bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intention to participate in Islamic banking in Indonesia: Does socio-political identity matter?
Authors: Fathoni Muhammad Anwar , Rodoni Ahmad , Al Arif Mohammad Nur Rianto , Hidayah Nur
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The fact that Islamic banking in Indonesia held only a 7% market share in 2023 is ironic, considering that Indonesia has the largest Muslim population in the world. Beyond differences in ethnicity, race and religious understanding, Indonesia’s sociopolitical diversity also presents an intriguing study area about consumer decisions to use financial services. This study aims to investigate the influence of sociopolitical identity on attitudes and intentions to participate in Islamic banking in Indonesia using the theory of reasoned action as a basis.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used SEM-PLS to investigate the intention to participate in Islamic banking among Muslim communities in Indonesia. Its focus on prediction and theory building aligns perfectly with the objectives of this study, making it the most appropriate methodological choice. The sample used in this study comprised 343 respondents. The structural model was used to test the relationship between intention to participate in Islamic banking and religiosity, subjective norms, attitudes and sociopolitical identity, with reputation as mediation.

Findings

This study found that three variables significantly affect the intention to participate in Islamic banks: attitude (AT), reputation (RP) and subjective norms (SN). Sociopolitical identity (SP) and religiosity (RE) do not have a direct effect. However, sociopolitical identity (SP), attitudes (AT) and religiosity (RE) have been proven to have an indirect impact through reputation (RP) as mediation, and only subjective norms (SN) have not.

Practical implications

This study implies that Islamic banking needs to consider non-marketing aspects because, based on its findings, non-marketing factors such as sociopolitical identity and religiosity have been proven to influence the intention to participate in Islamic banking in Indonesia.

Originality/value

This study’s respondents were two Muslim communities in Indonesia with the largest mass and assets, namely, Nahdhatul Ulama and Muhammadiyah. The inclusion of non-marketing aspects, such as sociopolitical identity, in the research model added value, which is still rarely researched.
The potential of interprovincial money laundering in Indonesia: investigation on the attractiveness and destination choice
Authors: Andiojaya Agung , Ramadhani Aqsal Rizky , Rizka Riana , Prachmasetiawan Fayota
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to ascertain the level of attractiveness of each province in Indonesia as a potential destination for money laundering activities originating from Jakarta.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting a quantitative approach, this study uses the Walker Gravity Model, which has been modified in two key components: the attractiveness and distance variables. The first modification is achieved by using proxy economic variables, for which data is available at the provincial level within a country. The utilization of proxy data serves to circumvent certain data limitations inherent to the original model, which is only accessible at the country level. The second modification is introduced to the distance component, wherein this study develops a distance index that is deemed to be more representative than physical distance used in the original model.

Findings

The research findings indicate a notable correlation between economic activity and the risk of money laundering, with provinces in closer proximity to Jakarta exhibiting a higher likelihood of being targeted for money laundering activities. However, there are exceptions for some provinces that, despite their distance from Jakarta, also demonstrate a high potential for money laundering due to their strong economic ties to the capital city.

Originality/value

The existing studies on money laundering attractiveness, extent and flow at the provincial level in Indonesia using quantitative approaches are limited. This paper provides new insights into the economic and governance landscapes of Indonesian provinces, highlighting the need for tailored anti-money laundering strategies.
The concept of business sustainability and accountability based on performance disclosure in Islamic banks
Authors: Mukhibad Hasan , Jayanto Prabowo Yudo , Pertiwi Meilani Intan , Nurkhin Ahmad , Hapsoro Bayu Bagas , Wolor Christian Wiradendi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Islamic law, as the fundamental framework for Islamic bank operations, emphasizes the transparency of bank performance information to the ummah (stakeholders). This study aims to prove the effect of performance disclosure (shariah compliance, social, environmental and economic performance) on profitability, customer loyalty and cost of debt.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses 23 Islamic banks in Indonesia and Malaysia observed for 15 years (2009–2023) and analyzed using panel data regression.

Findings

We report that disclosure performance negatively impacts the cost of debt. However, by testing each performance disclosure indicator, we find that disclosure of Shariah and environmental compliance performance positively impacts customer loyalty. In addition, environmental performance disclosure negatively impacts the cost of debt. In the long term, we report that customer loyalty increases in line with the expansion of shariah, social, environmental and economic compliance performance disclosures. In addition, environmental performance disclosure has a positive effect on return on assets (ROE).

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to Islamic banks in Indonesia and Malaysia, which are predominantly Muslim. Muslims are the primary market for Islamic banks and a major factor in determining Islamic bank legitimacy.

Practical implications

We recommend that regulators encourage banks to expand bank performance disclosure by issuing regulations and laws, such as creating rankings for Islamic banks’ disclosure performance or rewarding banks that provide broader disclosures. Thus, it will help stakeholders to access bank performance information.

Originality/value

The contribution of this study is to develop the concept of business sustainability through comprehensive performance disclosure, including Shariah compliance and social, environmental and economic performance.
The impact of teachers’ motivational strategies on enhancing pupils’ motivation to learn English in Tanzania
Authors: Bamuhiga Bazili Evarist , Kimambo Gerald Eliniongoze
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The study aims to examine how teachers’ motivational strategies influence Tanzanian primary school pupils’ motivation to learn English. It specifically identified and evaluated the impact of these strategies on pupils’ motivated behaviours during English language learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The study involved 40 English language teachers from 20 selected primary schools in Morogoro, Tanzania. Data were collected through non-participant classroom observations and interviews. Quantitative analysis was performed using SPSS version 20 to produce descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative analysis was based on Braun and Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis framework.

Findings

The results indicate that teachers used various motivational strategies, with the most frequent strategies including breaking classroom monotony, increasing pupils’ expectancy of success, demonstrating enthusiasm, promoting learner autonomy, recognising and appreciating success, administering tasks in a motivating manner and providing regular experiences of success. Many of these strategies were aimed at sustaining pupils’ motivation. The study also found a strong correlation between teachers’ motivational strategies and pupils’ motivated behaviours, with positive multiple regressions indicating a significant impact.

Research limitations/implications

The study reports on the immediate impact of teachers’ motivational strategies on enhancing pupils’ motivation to learn English based on findings collected using a cross-sectional design.

Originality/value

The paper addresses the knowledge gap in using motivational strategies to engage young learners in classroom interactions. It answers Lamb’s (2017) call to analyse foreign language learners’ and teachers’ classroom experiences. The research reports on classroom observations in Tanzania, focusing on teachers’ use of motivational strategies and their results in motivating pupils to learn English.
Indian mining industry: exploring the significance of social audit in fostering sustainable corporate social responsibility
Authors: Dash Trilochana , Sahoo Chandan Kumar
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to understand the relationship between social audit (SA) and sustainable corporate social responsibility (SCSR). Furthermore, this study will investigate the mediating effect of corporate social innovation (CSI) on the relationship between SA and SCSR and the moderating impact of community participation (CP) on the relationship between CSI and SCSR.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was conducted in Odisha, a state in India, with 448 respondents and a response rate of 89%. The convenience sampling technique was used, and questionnaires were prepared in English and translated into regional languages during data collection. Psychological separation and Harman’s single-factor test were used to avoid common method bias. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were performed step by step to validate the proposed model.

Findings

The current study indicates that SA positively impacts SCSR. Findings from the analysis show that CSI partially mediates the relationship between SA and SCSR. Furthermore, this study indicates that CP moderates the relationship between CSI and SCSR.

Originality/value

This study is one of its kind concerning the variables considered, and it can work as a stepping stone for upgrading the delivery mechanism for corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs, which can solve the fundamental problems faced in society more effectively. It will provide new paths for future researchers to study in the area of audit and CSR.
Effects of microarthropod density on soil fungal community composition in nutrient‐poor ecosystems
Authors: Salazar‐Fillippo Andrés A. , Emsens Willem‐Jan , Strybos Seppe , Liczner Charlotte , Miko Ladislav , Frouz Jan , Verbruggen Erik , van Diggelen Rudy
Published: December 2024

Microarthropods such as mites (Acari) and springtails (Collembola) play a key role in the functioning of nutrient‐poor ecosystems. They contribute to the comminution of organic matter and they are likely to affect the structure and function of soil microbial communities through grazing and by changing substrate availability. However, the precise effects of their interactions with microbiota remain poorly understood.

In the present study, we conducted a mesocosm field experiment to determine the effects of soil microarthropod density on community composition of soil fungi. We manipulated microarthropod densities in 100 defaunated and soil‐filled meshed mesocosms by inoculating half of the units with microarthropods (i.e. high‐density treatment), while the other half of the units only contained few specimens possibly hatching from recalcitrant eggs that survived defaunation (i.e. low‐density treatment). All mesocosms were then inserted in the top soil of a range of nutrient‐poor grasslands and heathlands in Belgium for the duration of three months. The entire mesocosms were composed of mesh (30 μm mesh size) to allow for a rapid (re‐)colonization by microbes from the surrounding soils, while migration of microarthropods in or out of the mesocosms was precluded. Litter bags (30 μm mesh size) containing two types of organic matter were also buried within each mesocosm, and organic matter mass loss over time was used as a proxy to assess effects of microarthropod density on microbe‐regulated decomposition rates.

We found that fungal community composition differed strongly between the two microarthropod density treatments, regardless of habitat type. The mesocosms with higher microarthropod densities were characterized by a higher number of fungal OTUs and a higher number of fungal indicator species associated to this treatment. Microarthropod density, however, did not affect microbe‐regulated organic matter decomposition rates, nor did it affect relative abundances of putative fungal functional groups, thus suggesting considerable levels of fungal functional overlap.

Synthesis. The lack of measurable changes in organic matter decomposition or shifts in fungal functional group representation suggest that effects of microarthropods on the functioning of fungal communities may be lower than originally thought.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Three‐dimensional stoma model education programme for robotic total mesorectal excision: A single‐centre experience
Authors: Kwong Sze Yuet Joyce , Chan Pak Tat , Pang Yuk Kam
Published: December 2024

Objective

Stoma education is an essential part of perioperative management in colorectal surgery. Recently, three‐dimensional (3D) printed stoma models have been developed as useful adjuncts to conventional stoma teaching. This study aims to evaluate the impact of the introduction of a 3D stoma model education programme on patients undergoing elective robotic total mesorectal excision (TME).

Methodology

Between April 2021 and October 2021, 12 patients who underwent elective robotic TME in Queen Elizabeth Hospital were recruited into the 3D stoma model education programme. They were compared with 30 patients who had robotic TME before the introduction of the programme from January 2020 to December 2020. Their demographics, length of stay, self‐stoma care skills, and feedback regarding the programme were reviewed.

Results

There was a reduction of 2.7 days in the mean length of stay before (10.8 days) and after (8.1 days) the introduction of the 3D stoma model education programme. A statistically significant difference was observed (P = .0236). The programme was well received among participants. All patients agreed that it relieved their anxiety, increased their understanding and confidence in self‐stoma care, and enhanced their self‐stoma care ability. This was supported by their excellent performance in the first post‐operative stoma care session, where their stoma care skills were assessed by a stoma nurse specialist.

Conclusions

Preliminary results from our 3D stoma model education programme for patients undergoing elective robotic TME are promising. The use of 3D stoma models may contribute to a shorter length of hospital stay and self‐stoma care proficiency, and are well accepted by patients.
CEO (in)activism and investor decisions
Authors: Durney Michael T. , Johnson Joseph A. , Sinha Roshan K. , Young Donald
Published: December 2024

Many CEOs engage in activism by publicly expressing their views on social, environmental, and political issues, while other CEOs refrain from doing so—a behavior we term CEO inactivism. We use two experiments to examine how CEO (in)activism impacts investor decisions. Our results are consistent with our theoretical predictions. When a CEO expresses an activist position that is consistent versus inconsistent with investors' views, investors invest more in the CEO's firm because they perceive the CEO more positively. We also find that CEO inactivism can lead to investment decisions that are as favorable as when the CEO expresses a position consistent with investors' views; our process evidence suggests that this may occur because CEO inactivism increases the likelihood that investors believe the CEO shares their position on a social issue. Finally, we do not find evidence that investor decisions are influenced by whether CEO (in)activism is in response to an external prompt. This study contributes to the emerging literature on CEO activism, a unique form of voluntary disclosure, by providing evidence about how CEO (in)activism influences investors. We also contribute to the literature examining the impact of social media disclosure on investor decisions. Finally, our findings have practical implications for CEOs, who increasingly face external pressures to engage in activism.
How We Really WHO: Assessing Completeness, Team Engagement, Distractions and Authority Gradient During ‘Time Out’ Component of WHO Safer Surgery Checklist
Authors: Yoong Wai , Reilly Suzanne , Sekar Hashviniya , Ali Frishta Abdul , Khonkon Tasnim , Zhang Fan , Suleman Kiran , Nauta Maud
Published: December 2024

Background

Anecdotal experience suggests that WHO Safer Surgery Checklist has become a ‘tickbox’ exercise, resulting in variable team engagement and efficacy.

Aims

To observe the quality and completeness of ‘Time Out’, together with the level of team engagement during obstetrics and gynaecology procedures.

Materials and Methods

Observational study where the following data were collected during ‘Time Out’:

% of the 19 items correctly responded to after ‘challenge’.

Type and duration of distractions.

Level of team engagement.

Authority gradient and likelihood of speaking up (Visual Analogue Score).

Results

Data from 70 obstetrics and gynaecology cases were collected over 8 weeks. ‘Time Out’ was clearly announced in 91.4% and was performed in all cases but not all items were communicated in the correct ‘challenge and response’ manner. Mean percentage of questions appropriately ‘challenged’ and ‘responded’ to was 92% ± 6.86%. Mean duration of ‘Time Out’ was 92.01 ± 86.9 s and observed distractions were auditory (61%), visual (26%), irrelevant chatter (22.5%) and theatre traffic (13%). In 92.8%, at least two team members were not engaged and were performing non‐essential tasks. The likelihood of a team member being able to ‘speak up’ was 8.78/10 (±0.71) and this appeared independent of whether it was led by nurses, doctors, operating department practitioners or healthcare support workers.

Conclusion

Although performed in all cases, ‘Time Out’ is often not clearly announced or completed in the correct ‘challenge and response’ manner. It is plagued by avoidable distractions and suboptimal team engagement. Greater awareness is crucial to ensure more complete team involvement.
A Novel Surgical Solution for Sciatic Hernia: Exploring the Totally Extraperitoneal Approach
Authors: Kawagoe Reimi , Konishi Yuji , Wakui Yosuke , Mino Kazuhiro , Kawamura Hideki , Taketomi Akinobu
Published: December 2024

Sciatic hernia, a rare type of pelvic floor hernia, presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. We report the first totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair of a sciatic hernia, which was performed in a 63‐year‐old woman who presented with vomiting and poor dietary intake. Computed tomography revealed a strangulated femoral hernia and an incidental herniation of the sigmoid colon through the right sciatic foramen. Simultaneous TEP repair of both hernias was successfully performed. The TEP approach offered a wide field of view without disturbing the abdominal organs and facilitated the management of concurrent hernias, making it particularly beneficial when the diagnosis of sciatic hernia is certain.
Proposed Merger Between Australian Standard‐Setting Bodies: Summary of a Panel Session
Authors: Bradbury Michael , Ghandar Amir , Harding Noel , Howieson Bryan , Taylor Stephen
Published: December 2024

This paper examines the implications of the proposed merger of the Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB), the Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (AuASB) and the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) into a single entity. The merger is designed to improve efficiency, consistency and the adoption of new sustainability standards. During a panel discussion at the AFAANZ Annual Conference, experts analysed the potential impact of the merger on standard‐setting practices, highlighting the need for robust justification and increased transparency. The study highlights the complex interplay of regulatory, national and international contexts shaping this remarkable restructuring.
From Excitement to Anxiety: Exploring English as a Foreign Language Learners' Emotional Experiences in the Artificial Intelligence‐Powered Classrooms
Authors: Xin Zhonggui , Derakhshan Ali
Published: December 2024

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in second/foreign language education has recently gained a bulk of attention. However, the emotional experiences of English as a foreign language (EFL) learners in AI‐mediated classes have been ignored. To fill this gap, the present qualitative study examined 34 Chinese EFL students' perceptions of AI‐induced emotions and regulation strategies. A semi‐structured interview and a narrative frame were used to collect the data. The gathered data were thematically analysed through the latest version of MAXQDA software (v. 2023). The findings revealed that Chinese EFL students had mostly experienced positive emotions of ‘motivation’, ‘excitement’, ‘engagement’ and ‘confidence’. On the negative side, they reported experiencing ‘frustration’, ‘anxiety’ and ‘stress’ more frequently in their classes. Furthermore, the study indicated that the participants had used six strategies, namely ‘seeking help from others’, ‘shifting attention’, ‘cognitive change’, ‘persistent practice’, ‘staying positive’ and ‘suppression’ to regulate their AI‐induced emotions. The findings are discussed and implications are provided for EFL students and educators to understand the emotional aspect of AI injection into L2 education.
The Evolution, Present Practices, and Future Directions of Early Childhood Education and Care in China
Authors: Jing Zhang
Published: December 2024

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) is one of the key challenges facing China. This paper reviews the development of ECEC in China and its challenges. Substantial developments and policy reforms related to ECEC since the 1980s have been examined, and the practices in China have been highlighted. The review reveals that the ECEC system has evolved significantly in China over a while, both in policy and practice. However, most of the significant changes in the ECEC system have been adopted from Western practices. This adaptation has created several problems in the ECEC structure, as these policies were based on a Western cultural context. Moreover, despite continuous efforts from the government, disparities in ECEC services are evident in urban and rural parts of the country. The quality of the ECEC system is another concern for China. Childcare services (0–3) in China are also inadequate, and fewer policies in the past have tried to focus on this aspect of ECEC. The study concludes with suggestions based on the review analysis.
Music Education and Modern Software: How Using Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) Software Influences Teaching Academic Singing?
Authors: Zhang Jinhe
Published: December 2024

This study explores how well DAW software works for students' ‘Academic Singing’ training in raising their motivation and academic performance. The practical portion included a case study based on the BandLab DAW system, including its educational analysis. A five‐month experiment was conducted with 150 s‐year [Harbin Normal University] Conservatory students in the ‘Academic Singing’ discipline to assess the usage of BandLab. Twenty instructors of the Music Performance Basics course were further interviewed. The collected data were analysed and structured using the key trend measurement method. It was discovered that no DAW technology was previously used as part of the ‘Academic Singing’ discipline. Additionally, 52% of students began using BandLab for extra practice 2–3 times per week. Every day, 25% of students participated in the programme. Teachers reported an increase in interest from 84% of students. The findings can be used to examine the use of DAW technology in participatory disciplines.
Increased resilience and a regime shift reversal through repeat mass coral bleaching
Authors: Graham Nicholas A. J. , Wilson Shaun K. , Benkwitt Cassandra E. , Bonne Rodney , Govinden Rodney , Robinson James P. W.
Published: December 2024

Ecosystems are substantially changing in response to ongoing climate change. For example, coral reefs have declined in coral dominance, with some reefs undergoing regime shifts to non‐coral states. However, reef responses may vary through multiple heat stress events, with the rarity of long‐term ecological datasets rendering such understanding uncertain. Assessing coral reefs across the inner Seychelles islands using a 28‐year dataset, we document faster coral recovery from the 2016 than the 1998 marine heatwave event. Further, compositions of benthic and fish communities were more resistant to change following the more recent heat stress, having stabilized in a persistent altered state, with greater herbivory, following the 1998 climate disturbance. Counter to predictions, a macroalgal‐dominated reef that had regime‐shifted following the 1998 disturbance is transitioning to a coral‐dominated state following the 2016 heat stress. Collectively, these patterns indicate that reef systems may be more resilient to repeat heatwave events than anticipated.
Evidence for bottom‐up effects of moth abundance on forest birds in the north‐boreal zone alone
Authors: Yazdanian Mahtab , Kankaanpää Tuomas , Merckx Thomas , Huikkonen Ida‐Maria , Itämies Juhani , Jokimäki Jukka , Lehikoinen Aleksi , Leinonen Reima , Pöyry Juha , Sihvonen Pasi , Suuronen Anna , Välimäki Panu , Kivelä Sami M.
Published: December 2024

Insect declines are raising alarms regarding cascading effects on ecosystems, especially as many insectivorous bird populations are also declining. Here, we leveraged long‐term monitoring datasets across Finland to investigate trophic dynamics between functional groups of moths and birds in forested habitats. We reveal a positive association between the biomass of adult‐ or egg‐overwintering moths and the biomasses of resident and long‐distance migrant birds reliant on caterpillars as breeding‐season food in the north‐boreal zone. Contrary to expectations, similar signs of moth bottom‐up effects on insectivorous birds were not observed in other Finnish regions or for moths overwintering in other life stages. In fact, some negative associations between moths and birds were even detected, possibly attributable to opposite abundance trends. While supporting the existence of bottom‐up effects in the north‐boreal zone, our study emphasizes the need for further investigation to elucidate moth‐mediated trophic dynamics in areas characterized by the insect decline.
Causes and consequences of divorce in a long‐lived socially monogamous bird
Authors: Speelman Frigg J. D. , Burke Terry , Komdeur Jan , Richardson David S. , Dugdale Hannah L.
Published: December 2024

In socially monogamous species, sexual selection not only depends on initial mate choice but also mate switching. To date, studies lack assessment of (1) differences between passive (widowhood) and active (divorce) mate switching, (2) longer term fitness consequences (beyond the season post‐divorce) and (3) how age masks reproductive costs and benefits of divorce. We investigated causes and short‐ and long‐term consequences of mate switching and their age dependence using longitudinal data on Seychelles warblers (Acrocephalus sechellensis). Young and old males, but not females, divorced most frequently. Divorce propensity declined with pair‐bond duration and reproductive success in both sexes, but mate switching did not incur short‐term costs. Divorcees did not gain short‐ or long‐term fitness benefits compared to non‐divorcees. Rather, female early‐life divorcees that lost their breeding position had lower survival than females that never divorced. Divorce is likely a strategy to escape poor‐quality partnerships, but not all divorcees benefit from divorcing.
Long‐term studies should provide structure for inclusive education and professional development
Authors: Czapanskiy Max F. , Arcila Hernández Lina M. , Munro Cara , Garfield Isabella , Bastidas Adrien , Payne Allison R. , Ong Kelli , Storm Natalie A. , Adachi Taiki , Hale Conner M. , Brown Astarte , Robinson Patrick W. , Stewart Madeleine , Abdel‐Raheem Salma T. , Zavaleta Erika , Beltran Roxanne S.
Published: December 2024

Long‐term studies are critical for ecological understanding, but they are underutilized as inclusive opportunities for training ecologists. We use our perspective from the Año Nuevo elephant seal programme along with surveys from community members to propose that long‐term studies could be better leveraged to promote inclusive education and professional development in ecology. Drawing on our experiences as mentors and mentees, we demonstrate how long‐term studies can use their resources, including rich data, robust logistics and extensive professional networks, to improve recruitment and retention of diverse groups of trainees. However, practices such as unpaid labour and unclear expectations limit the utility of these resources for diversifying ecology. We discuss how we have structured our long‐term study to create more inclusive and equitable training opportunities. Acknowledging these transformations required substantial resources, we highlight funding sources and organizational partnerships that can promote investment in long‐term studies for broadening participation.
The Demographic Basis of Population Growth: A 32‐Year Transient Life Table Response Experiment
Authors: Dobson F. Stephen , Koons David N. , Saraux Claire , Tamian Anouch , Oli Madan K. , Viblanc Vincent A.
Published: December 2024

It has recently been recognised that populations are rarely in demographic equilibrium, but rather in a ‘transient’ state. To examine how transient dynamics influence our empirical understanding of the links between changes in demographic rates and population growth, we conducted a 32‐year study of Columbian ground squirrels. The population increased rapidly for 10 years, followed by a 2‐year crash, and a gradual 19‐year recovery. Transient life table response experiment (LTRE) analysis showed that demographic stochasticity accounted for approximately one‐fourth of the variation in population growth, leaving the majority to be explained by environmental influences. These relatively small rodents appeared to have a slow pace of life. But unlike the general pattern for large mammals with slow life histories, ground squirrel survival did not exhibit low variation associated with environmental ‘buffering’; instead, survival varied substantially over time and contributed substantially (78%) to changes in abundance over the long‐term study, with minor contributions from reproduction and unstable stage structure.
Shorebirds Are Shrinking and Shape‐Shifting: Declining Body Size and Lengthening Bills in the Past Half‐Century
Authors: McQueen A. , Klaassen M. , Tattersall G. J. , Ryding S. ,   Victorian Wader Study Group,   Australasian Wader Studies Group, Atkinson R. , Jessop R. , Hassell C. J. , Christie M. , Fröhlich A. , Symonds M. R. E.
Published: December 2024

Animals are predicted to shrink and shape‐shift as the climate warms, declining in size, while their appendages lengthen. Determining which types of species are undergoing these morphological changes, and why, is critical to understanding species responses to global change, including potential adaptation to climate warming. We examine body size and bill length changes in 25 shorebird species using extensive field data (> 200,000 observations) collected over 46 years (1975–2021) by community scientists. We show widespread body size declines over time, and after short‐term exposure to warmer summers. Meanwhile, shorebird bills are lengthening over time but shorten after hot summers. Shrinking and shape‐shifting patterns are consistent across ecologically diverse shorebirds from tropical and temperate Australia, are more pronounced in smaller species and vary according to migration behaviour. These widespread morphological changes could be explained by multiple drivers, including adaptive and maladaptive responses to nutritional stress, or by thermal adaptation to climate warming.
Whole Genome Sequencing Reveals Substantial Genetic Structure and Evidence of Local Adaptation in Alaskan Red King Crab
Authors: St. John Carl A. , Timm Laura E. , Gruenthal Kristen M. , Larson Wesley A.
Published: December 2024

High‐latitude ocean basins are the most productive on earth, supporting high diversity and biomass of economically and socially important species. A long tradition of responsible fisheries management has sustained these species for generations, but modern threats from climate change, habitat loss, and new fishing technologies threaten their ecosystems and the human communities that depend on them. Among these species, Alaska's most charismatic megafaunal invertebrate, the red king crab, faces all three of these threats and has declined substantially in many parts of its distribution. Managers have identified stock structure and local adaptation as crucial information to help understand biomass declines and how to potentially reverse them, with regulation and possible stock enhancement. We generated low‐coverage whole genome sequencing (lcWGS) data on red king crabs from five regions: The Aleutian Islands, eastern Bering Sea, northern Bering Sea, Gulf of Alaska, and Southeast Alaska. We used data from millions of genetic markers generated from lcWGS to build on previous studies of population structure in Alaska that used < 100 markers and to investigate local adaptation. We found each of the regions formed their own distinct genetic clusters, some containing subpopulation structure. Most notably, we found that the Gulf of Alaska and eastern Bering Sea were significantly differentiated, something that had not been previously documented. Inbreeding in each region was low and not a concern for fisheries management. We found genetic patterns consistent with local adaptation on several chromosomes and one particularly strong signal on chromosome 100. At this locus, the Gulf of Alaska harbors distinct genetic variation that could facilitate local adaptation to their environment. Our findings support the current practice of managing red king crab at a regional scale, and they strongly favor sourcing broodstock from the target population if stock enhancement is considered to avoid genetic mismatch.
Longevity, Not Stream Flow, Explains Variation in Freshwater Mussel Growth Rates Across Four Rivers
Authors: Brunetz Ian A. , Lopez Jonathan W. , Hopper Garrett W. , González Irene Sánchez , Atkinson Carla L.
Published: December 2024

Freshwater mussels (Bivalvia: Unionida) are among the most imperilled freshwater taxa. Yet, there is a lack of basic life history information for mussels, including data on their growth and longevity. These data help inform conservation efforts, as they can indicate whether species or populations may be vulnerable to decline and inform which species may be best adapted to certain habitats. We aimed to quantify growth and longevity in five mussel species from four river systems in the southeastern United States and test whether growth was related to stream flow. We also interpreted our findings in the context of life history theory.

To model mussel growth and longevity, we cut radial thick sections from the shells of mussels and used high‐resolution photography to image the shells. We identified annual growth rings (annuli) and used von Bertalanffy growth models to estimate growth rate (K) and maximum age (Amax) across 13 mussel populations. We then used biochronological methods to remove age‐related variation in annual growth in each shell. We tested whether annual growth was correlated with stream flow using discharge‐based statistics.

We found substantial variation in K and Amax among species and among populations of the same species. K was negatively related to Amax. We did not find consistent correlations between annual growth and stream flow.

Our estimates of K and Amax align with previous studies on closely related species and populations. They also match the eco‐evolutionary prediction that growth rate and longevity are negatively related. Life history theory predicts that short‐lived species with higher growth rates should be better adapted to environments with cyclical disturbance regimes, whereas longer‐lived species with low growth rates should be better adapted to stable environments. The lack of correlation between annual growth and stream flow suggests that mussel growth may be limited by other factors in our study system.

While some species seem to have relatively narrow ranges for growth and longevity, other species show wide variation among populations. This highlights the need for species‐ and population‐specific conservation efforts. Fundamental life history information can be integrated with other species traits to predict how freshwater taxa may respond to ecological threats.
Sward Species Diversity Impacts on Pasture Productivity and Botanical Composition Under Grazing Systems
Authors: Jezequel A. , Delaby L. , Finn J. A. , McKay Z. C. , Horan B.
Published: December 2024

This research investigated the effect of intensive grazing on the annual and seasonal yield and botanical composition of three sward types: (1) Lolium perenne monoculture sward receiving 250 kg nitrogen (N) ha−1 year−1 (PRG 250 N); (2)
Lolium perenne—Trifolium repens
sward receiving 125 kg N ha−1 year−1 (PRGWC 125 N) and (3) a multispecies sward comprising eight species receiving 125 kg N ha−1 year−1 (MSS 125 N). Each sward type had its own farmlet of 20 paddocks and comprising 47 cows on 18.7 ha with each group of cows remaining on the same farmlet for the 2‐year study. Total yield (13,015 kg ha−1 year−1 of dry matter forage) did not differ among the three sward types, despite a substantial difference in chemical N fertiliser between PRG 250 N and both PRGWC 125 N and MSS 125 N. Average botanical composition of PRG 250 N comprised 994 g kg−1 grasses and 6 g kg−1 weeds. The PRGWC 125 N sward had 864, 134 and 2 g kg−1 of grasses, white clover and weeds, respectively, while the MSS 125 N had 671, 144, 180 and 5 g kg−1 of grasses, legumes, forbs and weeds, respectively. Despite considerable variation in the component species, nutritive values were relatively unaffected by sward type. Lower organic matter digestibility was observed on MSS 125 N compared to PRG 250 N and PRGWC 125 N (788, 801 and 799 g kg−1, respectively). These results suggest that increasing sward diversity and reducing the use of chemical N fertiliser can maintain grass yield and nutritive value.
The Association of Spousal Relationship Quality and Social Support With Maternal‐Infant Bonding: Moderating Roles of Maternal Age and Paternal Occupation
Authors: Siebach Kirsten F. , Park Soim , Mansoor Maryam , Atif Najia , Zaidi Ahmed , Rahman Atif , Malik Abid , Surkan Pamela J.
Published: December 2024

This study examined associations between spousal relationship quality and social support with mother‐infant bonding among women in Rawalpindi, Pakistan (Intervention Arm: n = 352, Mage = 25.1, SD = 4.7; Control Arm: n = 358, Mage = 25.3, SD = 4.5). We used cross‐sectional data from the Happy Mother‐Healthy Baby intervention study, a randomized controlled trial conducted between 2019 and 2022. Women were enrolled at their first prenatal visit (at or before 22 weeks of gestation) and followed until 6‐week postpartum. Spousal relationship quality, social support, and bonding were assessed at 6‐week postpartum. Linear regression analyses found relationship quality (b = 3.85) and social support (b = 1.99) were positively associated with bonding. Analyses were adjusted for mother's education, treatment group, exposure to perinatal intimate partner violence, postpartum depressive symptoms, husband's education, husband's occupation, infant birthweight, and preterm birth. Husband's occupation (unskilled/unemployed vs. professional/skilled) significantly moderated the relationship between social support (b = 3.27 vs. b = 1.37) and relationship quality (b = 5.36 vs. b = 2.95) with bonding. Maternal age (≤ 25 years old vs. > 25 years old) significantly moderated the association between relationship quality and bonding (b = 4.96 vs. b = 2.49). Results suggest that interventions focused on improving social support and relationship quality among anxious women and their spouses could improve maternal‐infant bonding. Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03880032; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03880032
Estimation of the Impact of Climate Warming on Spring Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Phenology From Observations and Modelling in the Arid Region of Northwest China
Authors: Liu Lu , Chen Xi
Published: December 2024

Climate warming has induced shifts in the phenological period and thus affected cultivar selection and effective crop management. Particularly, the great climate warming in the dry environment could have more effects on the phenology of spring wheat with the distinct cycle of biological events during growth. In this study, the daily observations of spring wheat phenology and meteorology from 1991 to 2018 were used to analyse changes in phenology concerning accumulated temperature in the Hexi Corridor region of Northwest China. Five crop growth models (WheatGrow, WOFOST, CropSyst, CERES‐Wheat and APSIM‐Wheat) were selected to evaluate the reliability of the phenological stage simulations in the study region. Results show that in the past 28 years, the annual accumulated temperature in the whole growth period from sowing to maturity increased by 3.08°C–8.35°C/a at three sites of the region. Climate warming shortened the phenological period at rates of 3.56–4.49 days/10a, mostly attributed to the shortened duration from anthesis to maturity. Statistical analysis demonstrated that the shortened phenological period cannot be simply expressed by the linear correlation between the length of phenological phases and accumulated temperature in the respective growth stages. The five wheat growth models after parameter validation can generally capture the phenological dates, and WOFOST performed best at the three sites. However, when the calibrated model was used for simulations of long‐term variations of phenological dates, the accumulated errors in simulations could result in large deviations of the predicted physiological change to the observations.
Examining the Impact of Green Technology Application on Firm Performance: An Empirical Study Utilizing With the Meta‐SEM Method
Authors: Liu Weihua , Cao Yuenan , Chan Hing Kai , Lim Ming K. , Tang Ou , He Yang
Published: December 2024

With increasing resource shortages and environmental pollution, firms are increasingly relying on green technology application (GTA) to improve both environmental and financial performance. However, previous research found that the impact of GTA on both types of performance can be either positive or negative. Therefore, to understand the underlying mechanisms, we employ the meta‐SEM method to explore the impact of GTA on environmental performance and financial performance, considering the natural resource‐based view and socio‐technical system theory. A meta‐analysis is conducted to obtain the correlation matrix and establish a structural equation model to test the hypotheses. The results show that, first, it is difficult for firms to directly promote performance from GTA. GTA can only promote environmental performance through green innovation and green cooperation, and the mediating effect of green innovation is greater. Second, despite the direct negative impact of GTA on financial performance, it can promote financial performance through green innovation and the chain path. Third, internal environmental management can enhance all paths. Regarding the total effect, GTA has a significant positive impact on performance in both the environmental and financial dimensions. These results enrich extant knowledge on the relationship between GTA and firm performance.
Response Strategies for Demand Surges in Last‐Mile Logistics: Managing Delivery Efficiency in Volatile Environments
Authors: Suzuki Yoshinori , Chen Haozhe , Faires Christopher
Published: December 2024

Last‐mile logistics firms are facing increasingly volatile environments in which they must constantly cope with demand fluctuations. This study provides insights into how last‐mile logistics firms can effectively respond to sudden demand surges caused by unexpected events. Based on the literature review and practitioner interviews, we identify six popular last‐mile logistics response strategies and compare their effectiveness. We first develop a theoretical framework that can assess the effectiveness of multiple response strategies systematically by utilizing a well‐known transport economics theory, economies of scale. We then conduct a series of simulation experiments to (1) empirically evaluate the performance of the six strategies using our framework and (2) examine if the best‐performing strategy(s) differs from one operating condition to another using the contingency theory perspective. Results suggest that many popular strategies used in practice are “non‐viable” ones that can result in diseconomies of scale and reduce firms' competitiveness. Results also suggest that the set of “best” and “viable” strategies that can bring competitive advantages to firms varies from one firm to another depending on the firm's operating conditions.
Legumes as a Substitute for Red and Processed Meat, Poultry or Fish, and the Risk of Non‐Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in a Large Cohort
Authors: Langmann Fie , Ibsen Daniel B. , Johnston Luke W. , Perez‐Cornago Aurora , Dahm Christina C.
Published: December 2024

Background

Dietary recommendations have globally shifted towards promoting the consumption of legumes as an environmentally friendly and healthy source of protein. This study investigated the replacement of red and processed meat, poultry or fish for equal amounts of legumes on the risk of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Methods

UK Biobank participants who completed ≥ 2 dietary assessments and had complete covariate information were included in the analyses (N = 124,546). Information on dietary intake was collected using two to five 24‐h dietary assessments. Incident cases of NAFLD were determined through linkage to the National Health Service registries. The rate of developing NAFLD when replacing 80 g/week of red and processed meat, poultry or fish with legumes was estimated using multivariable‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

During follow‐up (median 10.49, IQR: 10.4–10.9 years), 1205 individuals developed NAFLD. Replacing 80 g/week of red and processed meat or poultry with legumes was associated with 4% and 3% lower rates of NAFLD, respectively (red and processed meat HR: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.94; 0.98; poultry HR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95; 0.99). Replacing 80 g/week of fish with legumes was not associated with NAFLD (fish HR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.96; 1.00). Results did not change markedly after adjustment for BMI.

Conclusions

Consuming one serving of legumes weekly instead of red and processed meat or poultry was associated with a slightly lower rate of NAFLD, while consuming legumes instead of fish did not show an association with NAFLD. Further research in cohorts with higher legume consumption is needed to confirm these findings.
Sustainability or Greenwashing: Evidence from the Asset Market for Industrial Pollution
Authors: DUCHIN RAN , GAO JANET , XU QIPING
Published: December 2024

We study the asset market for pollutive plants. Firms divest pollutive plants in response to environmental pressures. Buyers are firms facing weaker environmental pressures that have supply chain relationships or joint ventures with the sellers. While pollution levels do not decline following divestitures, sellers highlight their sustainable policies in subsequent conference calls, earn higher returns as they sell more pollutive plants, and benefit from higher Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) ratings and lower compliance costs. Overall, the asset market allows firms to redraw their boundaries in a manner perceived as environmentally friendly without real consequences for pollution but with substantial gains from trade.