Search Results (76)

The cross-fertilization of video games and tourism has expanded in recent years, with digital narratives increasingly shaping real-world travel behavior, yet the mechanisms linking mythological video games to pre-trip travel intention remain underexplored. Using the Chinese mythological game Black Myth: Wukong as a case, this study examines how digital myth narratives relate to overseas audiences’ perceptions of, and travel intentions towards, Chinese tourist destinations in a cross-cultural context. Based on a large corpus of YouTube comments, we integrate topic modeling, sentiment analysis, and interpretable machine learning to identify semantic cues associated with travel intention. The results indicate that multidimensional perceptions elicited by digital myth narratives are associated with a gradual evolution of destination image from cognitive to affective and then intentional. Cultural symbol perception, cross-cultural understanding, aesthetic appreciation, and emotional resonance show positive relationships with travel intention and appear as important predictors in the model. SHAP analysis further suggests a nonlinear threshold effect, whereby the probability that a comment is classified as expressing travel intention increases when overall perception reaches a relatively high level. Embedding the cognition–emotion–intention path within a digital game context, this study provides empirical evidence on destination image and behavioral intention in digital narrative settings and offers implications for cross-cultural communication and sustainable tourism planning. Full article

Declining fertility and population aging intensify labor shortages, making women’s reemployment after caregiving a policy priority. Using Taiwan as a case study, this study develops a real-time public opinion analysis system to complement delayed surveys and capture emerging barriers in labor-market reintegration. Drawing on 2022–2024 social media posts, the system applies sentiment co.mputing, clustering, and algorithmic attention to map four phases: withdrawal, intention, search, and reintegration. Findings show that younger women stress flexibility and childcare, while older returnees prioritize skill renewal and confidence rebuilding; sectoral variation supports life-cycle and clockspeed theories. Policy recommendations emphasize subsidies, training, quotas, and street-level implementation. Beyond technical contributions, the study embeds digital transformation (DT) into labor governance, showing a shift from as-is retrospective surveys to to-be-real-time monitoring. This transformation enhances policy agility, inclusiveness, and alignment with citizens’ lived experiences. The system thus functions as both a tool for rapid intervention and a DT-driven theoretical lens extending reemployment scholarship, offering transferable insights for aging societies. Full article

Background: Unplanned pregnancy is a public health issue and understanding women’s decision making aids practitioners in assessing fertility trends, contraception use, and family planning counselling. In Italy, Catholicism reinforces ‘natural reproduction’ and ‘traditional’ contraception, making it an ‘Imperfect Contraceptive Society.’ A valid and reliable measure of pregnancy intentionality is increasingly important, and the London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy (LMUP) has proved effective. Objectives and Methods: This study comprised four stages: (1) English–Italian translation and back-translation to create the Italian version [LMUP-IT]; (2) online data collection from postnatal women; (3) evaluation of its psychometric properties (targeting, reliability, construct validity via CFA and measurement invariance with a UK sample, ‘known groups’ hypothesis testing); and (4) exploratory analysis of its associations with perinatal mental health. The sample comprised 450 postnatal women (M_age = 33.6 ± 4.5). Results: The LMUP-IT was shown to be reliable (ωT = 0.81, α = 0.76), with acceptable targeting. Measurement invariance testing confirmed consistency with the UK sample in factor structure, loadings, intercepts, and errors. LMUP-IT scores significantly correlated with well-known indicators of perinatal mental health. Conclusions: Overall, the LMUP-IT is a reliable measure of pregnancy intention in Italian for postpartum women. Understanding pregnancy intention will help healthcare professionals tailor interventions to better support women’s mental health during the transition to motherhood. Full article

Fertility is considered a significant demographic concern, especially in relation to climate change. This study examines how awareness of climate change, measured by five subscales—climate-friendly behavior, knowledge, personal concern, attitude, and multiplicative action—affects fertility intentions, emphasizing the mediating role of threat perception. Data were collected through an online survey administered to a sample of 817 Palestinian citizens aged 18–49 residing in the West Bank. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was utilized for the data analysis. The results revealed that climate change awareness does not directly affect fertility intentions. However, an indirect effect of climate change awareness on fertility intentions was observed, mediated by threat perception as an intervening variable. Individuals exhibiting increased awareness of climate change and perceptions of future risks demonstrated a greater likelihood of reducing their fertility intentions compared to others. Policymakers in the Palestinian territories should prioritize enhancing public awareness regarding climate change and its associated short- and long-term threats. Therefore, incorporating climate education and associated risks into fertility health programs is essential. Full article

The assessment of the ovarian reserve is important in patients with fertility intent. The anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) serum level is a useful ovarian reserve marker. Endometriosis is a benign disease with three phenotypes: superficial peritoneal endometriosis (SUP), ovarian endometrioma (OMA), and deep endometriosis (DE). Endometriosis is linked with infertility; however, the exact impact of endometriosis and endometriosis surgery on AMH levels is less clear. This narrative review examines how different endometriosis phenotypes and related surgeries affect AMH levels as well as explores whether pre- and post-surgical AMH can predict the reproductive outcomes in women seeking pregnancy. The evidence suggests that OMA is linked to reduced AMH values and a higher AMH decline rate over time. OMA cystectomy causes further a reduction in AMH, which, however, tends to recover postoperatively. Non-excisional surgery for OMA spares the ovarian parenchyma; however, an at least temporary decline in AMH is observed. The effect is likely smaller than that of cystectomy. Non-thermal methods of hemostasis following cystectomy are likely superior in terms of AMH. The AMH levels before OMA cystectomy appear to be positively correlated with the postoperative probability of pregnancy, particularly spontaneous conception, but not livebirth rates. Preoperative AMH levels are also predictive of the risk of diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). Similarly, postoperative AMH levels and the rate of AMH decline at 1 year after OMA cystectomy appear to be predictive of fertility outcomes. SUP likely has little (if any) impact on AMH levels. DE reduces AMH levels, and a further reduction following surgery is anticipated. However, a reduction in AMH values should not be interpreted as a decline in the patient’s reproductive potential. Further research should focus on the extra-ovarian locations of endometriosis and their impact on AMH values. Full article

Background/Objectives: Currently, the type of population reproduction in China has changed to “low birth, low death, low growth”. Additionally, as the number of single people has increased and the number of women of childbearing age has decreased, the growth of the total population was bound to show a negative trend. Therefore, this study aimed to understand what factors influence fertility intentions from the perspective of single, unmarried women. Methods: We designed our own online questionnaire and collected information on fertility intentions from single, unmarried women of childbearing age (18–49 years). A total of 741 questionnaires were collected, with a valid response rate of 92.6%, and the Theory of Planned Behavior model was integrated into the questionnaire survey. Statistical analysis was performed via SPSS 24.0, and AMOS 24.0 software’s analysis of variance was used to determine whether there were differences in attitudes towards fertility intentions among respondents. Structural equation models were constructed via AMOS software for validation factor analysis and path analysis. Results: There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) in “monthly income”, “net family income”, “health status”, and “only-child status”. Structural equation modelling revealed that fertility attitudes (β₁ = 0.301, p < 0.05), subjective norms (β₂ = 0.295, p < 0.05), and perceived behavioural control (β₃ = 0.146, p < 0.05) positively influence fertility intentions. Conclusions: The fertility intentions of single, unmarried women of childbearing age in China are influenced by many factors. Therefore, society should pay more attention to the rights and interests of single, unmarried women and provide a better social environment for childbearing; in addition, it is possible to appropriately relax the fertility policy of single births to improve the low fertility rate in China. Full article

The traditional rough development method for irrigation and fertilization techniques has resulted in the waste of fertilizer and water sources and the degradation of black soil. The implementation of integrated water and fertilizer technology has the potential to address these issues. However, its success depends on farmers’ willingness to adopt it. This study aims to explore the incentives for farmers to adopt water and fertilizer integration technology through a practical investigation in China, revealing the driving mechanisms. The study constructed a technology adoption model and conducted a cross-sectional field study with farmers in Northeastern China. Financial consequences were incorporated into the integrated UTAUT-NAM to examine farmers’ acceptance. The validity and applicability of the model were evaluated through a partial least squares approach to structural equation modeling. The results showed that personal norms and financial consequences were the most critical factors influencing farmers’ willingness to adopt water–fertilizer integration technology. In addition, expected performance, facilitating conditions, and effort required were also significant predictors. The study further highlighted the pivotal role of awareness of consequences and responsibility in influencing farmers’ intentions to adopt the new technology, while social influence had no significant impact. The findings demonstrated that the established research model elucidated 69.1% of the observed variation in farmers’ intention to adopt water–fertilizer integration technology. The results of this study provide theoretical support for promoting water–fertilizer integration technology and inform practical strategies for its implementation. The study offers actionable insights for policymakers, agricultural advisors, and technology developers to promote resource-efficient irrigation and fertilization methods. Full article

Phosphodiesterases, particularly the type 5 isoform (PDE5), have gained recognition as pivotal regulators of male reproductive physiology, exerting significant influence on testicular function, sperm maturation, and overall fertility potential. Over the past several decades, investigations have expanded beyond the original therapeutic intent of PDE5 inhibitors for erectile dysfunction, exploring their broader reproductive implications. This narrative review integrates current evidence from in vitro studies, animal models, and clinical research to clarify the roles of PDEs in effecting the male reproductive tract, with an emphasis on the mechanistic pathways underlying cyclic nucleotide signaling, the cellular specificity of PDE isoform expression, and the effects of PDE5 inhibitors on Leydig and Sertoli cell functions. Although certain findings suggest potential improvements in sperm motility, semen parameters, and a more favorable biochemical milieu for spermatogenesis, inconsistencies in study design, limited sample sizes, and inadequate long-term data temper definitive conclusions. Addressing these gaps through standardized protocols, larger and more diverse patient cohorts, and explorations of mechanistic biomarkers could pave the way for incorporating PDE5 inhibitors into evidence-based fertility treatment strategies. In the future, such targeted approaches may inform individualized regimens, optimize male reproductive outcomes, and refine the clinical application of PDE5 inhibitors as part of comprehensive male fertility management. Full article

Land degradation issues and declining fertility are driving the need for agroecological practices. This research analysed the determinants of acceptance and actual use of five main agroecological practices (contour farming techniques, organic fertiliser, crop association, improved seeds and integrated crop management practices) by farmers in Mali. The extended Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) was used to develop the conceptual model. Data were collected from 505 randomly selected farming households in the cotton and cereal production zones in Mali. Partial Least Square–Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to estimate technology acceptance and use. The findings revealed that behavioural intention is significantly and positively influenced by the expected performance and social influence. The expected effort is a key influential factor of the behavioural intention to adopt organic fertiliser. Experience has a mediating effect on the relationship between social influence and behavioural intention to adopt improved seeds adapted to the agroecological conditions. The actual use behaviour is directly and positively affected by the behavioural intention, facilitating conditions and expected net benefit. These findings align with the UTAUT model, have useful implications for both farmers and decision-makers and offer directions for technical approaches to agroecological practices’ development. Full article

To address low fertility and enhance urban inclusiveness and sustainability, this study conducted a questionnaire survey in 35 cities in China, systematically collected data on housing inclusiveness and fertility intentions, and used the SEM to analyze the causal relationship between housing costs burden, fertility intentions, and perceived need for social housing. The results show that the housing cost burden has a statistically significant positive (+) effect on the perceived need for social housing and a statistically significant negative (−) effect on fertility intentions, and that fertility intentions have a positive (+) effect on the perceived need for social housing. Notably, the direct effect of the housing cost burden on the perceived need for social housing (0.15) is greater than the total effect of the housing cost burden on the perceived need for social housing mediated by fertility intentions (0.14). This suggests that even when housing costs are high, families who still plan to have children exhibit a greater demand for social housing. Therefore, social housing can positively impact fertility intentions and help reduce housing cost pressures on families. Additionally, actively promoting inclusive housing development will have a significant impact on the sustainable growth of the urban population and economy, making meaningful contributions. Full article

(1) Background/objectives: This study aims to systematically review and conduct a meta-analysis of factors influencing fertility intentions among South Koreans. This research is crucial given South Korea’s lowest-in-the-world fertility rate of 0.72 in 2023, necessitating rapid and effective policies to address this demographic challenge; (2) Methods: Articles published from database inception through April 2024 were collected from five Korean databases using keywords based on the PEO (Population, Exposure, Outcome) framework. Following PRISMA guidelines, 35 articles were selected. The effect sizes and network of predictors related to fertility intention were analyzed using the R statistical package; (3) Results: A meta-analysis of the effect sizes of factors influencing fertility intentions revealed that the husband’s involvement in parenting (ESr = 0.131), women’s education level (ESr = 0.127), socioeconomic status (ESr = 0.116), and the expected gender of the child (ESr = 0.068) showed statistically significant positive effects. Conversely, women’s age (ESr = −0.175), parental stress (ESr = −0.146), and household labor ratio (ESr = −0.117) showed statistically significant negative effects. The network analysis further elucidated the complex interrelationships among these factors; (4) Conclusions: This study suggests the need for multifaceted policy approaches to address Korea’s low fertility, emphasizing promoting men’s participation in parenting, supporting women’s education and career development, reducing parenting stress, supporting work–family balance, and ensuring economic stability. These findings provide important insights for policymakers and researchers addressing the complex issue of low fertility in South Korea and may inform more effective interventions to boost fertility rates. Full article

Sugarcane is vital to Belize’s economy, significantly contributing to its Gross Domestic Product and supporting a large portion of the population. It is necessary to address the declining soil health in this nation due to excessive chemical fertilizer use, and Belize aims to promote organic fertilizers, which enhance soil quality and reduce environmental impacts. The primary purpose of this study was to investigate the determinants of adoption intentions regarding organic fertilizers among Belizean sugarcane farmers using the Extended Theory of Reasoned Action. Data were collected from 207 farmers in the Orange Walk and Corozal districts using a non-probability sampling approach via a self-administered questionnaire measuring perceived health risks, environmental concerns, attitudes, subjective norms, and adoption intentions. The results revealed that both perceived health risks and environmental concerns influenced farmers’ attitudes and subjective norms, which, in turn, affected their adoption intentions, as revealed through path analysis; socio-economic factors, years of farming experience, and ownership background partially affected adoption intentions regarding organic fertilizers, as determined via binary logistic regression analysis. The findings suggest that raising farmers’ awareness of health risks and environmental crises, as well as enhancing farmers’ knowledge and their positive attitudes towards the use of organic fertilizers, will contribute to the sustainable development of the sugarcane industry in Belize. Some interventions by policymakers are recommended to support the transition to the use of organic fertilizers in sugarcane farming. Full article

Background: Fertility is a crucial component of population maintenance and growth. A declining fertility trend has been observed over the past two decades, and it continues. The birth rate in the Republic of Croatia is continuously decreasing, which is insufficient to maintain its population. Objective: This research aimed to examine the level of fertility knowledge, factors influencing fertility knowledge, and the relationship between fertility knowledge and the decision to have a child. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a sample of mothers in five hospitals on the Adriatic coast of the Republic of Croatia, involving 1541 mothers, 18 years and older, from September 2021 to December 2023. The Cardiff Fertility Knowledge Scale (CFKS) was used for the research. The participants were divided into four groups according to age. The analysis was conducted using SPSS software (version 22.0). Descriptive statistics, chi-squared tests, t-tests, and Pearson’s correlations were used for the data analysis. Results: The average percent correct score on the CFKS was 51.8% (SD 22.6), with greater knowledge being significantly related to married status and higher education status (both p < 0.05). A total of 83% of mothers who have one child want to have more children. Fewer mothers who have two children want to have more children (42%), while only 11% of mothers who have three or more children want to have more children. There is no significant relationship between the CFKS and the importance of childbearing in the future (p = 0.12). Respondents indicated that they gained most of their knowledge from the internet (31%) and from the healthcare system (33%). Conclusions: The research results reveal a lack of fertility knowledge among participants, as well as an intention to have a child in the later stages of life. The lack of formal education on this topic leads to information gathering from friends, newspapers, television, and the internet. This study was not registered. Full article

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the childcare balancing policy and women’s fertility intention in Japanese corporations. This paper constructed two logistic regression models based on data from the 2010 Japanese Life Course Survey of Youth to analyze the correlation between childcare balancing policies and women’s fertility intentions. The binary logistic regression method was used. The results showed that women’s fertility intention is negatively associated with the childcare balancing policy in Japanese corporations. This may be because the research object already had a child or children. The results indicate that the fertility intention of women who had a child or children was lower than those without children. This paper discovered that regular employees had higher fertility intentions than non-regular staff. This paper provides policymakers with valuable insights on establishing effective childcare policies to enhance women’s fertility intentions. Full article

Seaweed polysaccharides can act as substitutes for synthetic compounds present in commercial stimulants and fertilizers used in agriculture to improve crop yields and vigor. In this study, three different polysaccharides (alginate, agar, and carrageenan) were extracted from one brown seaweed, Saccorhiza polyschides, and two red seaweeds, Gracilaria gracilis and Chondrus crispus, respectively, and applied to potted turnip greens (Brassica napus L.), with the intention to analyze their impact on plant growth, development, and metabolism. Turnip greens treated with polysaccharides, especially carrageenan of C. crispus, showed the best results in improving the crop productivity in terms of plant length and weight, number of leaves, nutrient and pigment content, and soil fertility compared with turnip greens from the negative control or those treated with a commercial leaf fertilizer. λ-carrageenan extracted from the tetrasporophyte generation of C. crispus had the highest bioactivity and positive effect on turnip greens among all treatments. λ-carrageenan has been shown to improve plant growth; increase the plant’s biomass (plant leaves: CC(T) (40.80 ± 5.11 g) compared to the positive control (15.91 ± 15.15 g)) and root system; enhance photosynthetic activity; increase the uptake of soil nutrients; and protect plants against abiotic and biotic stresses, stimulating the production of secondary metabolites and managing its defense pathways. Seaweed-extracted polysaccharides have the potential to be used in sustainable agriculture. Full article