Abstract: This research presents a synthesis of social entrepreneurship (SE) in rural communities with a tourism vocation, through a systemic perspective applied to the case of Yecapixtla, Morelos, Mexico. Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) was used to diagnose the current state of the SE system in the Food and Beverage (F&B) sector, considering its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study included direct observation, field notes, and systemic modelling tools such as the structured problem and the rich picture, in order to interpret the relationships among the actors involved. The results show that SE plays a strategic role in the sustainability of the destination but it faces conflicting relationships with government actors and structural limitations that hinder its consolidation. Optimal relationships were identified among community actors, as well as opportunities to improve tourism governance. The study concludes that the systemic approach enables a clearer view of the conflicts, capacities, and opportunities within the system, highlighting the need to create systemic strategies that strengthen SE as a driver of sustainable development.

Abstract: Digital nomads constitute a recently emerged group of remote workers and tourists with growing trends that indicate its significance in tourism and local development. However, research on the criteria of destination selection and level of visit satisfaction is rather lim-ited in clarity and consistency. This paper aims to contribute to the academic debate by presenting the digital nomads’ destination selection criteria identified in the state of the art and introducing a methodological tool of priority areas. The tool is applied in the case study of Thessaloniki, the second largest Greek city and developing destination. Both qualitative and quantitative methodologies are used in the primary research, with relation to local stakeholders and digital nomads while secondary research focuses on measure-ments of specific criteria through established indexes. Research findings point to the po-tential validity of the proposed methodological tool, highlighting the requirement for fur-ther research on its refinement.

Abstract: This study examines the impact of workplace stressors on male hospitality workers’ intention to quit, focusing on the mediating role of psychological distress and the moderating role of psychological flexibility. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 334 full-time male employees from five-star hotels in Egypt. Structural equation modeling was applied to analyze the relationships between workplace stressors, psychological distress, the intention to quit, and psychological flexibility. Mediation and moderation effects were tested through bootstrapping techniques. Workplace stressors were positively associated with psychological distress and the intention to quit. Psychological distress significantly mediated the relationship between workplace stressors and the intention to quit. Psychological flexibility moderated these relationships by weakening the positive link between workplace stressors and psychological distress and between psychological distress and the intention to quit. Workplace stressors contribute to increased psychological distress and turnover intentions among male hospitality workers, but psychological flexibility serves as a protective factor. Hospitality organizations should implement stress management programs and resilience training to enhance employee well-being and retention.

Abstract: Performance analysis (PA) in cricket plays a crucial role in evaluating players and teams based on their on-field contributions. Traditional ranking systems rely on fixed point calculations, often failing to account for contextual factors such as the strength of the opponent or a player's experience level. This study identifies the limitations of conventional performance metrics and proposes a novel methodology that enhances fairness and accuracy in ranking players. The proposed approach is built upon two fundamental principles: (1) the quality of a win is determined by the strength of the opponent, ensuring that victories against stronger teams yield higher points, and (2) debut players are assessed differently from experienced players to reflect their evolving performance potential. By integrating these strategies, our methodology provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating individual and team performance in a more balanced and meaningful manner. Findings indicate that the revised ranking system offers improved fairness in assessing player contributions, mitigating biases in traditional ranking methods. This approach can significantly impact team selection, strategy formulation, and talent development in cricket. Future research can extend this model to other sports, enhancing performance evaluation across different competitive domains.

Abstract: This study examined the effects of re-warm-up versus no re-warm-up before squat or bench press on mechanical, physiological, and psychophysiological responses in recreationally trained men. Twenty-two participants (23 ± 3 years) completed four randomized sessions involving different re-warm-up and exercise sequences. Measurements included heart rate, blood lactate, tympanic temperature, and perceived exertion. Key performance metrics such as mean propulsive velocity, peak velocity, power, velocity loss, and effort index were analyzed. Findings revealed that re-warming up before squat (W+BP+RW+SQ) significantly enhanced propulsive velocity and power compared to no re-warm-up (W+BP+SQ) (p≤0.05; d=0.45-0.62). However, re-warming up before the bench press (W+SQ+RW+BP) did not improve mechanical performance compared to the standard sequence (W+SQ+BP) (p>0.05; d=0.10-0.38). Notably, velocity loss and effort index were higher in the third bench press set under the W+SQ+BP condition (p≤0.05; d=0.53-0.60). No significant differences in physiological or psychophysiological responses were found between conditions. Overall, re-warm-up effectively improved squat mechanical performance when performed after the bench press but had minimal impact on the bench press when performed after squats. These findings suggest that re-warming up before lower-body exercises may enhance mechanical performance, while its benefits may be less pronounced for upper-body exercises.

Abstract: This study aims to analyze the importance of sustainable strategies in promoting tourism in Kosovo, treating it as a key factor for economic development and the preservation of natural and cultural heritage. One of the most effective ways to improve competitiveness in the tourism sector is the creation of thematic packages, which highlight local resources while diversifying the tourism offer. Following the promotion by the World Tourism Organization (WTO) 2002, [1] of sustainable tourism indicators since the 1990s, this study treats these indicators as essential tools for policy development, planning, and destination management. To conduct this study, various research methods were used, including statistical analysis of tourist flows and a correlation test to assess the relationships between key factors in the tourism industry. This paper aims to provide recommendations for sustainable tourism promotion policies that support local economic development, preserve Kosovo’s cultural and natural values, and position it as a competitive destination in the region.

Abstract: Tourism has proven to be highly vulnerable to external disruptions, particularly in communities with low levels of tourism development. In this context, the study examines residents' attitudes towards tourism during the Covid-19 pandemic and assesses the impact of public and private initiatives in the Cajas Massif Biosphere Area (CMBA), located in southern Ecuador. Employing a mixed-methods approach, 825 surveys were conducted alongside 25 interviews with key sector stakeholders. The objective was to determine whether these attitudes reflect genuine resilience or merely a survival strategy in response to the crisis. The findings indicate that, despite some collective efforts and mitigation plans, the primary focus remained on short-term income preservation, while government policies prioritised tourism promotion over addressing structural needs, ultimately proving inadequate for tourism recovery. This scenario placed the burden of adaptation on residents, with expressions of solidarity that, however, diminished as the crisis subsided. The study concludes that reactive measures may be mistaken for genuine resilience, highlighting the need for comprehensive policies and more equitable stakeholder participation to strengthen social cohesion and ensure the viability of tourism in the face of future crises.

Abstract:

This study examines the relationship between perceived authenticity, green consumerism, and behavioral intention within the context of heritage restaurants in Hail, Saudi Arabia. By integrating Cognitive Appraisal Theory (CAT) and the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) framework, the research explores how authenticity perceptions influence both cultural and gastronomic experiences and contribute to sustainable consumption behavior. The study also investigates the moderating role of consumer knowledge in enhancing green consumerism and its subsequent impact on behavioral intention to dine at heritage restaurants. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study first conducted content analysis on online reviews to identify key attributes that shape authenticity perceptions. Subsequently, a structural equation modeling (SEM) approach was applied to survey data collected from 417 patrons of heritage restaurants in Hail. The findings confirm that perceived authenticity significantly enhances consumers' cultural and gastronomic experiences, which in turn fosters green consumerism and strengthens behavioral intention to visit authentic restaurants. Furthermore, green consumerism acts as a key mediator between authenticity, cultural experiences, and purchase intention. Consumer knowledge further moderates this relationship, amplifying the positive effect of green consumerism on behavioral intention. The study contributes to the growing literature on sustainable gastronomy tourism by demonstrating the crucial interplay between authenticity, sustainability, and consumer knowledge in the heritage restaurant sector. It also offers practical recommendations for restaurant managers, policymakers, and tourism marketers to enhance the authentic dining experience while promoting environmentally responsible behavior. By fostering awareness of cultural and environmental values, heritage restaurants can play a pivotal role in advancing sustainable tourism development in Hail and beyond.

Abstract: The main objective of this study was to analyze the physical fitness parameters in young paddle tennis players. The sample consisted of 18 players (10 boys and 8 girls) aged between 12- and 16-years old belonging to the Technification program for minors of the Valencian Padel Federation. The players completed a test battery that consisted of different tests: CMJ jump, internal and external shoulder rotator strength, manual dynamometry, functional upper body strength (forehand throw, backhand throw, bilateral overhead throw. and serve throw), smash speed, 5x10m agility test and tapas test. Data analysis was carried out with SPSS software for Windows. The results showed that the boys obtained significantly higher values in the tests of dynamometry, speed, agility (tapas test) and throws (forehand, backhand, serve and over the head) and the girls obtained significantly higher values in the test of shoulder external rotation (non-dominant). At the same time, the force variables were significantly and positively related to each other. The CMJ values are also significantly and positively correlated with the variables of shoulder rotation, sprint speed, and medicine ball throws. Regarding agility, significant and positive correlations were found in the tapas test. However, the 5x10m test showed negative and significant correlations with some variables. It has been observed that the results obtained coincide with the results found in other studies carried out with players of the same age in other sports, such as tennis and soccer.

Abstract: Background: Throughout human history, stigma has persistently affected individuals with different conditions (e.g. epilepsy, mental disorders, and physical or cognitive disabilities). Specifically, visually impairments restrict environmental perception and psychomotor skills, often leading to sedentary behavior, which adversely affect physical and mental health. This paper describes the general lines and the first results of the Erasmus+ “ABall4All NPE unified” social transfer project, funded by the European Union and developed in Greece, Turkey and Spain between 2023 and 2024. Objectives: To study whether the design and implementation of inclusive sports activities for children with visual impairments produces an enigmatizing impact and a change in attitudes in par-ticipating children without visual impairments. Methods: It was developed through inclusive activities in schools and sports clubs, using football as a sport that brings together children and young people with and without visual impairments, families and educational centers. Zarit Burden Inventory and Questionnaire of Eudaimonic Well-being were used for family members with visually impaired children. In addition, an ad hoc questionnaire was used to assess the volunteers and mentors’ satisfaction with the realization of the events. Results: both volunteers and mentors showed high rates of satisfaction with the training received and the events held. Caregivers showed moderate perceived well-being. Regarding family burden, age was a significant predictor variable in the perceived burden with an explanatory capacity of 36% of the variance. Conclusions: These findings have implications for interventions aimed at reducing caregiver burden.

Abstract: Seasonality, one of the most outstanding characteristics of tourism, is recognized as a significant challenge for regional tourism, impacting the local economies and limiting sustainable development. Among the strategies that literature suggests in order to alleviate its negative effects is the organization of events. In particular, the holding of sport events has gained recognition as an essential element for all-year round tourism development. However, a deeper understanding of how tourism practitioners (who are those that face the personal and financial difficulties of sea-sonality) perceive the potential of sport events to smooth its challenges has not yet been explored enough. This study aims to fill this gap by examining tourism practitioners’ views on the role of sport events, particularly running ones, in mitigating tourism seasonality. In-depth qualitative interviews were conducted with tourism practitioners from selected regions of Greece who, as active stakeholders, shared their perspectives in the development of regional tourism through the year round. The data gathered from these interviews was analyzed using thematic analysis. The results indicate that most of the respondents recognize seasonality as a significant challenge and they share a common concern regarding its adverse effects on both regional tourism and on their local businesses. Themes of survival and sustainability emerged consistently, emphasizing the need of implementing various initiatives, apart from sport events, to mitigate its effects. This study contributes to the broader discussion on seasonality, focusing on its economic and social impli-cations, particularly from the perspective of tourism professionals. It also provides practical recommendations for destination managers on utilizing sport events as a tool for promoting tourism during off-season periods. Finally, the findings highlight the need for localized and collaborative initiatives to address seasonality issues and support sustainable development.

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of rural tourism on rural transformation in China, using Liujiafan in Hefei as a case study. Based on system theory, it explores the mechanisms of rural transformation and restructuration driven by tourism under the dual influence of endogenous and exogenous systems. Key findings include: (1) The tourism-driven rural transformation process exhibits distinct phased and holistic characteristics. (2) The core of this transformation is the re-creation of rural value through the interaction of "human-land-industry," supported by three major rural communities. (3) The transformation is a dynamic and cyclical process. (4) Both tourism-driven restructuring and natural evolution begin with economic restructuration but differ in trajectory and speed. This study provides actionable insights for policymakers to leverage tourism in rural revitalization strategies, emphasizing infrastructure development and community engagement.

Abstract: This study presents the development of the Comprehensive Index for Beaches (CIB), a holistic tool designed to address the limitations of traditional beach monitoring systems by integrating social and ecological dimensions within a socio-ecological systems (SES) framework. While existing certification schemes predominantly emphasize physical parameters such as water quality and sand cleanliness, they often overlook critical social factors like safety perceptions, overcrowding, and user behavior. This oversight is significant because these social factors play a vital role in shaping visitor satisfaction, supporting community well-being, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the destination. The CIB addresses this gap, offering a multidimensional approach that includes environmental, infrastructural, social, and safety-related dimensions. Through a multi-stage methodology, the index was developed and validated using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) with data from over 600 beach visitors across key coastal destinations. Results indicate the robustness of the CIB in capturing both natural and social components, underscoring its theoretical alignment with SES principles and its practical potential to enhance beach management. By prioritizing user perceptions and behaviors alongside ecological parameters, the CIB provides an affordable and adaptable alternative to traditional schemes, fostering improved safety, user satisfaction, and sustainability in diverse beach contexts.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to systematically review the existing literature on padel among youth players (under 18). After searching through PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, 16 articles were analyzed, covering teaching methodologies, psychological factors, physiological demands, physical characteristics, and game parameters. Studies on teaching methodologies highlighted effective approaches for enhancing player learning, such as modifying court size (from 20x10 to 10x6 meters) and using lower pressure balls. Psychological factors showed higher levels of self-confidence and lower cognitive and somatic anxiety, with better values observed in younger players. Understanding physiological demands and physical characteristics based on sex (e.g., maximum oxygen consumption in U14 boys: 47.21±4.49 vs girls: 41.29±4.35 mL/kg/min) and age (e.g., squat jump power in girls; U14: 1565±277 vs U16: 1724±246) helps tailor training sessions to meet these needs, enhancing players' physical condition. Gameplay parameters revealed competition characteristics such as temporal parameters (7-9 seconds for lower-level players and 9-12 seconds for national category), number of strokes (from 4 at initiation level to 6-9 at regional and national levels), and specific technical actions (forehand and backhand for initiation level, volleys for advanced level, and bandeja to finish points). In conclusion, this review offers insights for developing new research and helps coaches plan training sessions by using effective teaching methods and adapting training to the specific physical, physiological, psychological, and game parameters of youth players, optimizing performance by considering age and sex differences.

Abstract: This study suggests that second homes self-building by Portuguese emigrants in places of origin may encourage the return and tourism businesses development in rural areas in Portugal. These second homes resulted from the great wave of emigration that occurred between mid-1950s and mid-1970s and the connection of emigrants to its roots. Since those territories are socially depressed, with only populations of up to 2000 inhabitants, tourism can be a driving force for economic activity thanks to its cross-cutting economic and social dimensions and the high ratio of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises operating directly or indirectly along the tourism value chain”. The owner-builders of second homes still have preserved the rural organization of the houses and most of them also have other cultivated lands scattered through the village that are maintained when in Portugal for holidays. Therefore, 5,157 Portuguese emigrants were surveyed through the application of a questionnaire to assess the impact of their return on tourism development. Results show that the new generation of Portuguese emigrants (of the working age) consider second homes of the owner-builders their cultural legacy (from family) and can encourage them to return and rent accommodation units in there (if with financial benefits).

Abstract: This paper explores the intersection of tourism and environmental theories, highlighting how sustainability serves as a critical bridge between the two disciplines. Tourism theories such as Butler’s Tourism Area Life Cycle (TALC) and the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) provide insights into destination development and tourist behavior, but often lack an ecological perspective. The environmental framework, including Ecological Modernization Theory (EMT) and Common-Pool Resource (CPR) Theory, emphasizes sustainable resource management and the interconnectedness of human activities and natural systems. This paper examines common concepts such as carrying capacity, sustainable development and behavioral insights, while also identifying tensions between economic growth and environmental preservation. Case studies from Costa Rica, Hawaii and Thailand illustrate practical applications of these theories in real-world settings, revealing how tourism can be both a threat and a tool for conservation. My paper concludes that integrating environmental impact assessment (EIA) and community-based tourism (CBT) models into tourism planning, can lead to better long-term resource management. It recommends the adoption of stricter regulations on tourism development in fragile ecosystems, implementation of eco-certifications, and promotion of locally governed tourism initiatives. These strategies will ensure the sustainability of both tourism activities and the ecosystems on which they depend.

Abstract: The research on the influencing factors of recreational fishery is an important reference index for local decision-makers, and its actual feedback lacks field consideration. By deeply analyzing the intrinsic relationship between the current situation of recreational fisheries and the needs of tourists, we can accurately understand the needs and preferences of tourists and obtain real quality feedback on products or services. Focusing on the recreational fishery in Xiangshan County, this study used Exploratory Factor Analysis to evaluate and analyze the sustainable impact factors of five recreational fisheries, including resources, infrastructure, service quality, fishing culture and recreational fishery activities, by constructing the framework of "environment + industry + culture", and found that infrastructure and natural environment had the greatest impact. Based on this, the construction of demonstration areas, reasonable planning of infrastructure, the development of fishery cultural activities, the importance of safety production and other countermeasures and suggestions, emphasizing the development of characteristic products, the improvement of service quality, the strengthening of ecological protection and resource management, so as to achieve the sustainable development of recreational fishery in Xiangshan County, and promote the upgrading of fishery industry and the inheritance of fishery culture.

Abstract: Training drills are fundamental to the development of athletes across various sports disciplines, including basketball. This review examines the multifaceted factors influencing both the external and internal workload of drills during training sessions. Factors such as the type of drills utilized, space constraints, the number of players involved, adjustments to game rules, work-to-rest ratios, modifications to roles or tactical scenarios, the level of coach involvement, and the type of opposition all significantly impact drill workload. A comprehensive understanding of these factors can help coaches and athletes optimize training regimens to achieve desired performance outcomes while minimizing the risk of overtraining or injury. By synthesizing current research, this review provides valuable insights into the complex interplay of factors shaping drill workload in basketball training sessions.

Abstract:

In the context of the rapid advancement of global digitalization, traditional cultural industries are facing substantial transformations and challenges. This paper explores the digital transformation of the Shaolin cultural industry, analyzing its opportunities and challenges in achieving sustainable development. As a significant component of traditional Chinese culture, Shaolin culture embodies profound historical and cultural values; however, the path to transmission and innovation is not smooth in the modernization process. Employing grounded theory methodology combined with NVivo qualitative analysis and SWOT analysis, the study thoroughly examines the key issues faced by the Shaolin cultural industry during its digitalization process and potential solutions. The findings indicate that digitalization not only serves as an essential avenue for the transformation of the Shaolin cultural industry in terms of cultural transmission and innovation but also acts as a powerful driver for local economic and social development, providing theoretical support for the sustainable development of Shaolin culture.

Abstract: This paper examines the role of digital economy tools, including big data, mobile applications, e-commerce, and sharing economy platforms, in the sustainable development of tourism sector. The focus is on studying how the digital economy tools can contribute to more efficient and sustainable tourism services, to the service quality improvement, to reducing the negative environmental impact, and thus increase the availability of tourism resources in local destinations. On the example of successful use of digital technologies in Russian regions, the paper discusses the introduction of online platforms for booking services, the use of mobile applications for navigation and obtaining information about tourist sites, as well as the use of digital tools for predicting consumer preferences. Systematic approach to the analysis of tourism services digitalization, based on a set of technical and functional-digital indicators, allowed us to evaluate the impact of the digitalization level on the local destination sustainable development in the transition economy conditions. The proposed methodology for assessing and applying tourism services digitalization tools in Russian regions takes in account the transition economy specifics, and aims to promote more sustainable practices. The study will add to the existing literature by defining both technical and functional criteria for the implementation of digital technologies as tools for new business models creation in tourism, and development of tourism services digitalization model, based on assessment of regional digitalization level, to ensure the movement towards achieving sustainable development goals in local destinations.