bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An integrated path framework of tourism and hospitality social entrepreneurship: a systematic literature review
Authors: Zhang Yan , Xu Hong , Yang Hongyan
Published: May 2023

Purpose

As an important emerging topic in recent years, reviews on tourism and hospitality social entrepreneurship (THSE) by theme remain limited. This paper aims to map the current publication trends, reveal the formation path and identify the future research directions of THSE, providing comprehensive and in-depth insight.

Design/methodology/approach

This study presents a systematic review of 89 articles on THSE published in the Web of Science, ScienceDirect and EBSCOhost. It follows grounded theory to classify literature and an expert feedback process to ensure validity.

Findings

Research on THSE is mainly found in developing countries and regions. Qualitative methods have been the most popular for researchers. This paper classifies THSE research into four main themes: antecedents, processes, effects and challenges.

Practical implications

This review suggests that social enterprise managers should consider the inclusive business model and adopt empowerment, network construction, market approaches and bricolage to mobilize resources. Policymakers should disseminate relevant laws and regulations to provide a flexible and equal environment. Education and capacity building for people should be strengthened to train future social entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This review provides an integrated process model by clustering articles to update the holistic picture of THSE. This work identifies research gaps that future research should address.
COVID-19 pandemic and hotel property performance
Authors: Yang Yang , Li Hengyun , Roehl Wesley S.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to test the local impact of COVID-19 pandemic on hotel performance at the individual property level, and further examine the roles of hotel attributes and business mix in potentially moderating or intensifying the impact of a crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 5,090 hotel properties in Texas, USA from January 2020 to December 2021, this study estimates a monthly hotel performance model to evaluate how the pandemic affected hotels’ operational performance based on revenue per available room.

Findings

Results show that a 10% increase in the monthly number of confirmed COVID-19 cases led to a 0.522% decrease in hotel performance. Also, a series of moderators were identified within the pandemic–performance relationship: the negative impact of the pandemic was more severe among higher-end hotels and newer hotels; urbanization and localization diseconomies prevailed during the pandemic; and there was a smaller negative effect of COVID-19 on high rated hotels in the category of economy hotels.

Originality/value

The moderators highlighted in this paper shed light on the heterogeneity of COVID-19’s effects on hotel operations. Findings enrich the hospitality literature by considering business resilience in relation to the pandemic.
The influence of entrepreneurial culture and organizational learning on entrepreneurial orientation: the case of new technology-based firms in Iran
Authors: Yazdanpanah Yasaman , Toghraee Mohamad Taghi , Salamzadeh Aidin , Scott Jonathan M. , Palalić Ramo
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper explores how entrepreneurial culture (EC) and organizational learning (OL) determine the entrepreneurial orientation (EO) of new technology-based firms (NTBFs). These NTBFs are located in Isfahan Science and Technology Town (ISTT), Iran. These entities face substantial challenges in a highly-sanctioned economy, which makes adopting, acquiring or transferring new technologies daunting.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyzes a sample of 200 NTBFs. The participants were trained chief executive officers and observed by applying pre-test and post-test designs. As a final step, empirical data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed accordingly. The structural equation modeling (SEM) with the partial least squares (PLS) approach was used by the SmartPLS2 software.

Findings

OL was found to mediate the relationship between EC and EO in the studied NTBFs. Additionally, the indirect effect of EC on EO and the direct impact of OL on EO were significant (=1.96). Therefore, this study focuses on selected NTBFs within Iran's particular and distinctive context.

Research limitations/implications

This study has several limitations. These were the time consuming nature, the lack of cooperation by managers and the COVID-19 pandemic-related challenges. Nonetheless, the findings offer several important implications for practitioners, scholars and policymakers.

Originality/value

The paper sought to explore how EC and OL determine EO in Iranian NTBFs. It, thus, investigates the case of a highly-sanctioned context during the coronavirus pandemic, which imposed several basic and technological limitations on their practices.
Contribution of the informal sector towards sustainable livelihoods: evidence from Khayelitsha Township, Cape Town
Authors: Thwala Sinhle , Masiya Tyanai , Lubinga Stellah N.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigates the contribution of the informal sector towards secure livelihoods. Using a case study design, the study focusses on Mandela park, situated in Khayelitsha Township, Cape Town, in the Western Cape province of South Africa. Khayelitsha is predominantly an old township established by the apartheid government using unjust segregation laws to foster spatial planning that isolated people of colour in areas with insufficient infrastructure and informal economic activities. Therefore, informal trading became a survival strategy in Khayelitsha, attracting an increasing number of informal traders in public spaces within the township in pursuit of livelihoods. Informal activities are generally conducted to generate income and secure sustainable livelihoods.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative research design, incorporating structured interviews instrumental in data collection and in-depth thematic analysis.

Findings

The study findings reveal that the informal sector positively contributes to the sustainable livelihoods of those involved in the informal sector and the relatives of those through income generation, family support, wealth creation, source of employment, business incubation and innovation and creativity.

Originality/value

The study concludes that given the increasing unemployment rate in South Africa, caused by the stagnant economic growth rate, policymakers should rethink their policies on the informal economy, acknowledge the sector's relevance and support the sector.
Mechanical and wear performance of A356/Al2O3 aluminum nanocomposites by considering the mechanical milling time and microstructural properties
Authors: Çalışkan Oğuzhan , Sunar Talha , Özyürek Dursun
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The paper aims to examine the mechanical and wear performance of A356/Al2O3 (alumina) nanocomposites. The correlation between wear performance and the microstructural properties that result from various mechanical milling periods was investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

The production of nano alumina reinforced (1 Wt.%) A356 aluminum nanocomposite specimens was carried out using the traditional powder metallurgy method, incorporating three different mechanical milling times (1, 2 and 4 h). Subsequently, mechanical and wear performance assessments were conducted using hardness, compression and pin-on-disc wear tests.

Findings

Although the specimens subjected to the most prolonged mechanical milling (4 h) demonstrated superior hardness and compressive strength properties, they exhibited a remarkable weight loss during the wear tests. The traditional evaluation, which supports that the wear performance is generally correlated with hardness, does not consider the microstructural properties. Since the sample milled for 1 h has a moderate microstructure, it showed better wear performance than the sample with higher hardness.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper is demonstrated through its evaluation of wear performance, incorporating not only hardness but also the consideration of microstructural properties resulted from mechanical milling.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-02-2023-0031/
A numerical study of fatigue life in high-speed angular contact ball bearings with thermal and centrifugal expansion
Authors: Zhang Chang , Tian Jiyin , Guo Dan
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Fix-position preloading, centrifugal force and higher temperatures cause the bearing units in angular contact ball bearings to expand, changing the contact load and affecting bearing life. This study aims to examine the effect of thermal and centrifugal expansion on the fatigue life of fix-position preloaded angular contact ball bearings in high-speed operating conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The contact loads on the inner and outer bearing rings were resolved according to the thermal and centrifugal expansion factors in the quasi-static position preloading model. The pressure and frictional stress distribution were used to calculate the subsurface stress in the contact area, while the Zaretsky model was used to determine the relative fatigue life of the inner and outer bearing rings.

Findings

Under fix-position bearing preloading, thermal and centrifugal expansion significantly affected the contact load and relative fatigue life. At the same axial preload, the inner ring contact load was higher than the outer ring contact load, with a maximum difference of 132.3%. The decrease in the inner ring relative life exceeded the outer ring contact load, with a maximum difference of 7.5%, compared to the absence of thermal and centrifugal expansion.

Originality/value

This study revealed the influence of thermal and centrifugal expansion on the fatigue life of angular contact ball bearings in high-speed service conditions.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-03-2023-0065/
The power of connecting experience data and operational data: more than the sum of its parts?
Authors: Bathke Henrik , Birkel Hendrik , von der Gracht Heiko A. , Kisgen Stefanie
Published: May 2023

Purpose

In the era of digital disruption and customer loyalty loss, it has become even more important to shape the experience journey of a firm’s stakeholders. The benefits of experience data (XD) analysis for a competitive advantage and firm performance are well proven in the business-to-customer context. Therefore, this study aims to explore the limited exploitation of XD in the business-to-business (B2B) context.

Design/methodology/approach

The data of 338 B2B firms is generated through computer-assisted telephone interviewing using a structured interview guideline. A Mann–Whitney U test and binary linear regression are applied to test hypotheses derived from literature.

Findings

The results suggest that XD non-collectors see XD increase efficiency, whereas XD collectors view XD strategically beyond customer data. Additionally, the successful application of XD in firms can be fostered by connecting XD with operational data through digitalised processes, strategic usage and data collection at certain defined points of time.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of XD perception between collectors and non-collectors and develops determinants for the successful application of XD management. Based on the results, B2B marketing executives from academics and practice can foster the implementation of XD management to improve all firm’s stakeholders’ experiences. In this way, this study contributes to the understanding of managing not only customers’ but other stakeholders’ experiences.
The need for a robust legal framework on corporate criminal liability in Mauritius: lessons from the French model
Authors: Mahadew Bhavna
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The lack of legal framework on corporate criminal liability (CCL) in Mauritius is a matter of concern with the growing number of corporate crimes. The purpose of the paper is therefore to provide a critical overview of the existing framework on CCL in Mauritius with the aim of underlining its deficiencies and lacunas. As a consequence, an attempt is made to compare the Mauritian model with the French one, so that salient features and characteristics of the French model of CCL can be borrowed into the Mauritian legal framework.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts the black-letter approach and the comparative research methodology. The legislative framework of Mauritius on CCL will be compared to the related laws of France with the goal of drawing lessons and inspirations for Mauritius, given that the French model of CCL is well established and highly effective.

Findings

The mandatory application of the identification principle in CCL, inspired from the British common law, is a serious impediment towards successful criminal prosecution of companies responsible for criminal offences. In addition, the lack of clear legal provisions on substantive and procedural aspects of CCL is a matter of concern and demonstrates the dire need for legal amendments and action from the legislator as the paper discusses.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this paper will be among the very first one tackling this area of law from a comparative perspective. The issue of CCL has indeed receive very little academic attention and this paper will help in filling the literature gap on this matter. It will also help future research on the matter for students, academics and corporate law practitioners.
Calibration issues under the EU capital regime for investment firms
Authors: Feridun Mete
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The EU prudential regime for investment firms comprising the Directive (EU) 2019/2034 (IFD) and Regulation (EU) 2019/2033 (IFR) introduces a fit-for-purpose capital framework for investment firms. The capital impact on the practice of investment management can be material depending on firms’ specific business models and risk profiles, which may require them to take strategic decisions with respect to the services they provide. Despite the importance of this issue for the practice of investment management, there exists no study among the existing studies that focuses on this issue. This study aims to fill this gap in the literature.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews the calibration approaches the European Banking Authority (EBA) has used by exploring the deficiencies of the regime with respect to the calibration of categorization thresholds and coefficients that are used by the EBA to calculate regulatory capital requirements.

Findings

This paper sets out that the choice of the relevant percentile for setting the firm categorization thresholds was not based on any theoretical rule. It also discusses that the calibration of the K-factors was subjective and lacked consistency. In addition, it criticizes the sample that the EBA used for business model coverage on the grounds that it was unbalanced, resulting in certain K-factors driving the overall capital impact.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is needed on the calibration of thresholds as this will remain a crucial factor for the effectiveness of the new regime. In particular, a more data-driven and transparent approach would be necessary to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the thresholds.

Practical implications

This paper leads to the policy implication that, despite its merits that overweigh its shortcomings, potential market competition and financial stability issues that may stem from inconsistencies and a general lack of objectivity in certain aspects of the regime should not be underestimated by the EU policy makers.

Originality/value

The present paper contributes to the existing knowledge primarily by reviewing the EBA’s calibration approaches with respect to the K-factor coefficients and firm categorization thresholds, concluding that lack of objectivity and precision in the relevant methodologies could distort capital allocation decisions in the practice of investment management.
Financial stability nexus of Islamic banks: an influential and intellectual science mapping structure
Authors: Asif Rabia , Nasir Adeel
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to provide a comprehensive bibliometric investigation of the antecedents to financial stability in Islamic banking, a transition economy with a volatile stock market focusing on banks following the Shariah approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The data for this analysis was extracted from the Scopus database, which combines a comprehensively crafted abstract and citation database with augmented data and linked scholarly works across various disciplines. It quickly finds relevant research and provides access to reliable data and analytical tools. This study deploys “bibliometrix 3.0,” a biblioshiny R-package for influential structure and the VOS viewer for intellectual structure.

Findings

The investigation’s main findings revealed that 1,910 documents were published from 1987 to 2022. Published manuscripts received 39,050 citations, with an average of 10.18 citations per year. However, the instructed empirical research was experienced during 2009 and 2020, while earlier periods (1987–2008) were relatively inactive where banking was considered protective in the presence of BASEL-II capital accords regulations. While the International Journal of Bank Market has been at the top of the list to publish articles related to the area under investigation, the Journal of Banking and Finance is ranked one of the most cited articles. Malaysia has been at the top of the list of countries to research Islamic Sharia compliance principles in the banking industry, and International Islamic University Malaysia has produced enough evidence in this regard. The intellectual structure provided essential foundations for future research, and the bibliometric coupling approach was used.

Practical implications

While most of the banking research has been conducted to determine the banking business efficiency, risk and profitability, little focus is given to financial stability and that too concerning the Islamic banks. Therefore, researchers need to investigate this horizon from an Islamic banking point of view and focus on key issues that discriminate between Islamic and conventional banks in determining their stability level.

Originality/value

Briefly, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study would be the first to provide bibliometric information about financial stability keeping in view the sample data from banks with the Shariah approach. Furthermore, the proven analysis demonstrates a novel contribution that financially stable Islamic banks might strengthen the financial industry and overall economy.
Assessing the influence of non-uniform gas speed on the melt pool depth in laser powder bed fusion additive manufacturing
Authors: Weaver Jordan , Schlenoff Alec , Deisenroth David , Moylan Shawn
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the influence of nonuniform gas speed across the build area on the melt pool depth during laser powder bed fusion. This study focuses on whether a nonuniform gas speed is a source of process variation within an individual build.

Design/methodology/approach

Parts with many single-track laser scans were printed and characterized in different locations across the build area coupled with corresponding gas speed profile measurements. Cross-sectional melt pool depth, width and area are compared against build location/gas speed profiles, scan direction and laser scan speed.

Findings

This study shows that the melt pool depth of single-track laser scans produced on parts are highly variable. Despite this, trends were found showing a reduction in melt pool depth for slow laser scan speeds on the build platform near the inlet nozzle and when the laser scans are parallel to the gas flow direction.

Originality/value

A unique data set of single-track laser scan cross-sectional melt pool measurements and gas speed measurements was generated to assess process variation associated with nonuniform gas speed. Additionally, a novel sample design was used to increase the number of single-track tests per part, which is widely applicable to studying process variation across the build area.
Exploring the importance of root architecture plasticity in plant adaptation to environmental constraints
Authors: El Amrani Belkacem
Published: May 2023

Plants, as immobile organisms, depend on their roots to access soil resources efficiently and cost‐effectively. To achieve this goal, maximize productivity, and adapt to variable challenging conditions, plants rely on root phenotypic plasticity. This includes changes in root morphology, growth angles, diameter, elongation, branching density, and turnover rate. In simple terms, a plant root system is a dynamic structure that can change its branching structure in response to changes in biotic and abiotic conditions such as water availability, soil mineral nutrient content, soil compaction, salinity, and the formation of symbiotic relationships with other organisms or anchored in the substrate. However, the complexity of these responses and their impact on plant fitness are not well understood. In this paper, we review different aspects of the morphological plasticity of the root system. The results show that root flexibility can greatly support plant adaptation and control the nature of plant–plant interactions within the population. Thus, gaining a comprehensive understanding of root plasticity can lead to improved and sustainable plant production. We discuss the morphological plasticity of plant root systems in response to various biotic and abiotic factors, such as water availability, soil nutrient content, compaction, salinity, plant–plant interactions, and interactions with soil microorganisms. The aspects examined include root morphology, growth angles, diameter, elongation, branching density, and turnover rate. These parameters are crucial in determining how plants adapt to changes in their environment and optimize their growth and productivity.
Flu Fallout: Information Production Constraints and Corporate Disclosure
Authors: CHEN CHEN , LI LEONARD LEYE , LU LOUISE YI , WANG RENCHENG
Published: May 2023

Using influenza epidemic data, we examine how constraints on corporate information production affect disclosure policies. We find that firms in areas with higher flu activity are less likely to issue short‐run earnings forecasts and more likely to issue long‐run earnings forecasts. These results are more pronounced when the information production process is more complex, when managers face a greater reputational loss for issuing low‐quality short‐run forecasts, and when firms’ costs of switching the forecast horizon are lower. Further analysis implies that the effect of flu activity on these forecast issuance decisions is not driven by firm performance or information uncertainty. Our results suggest that managers do not simply avoid issuing forecasts in response to information production constraints. Instead, they shift the forecast horizon from short‐run to long‐run, appearing to balance the costs of issuing low‐quality forecasts with those of not issuing forecasts at all.
Improving employee outcomes in the remote working context: a time‐lagged study on digital‐oriented training, work‐to‐family conflict and empowering leadership
Authors: Pham Nhat Tan , Tuan Tran Hoang , Thuy Vo Thi Ngoc , Hoang Hung Trong , Hoang Giang
Published: May 2023

Drawing on social exchange theory, this study develops a research framework that highlights the moderating role of empowering leadership and the link between digital‐oriented training programs and employee outcomes in the context of remote work. We conducted a study utilizing the time‐lagged research design. Data were collected from 259 supervisor–employee dyads working in companies located in different regions in Vietnam. The results demonstrate that a training program for digital skills enhances employees' perceived organizational support, which, in turn, reduces work‐to‐family conflict. By exploring the moderating role of empowering leadership, this study supports the moderation and moderated mediation models. Particularly, both direct and indirect influences are stronger when empowering leadership is high, and weaker if empowering leadership is low. Additionally, we highlight the impact of easing work‐to‐family conflicts on employee job satisfaction and performance in a new context: remote working. Finally, we discuss managerial and theoretical contributions and limitations.
Consumer perceptions and antioxidant profiling of acidified cold‐brewed sorghum bran beverages
Authors: Ardoin Ryan , Smith Brennan , Lea Jeanne , Boue Stephen , Smolensky Dmitriy , Santana Adina L. , Peterson Jaymi
Published: May 2023

Sumac sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) bran contains polyphenolic compounds with health‐promoting properties. Functional food product development can add economic value to sorghum bran, but acceptability may be limited by bitter taste. An acidified cold‐brewed sorghum bran beverage was developed, and simplified sweetened (SB) and unsweetened (UB) versions were analyzed for antioxidant profiles (total phenolic content, phenolic profiling via HPLC, condensed tannins, oxygen radical absorbance capacity, and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging) and sensory properties. Beverages contained condensed tannins (average of 0.33 mg catechin equivalents per milliliter) along with other flavonoids and demonstrated in vitro antioxidant capacity (3.32–3.96 mmol Trolox equivalents per milliliter). One hundred fourteen consumers, grouped by 6‐n‐propylthiouracil (bitterness) taster status, rated acceptability (9‐point hedonic scales), bitterness intensity (5‐point scale), and purchase intent (PI; yes/no) of model beverages. Although the concept was novel, SB was clearly more acceptable to consumers regardless of preference for sweet versus unsweet tea (as a reference product concept). Mean mouthfeel and flavor liking scores were significantly higher for SB (6.2 and 5.1, respectively) than UB (4.8 and 3.0, respectively). Bitterness was suppressed by the sweetness in SB (mean bitterness intensity of 1.8 vs. 2.6 for UB), although 21% of consumers still found it “too bitter.” However, consumers’ taster status did not affect beverage acceptability nor bitterness perceptions at present phenolic levels (0.53 gallic acid equivalents per milligram). After a sorghum/antioxidant information message, positive PI increased to 56% for SB, impacting more females than males. Enhanced familiarity and effective product messaging can improve acceptability of acidified cold‐brewed sorghum bran beverages as a novel functional food product concept.

Practical Application

New food applications of cereal bran can provide value in terms of byproduct utilization and delivery of health‐promoting ingredients. Sorghum bran beverages demonstrated antioxidant activity, and the sweetened formulation showed decreased bitterness and increased acceptability. Consumers were positively influenced by antioxidant information, although most had not previously consumed sorghum.
Glomerular filtration rate estimated by differing measures and risk of all‐cause mortality among Chinese individuals without or with diabetes: A nationwide prospective study
Authors: Liu Yu‐Jie , Li Fu‐Rong , Chen Cai‐Long , Wan Zhong‐Xiao , Chen Jin‐Si , Yang Jing , Liu Rong , Xu Jia‐Ying , Zheng Yan , Qin Li‐Qiang , Chen Guo‐Chong
Published: May 2023

Background

Whether estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFRs) by differing biomarkers are differentially associated with mortality or whether the associations differ by diabetes status remains unclear, especially in Chinese population.

Methods

We included 6995 participants without diabetes (mean age: 60.4 years) and 1543 with diabetes (mean age: 61.8 years). Each eGFR measure was divided into normal (≥90 mL/min/1.73 m2), modestly declined (60 to <90 mL/min/1.73 m2), and chronic kidney disease (CKD) (<60 mL/min/1.73 m2) groups. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratio (HR) of all‐cause mortality associated with each eGFR.

Results

Over a follow‐up of 7 years, 677 and 215 deaths occurred among individuals without or with diabetes, respectively. Among those without diabetes, all measures of modestly declined eGFR were not associated with mortality, whereas CKD defined by eGFR cystatin C (eGFRcys) and eGFR creatinine (eGFRcr)‐cys (HRs were 1.71 and 1.55, respectively) but not by eGFRcr were associated with higher risk of mortality. Among diabetes, all measures of modestly declined eGFR (HRs: 1.53, 1.56, and 2.09 for eGFRcr, eGFRcys, and eGFRcr‐cys, respectively) and CKD (HRs: 2.57, 2.99, and 3.92 for eGFRcr, eGFRcys, and eGFRcr‐cys, respectively) were associated with higher risk of mortality. Regardless of diabetes status, an addition of eGFRcys or eGFRcr‐cys to traditional risk factors lead to a larger improvement in the prediction of all‐cause mortality risk than adding eGFRcr.

Conclusions

The association of eGFR with mortality risk appeared to be varied by its measures and by diabetes status among middle‐aged and older Chinese, which needs to be considered in clinical practice.
Petroleum Retention, Intraformational Migration and Segmented Accumulation within the Organic‐rich Shale in the Cretaceous Qingshankou Formation of the Gulong Sag, Songliao Basin, Northeast China
Authors: HUANGFU Yuhui , ZHANG Jinyou , ZHANG Shuichang , WANG Xiaomei , HE Kun , GUAN Ping , ZHANG Huanxu , ZHANG Bin , WANG Huajian
Published: May 2023

In this study, organic geochemical and petrological analyses were conducted on 111 shale samples from a well to understand the retention, intraformational migration and segmented accumulation (shale oil enrichment in different intervals is unconnected) features of shale oil within the organic‐rich shale in the Qingshankou Formation of the Gulong Sag. Our study shows that retained petroleum characteristics in the investigated succession are mainly influenced by three factors: organic richness, intraformational migration and segmented accumulation. Organic matter richness primarily controls the amount of retained petroleum, especially the ‘live’ component indicated by the S2 value rather than the total organic carbon (TOC) figure alone. The negative expulsion efficiencies determined by mass‐balance calculations of hydrocarbons reveal that petroleum from adjacent organic‐rich intervals migrates into the interval of about 2386–2408 m, which is characterized by high free hydrocarbon (S1), OSI and saturated hydrocarbons content, along with a greater difference in δ13C values between polar compounds (including resins and asphaltenes) and saturated hydrocarbons. The depth‐dependent heterogeneity of carbon isotope ratios (δ13C) of mud methane gas, δ13C of extracts gross composition (SARA), δ13C of kerogen and SARA content of extracts suggest that the studied succession can be subdivided into four intervals. The shale oil sealing enrichment character in each interval is further corroborated by the distinct δ13C values of mud methane gas in different intervals. Due to the migration of petroleum into the 2386–2408 m interval, the S1, OSI and saturated hydrocarbons content of the interval show higher relative values. The maturity of organic matter in the 2471–2500 m interval is at the highest with the smaller size molecular components of the retained petroleum. Thus, favorable ‘sweet spots’ may be found in the 2386–2408 m interval and the 2471–2500 m interval, according to the experiment results in this study.
Mechanism of Structure Variations at Rifted Margins in the Central Segment of South Atlantic: Insights from Numerical Modeling
Authors: WANG Zhichen , LI Jianghai , FENG Zhiqiang , WANG Lijie , LIU Chen
Published: May 2023

Rifted margins in the central South Atlantic portray spatial variability in terms of preserved width and thickness, which relates to complex rift‐related fault activities. However, there is still a lack of systematic and quantitative explanations for the causes of the variations that are observed along the paired rifts. To elucidate this issue, 2D viscous‐plastic thermomechanical numerical models are applied to capture the behavior of deformation, in which we investigate the effects of extensional rate, crustal strength and thickness on crust‐mantle coupling, and timing of transition from rifting to breakup. Our numerical experiments demonstrate that crust‐mantle decoupling accounts for crustal hyperextension, and that incorporating moderate‐intensity rheology into lower crust may yield insights into the hyper‐extended crust and asymmetric architecture observed in the central South Atlantic. The results also suggest that undulations in lithospheric basement cause asymmetric mantle upwelling. The lower crust of fold belts takes priority to be thermally weakened over craton and induces rift migration simultaneously. A new mechanism for the formation of failed rift is described, where the mechanical decoupling derived from thermally weakened lower crust gives access to dual rift migration. These results reinforce the interpretation on how crustal rheology shapes margins architectures and highlight the first‐order effects of crust‐mantle coupling.
Surface Processes Driving Intracontinental Basin Subsidence in the Context of India–Eurasia Collision: Evidence from Flexural Subsidence Modeling of the Cenozoic Southern Tarim Basin along the West Kunlun Foreland, NW Tibetan Plateau
Authors: HUANG Hao , LIN Xiubin , AN Kaixuan , ZHANG Yuqing , CHEN Hanlin , CHENG Xiaogan , LI Chunyang
Published: May 2023

The India–Eurasia collision has produced a number of Cenozoic deep intracontinental basins, which bear important information for revealing the far‐afield responses to the remote collision. Despite their significance, their subsiding mechanism remains the subject of debate, with end‐member models attributing it to either orogenic or sedimentary load. In this study, we conduct flexural subsidence modeling with a two‐dimensional finite elastic plate model on the Hotan–Mazatagh section along the southern Tarim Basin, which defines a key region in the foreland of the West Kunlun Orogen, along the NW margin of the Tibetan Plateau. The modeling results indicate that the orogenic load of West Kunlun triggers the southern Tarim Basin to subside by up to less than ∼6 km, with its impact weakening towards the basin interiors until ∼230 km north from the Karakax fault. The sedimentary load, consisting of Cenozoic strata, forces the basin to subside by ∼2 to ∼7 km. In combination with the retreat of the proto‐Paratethys Sea and the paleogeographic reorganization of the Tarim Basin, we propose that surface processes, in particular a shift from an exorheic to an endorheic drainage system associated with the consequent thick sedimentary load, played a decisive role in forming deep intracontinental basins in the context of the India–Eurasia collision.
Can global trade rules cope with changing nutrition challenges?
Authors: Thow Anne Marie , Wijkström Erik , Wolff Christiane
Published: May 2023

Malnutrition remains a global challenge and is hampering the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. At the United Nations, governments have committed to taking action on food systems and nutrition. Government intervention in this space will necessarily intersect trade and health policy. This Practitioner Commentary considers the implications for policymakers in the trade and health communities. We argue that there is an opportunity for ‘soft guidance’ to play an important role in helping governments navigate potential tensions between trade and nutrition policies.
Naïve no more: Foreign direct investment screening in the European Union
Authors: Bauerle Danzman Sarah , Meunier Sophie
Published: May 2023

This paper asks what explains the creation and comparative features of national Investment Screening Mechanisms (ISMs) in Europe. After providing a brief history and definition of ISMs, we provide descriptive patterns about the similarities and differences in the investment screening features of national ISMs in EU member states. We then explain differences in national screening policies by focusing on the role of public debt, Chinese investment, R&D expenditures and various geographic groupings. Finally, we make three policy arguments about the rise of ISMs in Europe: (1) ISMs have not been designed as protectionist instruments, (2) the politics of inward investment screening reflects a shift from economic to security logic in addressing the fundamental tension between the benefits and vulnerabilities of open markets and (3) the EU can use the ‘commercialisation’ of security to extend its own competence in the security sphere. We conclude by considering how the rapid expansion of investment screening in Europe could affect economic openness, as well as the role of the EU as a global actor.
Short‐ and medium‐term outcomes of video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery versus thoracotomy for carinal lung resection combined with carina reconstruction in locally advanced non–small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Pan Hanbo , Zou Ningyuan , Huang Jia , Tian Yu , Jia Yunxuan , Zhu Hongda , Gu Zenan , Jiang Long , Yao Feng , Luo Qingquan
Published: May 2023

Background

The application of video‐assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) for complex carina surgeries in treating non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with involved carina is controversial. This study compared short‐ and medium‐term outcomes of VATS versus thoracotomy for carinal lung resection with carina reconstruction in treating locally advanced NSCLC, aiming to assess the potential benefit of VATS over thoracotomy for these patients.

Methods

A total of 37 consecutive NSCLC cases receiving VATS (n = 14) or thoracotomy (n = 23) for carinal lung resection with carina reconstruction from 2016 to 2021 were retrospectively identified. Baseline clinicopathological characteristics, perioperative outcomes, and survival profiles were investigated.

Results

Patients in the VATS and thoracotomy groups had comparable baseline clinicopathological characteristics (all p > 0.050). VATS decreased postoperative drainage volume compared with thoracotomy (1280 [1170–1510] vs. 1795 [1510–1905] mL, p = 0.012). Regarding surgical‐related pains, VATS reduced numeric rating scale scores on the postoperative day 1 (4 [3, 4] vs. 5 [4, 5], p = 0.021) and day 2 (3 [3, 4] vs. 5 [3–5], p = 0.023) than thoracotomy. No difference was found between the VATS and thoracotomy groups in other perioperative outcomes, postoperative complications, and assessment of lymph nodes (LNs) and LN stations (all p > 0.050). Moreover, patients in the two groups had comparable 3‐year disease‐free survival (DFS), overall survival (OS), and recurrence and mortality patterns. Further subgroup and Cox hazards regression analyses also observed no difference in DFS or OS between the two groups.

Conclusions

VATS reduced postoperative drainage volume and ameliorated surgical‐related pain, and achieved comparable medium‐term survival compared to thoracotomy for carinal lung resection with carina reconstruction in treating locally advanced NSCLC.
Mild induced hypothermia and coagulation and platelet function in patients with septic shock: Secondary outcome of a randomized trial
Authors: Itenov Theis S. , Kromann Maria E. , Ostrowski Sisse R. , Bestle Morten H. , Mohr Thomas , Gyldensted Louise , Lindhardt Anne , Thormar Katrin , Sessler Daniel I. , Juffermans Nicole P. , Lundgren Jens D. , Jensen Jens‐Ulrik
Published: May 2023

Coagulation abnormalities and microthrombi contribute to septic shock, but the impact of body temperature regulation on coagulation in patients with sepsis is unknown. We tested the hypothesis that mild induced hypothermia reduces coagulation and platelet aggregation in patients with septic shock. Secondary analysis of randomized controlled trial. Adult patients with septic shock who required mechanical ventilation from eight intensive care units in Denmark were randomly assigned to mild induced hypothermia for 24 h or routine thermal management. Viscoelastography and platelet aggregation were assessed at trial inclusion, after 12 h of thermal management, and 24 h after inclusion. A total of 326 patients were randomized to mild induced hypothermia (n = 163) or routine thermal management (n = 163). Mild induced hypothermia slightly prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time and thrombus initiation time (R time 8.0 min [interquartile range, IQR 6.6–11.1] vs. 7.2 min [IQR 5.8–9.2]; p = .004) and marginally inhibited thrombus propagation (angle 68° [IQR 59–73] vs. 71° [IQR 63–75]; p = .014). The effect was also present after 24 h. Clot strength remained unaffected (MA 71 mm [IQR 66–76] with mild induced hypothermia vs. 72 mm (65–77) with routine thermal management, p = .9). The proportion of patients with hyperfibrinolysis was not affected (0.7% vs. 3.3%; p = .19), but the proportion of patients with no fibrinolysis was high in the mild hypothermia group (8.8% vs. 40.4%; p < .001). The mild induced hypothermia group had lower platelet aggregation: ASPI 85U (IQR 50–113) versus 109U (IQR 74–148, p < .001), ADP 61U (IQR 40–83) versus 79 U (IQR 54–101, p < .001), TRAP 108 (IQR 83–154) versus 119 (IQR 94–146, p = .042) and COL 50U (IQR 34–66) versus 67U (IQR 46–92, p < .001). In patients with septic shock, mild induced hypothermia slightly impaired clot initiation, but did not change clot strength. Platelet aggregation was slightly impaired. The effect of mild induced hypothermia on viscoelastography and platelet aggregation was however not in a range that would have clinical implications. We did observe a substantial reduction in fibrinolysis.
Client Importance and Audit Quality at the Individual Audit Partner, Office, and Firm Levels
Authors: Hossain Sarowar , Coulton Jeff , Wang Jenny Jing
Published: May 2023

We investigate whether audit partner level data provides a more powerful measure than office or firm level measures of client importance. We find that the likelihood of issuing a going‐concern opinion (any and first‐time) increases, and the absolute value of discretionary accruals decreases, in relation to the proportion of audit fees to the total audit fees received by audit partners from all their clients. We also find that the likelihood of issuing a going‐concern opinion (any and first‐time) increases, and the absolute value of discretionary accruals decreases, in relation to the proportion of non‐audit services fees from a client to total non‐audit service fees, and the proportion of total audit and non‐audit service fees from a client to total fees from all their clients at the office and firm levels. Our findings provide evidence to regulators, audit clients, and stakeholders that audit partners do not succumb to pressure from economically more important clients as audit quality has a positive association with client importance.
Exercise is associated with younger methylome and transcriptome profiles in human skeletal muscle
Authors: Voisin Sarah , Seale Kirsten , Jacques Macsue , Landen Shanie , Harvey Nicholas R. , Haupt Larisa M. , Griffiths Lyn R. , Ashton Kevin J. , Coffey Vernon G. , Thompson Jamie‐Lee M. , Doering Thomas M. , Lindholm Malene E. , Walsh Colum , Davison Gareth , Irwin Rachelle , McBride Catherine , Hansson Ola , Asplund Olof , Heikkinen Aino E. , Piirilä Päivi , Pietiläinen Kirsi H. , Ollikainen Miina , Blocquiaux Sara , Thomis Martine , Coletta Dawn K. , Sharples Adam P. , Eynon Nir
Published: May 2023

Exercise training prevents age‐related decline in muscle function. Targeting epigenetic aging is a promising actionable mechanism and late‐life exercise mitigates epigenetic aging in rodent muscle. Whether exercise training can decelerate, or reverse epigenetic aging in humans is unknown. Here, we performed a powerful meta‐analysis of the methylome and transcriptome of an unprecedented number of human skeletal muscle samples (n = 3176). We show that: (1) individuals with higher baseline aerobic fitness have younger epigenetic and transcriptomic profiles, (2) exercise training leads to significant shifts of epigenetic and transcriptomic patterns toward a younger profile, and (3) muscle disuse “ages” the transcriptome. Higher fitness levels were associated with attenuated differential methylation and transcription during aging. Furthermore, both epigenetic and transcriptomic profiles shifted toward a younger state after exercise training interventions, while the transcriptome shifted toward an older state after forced muscle disuse. We demonstrate that exercise training targets many of the age‐related transcripts and DNA methylation loci to maintain younger methylome and transcriptome profiles, specifically in genes related to muscle structure, metabolism, and mitochondrial function. Our comprehensive analysis will inform future studies aiming to identify the best combination of therapeutics and exercise regimes to optimize longevity.
G protein‐coupled receptor 158 modulates sensitivity to the sedative‐hypnotic effect of ethanol in male mice
Authors: Wei Shoupeng , Zheng Lei , Chang Jinlong , Jiang Jian , Zhou Zhiyu , Liao Huanquan , Song Kun , Liu Xiaoma , Chi Xinjin , Li Huiliang , Kuang Xin , Li Ningning
Published: May 2023

Background

Sensitivity to ethanol provides an index of the predisposition to recover from unconsciousness induced by a dose of ethanol. The role of the G protein‐coupled receptor 158 (GPR158) in modulating sensitivity to the sedative‐hypnotic effect of ethanol has not been investigated.

Methods

Loss of righting reflex (LORR) is a behavioral indicator of hypnosis in rodents. In this study, Gpr158−/− mice and wild‐type (WT) littermates (n = 8/genotype) were tested using LORR induced by a dose of 3.5 g/kg ethanol, an open‐field test (OFT), and a measure of blood ethanol concentration. The OFT was used to examine the role of GPR158 in the ethanol effect on motor activity in Gpr158−/− mice (n = 6/genotype). We also tested CamK2A‐Cre;Gpr158fl/fl (n = 9) and Vgat‐Cre;Gpr158fl/fl mice (n = 10) using the LORR test and OFT to compare with controls (n = 9 and 8, respectively).

Results

Gpr158 deficiency prolonged the LORR duration by 110.6%, t(14) = −5.241, p = 0.0001, without altering spontaneous activity, t(14) = −0.718, p = 0.485, or ethanol metabolism, F(1, 8) = 0.259, p = 0.625. Gpr158 knockout did not change the ethanol effect on locomotion, F(1, 10) = 0.262, p = 0.62. The LORR duration increased by 69% in the conditional knockouts of Gpr158 within calcium/calmodulin‐dependent protein kinase II alpha‐positive (CamK2A+) neurons, t(16) = −2.914, p = 0.01, and by 92% in the vesicular GABA transporter‐positive (Vgat+) neurons, t(9.802) = −2.519, p = 0.023. Locomotion was not altered in Camk2A‐Cre;Gpr158fl/fl, t(16) = 0.49, p = 0.631 or Vgat‐Cre;Gpr158fl/fl mice, t(16) = 0.035, p = 0.972.

Conclusions

This study reveals the key role of neuronal GPR158 in shaping sensitivity to the sedative‐hypnotic effect of ethanol. These findings contribute to our understanding of the neurobiology of ethanol intoxication.