46 results on '"ARION, Felix H."'
Search Results
2. Customers' Perception of Microfinance Services as a Tool for Rural Development: A Romanian Case Study.
- Author
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Henegar, Denisa, Ilieș, Garofița Loredana, Mureșan, Iulia C., Poruțiu, Andra Ramona, Arion, Iulia Diana, and Arion, Felix H.
- Subjects
EXPLORATORY factor analysis ,CRONBACH'S alpha ,TRUST ,CORPORATE culture ,REPUTATION ,QUALITY of service - Abstract
Microfinance institutions (MFIs) play a vital role in extending financial services to marginalized and underprivileged populations worldwide. While the focus of MFIs has traditionally been on providing financial products, recent research highlights the importance of intangible factors in shaping their success and sustainability. This research examines the influence of factors such as trust, empathy, organizational culture, and reputation on MFI performance. A structured questionnaire was developed, and data were collected from 110 clients. Statistical analysis, including Cronbach alpha, composite reliability, and exploratory factor analysis, was employed to assess the reliability, validity, and dimensionality of the collected data. Three dimensions of service quality were identified: empathy and assurance, trust, and intangibles. While gender differences in perception were observed, they were not statistically significant. However, significant differences were noted across age groups, educational levels, and types of businesses. Understanding and addressing factors related to trust, intangibles, and specific aspects of service satisfaction are crucial for enhancing client engagement and long-term success. By continuously striving to improve service quality, microfinance companies can strengthen client relationships and position themselves in such a way as to achieve sustainable impact and success in the microfinance landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
3. Impact of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict and Global Events on Beneficiaries of Microfinance Services: A Comparative Study of Romanian Small Companies.
- Author
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HENEGAR, Denisa and ARION, Felix H.
- Subjects
RUSSIA-Ukraine Conflict, 2014- ,RUSSIAN invasion of Ukraine, 2022- ,SMALL business ,MICROFINANCE ,PRIVATE companies - Abstract
Recent global events, notably the COVID-19 pandemic, and the conflict between Russia and Ukraine leaded to unprecedented challenges for companies worldwide. This study examines the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on small companies in agriculture, animal breeding, and the services sector in Romania. A survey was conducted among 110 beneficiaries of a microfinance company. The respondents evaluated the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on income, expenses, and the economic situation using a set of 8 items, evaluated on a 5 points Likert scale type. The results revealed that the analyzed companies were most affected by the increase in fuel price and electricity price. Despite a moderate impact on income decrease, there were significant differences regarding the effect of the increase of interest rates, savings reduction, and liquidity reduction among different types of companies. Limited Liability Companies (L.L.C.s) were the most affected. Most companies are seeking solutions to reduce energy costs. These findings suggest a need for targeted interventions to mitigate the impact of crises situations on small companies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
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4. Exploring the Factors Involved in Tourists’ Decision-Making and Determinants of Length of Stay
- Author
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Mihai, Valentin C., primary, Dumitras, Diana E., additional, Oroian, Camelia, additional, Chiciudean, Gabriela O., additional, Arion, Felix H., additional, and Mureșan, Iulia Cristina, additional
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- 2023
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5. The European Rural Development Vision in Romanian Context
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OLTEAN, Raul-Cătălin, primary and ARION, Felix H., additional
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- 2023
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6. CONSUMER UNDERSTANDING AND PERCEPTION OF MOUNTAIN LABEL IN THE CITY OF BRAȘOV, ROMANIA.
- Author
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MAINALI, Kiran, ARION, Felix H., and ROGOZAN, Cătălina
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PERCEPTION (Philosophy) , *WILLINGNESS to pay , *CONSUMERS , *CONSUMER surveys , *GOVERNMENT agencies , *ECO-labeling , *FOOD labeling - Abstract
The European Union introduced Regulation No. 1151/2012 to delineate the optional quality term "mountain product," aiming to preserve and promote the originality and authenticity of mountain foodstuffs. This research endeavors to delve into the comprehension and perception of the mountain label, considering awareness of the label and willingness to pay. With the remarkable increase in the adoption of the mountain label among producers in the mountain regions of Romania, this study seeks to investigate whether consumers purchasing the product in the market are cognizant of the provisions outlined by the National regulatory bodies and authorities for the mountain label. A general consumer survey with questionnaires was planned, organised, and implemented within Brașov city to elicit necessary findings. Although, the consumer was aware regarding the benefits associated with products with mountain label and also the places to easily find the mountain label, the consumers (50.77%) perceived mountain labelled product to be expensive. Similarly, only 47% of the respondents were interested in paying more for the products with mountain labels and 50% were completely unsure about their purchasing decisions, which indicates a clear unsurety in the mind of the consumers. The consumers (70%) seemed unaware about the mountain label although they had general idea regarding mountain products and the categories of products that are made available in the market verified by the agencies. The findings of this research can be beneficial to initiate different promotional campaigns launched at consumers to better educate them regarding mountain labels and to avoid misleading the consumer with any use of terms related with mountains and assist in overall mountain sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
7. ANALYSIS OF OPTIONAL QUALITY TERM (OQT): MOUNTAIN LABEL FROM PRODUCER'S PERSPECTIVE: STUDY OF MOUNTAINOUS COUNTIES SURROUNDING BRAȘOV, ROMANIA.
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MAINALI, Kiran, ARION, Felix H., and ROGOZAN, Cătălina
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ECONOMIC status , *CHI-squared test , *STATISTICAL correlation , *COUNTIES , *ECONOMIC impact - Abstract
Mountain products have been introduced in the EU supplemented with governing regulations to mainstream the products originating from mountain areas with adequate market facilities and use as a differentiating tool compared with conventional products. Since its formalisation and adoption of relevant laws in the national context in Romania, the adoption of the optional quality term Mountain Label among the producers has been astonishing. Considering the good market in Romania for quality and locally sourced products, mountain labels and their use among the producers were regarded as having a better impact on the economic and market status. The research intended to pursue an answer in the same direction to see if producers were able to fully exploit the EU optional quality term Mountain Label scheme at the national level in Romania or if there was dissatisfaction among the producers with the rules of utilizing the label. A general producer survey with questionnaires was planned, organized, and implemented on the three mountain massifs surrounding Brașov city to elicit the necessary findings. Due to continuous support from the relevant authorities in the registration of the label, the producers were interested in enlisting themselves in the quality scheme; however, poor marketing and promotional assistance were some of the problems identified as general problems that caused the producers to be disappointed in the labelling scheme. Although most of the producers had a good idea of the benefits associated with the label, only 50% of them were engaged in some way in highlighting the mountain label in their promotional activities. Different statistical tests like the U-test, correlation analysis, and chi-square tests were used in conjunction with the different findings visualisations to derive insightful findings. The findings of the research can be beneficial to comprehend existing scenarios of mountain labels and producers' perceptions of mountain labels post-registration, propose different systematic reformations for better efficiency of operations of mountain labels, and realize its initial objectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2024
8. Circular Pathways to Sustainable Development: Understanding the Links between Circular Economy Indicators, Economic Growth, Social Well-Being, and Environmental Performance in EU-27.
- Author
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Arion, Felix H., Aleksanyan, Vardan, Markosyan, Davit, and Arion, Iulia Diana
- Abstract
The transition towards the circular economy (CE) is one of the major priorities of the European Union (EU). By observing its benefits through the prism of sustainable development, this study aims to reveal the intricate relationships between the CE and the economy–society–environment nexus across 27 EU countries during the period from 2012 to 2020. Utilizing an extensive dataset comprising 243 observations drawn from the EUROSTAT database, we employed a panel data analysis. In this research, we quantified the impact of CE indicators on key dependent variables: GDP per capita (economic dimension), mortality, morbidity, and the welfare cost associated with exposure to environment-related risks (social dimension) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the environmental realm. The findings of our study illuminate the multifaceted connections between circular economy practices and the broader goals of sustainable development within the EU-27 context. The CE indicators aggregated at the EU level not only have a beneficial impact on the economy but also on society and the environment. The analysis reveals that each of the six explanatory variables incorporated into the models exhibits the anticipated relationship with at least one of the outcome variables. This research contributes valuable insights for policymakers, public authorities, and other stakeholders seeking to enhance the circular economy landscape in respective countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
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9. Investment in Forest Watershed—A Model of Good Practice for Sustainable Development of Ecosystems
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Arion, Iulia Diana, primary, Arion, Felix H., additional, Tăut, Ioan, additional, Mureșan, Iulia Cristina, additional, Ilea, Marioara, additional, and Dîrja, Marcel, additional
- Published
- 2023
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10. THE ECONOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF THE EXPORTS AND FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATES IMPACT ON WINE PRODUCTION: THE CASE OF ARMENIAN WINE INDUSTRY.
- Author
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ARION, Felix H., KHACHATRYAN, Karlen, ALEKSANYAN, Vardan, and ASATRYAN, Hovhannes
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FOREIGN exchange rates , *WINE industry , *WINE ratings , *ALCOHOLIC beverages , *ARMENIANS , *RIESLING - Abstract
This article uncovers relationships between the wine export and production in Armenia. Wine industry is a strategically important economic sector in Armenian. The importance of its development is strongly supported by the fact that alcoholic beverages from grape processing are products with high customs value exported from Armenia (in 2020 the share of alcoholic beverages in the entire export structure was about 8.4%). Within the framework of this study, a detailed analysis of the wine production was performed. By applying econometric analysis, we assessed the impact that the increase of wine export has on wine production. Also, the empirical analysis of the impact of USD and RUB exchange rates on wine industry was performed. Overall, the econometric analysis indicated that export volumes and USD exchange rate significantly affect Armenian wine industry. This study provides enough evidence for us to conclude that the export of Armenian wine must be heavily promoted by Government policies and the same time the export directions must be diversified. The results of this study can be basis for scientific substantiation of sectorial strategies developed by the Government of Armenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
11. The Influence of Economic and Entrepreneurial Education on Perception and Attitudes towards Entrepreneurship.
- Author
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Ilieș, Garofița Loredana, Mureșan, Iulia Cristina, Arion, Iulia Diana, and Arion, Felix H.
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ENTREPRENEURSHIP education ,INTENTION ,ATTITUDE (Psychology) ,PRINCIPAL components analysis ,BUSINESSPEOPLE ,ECONOMICS education ,ENTREPRENEURSHIP - Abstract
The entrepreneurial behavior of individuals is a result of a complex assembly of factors, and education is one of them. The article is aiming to address the scientific gap in the relation between education and the intention and attitudes in entrepreneurship by focusing on the analysis of the economic and entrepreneurial background as a determinant factor. Besides that, the study looked for the factors that influence entrepreneurial intention and intended to find out if there are significant differences between economic and non-economic backgrounds and entrepreneurial intentions of individuals. A survey with 582 validated respondents was employed in the north-west and the west part of Romania to determine the entrepreneurial intention of the residents. For investigating the results, descriptive statistics were used to analyze the socio-demographic characteristics of the respondents, and principal component analysis with varimax rotation was conducted to reduce the number of items used to analyze the entrepreneurial intention of the respondents. The study demonstrated the significance of entrepreneurial education for entrepreneurs and the entrepreneurial process: the higher variance is given by entrepreneurial intention (58.75%) for those with economic studies and by entrepreneurial capacity (58.39%) for those without economic studies. It concludes that entrepreneurial education policies should concentrate on the increase of opportunities for entrepreneurs and on creating a culture of entrepreneurship. Regression analysis revealed that entrepreneurial capacity, personal attraction, social valuation, and entrepreneurial education/economic background significantly predict entrepreneurial intention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2023
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12. A Systematic Literature Review on European Food Quality Schemes in Romania
- Author
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Chifor, Cristina, primary, Arion, Iulia D., additional, Isarie, Vlad I., additional, and Arion, Felix H., additional
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- 2022
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13. Consumers’ Perception towards Organic Products before and after the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Study in Bihor County, Romania
- Author
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Brata, Anca Monica, primary, Chereji, Aurelia Ioana, additional, Brata, Vlad Dumitru, additional, Morna, Anamaria Aurelia, additional, Tirpe, Olivia Paula, additional, Popa, Anca, additional, Arion, Felix H., additional, Banszki, Loredana Ioana, additional, Chereji, Ioan, additional, Popa, Dorin, additional, and Muresan, Iulia C., additional
- Published
- 2022
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14. ANALYSIS OF THE FACTORS AND BARRIERS INFLUENCING THE CONSUMPTION OF ORGANIC PRODUCTS. CASE OF BIHOR COUNTY, ROMANIA.
- Author
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MORNA, Anamaria Aurelia, BRATA, Anca Monica, TIRPE, Olivia Paula, MURESAN, Iulia C., ARION, Felix H., FORA, Andreea Florina, POPA, Dorin, CHEREJI, Aurelia Ioana, MILIN, Ioana Anda, and BACTER, Ramona Vasilica
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ORGANIC products ,FACTOR analysis ,ORGANIC foods ,CONVENIENCE sampling (Statistics) ,ORGANIC certification ,CANNED foods - Abstract
The recent pandemic, as well as sustainability issues have led to changing trends when it comes food purchasing and consumption. Thus, more and more consumers tend to pay more attention to how the food is produced, processed, handled and marketed. Over the past few years, the organic food market has experienced a notable surge in popularity. This study seeks to examine the factors and obstacles shaping the consumption of organic products. Additionally, it aims to explore the socio-demographic traits of consumers in this category and identify the primary types of preferred organic products. The study's convenience sample of 214 customers from Romania's Bihor County served as the basis for data collection, which was done online. The results of our study show that the confidence that a product is organic ranked first among all factors on the consumer's list, followed by a price similar to normal food products and certification by a control body. Organic vegetables, fruits, and eggs were among the most preferred products by the consumers, while processed and canned goods ranked lower on the preferences list for the respondents. Concerning obstacles to organic food consumption, the main concern is related to the additional cost that consumers have to cover relative to other food items. Additionally, half of the respondents who abstain from organic product consumption expressed a lack of belief in organic certification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
15. THE ANALYSIS OF A COMPLEX COLLABORATIVE VALUE CHAIN. CASE OF AGROTRANSILVANIA CLUSTER.
- Author
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ARION, Felix H., BARDEA, Florina, CHIFOR, Diana C., and MAIER, Lucian C.
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VALUE chains , *PEST analysis , *TECHNOLOGY transfer , *SWOT analysis , *DELPHI method , *INTERNATIONAL markets , *DOMESTIC markets - Abstract
A multifaceted and flexible partnership established to support the growth of the agro-industrial sector has produced the Value Chain of AgroTransilvania Cluster. Its goal is to aid in the growth of the association's and each member's competitiveness on both domestic and foreign markets. The aim of the article is to propose and set up an adequate strategy for assuring the common development of the AgroTransilvania Cluster. The analysis of internal and external ecosystem of the value chain of the AgroTransilvania Cluster -- the material studied - was scrutinized using SWOT Analysis, used, aftercall, as groundwork for TOWS Matrix, completed by PESTEL analysis. The needs of the members of the cluster were identified using Delphi method, through questionnaires. The final result consists in a strategic planning document, so its implementation was assumed by the cluster's members, assuring their involvement in joint, multi- and trans-disciplinary research, development, innovation, technology transfer, service provision, production, increasing visibility and not. The final aim of the strategy is to successfully generate the transition from an emerging cluster to an innovative one. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
16. ENVIRONMENTAL AND AGRIFOOD CULTURAL TRADITION PRESERVATION AS PART OF RURAL TOURISM. A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW IN ROMANIA.
- Author
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OLTEAN, Raul -. Catalin, CHIFOR, Cristina, ISARIE, Vlad I., ARION, Iulia D., MURESAN, Iulia C., and ARION, Felix H.
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RURAL tourism ,CULTURAL maintenance ,AGRITOURISM ,NATURAL resources ,RURAL development ,RURAL poor - Abstract
The terms rural tourism and agritourism can be considered synonymous, but there are differences even though they share certain identifying elements. Agritourism appeared as a solution to in-crease the income of rural households, by capitalizing on their economic potential, however the main activity remained agriculture. The main purpose of this research is to evaluate the situation of agritourism in Romania approached from different perspectives such as: rural development, traditional products, and landscape integrations. The methodology used in this study is a systematic literature review where the search process was carried out using keywords such as: "Agritourism in Romania" or "Rural development in Romania" or "Integration of the rural landscape in Romania". The research was conducted and filtered through the Prisma guidelines in 30 papers that were highlighted in the Results section. In concluding this research paper, we would like to say that there are many factors that should be considered to find a viable solution to help develop rural communities and simultaneously safeguarding the environment and using natural resources responsibly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
17. CLUSTERS EVOLUTION MODELS IN THE SCIENTIFIC LITERATURE: A TEXT MINING APPROACH.
- Author
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CHIFOR, Diana Cosmina, MAIER, Lucian C., and ARION, Felix H.
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SCIENTIFIC literature ,TEXT mining ,SCIENTIFIC models ,INDUSTRIAL districts ,TECHNOLOGICAL innovations ,REGIONAL development - Abstract
The existing literature related to the cluster concept has been based on solid research from A. Marshall's theory of industrial districts to M. Porter's cluster concept, with location being the main factor on which the two built their premises. Considering that the cluster model has evolved over time, this paper aims to study the dynamism of this model, taking into account geographic concentration as an essential element influencing the emergence of clusters. Then it moves on to novel aspects, such as the role of clusters in promoting new technologies or innovations and the cluster's contribution to increasing the competitiveness of companies or even regional competitiveness. The methodological approach of this research consists in systematically reviewing the literature on clusters, the evolution of the model, the importance of geographical proximity and clusters' impact on growth, the elevation of innovation processes and competitiveness of companies and regions, but also the involvement of clusters in the implementation of policies. The paper provides a general picture of the dynamics of the concept by summarizing and integrating several concepts treated by other researchers in an in-depth manner. Our findings reveal the importance of the proximity factor for industries that are part of clusters, along with the fact that over time, globalization has imposed a trend towards an approach that crosses regional and national borders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
18. Food Consumption Patterns in Romania during the COVID-19 Pandemic
- Author
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Dumitras, Diana E., primary, Harun, Rezhen, additional, Arion, Felix H., additional, Chiciudean, Daniel I., additional, Kovacs, Eniko, additional, Oroian, Camelia F., additional, Porutiu, Andra, additional, and Muresan, Iulia C., additional
- Published
- 2021
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19. Consumers’ Attitude towards Sustainable Food Consumption during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Romania
- Author
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Muresan, Iulia C., primary, Harun, Rezhen, additional, Arion, Felix H., additional, Brata, Anca Monica, additional, Chereches, Ioan Aurel, additional, Chiciudean, Gabriela O., additional, Dumitras, Diana E., additional, Oroian, Camelia F., additional, and Tirpe, Olivia Paula, additional
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
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20. Exploring Residents’ Perceptions of the Socio-Cultural Benefits of Tourism Development in the Mountain Area
- Author
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Muresan, Iulia C., primary, Harun, Rezhen, additional, Arion, Felix H., additional, Fatah, Ava Omar, additional, and Dumitras, Diana E., additional
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
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21. Innovation Gaps and Barriers in Alternative Innovative Solutions for Sustainable High Nature Value Grasslands. Evidence from Romania
- Author
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Jitea, Mugurel I., primary, Mihai, Valentin C., additional, Arion, Felix H., additional, Muresan, Iulia C., additional, and Dumitras, Diana E., additional
- Published
- 2021
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22. ANALYSIS OF THE IMPACT OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS ON LOCAL COMMUNITIES.
- Author
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ILEA, Marioara, HARUN, Rezhen, DUMITRAS, Diana E., ARION, Felix H., MURESAN, Iulia C., CHICIUDEAN, Gabriela O., NEIMA, Hemin Abubakir, OROIAN, Camelia F., and CHICIUDEAN, Daniel I.
- Subjects
RURAL development ,FISHER exact test ,INFERENTIAL statistics ,PUBLIC administration ,DESCRIPTIVE statistics ,COMMUNITIES ,CITIES & towns - Abstract
Considering the huge economic and social disparities between urban and rural areas of Romania, it is important to investigate the local community perception on the perceived impact of the rural development strategies, provided that local strategies should be developed based on citizens’ needs. The study represents a first step towards a more complex research to evaluate the degree of satisfaction and wellbeing of the rural communities from Cluj County, following the implementation of the rural development programs. The research was conducted on the basis of primary data obtained from citizens of Cuzdrioara, a commune from Cluj County which represents a particular case, as its position allows the direct connection to national roads. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics. The Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were performed for comparisons of proportions, while Mann-Whitney test and Kruskal Wallis test were used for the comparisons of scale scores between respondents. Through the objectives of the Local Development Strategy, Cuzdrioara commune aims to improve the way of life of the inhabitants by achieving the objectives proposed in the strategy. Many projects have been completed, being positively assessed by the citizens. The public administration fulfilled the objectives established in the Local Development Strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2021
23. Assessing the Importance of Health in Choosing a Restaurant: An Empirical Study from Romania
- Author
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Chiciudean, Gabriela O., primary, Harun, Rezhen, additional, Muresan, Iulia C., additional, Arion, Felix H., additional, Chiciudean, Daniel I., additional, Ilies, Garofita L., additional, and Dumitras, Diana E., additional
- Published
- 2019
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24. Residents’ Perception of Destination Quality: Key Factors for Sustainable Rural Development
- Author
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Muresan, Iulia C., primary, Harun, Rezhen, additional, Arion, Felix H., additional, Oroian, Camelia F., additional, Dumitras, Diana E., additional, Mihai, Valentin C., additional, Ilea, Marioara, additional, Chiciudean, Daniel I., additional, Gliga, Iulia D., additional, and Chiciudean, Gabriela O., additional
- Published
- 2019
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25. A Critical Approach on Sustainable Renewable Energy Sources in Rural Area: Evidence from North-West Region of Romania
- Author
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Chiciudean, Gabriela O., primary, Harun, Rezhen, additional, Arion, Felix H., additional, Chiciudean, Daniel I., additional, Oroian, Camelia F., additional, and Muresan, Iulia C., additional
- Published
- 2018
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26. Consumers’ Attitudes towards Organic Products and Sustainable Development: A Case Study of Romania.
- Author
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Oroian, Camelia F., Safirescu, Calin O., Harun, Rezhen, Chiciudean, Gabriela O., Arion, Felix H., Muresan, Iulia C., and Bordeanu, Bianca M.
- Abstract
Organic food consumption has increased during the last years as a consequence of its direct impact on consumer health, life style, and social convenience as well as on the environment and sustainable development. Compared to the European level, the consumption of organic food products is quite low in Romania. This paper investigates the perception and attitudes of the organic food consumers from the North-West Development Region of Romania. Consumers’ perception towards organic food products was measured using 30 items. The data were collected from 568 respondents and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. A factor-cluster approach was used to identify consumer groups. The findings indicated that health concerns, sensory appeal, sustainable consumption and weight concerns are the main reasons for consuming organic food products. Three main groups of organic food consumers were identified: “gourmand”, “environmentally concerned” and “health concerned”. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2017
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27. Local Residents' Attitude toward Sustainable Rural Tourism Development.
- Author
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Muresan, Iulia C., Oroian, Camelia F., Harun, Rezhen, Arion, Felix H., Porutiu, Andra, Chiciudean, Gabriela O., Todea, Alexandru, and Lile, Ramona
- Abstract
Tourism is a multi-faced activity that links the economic, social and environmental components of sustainability. This research analyzes rural residents' perceptions of the impact of tourism development and examines the factors that influence the support for sustainable tourism development in the region of Nord-Vest in Romania. Residents' perceptions towards tourism development were measured using 22 items, while their support for tourism development was determined using 8 items. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. Principal component analysis grouped the first 22 variables into 4 factors, and the following 8 variables into 2 factors (sustainable development, destination development). Findings indicate that residents see tourism as a development factor. The natural, economic, and social-cultural environment as well as infrastructure, age, gender and education are factors that influence the sustainable development of tourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2016
- Full Text
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28. Evaluation of Economic Efficiency of Apple Orchard Investments.
- Author
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Badiu, Dorin, Arion, Felix H., Muresan, Iulia C., Lile, Ramona, and Mitre, Viorel
- Abstract
The tree-growing sector is considered to be an important supplier of food and raw material for industry worldwide. Increasingly competitive decisions regarding international investment in orchards depend on business analysis. This study compares three apple orchards situated in Cluj-Napoca, on the Eastern limits of the Transylvanian Plain, Romania. While the climatic and soil conditions are relatively consistent among the three orchards, the technical and economic results (expressed in hectares) vary due to the use of three different technological systems of apple production: extensive, intensive, and super-intensive. The study compares the life cycle, starting with age of fructification, production level (quantity and quality), costs (investment and production costs-divided into material costs, mechanical costs, human costs, and overhead costs), income, profit (including rate of profit), and investment efficiency: Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), and Payback Period (PP). It was observed that the most economically efficient technological system in terms of investments is the super-intensive one, with a higher production level, a higher share of Extra Class apples, and a younger age of initial fructification. However certain inconveniences of this system-such as a more expensive investment, a higher cost of running the business throughout the year, and a reduced life cycle-cannot be ignored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2015
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29. Analysis of Factors that Influence the Willingness to Pay for Irrigation Water in the Kurdistan Regional Government, Iraq.
- Author
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Harun, Rezhen, Muresan, Iulia C., Dumitras, Diana E., Arion, Felix H., and Lile, Ramona
- Abstract
Water availability has become a problem in many countries of the world. Water scarcity can be economic or physical. Agricultural water use accounts for about three quarters of total global consumption; in many developing countries, irrigation represents over 90% of the water used. The purpose of this paper is to explore the willingness to pay for irrigation water among the farmers from the boundaries governed by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). During the field study, 236 farmers from KRG were interviewed. The collected data were analyzed for each of the precipitation zones of the area (secured (A) and non-secured rainfed (B)). The contingent valuation method was used to determine the willingness to pay for irrigation water. The following possible independent variables influencing farmers' decisions were considered: the bid amounts; evaluation scale of the water deficit; source of water for irrigation; cultivated area; education and age of respondents; main agricultural activity. In Zone A, the median willingness to pay of the farmers that used ground water for irrigation is 20.28 USD/10 m
3 , and for the farmers that use other sources of water, the willingness to pay is 11.49 USD/10 m3 . The median willingness to pay in Zone B is 18.56/10 m3 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]- Published
- 2015
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30. Quality Estimation of Training Courses Using SERVQUAL Model.
- Author
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ARION, Felix H., MURESAN, Iulia C., and MERCE, Emilian
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OCCUPATIONAL training ,CURRICULUM ,ENTREPRENEURSHIP ,PROFESSIONALISM ,EDUCATION ,ECONOMICS - Abstract
Nowadays the training courses represent a real problem, and more and more people are interested in improving or developing new skills in order to improve their professional status. This article examines the factors that influence the quality of the training courses held by FAER organization. The training courses are addressed to the future entrepreneurs. The courses were related to various fields: management, marketing, finance and other economic subjects. Due to the basic characteristics of the services it is difficult to evaluate the quality of this kind of activity. To achieve the purpose of the paper a survey was conducted using the SERVQUAL method. The total number of respondents that participated in this survey was 194. The results reveal the fact that the training courses did not achieve the expectations of the participants and the main problems which were indicated are related to the schedule and the ability of the professors to communicate and make the participants feel comfortable during the classes. To increase the quality of these courses it is recomanded to pay attention also to the relation between the lectures and the praticipants, not only to the quantity and the quality of the provided material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2013
31. Study Regarding Rural Guesthouse and Tourists' Satisfaction.
- Author
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MURESAN, Iulia C., ARION, Felix H., and HARUN, Rezhen
- Subjects
INTERIOR decoration of guesthouses ,RURAL development ,TOURIST attitudes ,TOURISM impact ,CUSTOMER satisfaction ,TOURISM - Abstract
In order to success in any business an important factor is considered to be the quality of the services delivered to customers. The paper presents the tourists' satisfaction with respect to the services offered by the rural guesthouses. Lodging represents an important part of the holiday. According to the available legislation of Romania there are more than 10 different types of accommodation facilities which can be certificated to assure the tourists' services. Hitherto in Romania the certification of accommodation facilities is due only based on the technical characteristics. For the main objective of the paper a survey was conducted in 2 flowers and 3 flowers rural guesthouses. The respondents were asked to evaluate the quality of the services by using the SERVQUAL model. The quality of the services offered by the rural guesthouses did not meet the tourists' expectations for none of the comfort categories. For future research it is recommended to conduct a similar study at the nation level to determine if only the technical characteristics are enough or not to certificate an accommodation unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2013
32. Analysis of Tourism Demand in Vatra Dornei SPA Resort.
- Author
-
MUREşAN, Iulia C., ARION, Felix H., DUMITRAş, Diana E., and PALIESCU, Cristina M.
- Subjects
TOURISM ,SUPPLY & demand ,RESORTS ,TOURISTS - Abstract
This paper presents the particularities of the supply and demand in Vatra Dornei SPA resort, which is located in the North-East part of Romania, in Suceava County. In order to face the new challenges of the market the supply needs to adapt to the new trend. This is not possible without knowing the tourists profile. In the first part of the paper is presented the literature review about the importance and the trends regarding the deveplemnt of the health and wellness tourism. The paper continues with the description of the analyzed area and the research methods used. The research method used was the survey and the main indicators used to analyze the demand and supply were: number of tourists, overnights stay, average length of stay, number of accommodation facilities and the occupancy rate. In order to achieve the purpose of the present paper a study was conducted in Vatra Dornei in the period July-August 2011. The statistical data about the supply were analyzed and debated and a survey was conducted on 150 tourists. The results show that the supply still needs to be adapted to the tourists profile and to the national thermal tourism development strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
33. The Recreation Value of Piatra Craiului National Park: A Combined Travel Cost and Contingent Valuation Survey.
- Author
-
DUMITRAS, Diana E., ILEA, Marioara, JITEA, Ionel M., and ARION, Felix H.
- Subjects
NATIONAL parks & reserves ,TRAVEL costs ,VALUATION ,CONSUMERS' surplus ,POISSON'S ratio - Abstract
This paper describes the steps of estimating the recreation value of a national park by combining two non-market valuation methods: the Travel Cost Method and the Contingent Valuation Method. The questionnaire was designed according to both methods by formulating specific questions. The survey was implemented in Piatra Craiului National Park during the summer of 2011, one of the most visited national parks from Romania. The recreation value in terms of consumer surplus per trip is derived from the Poisson model and in terms of willingness to pay per trip from the random effects probit model. It was found that tourists gain significant benefits from recreating in the park. The estimated recreation values are expressed in monetary units and provide justification for attracting funds for developing tourism opportunities in a sustainable way. Moreover, the findings show that tourists are aware of the value of the park and do appreciate the opportunities offered by the park administrations. However, the process of revealing the benefits people gain after visiting the park should receive more attention from the decision makers when developing the management plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
34. Why to Support Ecological Agriculture in the Common Agricultural Policies? Case of Romania.
- Author
-
ARION, Felix H., MUREşAN, Iulia C., and MATIş, Ramona M.
- Subjects
ORGANIC farming ,INDUSTRIAL costs ,AGRICULTURAL productivity ,AGRICULTURE ,GROSS margins ,COMPARATIVE studies - Abstract
This paper has as the main objective the comparative analysis of production costs in fruits trees ecological agriculture as well as for conventional agriculture. Sequentially, it was determinated the expenses changes that occur on similar farms in the two analyzed farming systems: ecological and conventional, using a survey instrument, a questionnaire which, provided data necessary to analyze differences in costs for different agricultural production. Based on the results of the comparative study, it can be observed that there are significant differences in the variable production costs and gross margin of each culture, the lowest gross margin are recorded, mainly, for the farms on the conversion period, proving the necessity for supporting the ecological agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
35. Profile of Participants to Entrepreneurship Training Courses.
- Author
-
ALEXA, Camelia I., ARION, Felix H., and MUREşAN, Iulia C.
- Subjects
ENTREPRENEURSHIP ,BUSINESSPEOPLE ,RESEARCH methodology ,SAMPLE size (Statistics) ,TRAINING - Abstract
This paper presents the particularities of participants' profile to trainings. The research was conducted in April 2012 in four counties of Romania: Arges, Bistrita-Nasaud, Mures and Suceava. The research method was de survey based on questionnaire. The sample size was of 194 respondents. The study revealed that the participants in training are mainly female, with high education level and low income. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
36. Estimating the quality of tourist destination in Tarnava Mare Area.
- Author
-
Mureşan, Iulia C., Arion, Felix H., and Moisescu, Ovidiu I.
- Subjects
SOCIAL surveys ,TOURIST attractions ,SERVQUAL (Service quality framework) ,GUESTHOUSES - Abstract
This paper presents the results of a research conducted in the Tarnava Mare Region by setting up an original tool based on QUALITEST and SERVQUAL methods, having as main objective to determine the quality of the region as a tourist destination. The working method used was a social survey based on questionnaire. Research carried out revealed that tourist services in general and of the tourist guesthouses, in particular, are difficult to quantify in terms of quality, being based mainly on emotional impressions. Because of that, a continuous adaptation of research instruments is needed in order to determine the most valuable future directions for the development of the region in terms of tourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2011
37. Compiling a Visitors Profile in Tarnava Mare Area.
- Author
-
Arion, Felix H., Mureşan, Iulia C., and Balint, Lenke
- Subjects
TOURIST attractions ,SERVQUAL (Service quality framework) ,RESEARCH methodology ,INVESTORS ,TOURISTS - Abstract
This research is a first step for estimating the main characteristics of the visitors from the Tarnava Mare Region. For assuring and for offering a high quality level of tourist services, as a competitive advantage for investors (in term of increasing the number of tourists and, implicitly, the turnover and profit), the profile of the visitors must be was studied using a direct survey by implementing a questionnaire using QUALITEST and SERVQUAL instruments, for observing the expected qualitative level of tourist destination. The research offers valuable information for determining relevant conclusions that can be used a fundament for diversifying and adapting the tourist offers as an important element for increasing the attractiveness of tourist destination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2011
38. Organic Food Consumers and Purchase Intention: A Case Study in Romania.
- Author
-
Chiciudean, Gabriela O., Harun, Rezhen, Ilea, Marioara, Chiciudean, Daniel I., Arion, Felix H., Ilies, Garofita, and Muresan, Iulia C.
- Subjects
ORGANIC foods ,GROCERY shopping ,PRINCIPAL components analysis ,ORGANIC farming ,TRANSGENIC organisms ,SUSTAINABILITY - Abstract
Organic farming has become an important alternative to conventional farming, mostly because of environmental sustainability issues, and has long-term positive benefits over soil, water, air and climate change, biodiversity, prohibiting the use of genetically modified organisms, and encouraging the development of ecological services. In Romania, the organic food market follows a positive trend, although the consumption rate is still very low compared to the European Union; therefore, it is necessary to identify the main barriers in consumption but also the factors influencing the increase in demand for this category of food products. In order to accomplish these objectives, a survey based on a questionnaire was conducted in the North-West Development Region of Romania, the second most important Romanian region from an economic development perspective. Five hundred and sixty-eight questionnaires were distributed in 2016. The collected data were danalyzed using descriptive statistics and principal component analysis. The results indicated that the most important barrier in consumption was price, followed by perishability and availability. High prices, mistrust, and lack of proper promotion for organic food are the influencing factors for organic food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
39. Attitudes and Perceptions of the Local Community towards Sustainable Tourism Development in Kurdistan Regional Government, Iraq.
- Author
-
Harun, Rezhen, Chiciudean, Gabriela O., Sirwan, Kawan, Arion, Felix H., and Muresan, Iulia C.
- Abstract
Over the last years, tourism has undergone significant development worldwide, especially in developing countries. Tourism is a multi-faced activity with positive and negative impacts on the destinations, linking the economic, social, and environmental components of sustainable development. The attitude of the host community is an important factor for future tourism planning, management, and development of a tourism destination. As such, the paper analyzes the attitudes and perceptions of the local residents from the Kurdistan Regional Government, located in the northern part of the Republic of Iraq. To achieve the purpose of the research, a survey based on a questionnaire was conducted in Sulaimani and Halabja Governorates. A number of 320 questionnaires were applied in 2016. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and principal component analysis. The results indicate that tourism is seen as a development sector during the last years. Its positive impacts are better perceived than the negative ones, mainly because it offers more recreational opportunities due to the development of new recreational parks. Tourism increases pollution, this being the most negative aspect mentioned by the respondents, but regardless, they are proud of the progress overthe last years and they support future actions for tourism development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2018
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
40. Particularities of the Farms in the Kurdistan Regional Government.
- Author
-
HARUN, Rezhen, MUREȘAN, Iulia C., ARION, Felix H., and DUMITRAȘ, Diana D.
- Subjects
FARMS ,FARM size ,METEOROLOGICAL precipitation analysis ,CHI-squared test - Abstract
The present research describes the farms' characteristics from Kurdistan Regional Government. To achieve the aim of the paper during June-September 2012, 236 questionnaires were applied to the farmers from Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG). The descriptive statistics and chi-square test were used to analyze the data. The analysis was conducted for each of the three governorates of the region (Duhok, Erbil and Suleimani) and for two precipitation zones: A area with an average rain higher than 500mm/year and B area with an average rain less than 500 mmm/year. The results indicated that the average size of the farm in KRG in 2011 was around 13 hectares. In the attempt of reducing the negative impact of the water deficit on the production, the farmers from B area increased their cultivated surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2015
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
41. The Current Problem of the Farmer, Situation and Prospects for Rural Areas of Kurdistan Region- Iraq.
- Author
-
HARUN, Rezhen, ARION, Felix H., and MURESAN, Iulia C.
- Subjects
EMIGRATION & immigration ,AGRICULTURAL productivity ,AGRICULTURAL administration ,URBANIZATION ,MANNERS & customs - Abstract
Rural areas are meeting considerable challenges today which arise mainly from globalization, demographic change and the rural migration -to-urban migration. Rural farmers were account the prominent part of the population of any developing country such as Kurdistan Region. When the rural farmers lack access to knowledge, general services, early warning systems (drought, pests, diseases etc.), improved seedlings, fertilizer, lack of agricultural equipments, credit, market prices and lack of information that would help them achieve maximum agricultural yield, they are not only grope in the dark but are driven to the urban centres in search of formal employment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2013
42. Perceived Quality of Tourist Services. Case of Tarnava Mare.
- Author
-
MUREşAN, Iulia C. and ARION, Felix H.
- Subjects
PERCEIVED quality ,QUALITY of service ,TOURISM ,GUESTHOUSES ,HOSPITALITY industry - Abstract
This paper presents the perceived quality of tourist services from Tarnava Mare. The main objective of the research was to evaluate the quality of the rural guesthouses by using the SERVQUAL method. The SERVQUAL method permitted to develop e new research instrument adapted to the type of analyzed services (rural tourism accommodation facilities). The survey was made during the period august 2010-april 2011. The analysis of the 22 statements revealed that the main problem of the accommodation guesthouses was related to their availability of solving the tourists' demands, even if the other aspects related to the staff behavior was evaluated positive. The problems are mainly due to the fact that the owners are those which assure the services' delivery, and in most of the cases the tourists' activity represents a complementary activity. As solutions for all these negative aspects can be mention participation to trainings, hire qualified staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
43. Tourism Demand Segmentation Based on Type of Services. Case of Vatra Dornei.
- Author
-
ARION, Felix H., MUREşAN, Iulia C., and PALIESCU, Cristina M.
- Subjects
TOURISM ,INTERNATIONAL visitors ,TRAVEL ,HOTELS ,HOSPITALITY industry - Abstract
Tourism represents a sector which has developed during the last decades. The number of those which travel for leisure increased year by year. According to the data offered by UNWTO in 2011 the international tourists' arrivals reached a total of 980 million, up from 939 million in 2010. At the national level according the National Institute for Statistics press release, the number of the arrivals increased by 16%, while the overnights stay increased by 12.2% in 2011 compared to 2010. Based on these facts and the Minister of Regional Development and Tourism strategies researches need to be conducted to determinate the tourism demand structure and tourists1 preferences for services [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
44. Difficulties of Measuring the Effects of Entrepreneurial Training.
- Author
-
ALEXA, Camelia I., ARION, Felix H., and MUREşAN, Iulia C.
- Subjects
SOCIOECONOMICS ,RECESSIONS ,FINANCIAL crises ,INVESTMENTS ,ENTREPRENEURSHIP ,BUSINESSPEOPLE - Abstract
By analyzing the studied socio-economic, it was observed that the recession and the economic crisis had negative effects, since the investments, both in public and in private sectors were not sufficient to cover all the needs. Also, it can be seen that local authorities had not enough resources and/or they were unable to create a coherent strategy for effectively combating the negative consequences of the economic depreciation over communities. So, the need for entrepreneurship skills of people, both through the need to develop the current business environment and the availability of people to attend and take advantage of later knowledge gained is more stringent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2012
45. Questionnaire Design for Analyzing the Production Costs from Ecological and Conventional Agriculture.
- Author
-
Arion, Felix H., Mureşan, Iulia C., and Simu, Alexandru V.
- Subjects
RESEARCH methodology - Abstract
An abstract of the article "Questionnaire Design for Analyzing the Production Costs from Ecological and Conventional Agriculture," by Felix H. Arion, Iulia C. Mureşan, Alexandru V. Simu is presented.
- Published
- 2011
46. Localized Products. Present and Forecasted Realities in Romania.
- Author
-
Andreica, Ileana, Arion, Felix H., and Mureşan, Iulia C.
- Subjects
FOOD quality - Abstract
An abstract of the article "Localized Products. Present and Forecasted Realities in Romania," by Ileana Andreica, Felix H. Arion, Iulia C. Mureşan is presented.
- Published
- 2011
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