May 2022

Aviation is among those industries that were most heavily impacted and disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The impacts were most severe in passenger traffic where the amount of seats offered dropped by 50% during 2020 causing airline revenue loss of 371bn USD. Air-traffic cuts exceeded 90% in some areas. Covid-19 pandemic had many indirect impacts on air travel services, including how staff training is carried out. Although the pandemic has had massive negative influences in different areas of life, it has opened doors to new innovations and developments as well. A giant leap forward has taken place in online education, which this study focuses on from the specific viewpoint of air travel service providers. Attempts to contain the spread of Covid-19 lead to school closures and by the beginning of April 2020 the pandemic had impacted over 90% of the world’s total enrolled learners. Similarly 188 country-wide school closures took place globally. This led to boost in online education – possibly the greatest growth of all time was seen.

In aviation sector the impacts are evident as well, mostly reflected by the ways how staff training is delivered at airports. Organizations in air traffic chain had to adapt to the changed operational landscape, new health and safety risks and learn to comply with new regulations. Staff skills and competences were in the middle of this. This case study examines these developments in international air transport context during 2020 and 2021. We will look at various examples in aviation industry organizations related to staff training, focusing specifically on how training practices have changed due to Covid-19. From the basis of these findings and experiences, the paper attempts to draw a future scenario of digital transformation of training in the industry. Case studies are based on courses developed and provided by Airport College (AC) which is a private online training academy serving the global aviation sector with digitally enhanced training solutions.
Literary routes as a successful tourist offer in Porto
Authors: Ferreira Ana
Published: May 2022

Nowadays tourist aspires to something differentiated, personalized, focused on quality, culture, and the environment. As this tourist is a more demanding one, it is crucial to provide an innovative offer bearing in mind that this type of tourist aspires to something more specific. This is exactly the case of literary tourists. By using a literary text to invite people to visit a city, which we may call "literary invitation", we intend to provide some real and material knowledge about the city, often in the form of a route to be travelled.

Tourist itineraries immerse visitors in the plot of a narrative or in the historical era it refers to and therefore, enhances the experience of a cultural visit assuming an important political and economic significance in today’s tourism destinations. Besides enhancing cultural exchange and cross-border relations, tourists mobilize large economic resources that can promote the socio-economic development of the territories.

This paper intends to present an analysis of the motivational attributes of literary routes in the perception of the tourist destination Porto based on information obtained from a sample of 272 tourists/visitors in the city during the summer of 2020.

The analysis of the results allows us to state that they represent a reliable basis for tourist agents interested in reevaluating the essence of tourist activity in the city, in the context of literary resources and attractions, and these motivational factors may be incorporated into marketing strategies.