Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Hakan Alt?npulluk Author-Name-First: Hakan Author-Name-Last: Alt?npulluk Author-Email: hakanaltinpulluk@anadolu.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Education, Anadolu University Author-Name: Yusuf Y?ld?r?m Author-Name-First: Yusuf Author-Name-Last: Y?ld?r?m Author-Email: bilgikasifi@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: MEB Title: Virtual Learning Technologies Course Achievement Test Development Study Abstract: This research was carried out to develop a multiple-choice measurement tool to measure the academic achievement of non-thesis master's degree students in ?3D Technologies?, ?Augmented Reality?, ?Virtual Reality? and ?Metaverse? subjects of Virtual Learning Technologies course by considering the achievement test development processes. For this purpose, in accordance with the achievement test development processes, the purpose of developing the test, the objectives and achievements of the course were determined and an item pool consisting of 53 items and a specification table were created. In order to ensure the content validity of the achievement test, the specification table was presented to 9 experts in the field. After the feedback from the field experts, the 25-item achievement test was made ready for the trial application after the expert comments were analyzed and the items to be corrected were rearranged and the items recommended to be removed were examined. The sample group of the trial application consisted of 27 non-thesis master's students who were studying at Anadolu University Graduate School of Graduate Education in the autumn semester of the 2024-2025 academic year and who took the Virtual Reality in Visual Communication course coded GIT 509 remotely. The 25-item achievement test was applied to the sample group online via Google Form on 09.01.2025. As a result of the trial application, the reliability coefficient (KR-20) of the achievement test was calculated as .763, the average item difficulty index was 0.64, and the average item discrimination was 0.38. Items requiring revision were rearranged in accordance with the results of item discrimination analysis. According to the results of the item distraction analysis, the items that did not undertake the task of distraction were rearranged. As a result of the research, the virtual learning technologies achievement test consisting of 25 items was developed as a valid and reliable measurement tool that can be used for distance learning non-thesis master's degree students. Length: 8 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 1-8 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=001&rid=16898 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516898 Classification-JEL: Keywords: Virtual learning technologies, Test development, Achievement test Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516898 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: ?ukasz Karol Bugowski Author-Name-First: ?ukasz Karol Author-Name-Last: Bugowski Author-Email: l.bugowski@uwb.edu.pl Author-Workplace-Name: University in Bialystok, Faculty of Economics and Finance Title: Contemporary Demographic Trends in Central Europe Abstract: Nowadays, the socio-economic development of European countries is increasingly determined not only by social or economic factors, but additionally the impact of megatrends must be taken into account, among which demographic change is one of the least contested. The intensity and wide-ranging impact of demographic change in Central Europe makes demography not only a subject of consideration for academics, but also one of the main challenges for economic practitioners, especially entrepreneurs and strategists creating economic policy.As a result, the aim of this paper is to analyse the main demographic trends in the countries located in Central Europe. Particular attention is paid to demographic processes with the greatest impact on the economy, such as changes in the age structure of the population. The increase in the proportion of people in the post-working age group at the expense of the decline in the working age population has implications not only at the macroeconomic level, but also affects the activities of individual enterprises through the ageing of the workforce and the diversity of its age structure. The response to the decline in the labour force is increasing levels of immigration, which is another important demographic trend. On the one hand, immigration poses a political challenge because of the emerging social unrest associated with it. On the other hand, in view of the demographic trend of low fertility rates, it appears that European countries are forced to accept immigrants, although the scale of this phenomenon is a product of social consensus and political decisions. As a result, it is hypothesised that the main demographic challenges in Central Europe today include an ageing population, a low fertility rate and increasing immigration pressure.The identification and analysis of contemporary demographic trends is carried out on the basis of the literature in question as well as source data from Eurostat and statistical offices of Central Europe countries. The delimitation of Central Europe in the literature is not clear. For the purposes of the analysis, Central Europe is assumed to include Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, Romania and Bulgaria. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 9-9 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=002&rid=16702 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516702 Classification-JEL: J11, J15, R10 Keywords: demography, demographic trends, Central Europe Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516702 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: SYUN YI CHANG Author-Name-First: SYUN YI Author-Name-Last: CHANG Author-Email: chang82@hcu.edu.tw Author-Workplace-Name: Hsuan Chuang University Title: A Study on the Cross-Cultural Adaptation, Social Identity, and the Three-Dimensional Index (Alienation, Negation, Marginalization) of New Immigrants in Taiwan Abstract: This study aims to explore the cross-cultural adaptation process of new immigrants after moving to Taiwan, focusing on the relationships between cross-cultural life adaptation, social identity, and the three-dimensional index (alienation, negation, marginalization). It seeks to uncover the intertwined cultural and ethnic experiences within family, workplace, and social contexts. A mixed-methods research approach is adopted, and the study is conducted over three years. By utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods, the study examines the adaptation processes and experiences of Southeast Asian immigrants who married into Taiwan. The goal is to construct a ?Dynamic Model of Cross-Cultural Adaptation? for new immigrants, providing a comprehensive understanding of their adaptation journey, social identity patterns, and the transformation process of the three-dimensional index. Ultimately, the study aims to develop an integrated policy model for the care and counseling of new immigrants.In the first year, in-depth interviews were conducted with new immigrants from diverse national and regional backgrounds. The primary objective was to explore their cross-cultural adaptation experiences and address the following three research questions: 1. Understanding the cross-cultural adaptation process of new immigrants from different nationalities. 2. Analyzing the social identity patterns of new immigrants in their cross-cultural adaptation. 3. Examining the three-dimensional index (alienation, negation, marginalization) in the cross-cultural adaptation of new immigrants. Preliminary Research Findings:Cross-Cultural Adaptation Process: The adaptation period for new immigrants in Taiwan varies depending on individual backgrounds. Generally, a complete adaptation process takes at least 5 to 10 years, or even longer. To accelerate this adaptation, the government should provide language education, employment support, and social integration opportunities to help new immigrants transition more quickly into the adjustment phase and ultimately reach the mastery phase of stable living.Social Identity Patterns: Most new immigrants in Taiwan are classified as adapters, meaning they actively adjust to the local culture while maintaining aspects of their original identity. However, some immigrants, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds in their home countries, are more willing to naturalize as Taiwanese citizens and fully embrace Taiwanese culture, thus becoming assimilators.Three-Dimensional Index (Alienation, Negation, Marginalization): Alienation: Some new immigrants are treated as household servants rather than as daughters-in-law or wives. Marginalization: Some immigrants see Taiwan as a temporary place for work and residence rather than a permanent home. Others face domestic violence but are unaware of available support channels. Mothers often struggle with understanding Chinese-language parenting materials, making childcare more challenging. Negation: The most common issue is the non-recognition of prior work experience and educational qualifications from their home countries in Taiwan. Additionally, gender-based objectification is prevalent, with some women being devalued if they are unable to bear children. Length: 2 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 10-11 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=003&rid=16710 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516710 Classification-JEL: Keywords: Dynamic Model of Cross-Cultural Adaptation; Integrated Model of Care and Counseling Policy; New Immigrants; Multiculturalism Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516710 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Sonja Cindori Author-Name-First: Sonja Author-Name-Last: Cindori Author-Email: sonja.cindori@pravo.unizg.hr Author-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Law, University of Zagreb Author-Name: Tajana Petrovi? Author-Name-First: Tajana Author-Name-Last: Petrovi? Author-Email: tajana.petrovic@porezna-uprava.hr Author-Workplace-Name: Ministry of finance, Tax administration Title: A Significant Step Toward European Union: Strengthening Montenegro's Commitment to Combating Money Laundering Abstract: Negotiations for Montenegro's accession to the European Union began in June 2012. As Montenegro strives to achieve full EU membership, it faces several challenges, particularly regarding the effectiveness of its regulatory framework for preventing money laundering and terrorist financing. The changes necessary for harmonization with the EU acquis are becoming apparent, and the results will primarily be reflected in statistics related to suspicious money laundering and terrorist financing transactions. The effectiveness of recent legislative changes will be evaluated by analyzing key provisions of current laws concerning national risk assessment, the scope of obligated entities, reporting of transactions to relevant authorities, as well as estimating their impact on the seizure and confiscation of illegally acquired assets.In 2019, the Financial Intelligence Unit of Montenegro underwent a significant organizational restructuring. It transitioned from an administrative model established since its inception to a police model with all its specific characteristics. While every system has pros and cons, it is crucial to ensure that the intent to detect illegal activities does not compromise the system's effectiveness. Therefore, the adage "less is more" becomes relevant. Such an attitude should form the ground for understanding the concept, or rather the essential base of due diligence, highlighting the need to increase awareness about the importance of money laundering prevention and, consequently, the vital nature of risk assessment. Length: 9 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 12-20 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=004&rid=16621 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516621 Classification-JEL: Keywords: money laundering, due diligence, suspicious transactions, risk assessment, corruption, drug Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516621 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: ELI COHEN Author-Name-First: ELI Author-Name-Last: COHEN Author-Email: elico@bgu.ac.il Author-Workplace-Name: Ben Gurion University of the Negev Title: Tourist Preferences in Winery Tourism: An Empirical Study Using Best-Worst Scaling Abstract: Wine tourism has become a key driver for both academic research and the wine industry, particularly due to its role in supporting the growth of small wineries and fostering regional development. It attracts new investments, increases employment, and boosts tourism in wine-producing areas. While traditionally centered around winery visits and wine tasting, wine tourism increasingly encompasses broader experiences. Tourists are motivated not only by an interest in wine but also by the desire to engage with local culture, cuisine, and nature.This study explores the features that potential visitors value most in wine tourism experiences. Using the Best-Worst Scaling (BWS) method, we measured the relative importance of different attributes. BWS offers advantages over Likert-type scales by forcing respondents to prioritize features, thus providing clearer insights into visitor preferences.Our results show that beyond wine-related activities, visitors seek experiences such as exploring natural landscapes, purchasing local products, enjoying regional gastronomy, and participating in agrotourism. These findings suggest that wineries and wine regions can benefit from offering more diverse experiences tailored to different tourist segments. From a managerial and marketing perspective, the study provides practical recommendations for enhancing wine tourism strategies and creating more attractive, differentiated offerings. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 21-21 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=005&rid=16800 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516800 Classification-JEL: Z00, Z19 Keywords: wine tourism, winery, wine region, best-worst Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516800 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Mercedes Gumbau Author-Name-First: Mercedes Author-Name-Last: Gumbau Author-Email: Mercedes.Gumbau@uv.es Author-Workplace-Name: University of Valencia Author-Name: Joaquin Maudos Author-Name-First: Joaquin Author-Name-Last: Maudos Author-Email: Joaquin.Maudos@uv.es Author-Workplace-Name: University of Valencia Title: Economics, Wellbeing, and Mental Health: A Regional Analysis of Socioeconomic Impacts and Policy Implications Abstract: Increasing awareness of the influence of socioeconomic conditions on mental health has brought this issue to the forefront of policy and research agendas?not only within the healthcare sector, but also among economists, policymakers, and fiscal authorities seeking robust economic evidence to guide decision-making. Mental ill health imposes a substantial economic burden as it leads to reduced productivity and greater demand for healthcare services. At the same time, individuals facing economic hardship are more vulnerable to mental health problems due to heightened exposure to adverse conditions such as social exclusion, limited access to protective resources like education, or through complex feedback loops involving poverty, the cost of treatment, and employment instability. Following these hypotheses, understanding the determinants of mental illness from the economic point of view is essential for improving public health, enhancing quality of life, and informing policies that promote population well-being. Emphasis should be placed on the need for regional strategies aimed at the prevention and management of mental disorders, particularly given the rising number of cases. This growing prevalence highlights that mental health conditions should no longer be viewed solely as individual issues, but as broader social challenges requiring collective action. According to the results of panel data estimations the paper states that regions with better valued health institutions and higher health endowments have a lower risk and a lower burden of disease. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 22-22 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=006&rid=16769 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516769 Classification-JEL: Keywords: mental disorders, inequality and deprivation, early detection, regional strategies Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516769 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Hakan KILINC Author-Name-First: Hakan Author-Name-Last: KILINC Author-Email: hakankilinc@anadolu.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Education, Anadolu University Author-Name: Hakan ALTINPULLUK Author-Name-First: Hakan Author-Name-Last: ALTINPULLUK Author-Email: hakanaltinpulluk@anadolu.edu.tr Author-Workplace-Name: Faculty of Education, Anadolu University Title: Determining the Tendencies of Pre-Service Teachers Towards Using Instructional Technologies in Courses Abstract: The aim of this study is to determine pre-service teachers' tendencies towards the use of instructional technologies in courses and to examine the effect of courses supported by instructional technologies on these tendencies. A survey model was used to describe the existing situation In this study, the instructional technology usage tendency scale developed by Günüç and Kuzu was used. After the scale was applied as a pretest and posttest, data analyses were conducted based on descriptive analyses. Findings will be interpreted holistically. The results are expected to contribute significantly to improving the quality of teacher education programs and disseminating the effective use of instructional technologies. Length: 7 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 23-29 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=007&rid=16902 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516902 Classification-JEL: I20, I23 Keywords: Pre-service teachers, Instructional technologies, Teacher education Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516902 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Sanghun Lee Author-Name-First: Sanghun Author-Name-Last: Lee Author-Email: mgg2011@naver.com Author-Workplace-Name: Inje University, department U-design Author-Name: Suyeon Seo Author-Name-First: Suyeon Author-Name-Last: Seo Author-Email: suyeonseo@inje.ac.kr Author-Workplace-Name: Inje University, BK21 FOUR Healthcare 4C Design Leaders Author-Name: Soojin Park Author-Name-First: Soojin Author-Name-Last: Park Author-Email: desjpark@inje.ac.kr Author-Workplace-Name: Inje University, Department of Multimedia Design Title: A Study on the Preference of Participatory Design Method for City Brand Design Abstract: In city brand design, citizens are increasingly being recognized not merely as passive recipients but as co-creators, and accordingly, the importance of participatory design is being emphasized. To effectively encourage citizen participation, empirical data on citizens? preferred modes of participation is needed; however, research in this area remains insufficient.This study aims to provide foundational data for establishing citizen participation strategies in city brand design by examining the concepts and types of city branding and participatory design, and by reviewing relevant cases. Based on this, eight methods of citizen participation (surveys, interviews, workshops, contests, campaigns, voting, exhibitions, and living labs) were identified. A citizen survey and in-depth interviews were then conducted to analyze preferences for these participation methods.The analysis revealed that respondents preferred surveys and voting the most, while workshops and interviews received the lowest preference due to time demands and psychological burden. This study offers practical baseline data for establishing citizen participation strategies in the city brand design process and anticipates that subsequent research incorporating regional characteristics and demographic variables will lead to the development of a more systematic participatory design model. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 30-30 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=008&rid=16948 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516948 Classification-JEL: Keywords: City Branding, Participatory Design, Citizen Participation, Preference Analysis Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516948 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Chen Lilan Author-Name-First: Chen Author-Name-Last: Lilan Author-Email: lilanchen.slics@osaka-u.ac.jp Author-Workplace-Name: The University of Osaka Author-Name: Etsushi Nakaguchi Author-Name-First: Etsushi Author-Name-Last: Nakaguchi Author-Email: lilanchen.slics@osaka-u.ac.jp Author-Workplace-Name: The University of Osaka Title: Comparative Perspectives on Student Experiences: Insights from Japan, China, and USA Abstract: Amidst the complex interplay of global power dynamics, geopolitical tensions, and the emergence of global crises, there has been a heightened scrutiny of the academic landscape within higher education institutions. Particularly, attention has been directed toward students, widely recognized as the heart of higher education (Oldac et al., 2023). The perceived improvement in the learning environment is intricately associated with enhanced academic performance (Lizzio et al., 2002), heightened satisfaction (Conrad et al., 2022), as well as increased engagement and attachment (Pasion et al., 2020) among students. Nevertheless, the convergence of these global forces, national policies, and institutional endeavors has inevitably engendered diverse learning environments over time, significantly shaping students? experiences.Given the perceived decline in research productivity in Japan, this study endeavors to provide empirical evidence to Japanese higher education institutions. It seeks to comprehend the dynamics of higher education in Japan through an international comparative lens, juxtaposing Japan?s academic environment with that of American and Chinese SERU member universities. The study utilizes quantitative datasets from an international survey titled ?Student Experiences in Research Universities (SERU),? conducted recently in 2022 and 2023. A focused investigation into college students? perceptions at micro-individual levels (e.g., advising and guidance from supervisors), meso-program levels (e.g., affiliated majors or departments), and macro-university levels (e.g., university climate and support) was conducted. Situated within an international framework, this study endeavors to enrich the shared comprehension of the Japanese academic environment and offer practical recommendations, aimed at nurturing a more favorable higher education landscape in Japan. These efforts are directed towards fostering an improved academic milieu, enhancing learning outcomes for students, and elevating the overall academic performance of Japan?s higher education sector. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 31-31 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=009&rid=16869 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516869 Classification-JEL: Keywords: Student Experiences; Comparative Perspectives; International Survey Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516869 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Naureda Llagami Author-Name-First: Naureda Author-Name-Last: Llagami Author-Email: amaxhelaku@hotmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Senior Legal Expert, former chairperson of the High Judicial Council Title: Digital transformation in court administration and judicial proceedings: A comparative analysis across EU member states Abstract: This article considers digital technologies' transformation of court administration and judicial proceedings across European Union member states, concentrating on recent technological and legislative developments. Regulation (EU) 2023/2844 and Directive (EU) 2023/2843 are key to this shift as they require parties to identify electronically within cross-border civil, commercial, and criminal proceedings, to use videoconferencing, and to communicate securely. These actions rely on the e-CODEX system permitting secure electronic document exchange as they match EU plans for digital resilience plus interoperability. From fully operational e-justice platforms toward partial pandemic-accelerated solutions including Estonia, Denmark, the Netherlands, Italy, and others, the study identifies varying levels of integration through a comparative analysis of selected member states. While digitalization makes things more efficient, transparent, as well as accessible for justice, infrastructure, legal interpretation, with procedural rules still create disparities that obstruct uniform implementation. The eIDAS Regulation runs into some difficulties in terms of harmonizing electronic identification. Digitally mediated proceedings also battle to admit electronic evidence with integrity and safeguard fundamental rights. The study does also consider the impact of COVID-19 upon accelerating remote hearings, and this in turn highlights both efficiency gains as well as concerns regarding procedural fairness. Best practices include the integrated digital case management, the secure authentication systems, and the user-oriented e-justice portals. Challenges such as IT systems, data incompatibility, also digital exclusion provide for a sharp difference. To ensure EU digital justice reforms are resilient inclusive as well as respectful of the right to a fair trial while advancing interoperability plus access to justice across the internal market, the analysis concludes sustained investment coordinated training of legal professionals also reinforced regulatory oversight are important. Length: 35 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 32-66 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=010&rid=16957 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516957 Classification-JEL: Keywords: Digitalization of justice, e-CODEX, eIDAS regulation, Cross-border judicial cooperation, Electronic evidence Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516957 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Dalida Rittossa Author-Name-First: Dalida Author-Name-Last: Rittossa Author-Email: dalida.rittossa@pravri.uniri.hr Author-Workplace-Name: University of Rijeka, Faculty of Law Author-Name: Marissabell ?kori? Author-Name-First: Marissabell Author-Name-Last: ?kori? Author-Email: marissabell.skoric@pravri.uniri.hr Author-Workplace-Name: University of Rijeka, Faculty of Law Title: Reconceptualizing Online Sexual Harassment in the Criminal Law - The Path Outlined in Directive (EU) 2024/1385 and Croatian Criminal Justice Responses Abstract: In 2019, President von der Lezen presented the Political Guidelines for the Next European Commission and clearly emphasised, among other things, that the fight against gender-based violence must be a priority within the Union. The creation of preventive measures and measures to protect victims together with successful criminal justice responses to punish perpetrators is a path that must be pursued together with ensuring minimum standards with regard to the normative definition of certain forms of violence. The ideas expressed were reiterated in the Gender Equality Strategy 2020-2025 and it was therefore rightly assumed that one of the driving forces behind the creation of Directive (EU) 2024/1385 would be to provide a binding instrument to harmonise the definition of violent crimes and minimum levels of punishment across the European legal area. However, the analysis has shown that the Directive does not constitute a comprehensive legal framework, in particular as regards the definition of sexual violence, as the normative consensus advocated in the discussions surrounding the proposal of the Directive has not been fully achieved. Chapter 2 does not contain any classic criminal offence against sexual freedom, such as rape, except for Article 7, para c) which defines ?cyberflashing? as a form of cyber harassment. The Directive explicitly defines cyberflashing as "the unsolicited sending, by means of ICT, of an image, video, or other similar material depicting genitals to a person, where such conduct is likely to cause serious psychological harm to that person."Since the under-regulation of sexual offenses is partly due to the adoption of the principle of minimum harmonization and the permission for states to prescribe other forms of violence, which are not mentioned as offenses in the Directive, in national criminal law, it is specifically examined whether cyberflashing corresponds to the criminal offense of sexual harassment under Article 156 of the Croatian Criminal Code. It will also be observed whether the recent amendments to this offense from 2024 have brought the adopted national normative definition closer to the European model. Based on the relevant municipal courts? case law over the last 12 years, the article examines whether any of the decided cases corresponds to sexual harassment on the Internet and clarifies the main threads of judicial reasoning. The findings can serve as a good guide on how national criminal law solutions can be reconciled with the European requirements of Directive (EU) 2024/1385 in a comparative context. Length: 2 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 67-68 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=011&rid=16805 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516805 Classification-JEL: K14 Keywords: Directive (EU) 2024/1385, sexual harassment, cyberflashing, harmonization of criminal justice standards Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516805 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ronen Shay Author-Name-First: Ronen Author-Name-Last: Shay Author-Email: rsay@post.bgu.ac.il Author-Workplace-Name: Ben Gurion university of the Negev Title: Conflict and Careers: Staffing Challenges in Israeli Hospitality Abstract: The Israeli hospitality industry has long faced a chronic labor shortage, particularly in front-lineand support roles. Rooted in structural challenges such as low wages, demanding workingconditions, and seasonal fluctuations, this issue has been significantly worsened by the outbreakof the October 2023 war. The conflict resulted in a steep decline in both international anddomestic tourism and severely disrupted the sector?s labor force. Thousands of workers, includingforeign nationals and Palestinian day laborers, were either unable or unwilling to return to workdue to security concerns, military reserve mobilization, or personal trauma. This study, focusingon a case study in Eilat, Israel?s premier resort city, investigates how strategic workforce planningand cross-border labor agreements, such as initiatives to employ Jordanian workers, can serve asinnovative responses to the crisis. Interviews with hotel managers and employees reveal thatemotional support, job security, and flexible work arrangements are critical factors in enhancingemployee retention. In the current climate, fostering regional cooperation, promoting culturalsensitivity, and adapting regulatory frameworks are essential for maintaining workforce stability.This paper offers a timely analysis of the intersection between geopolitical instability and humanresource challenges in the hospitality sector. It also presents actionable recommendations forbuilding resilience and ensuring continuity in times of crisis. Length: 1 page Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 69-69 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=012&rid=16774 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516774 Classification-JEL: Z00 Keywords: Human resources, Hospitality, Employee recruitment, War impact, Tourism crisis Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516774 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Marissabell ?kori? Author-Name-First: Marissabell Author-Name-Last: ?kori? Author-Email: marissabell.skoric@pravri.uniri.hr Author-Workplace-Name: University of Rijeka, Faculty of Law Author-Name: Dalida Rittossa Author-Name-First: Dalida Author-Name-Last: Rittossa Author-Email: dalida.rittossa@pravri.uniri.hr Author-Workplace-Name: University of Rijeka, Faculty of Law Title: Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence ? European Perspectives and Croatian Criminal Law Solutions Abstract: Combating violence against women and domestic violence is one of the key European human rights issues. Despite significant progress in legislation and policy, this problem is still widespread and requires constant adaptation and improvement of legal and social protection mechanisms.In Croatia, domestic violence is a serious social issue and femicide, as its most extreme form, has increased notably. With the aim of combating violence against women and domestic violence more effectively, the Republic of Croatia introduced significant amendments to its criminal legislation in April 2024. The Act on Amendments to the Criminal Code includes among other new provisions, the new criminal offense of femicide, which refers to the aggravated murder of a female person and the definition of gender-based violence. The prescribed penalty for femicide is a prison sentence of at least ten years or a long-term prison sentence. Gender-based violence is considered an aggravating circumstance, except in cases where the Criminal Code already explicitly prescribes a more severe penalty and takes gender-based violence into account as a qualifying circumstance. In addition, offenses of sexual harassment, domestic violence, and stalking are defined more precisely along the penalties for sex offenders are higher. These legislative amendments are based on important international and European documents that have been ratified by Croatia. Among them, the Istanbul Convention stands out as the first legally binding international instrument that provides a comprehensive framework for combating violence against women. Furthermore, Croatia has adopted relevant EU documents, including the Directive on Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence, which was passed in May 2024. This Directive establishes minimum standards for the criminalisation of specific forms of violence against women and domestic violence, while emphasizing the importance of providing specialized support to victims and ensuring access to justice.Despite legislative reforms aligned with international standards for the protection of victims of gender-based and domestic violence, experts point to persistent shortcomings in prevention, weak coordination between relevant service providers, and inconsistent enforcement of legal provisions. These challenges underscore the need for continuous training of all professionals working with victims of gender-based violence, increased support for victims and greater public awareness to ensure more effective protection and prevention of future violence. Ultimately, the fight against violence against women and domestic violence is not just a legal issue, but a question strongly related to social responsibility and collective action involving all institutions and citizens. Length: 2 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 70-71 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=013&rid=16806 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516806 Classification-JEL: K14 Keywords: gender-based violence, domestic violence, femicide, Croatian Criminal Code Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516806 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Muhammad Tayyib Author-Name-First: Muhammad Author-Name-Last: Tayyib Author-Email: imuhammadtayyib@gmail.com Author-Workplace-Name: Inje university, department of U-Design Author-Name: Suyeon Seo Author-Name-First: Suyeon Author-Name-Last: Seo Author-Email: suyeonseo@inje.ac.kr Author-Workplace-Name: Inje university, BK21 FOUR Healthcare 4CDesign Leaders Author-Name: Anyoung Ryou Author-Name-First: Anyoung Author-Name-Last: Ryou Author-Email: ryou@inje.ac.kr Author-Workplace-Name: Inje University, Divison of Multimedia Design Title: A Study on the Usability Evaluation of the Forest Digital Detox App Abstract: Smartphone dependency presents risks to mental well-being, prompting the development of digital-detox applications aimed at enhancing focus and productivity.Forest, a widely used focus application employing gamification through virtual tree cultivation, boasts a substantial user base; however, its usability has not been subjected to rigorous evaluation. This study sought to assess the usability of Forest's user interface (UI) to optimize user experience (UX) and reinforce its efficacy in supporting digital detoxification, while simultaneously contributing to the field of human-computer interaction research.A mixed-methods evaluation was conducted with a sample of five participants. Guided by Nielsen's usability heuristics, the study centered on user control, personalization, clarity, and visibility.Participants completed a five-item Likert-scale questionnaire and participated in semi-structured interviews to explore UX challenges and propose design enhancements. Evaluation elements encompassed the time selector, plant button, warning pop-up, ambient-sound control, and tree-selection functionalities.Survey results indicated favorable ratings for time-selector clarity, start-button discoverability, and tree-selection flexibility, each achieving a score of 4.0/5. In contrast, warning message clarity received a score of 3.8/5, and ambient-sound usefulness was rated at 2.0/5.Interviews highlighted strengths such as the intuitive time selection process, readily discoverable controls, and unambiguous visual prompts.Conversely, users expressed concerns regarding the complexity of the time wheel, the inadequate discoverability of the ambient-sound feature, small font sizes and low contrast ratios, the suboptimal organization of settings, and the absence of an automatic background-lock function.Based on these findings, the authors recommend incorporating a digital time-input alternative or enhancing the clarity of the time wheel, providing more accessible and adaptable ambient-sound controls, improving text legibility and accessibility options, restructuring the settings UI, reducing the plant-button delay, and implementing a focus-mode auto-lock.While the sample size was limited, addressing these identified usability issues has the potential to improve user satisfaction and more effectively support digital detoxification objectives. Future research will employ larger and more diverse samples and conduct comparative analyses between Forest and other digital detox applications to validate the generalizability of the findings and to identify variations in usability patterns across diverse user groups. Length: 2 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 72-73 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=014&rid=16947 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516947 Classification-JEL: Keywords: Usability evaluation, User experience, Digital detox, Mobile application Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516947 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Sergo Tsiramua Author-Name-First: Sergo Author-Name-Last: Tsiramua Author-Email: s.tsiramua@ug.edu.ge Author-Workplace-Name: The University of Georgia Author-Name: Elza Nikoleishvili Author-Name-First: Elza Author-Name-Last: Nikoleishvili Author-Email: e.nikoleishvili@ug.edu.ge Author-Workplace-Name: The University of Georgia Author-Name: Elisabed Asabashvili Author-Name-First: Elisabed Author-Name-Last: Asabashvili Author-Email: z.asabashvili@ug.edu.ge Author-Workplace-Name: The University of Georgia Author-Name: George Tsiramua Author-Name-First: George Author-Name-Last: Tsiramua Author-Email: tsiramua@toyota-caucasus.com Author-Workplace-Name: Toyota Caucasus Title: Logical-Combinatorial Methods for Cardiovascular Risk Factor Analysis and Assessment Abstract: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, posing significant challenges to healthcare systems and society at large. Despite advancements in prevention and treatment, the prevalence of CVD continues to rise, driven by non-modifiable risk factors such as age, gender, genetic predisposition, and ethnicity (World Health Organization, 2021). Accurate and comprehensive assessment of CVD risk factors is vital for effective prevention and intervention strategies.Conventional tools for assessing individual CVD risk factors, such as the Framingham Risk Score (FRS), Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk Calculator (ASCVD), QRISK Calculator, and SCORE (Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation), provide percentage estimates of a 10-year CVD risk based on specific populations and datasets. However, from a Public Health perspective, there is a need for innovative approaches that quantitatively assess, analyze, and predict overall CVD risks on a Global, Regional, or National scale.This paper proposes the use of logical-combinatorial methods to quantitatively evaluate non-modifiable CVD risk factors, including age, gender, genetic predisposition, and ethnicity, based on global statistical data. The analysis involves estimating the probabilities of the simultaneous presence of two, three, or four non-modifiable risk factors. The study presents key findings from the quantitative assessment of various risk factors combinations and draws actionable conclusions for public health practice.This method provides a scalable framework for global risk assessment and targeted public health intervention planning. Integrating logical-combinatorial approaches into Public Health research is critical for developing more effective strategies to mitigate the burden of CVD and improve population health outcomes globally.Acknowledgments: The work was supported by the Shota Rustaveli National Science Foundation of Georgia. Grant #SC-24-753 Length: 12 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 74-85 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=015&rid=16601 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516601 Classification-JEL: C00, C02, I18 Keywords: Cardiovascular diseases (CVD), CVD risk factors, non-modifiable CVD risk factors, modifiable CVD risk factors, logical-combinatorial analysis Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516601 Template-Type: ReDIF-Paper 1.0 Author-Name: Ya-Hsuan Wang Author-Name-First: Ya-Hsuan Author-Name-Last: Wang Author-Email: sunny.wang@ccu.edu.tw Author-Workplace-Name: National Chung Cheng University Title: Embracing ambigious heritage: A narrative identity study on transcultural population in Taiwan Abstract: Due to globalization driven by immigration and transnational marriages, a significant number of transcultural populations have emerged. Some minority groups struggle with the dark stigma associated with their contradictory heritage, much like the early indigenous peoples whose facial tattoos were once unappreciated. What should have been a source of cultural pride instead fostered a conflicted sense of stigma.This study adopts Merleau-Ponty?s (1962) concept of ?ambiguity? as a phenomenological approach to perception, focusing on the ambiguous historical circumstances of trans-cultural populations?a phenomenon I term "ambiguous heritage." Heritage, at its core, is a deeply personal matter. Each individual accumulates their own heritage through personal life experiences, which, within their lived space, serve as reference points for personal values and memories (Tunbridge & Ashworth, 1996). Personal heritage is closely tied to a sense of place, emotions, and symbolic attachments (Williams et al., 1992).In historical contexts free of conflict or controversy, cultural heritage is often perceived as static and eternal. For example, when visiting museums to see the artifacts and ruins of ancestors from thousands of years ago, one does not typically experience contradiction or distress, as these relics belong to a shared collective memory of "everyone." Since this collective memory is considered universal, no matter what kind of history our ancestors had, it does not strongly or intimately impact our personal identity.However, who exactly constitutes "everyone"? The collective memory of a society often refers to the shared history of the dominant group. When I am not a member of the mainstream group, my cultural heritage does not become part of this "shared" collective memory. This is the challenge faced by minority groups or immigrants in mainstream societies. The collective memory of minorities and new immigrants differs from that of the dominant group, raising the question of whether their historical and cultural heritage is acknowledged and accepted by the mainstream. This acceptance?or lack thereof?ultimately affects the relationship between cultural heritage and identity.This study explores narrative identity by collecting stories from Southeast Asian immigrants in Taiwan, capturing moments when they encountered dark chapters of history and identifying their ambiguous heritage. It also proposes ways to positively embrace and integrate ambiguous heritage in cross-cultural populations, breaking the stigma of historical darkness and fostering genuine intercultural awareness.Using narrative identity as a research method, this study reviews the life trajectories of trans-cultural individuals, revisiting feelings of displacement and historical trauma. Through the process of overcoming trauma and reconstructing identity, self-healing is achieved. By observing how trans-cultural populations reclaim their historical memories, this research investigates how they confront the ambiguity of their heritage. More importantly, it explores how, after confronting the dark past of their ambiguous heritage, they can transform it into a more empowering and constructive form of trans-cultural knowledge. Length: 2 pages Creation-Date: 0000-00 Publication-Status: Published in Proceedings of the Proceedings of the 67th International Academic Conference, Rome, Nov -0001, pages 86-87 File-URL: https://iises.net/proceedings/iises-international-academic-conference-rome-2025/table-of-content/detail?cid=155&iid=016&rid=16742 File-Function: First version, 0000 Number: 15516742 Classification-JEL: Keywords: transcultural education, transcultural knowledge, narrative identity, immigrant research Handle: RePEc:sek:iacpro:15516742