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Search Results (2,219)

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36 pages, 375 KiB  
Review
Barriers, Opportunities, and Best Practices for Corporate Climate Transition Plans: A Literature Review
by Daniel Kouloukoui, Nathalie de Marcellis-Warin and Thierry Warin
Climate 2025, 13(5), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13050088 (registering DOI) - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 160
Abstract
Corporate climate transition is one of the greatest challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, shaping the future of business sustainability and aligning economic growth with global environmental goals. This article aims to identify the main barriers, opportunities, and best practices associated with [...] Read more.
Corporate climate transition is one of the greatest challenges and opportunities of the 21st century, shaping the future of business sustainability and aligning economic growth with global environmental goals. This article aims to identify the main barriers, opportunities, and best practices associated with the implementation of corporate climate transition plans. Based on a review of studies from leading databases—Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar—the research categorizes barriers into economic, financial, political, regulatory, cultural, organizational, and technological dimensions. Opportunities are grouped into areas like sustainable finance, technological innovation, and resilience building. Best practices are organized into clusters, notably governance, energy efficiency, social equity, and just transition frameworks. In addition to advancing academic understanding, this study offers practical implications for key stakeholders. Financial institutions can use these findings to develop climate-aligned financial products tailored to corporate realities. Policymakers can improve regulatory frameworks to foster sustainable business practices and remove legislative barriers. Companies are empowered to refine their climate strategies, address operational constraints, and explore new sustainability-driven opportunities. By integrating scientific insights with real-world applicability, this review contributes to a more holistic understanding of corporate climate transition, bridging academic research with actionable pathways for businesses, financial actors, and public decision-makers. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Climate Adaptation and Mitigation)
37 pages, 1478 KiB  
Article
Workplace Strategies to Reduce Burnout in Veterinary Nurses and Technicians: A Delphi Study
by Angela J. Chapman, Pauleen C. Bennett and Vanessa I. Rohlf
Animals 2025, 15(9), 1257; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15091257 - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 452
Abstract
Veterinary nurses and technicians are at risk of burnout, which negatively impacts mental and physical health, turnover, and patient care. Workplace contributors to burnout have been identified in this population, but little is known about best practice management strategies. This study used the [...] Read more.
Veterinary nurses and technicians are at risk of burnout, which negatively impacts mental and physical health, turnover, and patient care. Workplace contributors to burnout have been identified in this population, but little is known about best practice management strategies. This study used the Delphi method to explore barriers to addressing burnout and develop expert recommendations for workplace management strategies. Forty participants with a minimum of 5 years’ industry experience in leadership, or wellbeing, were recruited via purposive sampling from the USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. Participants completed two anonymous, online, mixed-methods surveys between October 2024 and January 2025. Qualitative survey data were analysed using content analysis to identify codes and categorise solutions. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Barriers to addressing burnout included industry-wide barriers, such as lack of, or unclear, regulation and lack of leadership knowledge, and clinic-specific barriers, such as poor team culture, unwillingness for change, and existing burnout. Thirty-nine solutions were developed and rated as being highly, or very highly effective. These focused on themes such as improving communication, developing progression pathways, and providing leadership training and support. Existing workplace barriers must be evaluated prior to selecting strategies, to maximise effectiveness in specific contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Problems of Veterinary Education, Science and Profession)
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17 pages, 1718 KiB  
Article
Appropriate Planning Policies for the Development of Accessible and Inclusive Tourism
by Giuliana Quattrone
Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 3972; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093972 - 28 Apr 2025
Viewed by 173
Abstract
The objective of ensuring equal access to and enjoyment of tourism for the broadest spectrum of individuals, regardless of age or ability, is a fundamental right for all, as explicitly outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. [...] Read more.
The objective of ensuring equal access to and enjoyment of tourism for the broadest spectrum of individuals, regardless of age or ability, is a fundamental right for all, as explicitly outlined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Nevertheless, notwithstanding the initiatives aimed at actualizing the aims and objectives of the Convention, the discrepancy between the supply and demand for accessibility remains considerably high in Italy. In fact, numerous accessibility issues persist in information, services, transportation, tourist destinations, accommodations, and various types of facilities and attractions. The inadequacy of long-term planning and the lack of a comprehensive perspective on accessibility further exacerbate the situation in Italy. In light of these considerations, this paper aims to examine, via a survey conducted on a sample of potential users, the challenges and opportunities for the development of inclusive forms of accessible tourism and to recommend a reference framework for best practices that encompasses, in addition to barriers, the elements that enhance accessibility and usability of cultural activities for individuals with disabilities, serving as a reference point to assist in the planning and governance of sustainable tourism policies. This paper aims to answer three fundamental research questions to improve the conditions of the Italian tourism system: What is the perception of people with disabilities regarding their ability to travel in Italy? What needs to be improved to achieve a good tourism experience for people with disabilities in Italy? Which parameters should be considered for proper planning of accessible and inclusive tourism in Italy? Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Tourism, Culture, and Heritage)
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24 pages, 2450 KiB  
Article
From People to Performance: Leveraging Soft Lean Practices for Environmental Sustainability in Large-Scale Production
by Matteo Ferrazzi, Guilherme Luz Tortorella, Wen Li, Federica Costa and Alberto Portioli-Staudacher
Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 3955; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093955 - 28 Apr 2025
Viewed by 134
Abstract
Lean manufacturing can be considered a socio-technical system integrating both technical tools and human-centered, or soft, practices. While extensive research has examined technical aspects, the contribution of soft Lean practices focused on human behavior to environmental sustainability remains underexplored. This study addresses this [...] Read more.
Lean manufacturing can be considered a socio-technical system integrating both technical tools and human-centered, or soft, practices. While extensive research has examined technical aspects, the contribution of soft Lean practices focused on human behavior to environmental sustainability remains underexplored. This study addresses this gap by examining how soft Lean practices can help overcome barriers to environmental performance in large-scale production systems (LSPSs), using Italy’s food manufacturing sector as a case study. A multi-case study methodology was employed, involving five companies. Data were collected through interviews conducted across top management, middle management, and operational staff levels to capture diverse perspectives. Using variables extracted from the literature and a deductive coding approach, the study identifies (1) the specific soft Lean practices adopted and the perceived environmental performance barriers at each hierarchical level, (2) differences in interpretation of these practices and barriers across hierarchical levels, and (3) how soft practices can mitigate obstacles to sustainable performance. The results demonstrate that soft Lean practices, when aligned with organizational structure and culture, can effectively mitigate barriers to environmental improvement. This research contributes to the Lean and sustainability literature by offering a multi-level perspective and practical insights into integrating human-centered approaches within industrial sustainability strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Large-Scale Production Systems: Sustainable Manufacturing and Service)
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13 pages, 593 KiB  
Article
The Utilisation of Artificial Intelligence in the Export Performance of MNCs: The Role of Cultural Distance
by Syed Khusro Chishty, Sonia Sayari, Amani Hamza Mohamed, Mohammed Faishal Mallick, Nusrat Khan and Asra Inkesar
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15050160 - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 215
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the internationalisation activities of multinational corporations (MNCs) through enhanced operational efficiencies and optimised decision-making; though the moderating factors influencing its impact on export-led internationalisation remain underexplored. This research adopts a Resource-Based View (RBV) approach to examine the complex [...] Read more.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the internationalisation activities of multinational corporations (MNCs) through enhanced operational efficiencies and optimised decision-making; though the moderating factors influencing its impact on export-led internationalisation remain underexplored. This research adopts a Resource-Based View (RBV) approach to examine the complex relationship between AI capabilities and the export performance of Indian MNCs, with cultural distance serving as a moderating factor, analysing how AI adoption influences export intensity, trade expansion, and market penetration strategies. Data from a 2024 survey of 449 Indian exporters across various industries, analysed using Structural Equation Modelling, reveal that AI capabilities positively impact export performance particularly in markets characterised by high institutional uncertainty and complex regulatory environments. Moreover, cultural distance acts as a significant moderator, amplifying the role of AI in navigating consumer preferences, language barriers, and localised business practices. AI-powered analytics help firms better understand foreign markets, adapt to cultural differences, and optimise international operations. This study advances the scholarly understanding and contributes to internationalisation theory by integrating AI-driven trade strategies with institutional and cultural moderating factors and offers a structured framework for corporate managers and policymakers to formulate AI-based strategic decisions that leverage AI to mitigate trade-related uncertainties, improve their compliance with international regulations, and strengthen global trade competitiveness in emerging economies. Full article
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21 pages, 2696 KiB  
Article
The Unsustainable Proximity Paradox in Medium-Sized Cities: A Qualitative Study on User Perceptions of Mobility Policies
by José Cáceres-Merino, Juan Francisco Coloma, Marta García and Andres Monzon
Land 2025, 14(5), 944; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14050944 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 118
Abstract
Medium-sized cities face unique challenges in fostering sustainable mobility due to their socio-spatial characteristics, including recent decentralized services and urban sprawl. This study examines user-centric factors influencing mobility behaviors in Caceres, Spain, through qualitative focus group analysis with 18 participants across two age [...] Read more.
Medium-sized cities face unique challenges in fostering sustainable mobility due to their socio-spatial characteristics, including recent decentralized services and urban sprawl. This study examines user-centric factors influencing mobility behaviors in Caceres, Spain, through qualitative focus group analysis with 18 participants across two age groups. By employing a co-occurrence methodology, this research identifies key relationships within four thematic areas: public transport, active mobility, innovation, and urban planning. The findings reveal persistent car dependency despite sustainable policies, driven by the following: (1) inadequate public transport coordination between urban and regional areas, poor information availability, and lack of service synchronization; (2) perceived safety concerns, insufficient infrastructure for cycling, and ineffective pedestrianization strategies; (3) limited adoption of technological solutions due to cultural barriers, preference for informal arrangements, and usability issues with transport apps; and (4) mismatches between urban form and service distribution, proximity perception, and consumer preferences reinforcing car dependency. This study underscores the need for integrated transport systems, mixed land-use planning, and improved accessibility measures to achieve equitable and sustainable mobility transitions. The conclusion includes a series of policy recommendations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vulnerability and Resilience of Urban Planning and Design)
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15 pages, 577 KiB  
Article
Interplay Among Classroom Environment, Grit, and Enjoyment in Shaping Feedback-Seeking Behavior in L2 Writing
by Wenqian Luan and Jianqiang Quan
Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050584 - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 220
Abstract
The interplay among classroom environment, grit, and enjoyment in shaping the feedback-seeking behavior (FSB) of Chinese English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners remains underexplored. This study investigates how the classroom psychological environment and L2 grit influence FSB, categorized as feedback monitoring (FM, [...] Read more.
The interplay among classroom environment, grit, and enjoyment in shaping the feedback-seeking behavior (FSB) of Chinese English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners remains underexplored. This study investigates how the classroom psychological environment and L2 grit influence FSB, categorized as feedback monitoring (FM, the passive observation of feedback) and feedback inquiry (FI, proactive requests for clarification), in the context of L2 writing. This study also focuses on the mediating role of foreign language enjoyment (FLE) in this process. A mixed-methods design was utilized to study 612 Chinese junior secondary students aged 13–15 with over five years of formal English instruction. Structural equation modeling (SEM) revealed that perseverance of effort (POE) and consistency of interest (COI), as two dimensions of L2 grit, directly predicted FM (β = 0.19 and 0.27, respectively) but not FI. The classroom environment indirectly enhanced both FM (β = 0.05) and FI (β = 0.09) through FLE. Qualitative interviews highlighted cultural constraints: 83.3% of participants prioritized FM over FI due to face-saving norms, despite high grit levels (M = 3.61 on a 5-point scale), underscoring cultural barriers to proactive feedback-seeking in Chinese collectivist classrooms. These findings validate the tripartite framework of positive psychology in L2 learning and propose strategies to balance institutional support, grit cultivation, and cultural sensitivity in fostering adaptive FSB. Full article
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22 pages, 1967 KiB  
Article
Interrogating the Preservation Performance and Reuse of Sealed Frame Packages for Transit and Display
by Emma J. Richardson, Meredith Sharps Noyes, Marvin Cummings, Al Carver-Kubik and Jennifer Jae Gutierrez
Heritage 2025, 8(5), 151; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8050151 - 26 Apr 2025
Viewed by 174
Abstract
Collecting institutions have a mandate to preserve and enable access to collections. Exhibition, which often involves object transit between cultural institutions, is an essential activity for many museums to achieve their missions. These activities introduce challenges for preservation, as objects are most susceptible [...] Read more.
Collecting institutions have a mandate to preserve and enable access to collections. Exhibition, which often involves object transit between cultural institutions, is an essential activity for many museums to achieve their missions. These activities introduce challenges for preservation, as objects are most susceptible to irreparable damage during these key time periods. Paper-based objects that are sensitive to changes in relative humidity (RH) are commonly enclosed in sealed frame packages (SFPs) to create microclimates. Twenty-six different SFP designs were investigated for their effectiveness at buffering against external RH changes. Following initial conditioning of paper-based objects and enclosure materials at 45% RH, data loggers were placed inside each SFP and exposed to 70% RH for 12 weeks. The internal responses of the SFPs to the external RH were quantitatively assessed, alongside qualitative assessments of material reusability. Results indicate that a polyethylene bag sealed around a frame package is a reusable alternative to SFPs. Bagging alone was capable of limiting the impact of high external RH from permeating to the object level for approximately three weeks. When exposure to elevated RH levels is expected to exceed three weeks, SFPs are effective microclimates under the proviso that they comprise glazing, a vapor-proof barrier, and a seal. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microclimate in Heritage)
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21 pages, 2427 KiB  
Article
Neuroprotective Potential of Tetraselmis chuii Compounds: Insights into Blood–Brain Barrier Permeability and Intestinal Transport
by Melis Cokdinleyen, Alberto Valdés, Huseyin Kara, Elena Ibáñez and Alejandro Cifuentes
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(5), 629; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18050629 - 26 Apr 2025
Viewed by 267
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia, characterized by complex processes such as neuro-inflammation, oxidative damage, synaptic loss, and neuronal death. Carotenoids are among the potential therapeutic molecules that have attracted attention due to their neuroprotective properties, but their [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common type of dementia, characterized by complex processes such as neuro-inflammation, oxidative damage, synaptic loss, and neuronal death. Carotenoids are among the potential therapeutic molecules that have attracted attention due to their neuroprotective properties, but their efficacy is limited mainly by their capacity to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB). Results: The results showed that T. chuii extracts could protect neuronal cells from neurotoxic damage, especially against L-glutamate and H2O2. Moreover, the BBB permeability and the intestinal transport analyses revealed that fucoxanthinol, crocoxanthin, diatoxanthin, neoxanthin, violaxanthin, and prasinoxanthin have diverse permeabilities depending on the incubation time and the cell model used. Fucoxanthinol was the carotenoid with the highest and similar permeability in HBMEC cells (4.41%, 5.13%, and 18.94% at 2, 4, and 24 h, respectively) and Caco-2 cells (7.01%, 8.63%, and 18.36% at the same times), while crocoxanthin, diatoxanthin, and neoxanthin showed different kinetics. Methods: The neuroprotective potential of two extracts obtained from Tetraselmis chuii microalga were evaluated against Aβ1-42-, L-glutamate-, and H2O2-induced toxicities in SH-SY5Y cells. In addition, the BBB permeability and the intestinal transepithelial transport of the main carotenoids present in the extracts were evaluated and compared using two cell culture models, HBMEC and Caco-2 cells. For that aim, the transport of the bioactive molecules across the barriers was evaluated using UHPLC-q-TOF-MS after 2, 4, and 24 h of incubation. Conclusions: These findings indicate that T. chuii is a promising natural source of bioactive compounds to develop functional foods against neurodegenerative diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Natural Product Extracts)
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13 pages, 2962 KiB  
Article
Protocatechuic Acid Ameliorates Cisplatin-Induced Inflammation and Apoptosis in Mouse Proximal Tubular Cells
by Karim M. Saad, Khaled Elmasry, Babak Baban, Man J. Livingston, Zheng Dong, Marwa E. Abdelmageed, Rania R. Abdelaziz, Ghada M. Suddek and Ahmed A. Elmarakby
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(9), 4115; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26094115 - 26 Apr 2025
Viewed by 238
Abstract
Cisplatin is a highly cytotoxic drug used for the treatment of head, neck, and soft tissue cancers; however, it has nephrotoxic effects that can lead to acute kidney injury. Protocatechuic acid (PCA) is a natural widely available antioxidant found in many fruits such [...] Read more.
Cisplatin is a highly cytotoxic drug used for the treatment of head, neck, and soft tissue cancers; however, it has nephrotoxic effects that can lead to acute kidney injury. Protocatechuic acid (PCA) is a natural widely available antioxidant found in many fruits such as kiwi, mango, and berries. We have recently shown that PCA reduced renal injury in a mouse model of unilateral ureteral obstruction. The current study aims to investigate the protective effects of PCA in Cisplatin-induced inflammation in vitro in Boston University Mouse Proximal Tubular (BUMPT) cells. BUMPT cells were cultured in complete DMEM. Confluent BUMPT cells were then treated with 20 μM Cisplatin ± PCA 50 or 100 μM for 24 h. PCA treatment showed a dose-depending increase in % cell viability in Cisplatin-treated BUMPT cells. PCA treatment also dose-dependently decreased Cisplatin-induced increases in oxidative stress (ROS and TBARS), inflammation (p-NF-κB and IL-6), and apoptosis (cleaved caspase-3 and % of TUNEL+ cells) compared to Cisplatin-only treatment. The reduction in oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis with PCA treatment in Cisplatin-treated BUMPT cells was associated with decreases in tubular physical barrier resistance and the expression of the tight junction protein zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) when compared to BUMPT cells treated with Cisplatin alone. The current findings suggest that PCA treatment improves tubular barrier function in Cisplatin-treated BUMPT cells via reductions in oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products in Kidney Diseases)
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19 pages, 689 KiB  
Systematic Review
Papillomavirus Vaccination Programs and Knowledge Gaps as Barriers to Implementation: A Systematic Review
by Giovanni Cangelosi, Francesco Sacchini, Stefano Mancin, Fabio Petrelli, Antonella Amendola, Clara Fappani, Marco Sguanci, Sara Morales Palomares, Francesco Gravante and Gabriele Caggianelli
Vaccines 2025, 13(5), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13050460 - 25 Apr 2025
Viewed by 193
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of cervical cancer. Despite the proven effectiveness of vaccination programs, global coverage remains uneven, with significant disparities across regions due to various socioeconomic, cultural, and political factors. This study explores the primary barriers to HPV [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of cervical cancer. Despite the proven effectiveness of vaccination programs, global coverage remains uneven, with significant disparities across regions due to various socioeconomic, cultural, and political factors. This study explores the primary barriers to HPV vaccination worldwide and proposes recommendations to improve access to screening and vaccination programs. Methods: A systematic literature review was conducted, analyzing studies published in the past ten years from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Embase, following the PRISMA methodology. Study selection involved multiple researchers, with discrepancies resolved through consultation. The quality of the included studies was assessed using CASP checklists. The protocol was registered on Open Science Framework (OSF). Results: Out of 2119 records, eight studies were included. The findings indicate that the main barriers to HPV vaccination include insufficient public awareness, cultural and religious resistance, financial constraints, and limited access in rural and underserved areas. Additionally, political factors, such as low prioritization of HPV vaccination and the absence of supportive policies, were identified as significant obstacles. Multidisciplinary and cross-cultural collaboration, along with the integration of HPV vaccination into existing health programs, was suggested as a strategic approach to improve vaccine uptake. Conclusions: Barriers to HPV vaccination, including limited awareness, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and socioeconomic factors, vary across regions but must be addressed to improve global coverage. Targeted interventions such as health education, inclusive policies, and culturally sensitive campaigns can significantly boost vaccine uptake. Strengthening local health systems and fostering international collaboration are key strategies to overcoming these barriers and ensuring equitable access to HPV vaccination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advance Public Health Through Vaccination)
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19 pages, 1961 KiB  
Article
Barriers to Effective Management of Mediterranean Coastal Lagoons Following Key European Union Directives: Perceptions of Managers of Natura 2000 Lagoon Sites in South France
by Nathalie Boutin, Louise Chourot, Jean-Claude Raynal and Rutger De Wit
Environments 2025, 12(5), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12050137 - 25 Apr 2025
Viewed by 202
Abstract
This paper focuses on the challenges for the co-implementation of two European Union Directives, i.e., the Habitats Directive and the Water Framework Directive, for the management of Mediterranean coastal lagoons as protected areas. Many of these ecosystems are included in the Natura 2000 [...] Read more.
This paper focuses on the challenges for the co-implementation of two European Union Directives, i.e., the Habitats Directive and the Water Framework Directive, for the management of Mediterranean coastal lagoons as protected areas. Many of these ecosystems are included in the Natura 2000 network, the largest network of protected areas in the world. Based on semi-structured interviews with 45 stakeholders from 41 institutions, the study identified five main types of perceived barriers: economic, political and socio-cultural, historical, administrative, and ecological. The study confirmed that the co-implementation of the Habitats Directive (HD) and the Water Framework Directive (WFD) in Mediterranean coastal lagoons generated multiple and interrelated barriers. Beyond their regulatory complexity, these EU directives confronted managers with deep operational challenges. First, mismatches between administrative and ecological boundaries weakened their ability to control key ecological processes such as nutrient flows. Second, the proliferation of indicators, often perceived as disconnected from local realities, reinforced the critique of a management by numbers approach. Finally, the widespread use of regulatory exemptions, while intended to adapt EU rules to local contexts, frequently fueled persistent mistrust among stakeholders, especially in historically degraded environments. These challenges were further exacerbated by a siloed organization of administrations, limiting coordination and adaptive management. Overall, these findings call for more integrated governance frameworks, a more critical and context-sensitive use of indicators, and greater transparency in derogation procedures. Full article
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28 pages, 7158 KiB  
Article
Accessibility of Tourist Attractions for Individuals with Disabilities as a Factor in the Development of Inclusive Tourism: Example of the Świętokrzyskie Region—Poland
by Klaudia Chwaja, Błażej Chwaja, Iwona Marczak and Zygmunt Kruczek
Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 3853; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093853 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 346
Abstract
The number of individuals with disabilities around the world and in Poland is constantly increasing. Social inclusion, anti-discrimination, and social integration are among the Sustainable Development Goals, which include inclusive tourism. Fostering inclusion in the tourism industry contributes to improving quality of life [...] Read more.
The number of individuals with disabilities around the world and in Poland is constantly increasing. Social inclusion, anti-discrimination, and social integration are among the Sustainable Development Goals, which include inclusive tourism. Fostering inclusion in the tourism industry contributes to improving quality of life in marginalised communities, community involvement in tourism development planning, and ethical activities related to the production and consumption of tourism services. Making attractions accessible to people with disabilities also contributes to enriching the tourist offerings of a region. The aim of this study is to assess the accessibility of tourist attractions in the Świętokrzyskie region, located in central Poland. The natural, cultural, and historical attractions there create potential for the development of various forms of tourism. The accessibility of 20 major tourist attractions for people with mobility, sight, and hearing impairments was examined. The results indicate a varying level of adaptation of facilities to the needs of the surveyed groups. Recreation and entertainment facilities are the best adapted, while sacred and historical facilities are the least adjusted. The majority of adaptations were directed towards individuals with mobility impairments, with blind and partially sighted people as well as deaf and partially hearing people often being overlooked. The identified barriers to adaptation included the excessive cost of adaptation and the limitations of the historic nature of the building. The inadequate preparation of attraction staff to support disabled individuals was also highlighted, as well as the importance of modern technology in creating accessibility and the need to promote inclusion among attraction managers and in regional policy. The article also includes an analysis of the local government’s measures aimed at social inclusion. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inclusive Tourism and Its Place in Sustainable Development Concepts)
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21 pages, 559 KiB  
Review
The Ongoing Challenges of Hearing Loss: Stigma, Socio-Cultural Differences, and Accessibility Barriers
by Mirko Aldè, Umberto Ambrosetti, Stefania Barozzi and Samantha Aldè
Audiol. Res. 2025, 15(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/audiolres15030046 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 274
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hearing loss (HL) is a prevalent condition that can lead to social exclusion. This review explores the epidemiological, cultural, and social dimensions of HL and examines the barriers to accessibility that individuals with HL encounter. Methods: This research employs a [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Hearing loss (HL) is a prevalent condition that can lead to social exclusion. This review explores the epidemiological, cultural, and social dimensions of HL and examines the barriers to accessibility that individuals with HL encounter. Methods: This research employs a narrative review approach to provide a comprehensive overview of HL, focusing on stigma, gender disparities, cultural and social differences, and accessibility challenges. Results: The review highlights pervasive prejudices surrounding HL and hearing devices. Gender disparities are evident, with Deaf women facing compounded challenges. Cultural perspectives on HL differ widely, ranging from the medical model, which emphasizes treatment using hearing devices, to the Deaf community’s social model, which views deafness as a cultural identity. Socioeconomic disparities further restrict access to modern technologies, particularly in low-income settings, while intersectional discrimination affects marginalized groups within the Deaf community. Public spaces also present significant barriers related to communication, architecture, and technology, which hinder accessibility for individuals with HL. Conclusions: A cultural shift is essential to dismantle societal stereotypes and reduce discrimination associated with HL. Moreover, improving accessibility for individuals with HL necessitates a multifaceted approach, including accessible design, staff training, and the integration of assistive technologies. Full article
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17 pages, 831 KiB  
Review
Culture and Behaviour Management of Children in the Dental Clinic: A Scoping Review
by Adebola Oluyemisi Ehizele, Love Bukola Ayamolowo, Adeyinka Ishola and Moréniké Oluwátóyìn Foláyan
Dent. J. 2025, 13(5), 186; https://doi.org/10.3390/dj13050186 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 214
Abstract
Cultural norms, beliefs, and practices influence parental expectations, children’s responses, and the acceptance of behaviour management techniques (BMTs) in paediatric dentistry. Despite this, the existing guidelines often adopt a standardized approach, overlooking critical cultural differences. This scoping review maps the links between culture [...] Read more.
Cultural norms, beliefs, and practices influence parental expectations, children’s responses, and the acceptance of behaviour management techniques (BMTs) in paediatric dentistry. Despite this, the existing guidelines often adopt a standardized approach, overlooking critical cultural differences. This scoping review maps the links between culture and behaviour management strategies in paediatric dental settings. A scoping review following PRISMA guidelines was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and hand-searched sources from the inception of the databases to 31 January 2025. A total of 671 studies were identified, with 15 meeting the inclusion criteria. Data on the key findings were inductively analyzed to assess cultural influences on parental acceptance, child behavior, and communication. The findings show that non-invasive BMTs such as TellShow–Do and positive reinforcement were the most accepted across cultures, while passive and active restraints were least accepted, especially in Western populations. Parental preferences varied; Jordanian parents were more accepting of passive restraint than German parents, while general anaesthesia was preferred in Bahrain. Cultural norms shaped communication styles—Latino families emphasized warm interpersonal interactions, whereas Pakistani families exhibited limited parental involvement due to language barriers. Black and Hispanic Medicaid-enrolled mothers in the U.S. reported lower satisfaction with pain management, highlighting disparities in culturally competent care. In conclusion, cultural factors significantly influence paediatric behaviour management in dental clinics. Integrating cultural competence into practice can enhance communication, improve patient compliance, and promote equitable care. Further research is needed, particularly in Africa and South America, to inform globally inclusive behaviour management guidelines. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventive Dental Care, Chairside and Beyond)
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