Proceedings

2 pages, 108 KB

Open AccessAbstract

Prions as Neglected Infectious Agents: A Review on Atypical Transmission Routes, Environmental Resilience, and Epidemiological Implications for Global Health

by Caio C. Carvalho and Maria C. E. S. Barros

Proceedings 2026, 137(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026137002 (registering DOI) - 14 Feb 2026

Abstract

Introduction: Prions are unique protein-based infectious agents responsible for the class of diseases known as Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies (TSEs), which are universally fatal [...] Full article

2 pages, 108 KB

Open AccessAbstract

Loss to Follow-Up Among Patients Living with HIV in Selected Public Clinics Under the DIMAMO Surveillance Area in Capricorn District of Limpopo Province, South Africa

by Tsakani M. Maluleke

Proceedings 2025, 130(1), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025130050 - 12 Feb 2026

Abstract

Background: Loss to follow-up (LTFU) has been reported as a recurrent challenge affecting the success of antiretroviral treatment among HIV-infected patients in low- and middle-income countries [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of Faculty of Health Sciences: 8th Annual Research Day)

1 pages, 122 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by Andrew Adamatzky

Proceedings 2025, 132(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025132007 - 12 Feb 2026

Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Proceedings, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Online Conference on Biomimetics)

2 pages, 133 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Preface: Proceedings of the 2nd International Online Conference on Biomimetics (IOCB 2025)

by Andrew Adamatzky

Proceedings 2025, 132(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025132006 - 12 Feb 2026

Abstract

This conference volume presents the proceedings of the 2nd International Online Conference on Biomimetics (IOCB 2025), held online from 16 to 18 September 2025 [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Online Conference on Biomimetics)

5 pages, 175 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Developing Students’ Competences Through Alternative Learning Methods: Results of Experimental Online Classes Addressing AUA Students

by Ioanna Skaltsa, Yannis Perifanos and Alex Koutsouris

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134063 - 2 Feb 2026

Abstract

This study aimed to assess how alternative teaching methods support the development of key competences among agronomy students. Online sessions applying Traditional Lecturing, Experiential, and Investigative Learning were conducted. Results show that Experiential Learning had the most positive impact on cognitive, social, and [...] Read more.

This study aimed to assess how alternative teaching methods support the development of key competences among agronomy students. Online sessions applying Traditional Lecturing, Experiential, and Investigative Learning were conducted. Results show that Experiential Learning had the most positive impact on cognitive, social, and meta-cognitive skills. Students preferred interactive approaches. Future teaching should further integrate participatory methods into agronomic curricula. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

8 pages, 192 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Regional Disparities in Public Perceptions of Decarbonization and Bioeconomy Acceptance: Evidence from a Structurally Transitioning Rural Area

by Christina-Ioanna Papadopoulou, Efstratios Loizou and Fotios Chatzitheodoridis

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134062 - 2 Feb 2026

Abstract

This study explores spatial disparities in public perceptions of decarbonization and acceptance of the bioeconomy in a transitioning region. A structured survey of 465 residents across Western Macedonia assessed views on environmental, economic, and institutional aspects using Likert-scale items. Statistical analyses, including K-means [...] Read more.

This study explores spatial disparities in public perceptions of decarbonization and acceptance of the bioeconomy in a transitioning region. A structured survey of 465 residents across Western Macedonia assessed views on environmental, economic, and institutional aspects using Likert-scale items. Statistical analyses, including K-means clustering, revealed significant variation in perceptions, with institutional support, visible investment, enterprise activity, and public sentiment emerging as key predictors of acceptance. Institutional engagement showed the strongest influence. Findings underscore the uneven experience of transition across sub-regions and highlight the need for inclusive, place-sensitive policies to foster trust, enhance communication, and ensure a truly just transition process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

7 pages, 292 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Parental and Peer Influences on Food Neophobia Among Young Adults: A Quantitative Analysis of Consumption Trends

by Panagiota Thanasoula, Elena Raptou, Konstantinos Galanopoulos and Konstantinos Polymeros

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134061 - 2 Feb 2026

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate how and to what extend parental and peer influences relate to food neophobia in young adults. Using a cross-sectional online survey of 320 participants aged 18–25, we applied multiple statistical analyses. Parental dietary openness showed a negative association [...] Read more.

This study aimed to investigate how and to what extend parental and peer influences relate to food neophobia in young adults. Using a cross-sectional online survey of 320 participants aged 18–25, we applied multiple statistical analyses. Parental dietary openness showed a negative association with neophobia, while peer social engagement exhibited even stronger negative association. Segmentation identified low, moderate, and high neophobia profiles with distinct responsiveness to exposure opportunities and safety information. Findings indicate that peer-led settings, coupled with concise information on safety and provenance, can reduce neophobic barriers. Targeted strategies aligned to segment profiles may offer a pathway to broaden dietary variety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

5 pages, 154 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Agritourism’s Multidimensional Impact on Local Development Incorporating Innovation and Resilience Factors: Evidence from Corfu Island, Greece

by Sofia Karampela, Giannis Papathanasiou and Thanasis Kizos

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134060 - 2 Feb 2026

Abstract

Agritourism, a tourism activity that is related to agriculture, has become more popular and gained importance as a strategy for fostering local development. In this article, we adopt a methodological framework that operationalizes the multidimensional impacts of agritourism on local development, adding issues [...] Read more.

Agritourism, a tourism activity that is related to agriculture, has become more popular and gained importance as a strategy for fostering local development. In this article, we adopt a methodological framework that operationalizes the multidimensional impacts of agritourism on local development, adding issues of innovation as a critical success factor. Primary data were collected through in-depth interviews with the use of semi-structured questionnaires to agritourism units from a case study on Corfu Island, located in the Ionian Sea of Greece. The results reveal that the resilience of the island from tourism activity and the geographic characteristics related to its accessibility also affect agritourism, providing agritourism entrepreneurs a platform to access global markets and embrace sustainable practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

9 pages, 2411 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Plant Gall as Innovation Booster: A Conceptual Framework

by Ille C. Gebeshuber

Proceedings 2025, 132(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025132005 - 30 Jan 2026

Abstract

Biomimetics, the field of learning from Nature for applications in science, engineering and the arts, offers pathways toward sustainable innovation and integrative education. This contribution presents a conceptual framework that explores plant galls as an inspiration for biomimetic thinking, speculative design, and STEAM-based [...] Read more.

Biomimetics, the field of learning from Nature for applications in science, engineering and the arts, offers pathways toward sustainable innovation and integrative education. This contribution presents a conceptual framework that explores plant galls as an inspiration for biomimetic thinking, speculative design, and STEAM-based education. Plant galls are complex structures induced by insects, bacteria, fungi, or other organisms through biochemical signaling that reprograms local plant development. While gall formation is widely understood as a parasitic process that primarily benefits the inducing organism, galls nonetheless represent extreme and highly localized instances of developmental plasticity, information transfer, and morphological novelty. Building on these observations, this paper introduces the speculative Gall-Accelerated Innovation (GAI) framework, which asks whether gall induction can be interpreted, at a conceptual level, as a form of developmental probing that exposes plants to atypical structural and biochemical configurations. Rather than proposing a demonstrated evolutionary mechanism, the framework serves as a thought experiment that bridges gall biology, biomimetics, and artistic research. Through observational examples, interdisciplinary dialogue, and educational visualization, the work invites reflection on how interactions across species and disciplines can stimulate new ways of thinking about programmable living materials, creativity, and learning from Nature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 2nd International Online Conference on Biomimetics)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

6 pages, 565 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Bibliometric Insights into Forest Bioeconomy and Business Models in Forest Management

by Aggelos Symeonidis, Chrysovalantis Malesios, Spyridon Galatsidas, Garyfallos Arabatzis and Eleni Zafeiriou

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134059 - 27 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study investigates forest bioeconomy business models through a bibliometric analysis of more than 100 peer-reviewed articles retrieved primarily from the Scopus database. The purpose of the analysis was to identify prevailing research trends, collaborative structures, and thematic priorities that define this emerging [...] Read more.

This study investigates forest bioeconomy business models through a bibliometric analysis of more than 100 peer-reviewed articles retrieved primarily from the Scopus database. The purpose of the analysis was to identify prevailing research trends, collaborative structures, and thematic priorities that define this emerging field. A mixed-method approach was employed, integrating qualitative thematic coding with quantitative network analysis of co-authorship and keyword co-occurrence. The findings demonstrate a strong regional concentration of research activity in Northern and Central Europe, particularly in countries such as Finland, Germany, and Sweden, where forest-based bioeconomy strategies are strongly linked to national and EU policy frameworks. Core thematic clusters emphasize sustainability, circular economy principles, and participatory governance, reflecting the integrative and systemic orientation of current scholarship. The co-authorship networks highlight the role of a small but influential group of scholars and institutions in shaping knowledge production and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. To advance the global relevance of the forest bioeconomy, the study recommends expanding geographic coverage to underrepresented regions, enhancing cross-disciplinary partnerships, and aligning research more closely with international policy agendas to support inclusive, circular, and sustainable forest-based transitions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

2 pages, 120 KB

Open AccessAbstract

Mental Health Intervention Program to Support Children with Epilepsy in Selected Public Hospitals in Limpopo Province, South Africa

by Khomotso Jeanette Mola, Mamare Adelaide Bopape, Tebogo Maria Mothiba and Miriam Moagi

Proceedings 2025, 130(1), 49; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2025130049 - 27 Jan 2026

Abstract

Background: Epilepsy, a common neurological disorder in childhood, has been linked to an increased risk of developing mental disorders [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of Faculty of Health Sciences: 8th Annual Research Day)

8 pages, 178 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

FIWARE-Powered Smart Farming: Integrating Sensor Networks for Sustainable Soil Management

by Christos Hitiris, Cleopatra Gkola, Dimitrios J. Vergados, Vasiliki Karamerou and Angelos Michalas

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134058 - 21 Jan 2026

Abstract

Digital transformation in agriculture addresses key challenges such as climate change, water shortages, and sustainable production. Precision agriculture technologies rely on the Internet of Things (IoT) sensor networks, analytics, and automated systems to manage resources efficiently and increase productivity. Fragmented infrastructures and vendor-specific [...] Read more.

Digital transformation in agriculture addresses key challenges such as climate change, water shortages, and sustainable production. Precision agriculture technologies rely on the Internet of Things (IoT) sensor networks, analytics, and automated systems to manage resources efficiently and increase productivity. Fragmented infrastructures and vendor-specific platforms lead to unintegrated data silos that obstruct regional solutions. This paper will emphasize FIWARE, an open-source, standard-based platform that can be integrated with existing agricultural sensors in municipalities or regions. FIWARE takes all these disparate sensors (soil probes, weather stations, and irrigation meters) and integrates them into a single real-time information system, providing a set of decision support tools to the user to facilitate adaptive irrigation. Case studies show the benefits of FIWARE, including water savings, reduced runoff, better decision-making, and improved climate resilience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

6 pages, 176 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Sustainable Flour Innovation: Enhancing Product Safety and Market Position Through Low-Asparagine Wheat

by Panagiotis Kafetzopoulos, Elpida Samara, Dimitrios Kafetzopoulos and Pavlos Kilintzis

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134057 - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

Acrylamide, classified as a human carcinogen, forms mainly through the Maillard reaction between free asparagine and reducing sugars during baking. Wheat-based products are a major dietary source, and sulphur deficiency in soils can drastically increase asparagine levels in grain. This study evaluated a [...] Read more.

Acrylamide, classified as a human carcinogen, forms mainly through the Maillard reaction between free asparagine and reducing sugars during baking. Wheat-based products are a major dietary source, and sulphur deficiency in soils can drastically increase asparagine levels in grain. This study evaluated a sustainable strategy to reduce acrylamide formation by cultivating wheat under sulphur fertilization across four sites in Northern Greece. Grain was milled and processed into bread, biscuits, and breadsticks, which were analysed for physicochemical and sensory attributes. Results showed 31–70% reductions in asparagine, while maintaining product quality and demonstrating strong market potential for safer bakery products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

10 pages, 499 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Economic Dimension of Digitisation in Olive Cultivation: The Case of Addressing Verticillium Wilt Using New Technologies

by Konstantinos Vasilatos and Angelos Liontakis

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134056 - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study examines the economic feasibility of adopting digital technologies for the early detection of Verticillium wilt in olive cultivation in Northern Evia, Greece. A Net Present Value (NPV) framework with different scenarios was employed to derive three adoption thresholds: the minimum effectiveness [...] Read more.

This study examines the economic feasibility of adopting digital technologies for the early detection of Verticillium wilt in olive cultivation in Northern Evia, Greece. A Net Present Value (NPV) framework with different scenarios was employed to derive three adoption thresholds: the minimum effectiveness required to break even, the maximum tolerable cost at a target effectiveness, and the break-even olive-oil price. The results reveal substantial variability across scenarios, reflecting uncertainty in both disease dynamics and market conditions. Key determinants of feasibility include detection effectiveness, adoption costs, olive oil prices, and disease incidence. Larger holdings consistently face more favourable thresholds due to economies of scale, while smaller farms remain constrained unless collective actions or policy support reduces costs. The preliminary evidence indicates that early detection technologies can strengthen the resilience of olive farms, especially in high-incidence areas, though feasibility remains highly sensitive to costs, prices, and pathogen pressure. Finally, the findings underscore the need for targeted policy interventions to facilitate broader adoption. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

4 pages, 151 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Gastronomic Tourism and Festivals: Perceptions of Corfu Residents

by Angeliki Kalampaliki and Sofia Karampela

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134055 - 20 Jan 2026

Abstract

The subject of this study is gastronomic tourism as a broader concept, specifically focusing on gastronomic festivals and events centered around food, with a focus on the study area, Corfu island. Using a combination of quantitative research and open-ended questions, a questionnaire was [...] Read more.

The subject of this study is gastronomic tourism as a broader concept, specifically focusing on gastronomic festivals and events centered around food, with a focus on the study area, Corfu island. Using a combination of quantitative research and open-ended questions, a questionnaire was developed targeting the permanent residents of the island. The questionnaire was completed by 89 individuals who provided their personal opinions on the gastronomic festivals in the study area and offered ideas for the future planning of similar events. Based on the findings of this research, it is deemed beneficial to implement and promote gastronomic festivals that consider the needs of gastronomic tourists/visitors and local residents. Further research is recommended to identify strategic plans to assist local communities and improve event content, aiming to promote and develop gastronomic tourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

5 pages, 233 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Profiling Winegrowers’ Attitudes Towards Organic and Sustainable Viticulture in Western Macedonia

by Effrosyni Sapardani and Katerina Melfou

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134054 - 19 Jan 2026

Abstract

Globalization, climate change and the energy crisis are having a negative impact on the agricultural sector. Moreover, in Greece, producers need to invest in modernizing their farms, introducing innovations, achieve digital transformation and increase productivity. Incentives are available for green investments, thus facilitating [...] Read more.

Globalization, climate change and the energy crisis are having a negative impact on the agricultural sector. Moreover, in Greece, producers need to invest in modernizing their farms, introducing innovations, achieve digital transformation and increase productivity. Incentives are available for green investments, thus facilitating the adoption of innovations. This paper examines the attitudes and perceptions of winegrowers in Western Macedonia regarding environmental protection and organic farming. Specifically, with the help of the k-means algorithm, respondents are divided into two groups. The first group consists of producers who have a negative attitude towards environmental issues and have a lower level of education, while the second group consists of those who have a positive attitude. In the first group in particular, most respondents do not seem to have a good knowledge of environmental protection issues, believe that cross-compliance is very stringent and do not have a high level of education. This means that policy measures must be taken to adequately inform and educate farmers belonging to this group to achieve the goal of environmental protection. The results of the second group include producers with a positive attitude, who are expected to play an important role in the development of sustainable viticulture by creating conditions for a better future at an individual, regional and social level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

8 pages, 158 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Impacts of Agricultural Practices on Mountain Biodiversity

by Charisios Achillas, Thomas Varveris, Triantafyllos Bouchounas, Konstantinos Zapounidis and Dimitrios Aidonis

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134053 - 19 Jan 2026

Abstract

This paper investigates how agricultural practices impact mountain biodiversity. Within the PROMONT project this has been realized across six ADRION pilot areas. By combining species surveys, land-use mapping, and stakeholder input, PROMONT identifies how intensification, agrochemical use, and abandonment threaten ecological integrity. Findings [...] Read more.

This paper investigates how agricultural practices impact mountain biodiversity. Within the PROMONT project this has been realized across six ADRION pilot areas. By combining species surveys, land-use mapping, and stakeholder input, PROMONT identifies how intensification, agrochemical use, and abandonment threaten ecological integrity. Findings show that traditional agro-pastoral systems support biodiversity, while modern intensification leads to habitat loss and species decline. Agroecological practices, such as organic farming and landscape heterogeneity, offer viable pathways for sustainable coexistence. The study proposes a replicable assessment methodology and recommends integrating biodiversity objectives into agricultural policy, promoting knowledge transfer, and supporting conservation-friendly farming to enhance ecological resilience in mountain environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

3 pages, 150 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Alternative Tourism, a Means to Agricultural and Rural Areas’ Sustainability: Municipality of Pella Case

by Christos Poulkas and Sofia Karampela

Proceedings 2026, 134(1), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026134052 - 19 Jan 2026

Abstract

This study explores the development potential of thematic tourism in the Municipality of Pella, Northern Greece. It examines local residents’ perceptions regarding tourism as a growth strategy, evaluates current informational and promotional efforts by the local government, and assesses the public’s willingness to [...] Read more.

This study explores the development potential of thematic tourism in the Municipality of Pella, Northern Greece. It examines local residents’ perceptions regarding tourism as a growth strategy, evaluates current informational and promotional efforts by the local government, and assesses the public’s willingness to participate in tourism activities. A structured questionnaire was distributed to a representative sample of residents that was given both in person and via the internet. Quantitative analysis revealed that while respondents generally support the idea of tourism development and feel moderately informed, there is a strong perception that the municipality’s efforts to promote tourism are insufficient. Key factors influencing residents’ attitudes include age, level of education, and personal involvement with tourism. The findings suggest that thematic tourism could serve as a viable development path, provided that local authorities implement targeted education, infrastructure, and promotion strategies. This study recommends enhanced cooperation between public institutions and local stakeholders to support sustainable tourism growth. It is suggested, therefore, to increase the depth of focus given in the development of an innovative agricultural area development model that will combine traditional agriculture with agritourism and the remaining types according to each place’s capabilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 18th International Conference of the Hellenic Association of Agricultural Economists)

7 pages, 1557 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Allais–Ellsberg Convergent Markov–Network Game

by Adil Ahmad Mughal

Proceedings 2026, 135(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026135002 - 19 Jan 2026

Abstract

Behavioral deviations from subjective expected utility theory, most famously captured by the Allais paradox and the Ellsberg paradox, have inspired extensive theoretical and experimental research into risk and ambiguity preferences. While the existing analyze these paradoxes independently, little work explores how such heterogeneously [...] Read more.

Behavioral deviations from subjective expected utility theory, most famously captured by the Allais paradox and the Ellsberg paradox, have inspired extensive theoretical and experimental research into risk and ambiguity preferences. While the existing analyze these paradoxes independently, little work explores how such heterogeneously biased agents interact in networked strategic environments. Our paper fills this gap by modeling a convergent Markov–network game between Allais-type and Ellsberg-type players, each endowed with fully enriched loss matrices that reflect their distinct probabilistic and ambiguity attitudes. We define convergent priors as those inducing a spectral radius of <1 in iterated enriched matrices, ensuring iterative convergence under a matrix-based update rule. Players minimize their losses under these priors in each iteration, converging to an equilibrium where no further updates are feasible. We analyze this convergence under three learning regimes—homophily, heterophily, and type-neutral randomness—each defined via distinct neighborhood learning dynamics. To validate the equilibrium, we construct a risk-neutral measure by transforming losses into payoffs and derive a riskless rate of return representing players’ subjective indifference to risk. This applies risk-neutral pricing logic to behavioral matrices, which is novel. This framework unifies paradox-type decision makers within a networked Markovian environment (stochastic adjacency matrix), extending models of dynamic learning and providing a novel equilibrium characterization for heterogeneous, ambiguity-averse agents in structured interactions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Electronic Conference on Games (IECGA 2025))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Description

Proceedings

Vol. 135

IECGA 2025

Vol. 134

ETAGRO 2025

Vol. 133

Molecules4Life 2025

Vol. 132

IOCB 2025

Vol. 131

WSF11

Vol. 130

FHS Research Day 2025

Latest Articles

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

E-Mail Alert

News

Topics

Conferences

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI