Search Results (2,026)

Background/Objectives: Individuals with Crohn’s disease often experience challenges at work and are confronted with the decision of whether to disclose their health status in their workplace. This study explores the disclosure of Crohn’s disease in the workplace and the factors influencing their choices among individuals in Greece. Methods: The study examined how demographic characteristics affected the disclosure of a non-visible disability, the reasons behind the disclosure, and the associated experiences. Results: The sample consisted of 152 individuals with Crohn’s disease. Although 52.6% of participants had disclosed their condition, the results show that factors like health benefits, the impact of COVID-19, and necessary workplace accommodations influenced disclosure decisions. On the other hand, 47.3% chose not to disclose their condition, the predominant reason being the fear of being fired or not being hired. Conclusions: The findings imply that workplace cultures and policies that foster inclusive, supportive environments are necessary to allow employees with non-visible disabilities to request the accommodations they require without worrying about the consequences. Future research could focus on a deeper understanding of the disclosure issues for people with Crohn’s disease and other non-visible disabilities. Full article

Background: The increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events (EWEs) as a consequence of climate change pose critical challenges on the transport and logistics sector, hence requiring systematic evaluation and strategic adaptation. Methods: This study conducts a comprehensive systematic literature review (SLR) of 147 peer-reviewed articles and reports through a PRISMA framework to comprehensively identify key weather-induced challenges, quantify their operational, infrastructural and economic impacts, and explore alternative mitigation strategies. Results: With a greater focus on rainfall, flooding and snowfall, this study highlights their notable impacts causing reductions in transport efficiency, increased maintenance costs and substantial financial losses. Also, it emphasizes the role of advanced technologies, resilient infrastructure, and adaptive policy frameworks as critical enablers for enhancing sector resilience while simultaneously formulating a robust roadmap for cities and companies with actions ranging from direct operational adjustments to long-term transformational changes in policy and infrastructure. Conclusions: This work underscores the importance of using a data-driven approach to safeguard transport and logistics systems against evolving climate risks contributing to the broader goal of sustainable urban resilience and operational continuity. Full article

Surface texturing entails surface alteration through forming, microgrooving, microdimpling, and microchanneling. This is achieved by laser micromachining, in addition to other related methods, of a substrate surface. The present paper describes the surface characteristics obtained after the laser texturing of a biodegradable polymer (Arbofill Fichte) with four and six passes in hexagonal and square patterns. The results of the wettability test indicate that this biodegradable polymer has a surface with a weak hydrophobic characteristic (contact angle near 90°), regardless of the type of texture that is obtained. The underlying material’s wear behavior changes as a result of the surface alteration due to laser surface texturing (LST). The coefficient of friction (COF) values thus increase for all samples. The hexagonal geometry offers greater stability and consistency compared to square geometry, independent of the number of passes. Square geometry is more susceptible to variations, particularly along the Y axis, and may need additional adjustment of the process parameters. The hexagonal structure naturally promotes more uniform leveling due to its tighter and more evenly spread arrangement, even at four texturing passes (4x). However, at six texturing passes (6x), the advantages become more pronounced because of the repeated overlaps in the laser trajectories. The overlap in the hexagonal configuration guarantees that each area of the material receives a relatively consistent energy dose, reducing localized discrepancies. The possibility of using this method to texture surfaces is viable; thus, based on the obtained results, there is the possibility that it can replace non-biodegradable polymers in different sectors. Full article

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into project management (PM) transforms how projects are planned, executed, and monitored. The main objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive bibliometric analysis exploring trends, thematic areas, and future directions in AI applications in project management by examining publications from the last decade. This research uncovers dominant themes such as machine learning, decision making, information management, and resource optimization. The findings highlight the growing use of AI to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and innovation in PM processes, with recent trends favoring data-driven approaches and emerging technologies like generative AI. Geographically, China, India, and the United States lead in publications, while the United Kingdom and Australia show a high citation impact. The research landscape, including AI-enhanced decision-making frameworks and cost analysis, demonstrates the diversity of AI applications in PM. An increased interest in the use of generative AI and its impact on PM and project managers was observed. This analysis contributes to the field by offering a structured overview of research trends, defining the challenges and opportunities for integrating AI into project management practices and offering perspectives on emerging technologies. Full article

Loan loss reserve accounts are an important part of banks’ ability to sustain losses. However, to enhance such protection, executives in the banking sector should recognize the factors that can affect the management of loan loss reserves. This study sought to investigate a novel set of macroeconomic and non-macroeconomic factors that can have an impact on the LLR ratios of banks in the United States (US). Data were retrieved from the Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED) database, considering the population of the banks in the US for the fiscal years 2015 to 2023. Dynamic panel regression methods, including ordinary least squares (OLS), fixed-effects models (FEMs), and random-effects models (REMs), were used to reach the research goal. The results demonstrate that both macroeconomic and non-macroeconomic factors significantly influence the behavior of LLRs in the United States. We clearly recognized industrial production as the macroeconomic indicator with the highest influence on LLRs, accurately representing the sector’s activity level through its calculation. The research findings demonstrate that industrial production is crucial in banks’ strategies regarding LLRs. Further, the S&P 500 has the most substantial impact on LLRs in a non-macroeconomic framework. Also, the results indicate that US banks are seeing a resurgence and are proactively allocating resources for their recovery. Overall, the findings of the study suggest that the financial institutions of the US ought to enhance their loan provisioning strategies in order to optimize resource allocation and improve the overall business performance. Full article

The development of the bioeconomy in the European Union is promoted through various policies. In Greece, however, there is a paucity of research on bioeconomy issues and policies at both the national and regional levels. This study systematically examines the feasibility of developing a bioeconomy blueprint within the context of a geographically isolated and mountainous region. By employing an integrated strategic framework combining sustainable resource management, innovation and participatory governance, the proposed framework emphasizes the transition from conventional, unsustainable economic practices to a contemporary development paradigm underpinned by the tenets of the circular economy and the utilization of local resources. A central tenet of the proposed framework is the enhancement of collaborative endeavors among local stakeholders, academic institutions, and business entities, with the overarching objective being the promotion of cutting-edge technologies and the economic diversification of the region. Concurrently, emphasis is placed on the necessity to establish conducive policies, regulatory frameworks, and financial mechanisms that will facilitate the development of sustainable industries and mitigate the environmental impact. The text emphasizes the importance of human resources development through educational and training programs, ensuring adaptability to the demands of the emerging bioeconomy. The study concludes that, despite the inherent difficulties arising from geographical isolation and limited access to resources, the region has the potential for sustainable development. The region’s capacity for sustainable development is contingent upon the implementation of suitable strategies and the mobilization of investment, which will be instrumental in the establishment of a robust and environmentally sustainable economic model. Full article

Contemporary ports are facing a variety of challenges due to technological advancements, economic pressures, and changing policies. Key issues include the effects of globalization, rapid advancements in information and communication technologies (ICTs), and the changing nature of port services. In order to tackle these challenges and achieve operational excellence, adapt to the shifting of activities, and meet new business demands, smart ports have been proposed as a comprehensive solution. These challenges arise because port success is often measured by traditional metrics such as port size and performance. To accurately assess the intelligence of a port, there is a need for a systematic and scientifically sound smart port evaluation method. This paper provides an overview of the concept of a smart port and develops a multi-criteria assessment framework of port smartness based on neutrosophic cognitive maps (NCMs). The unique and valuable characteristic of NCMs lies in their ability to manage the uncertainty associated with the relationship between two concepts, indicating their effects on each other in neutral states. This structure enables the NCM to provide results with a greater degree of sensitivity than fuzzy cognitive maps (FCMs) and allows for a greater degree of freedom of intuition for an expert to express not only the potential impacts but also the uncertainty associated with those impacts. Our methodology can make decisions using incomplete, uncertain, and inconsistent data during the assessment process, providing a rigorous quantitative framework for the assessment of port “smartness”. The proposed solution has the potential to act as a valuable tool in a group decision support environment and can be used to accelerate an organization’s development, improve productivity, and reinforce efforts to achieve strategic and sustainability objectives. To achieve this, an appropriate framework for such a methodology is demonstrated through an illustrative example offering actionable insights for improving port operations. Full article

The transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in banking is widely acknowledged, yet its practical adoption often faces resistance from users. This study investigates the factors influencing AI adoption behavior among various stakeholders in the Greek semi-mature systemic banking ecosystem, addressing a critical gap in the relevant research. By utilizing the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT-2), and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) models, data from 297 respondents (bank employees, digital professionals, and the general public) were analyzed. The results highlight the strong relevance of constructs such as Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, and Hedonic Motivation, whereas Social Influence was deemed non-significant, reflecting a pragmatic stance toward AI. Demographic factors like gender and age were found to have no significant moderating effect, challenging traditional stereotypes. However, occupation and education emerged as significant moderators, indicating varying attitudes among professions and educational levels. This study is the first to develop a theoretical framework for AI adoption by Greek banking institutions, offering Greek banking practitioners actionable insights. The findings also hold relevance for countries with similar digital maturity levels, aiding broader AI integration in banking. Full article

The present paper deals with the asymmetric seismic interaction phenomenon between multistorey reinforced concrete buildings. The paper focuses on the so-called floor-to-column pounding and aims to identify the influence of two specific factors: the exact impact point location and the width of the pre-existing separation gap between the interacting structures. Furthermore, the estimation of the effective impact length, i.e., the part of the external columns directly suffering the hit within their clear height that experiences severe damage, is attempted. For this purpose, several interaction cases are analyzed by means of inelastic dynamic analysis, and representative response quantities are calculated. In addition, a well-documented analytical procedure is applied in order to determine the effective impact length. The whole investigation highlights the crucial role of the impact point location for the local response of the external columns. On the contrary, it demonstrates that the overall building behavior is not considerably affected. In addition, it reveals that the existence of inadequate seismic joints may be more unfavorable in comparison with the complete absence of separation between the interacting structures. Thus, the relevant code provisions imposing a minimum seismic joint width should be strictly abided by. Finally, the investigation confirms field observations and experimental results which indicate that the damage of external columns which undergo strong pounding forces is limited to a short area with length equal to about 1 m or less. Due attention should be given to this area during retrofitting of existing buildings. Full article

This article presents a systematic literature review exploring the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) methodologies in project management (PM). Key applications include cost estimation, duration forecasting, and risk assessment, which are critical factors for project success. This review synthesizes findings from 97 peer-reviewed studies published between 2011 and 2024, using the PRISMA methodology to ensure rigor and transparency. AI techniques such as machine learning, deep learning, and hybrid models have exhibited their potential to enhance PM techniques across projects’ phases, including planning, execution, and monitoring. Decision trees are created to represent the application of AI methodologies in various PM stages and tasks to facilitate understanding and real-world implementation. Among these are hybrid AI models that enhance risk assessment, duration forecasting, and cost estimation, as well as categorization based on project phases to optimize AI integration. Despite these advancements, there are still gaps in addressing dynamic project environments, validating AI models with real-world data, and expanding research into underexplored phases like project closure. Full article

This study reveals the mutual interaction of the abiotic (climate) and biotic (bacteria, actinomycetes and fungi) factors and their impact on dehydrogenase enzyme activity in the soil within the Quercetum montanum typicum forest community at the National Park “Frushka gora” in the Vojvodina Province of Serbia. A total of 32 field visits were conducted between 2014 and 2017 to obtain site-specific data on air and soil temperature and humidity, and soil sampling for further microorganisms’ abundance and dehydrogenase activity determination through lab analysis. The key findings indicate that climate conditions, particularly variations in air temperature and humidity, significantly impact dehydrogenases and are positively impacted by soil bacteria and actinomycetes, although the effect of fungi varies. Climate conditions, particularly variations in air temperature and humidity, significantly impact the abundance of soil microorganisms, and further positively impact the dehydrogenase activity. These findings underscore the importance of understanding the interplay between abiotic and biotic factors in soil ecosystems for sustainable environmental management and to support soil fertility and health. Full article

Background: Wide-Awake Local Anesthesia No Tourniquet (WALANT) is revolutionizing surgery by providing a bloodless field without tourniquet use, reducing risks, costs, and enhancing patient comfort. While extensively used in hand surgery, its application in foot and ankle procedures, particularly for high-risk patients with diabetic neuropathy and peripheral artery disease (PAD), remains underexplored. This study evaluates the safety, efficacy, and outcomes of WALANT for tarsal tunnel decompression in such patients. Methods: Between March 2022 and April 2024, 32 patients with diabetic neuropathy and PAD underwent Dellon decompression of the tarsal tunnel. Five received spinal anesthesia with a tourniquet, while 27 underwent WALANT. Outcomes assessed included operative time, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) pain scores, posterior tibial artery blood flow (via Doppler ultrasonography), and complications. Data were collected preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and at six and nine months. Results: WALANT reduced operative time (40 ± 8 min vs. 65 ± 10 min) and required fewer personnel (four vs. six). VAS scores improved significantly in the WALANT group (from 8.65 ± 0.84 preoperatively to 1.21 ± 0.24 at nine months). Posterior tibial artery blood flow also showed superior improvements with WALANT (5.30 ± 0.65 cm³/s vs. 2.50 ± 0.45 cm³/s). Minor wound healing delays were noted in two WALANT cases; no major complications occurred. Conclusion: WALANT offers a safe, efficient alternative to spinal anesthesia for tarsal tunnel decompression in high-risk patients, minimizing ischemic risks, enhancing vascular outcomes, and reducing postoperative pain. Full article

The utilization of food industry by-products represents a significant opportunity for developing functional foods. This study investigated the incorporation of Cucurbita maxima Plomo peel powder (PS) into wheat bread formulations to assess its potential as a valuable ingredient for bread-making. PS was incorporated into wheat flour at 1%, 10%, and 20% levels. The dough’s rheological properties were analyzed using Mixolab. Bread samples were evaluated for physical characteristics (volume, texture, colour), antioxidant properties (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP), and reducing sugar content. Analyses were performed on day 0 and after 7 days of storage. PS incorporation significantly modified dough rheology, with increased development time and enhanced protein stability. Bread volume decreased progressively with PS addition (from 195.5 cm³ to 109.8 cm³ at 20% PS). However, antioxidant activity increased substantially, particularly in the crust, with ABTS values rising from 2.37 to 10.08 TE μM/g DM in water extracts. Total phenolic content and reducing sugars showed significant increases across all PS concentrations. Storage studies revealed stable antioxidant properties but progressive textural changes, with hardness increasing from 6.83 N to 108.8 N at 20% PS after 7 days. While PS incorporation affects bread’s physical properties, the significant enhancement in antioxidant activity and phenolic content suggests its potential as a functional ingredient. The optimal incorporation level should balance technological properties with nutritional benefits. Full article

This study evaluated the probiotic and safety potential of Bacillus spp. isolated from undisturbed soil in Mount Karadzica, North Macedonia. Seven isolates demonstrated strong antimicrobial activity against Salmonella enterica ATCC 10708, tolerance to 0.3–2% bile salts, and survival at pH 3.0, indicating resilience under gastrointestinal conditions. They grew across 25–44 °C, tolerated 6.5% NaCl, and exhibited no β-hemolytic activity. Six isolates were susceptible to all antibiotics tested, except one resistant to ampicillin. The findings highlight the novelty of isolating Bacillus spp. from soil as potential probiotics, offering promising applications in improving dietary nutrition and functional food safety. Full article

Background: Excessive work-related demands and inadequate support systems are important risks for employees’ health status and quality of life. Although an abundance of data exists about leadership and the occupational health of various vocational groups, there are relatively few studies on leaders’ well-being and related psychosocial hazards in educational organizations, such as primary schools. Methods: Work-related distressing experiences in primary school principals focusing on associated factors and the impact of these experiences on them were investigated. A qualitative methodology with a census and purposeful sampling was applied, utilizing the inductive content analysis approach. Overall, 20 males and 6 females participated, all employed in a rural region of Greece. Following informed consent, data collection was achieved through three focus groups with repetitive interviews. Results: The absence of a robust and well-defined legal framework to govern the authority, duties, and responsibilities of principals, evident in the lack of legally established procedures and protocols, was identified as the root cause of the participants’ distressing experiences. Three distressing phenomena were identified: (a) Challenging interpersonal relations due to lack of a regulatory system regarding school functioning; (b) Current educational policy and legal framework, characterized by too many responsibilities and no adequate power; (c) Irrelevant topics and time frame for continuing education projects toward principals. Conclusions: The study findings highlight the critical challenges faced by primary school principals due to the absence of a clear legal framework and the instability of educational policies. The findings suggest that policy reforms are needed to provide principals with greater clarity in their roles and responsibilities. Additionally, addressing the constant changes in educational policy could help create a more stable and manageable school environment. A participatory action research project, including stakeholders from primary school leaders, managers, pupils, and parents, is proposed, focused on the development of a comprehensive plan to overcome the challenges of the current context, also aiming to enhance empathy in all parties. Full article