bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wine consumption and consumers in Querétaro, Mexico: an analysis from the perspective of enotourism
Authors: García Rodea Luis Felipe , Thomé-Ortiz Humberto , Espinoza-Ortega Angélica , Bittencourt César Pedro de Alcântara , Sánchez-Vega Laura P.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the motives and types of wine consumers that visit Queretaro’s wine region and their relationship with wine tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was carried out on 384 wine tourists in the area. The data obtained from the questionnaires were analyzed using factorial and hierarchical cluster analysis, and differences between groups were identified using non-parametric tests. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with wine tourism service providers, some of whose comments and data contributed to the overall analysis of the information.

Findings

Three factors have been identified as motivating wine tourists to visit vineyards and consume wine: vineyard experience, knowledge and exploration and marketing influence or suggestions. Three groups of wine consumers were also identified, namely, knowledgeable consumers, interested consumers and novice consumers, which were differentiated by the motivations for each type of wine tourism experience they seek, as well as other activities that complement the visit experience. It concludes that as wine consumption in Queretaro and wine tourism in the region increases, so does knowledge of the drink, and this represents an opportunity for Mexico's wine-producing regions.

Practical implications

To expand research in the Querétaro wine region and contribute to the knowledge of wine tourism in Mexico.

Originality/value

The paper makes a unique contribution by focusing on the Mexican wine market, which is still in its infancy. It provides new perspectives and insights in this area of research.
Friction and wear properties of textured surface for bearing steel with mango-shaped micro geometries
Authors: Xiao Qiang , Yi-Cong Liu , Zhou Yue-Peng , Wang Zhi-Hong , Fan Sui-Xin , Meng Jun-Hu , Guo Junde
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Given the current friction and wear challenges faced by automobile parts and bearings, this study aims to identify a novel texture for creating anti-friction and wear-resistant surfaces. This includes detailing the preparation process with the objective of mitigating friction and wear in working conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

Femtosecond laser technology was used to create a mango-shaped texture on the surface of GCr15 bearing steel. The optimized processing technology of the texture surface was obtained through adjusting the laser scanning speed. The tribological behavior of the laser-textured surface was investigated using a reciprocating tribometer.

Findings

The friction coefficient of the mango-shaped texture surface is 25% lower than that of the conventional surface, this can be attributed to the reduced contact area between the friction ball and the micro-textured surface, leading to stress concentration at the extrusion edge and a larger stress distribution area on the contact part of the ball and disk compared to the conventional surface and the function of the micro-texture in storing wear chips during the sliding process, thereby reducing secondary wear.

Originality/value

The mango-shaped textured surface in this study demonstrates effective solutions for some of the friction and wear issues, offering significant benefits for equipment operation under light load conditions.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-04-2024-0127/
Understanding the relation between climate change risks and biodiversity disclosures: an international analysis
Authors: Orazalin Nurlan , Ntim Collins G. , Malagila John Kalimilo
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study explores the relation between firm-level climate change risks, measured by carbon emissions and waste generation, and the level of biodiversity disclosures.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on an international sample from 2009 to 2021, our study employs panel regression models to assess the effects of climate change risks on biodiversity disclosures. We also conduct a range of sensitivity analyses, including additional proxies, endogeneity tests, and alternative samples to examine the robustness of our inferences.

Findings

We find that firms with higher carbon emissions and waste generation levels tend to disclose extensive biodiversity information. Furthermore, we provide evidence that the disaggregated components of carbon (Scope 1 and 2) emissions and waste (hazardous and non-hazardous) generation volumes are positively associated with biodiversity disclosures. Our results also reveal that the effects of climate change risks on biodiversity disclosures are stronger for firms from environmentally sensitive industries. Finally, our results show that climate and biodiversity protection regulations appear to be effective in limiting legitimation efforts.

Originality/value

Consistent with legitimacy theory, our findings suggest that high carbon and waste emitting firms tend to utilize increased biodiversity disclosures as a legitimizing tool to conform to societal expectations and protect their legitimacy.
Analysing the characteristics of post-disaster funding that make it susceptible to the risk of economic crime: a South African frame of reference
Authors: Du Toit Nina , Steenkamp Philip , van Niekerk Dewald , Groenewald Andre
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Research indicates a significant risk of economic crime associated with post-disaster funding. The purpose of this paper is to assess the characteristics of post-disaster funding that make it susceptible to the risk of economic crime and to analyse how the statutory and regulatory disaster risk management instruments of South Africa aim to manage post-disaster events.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses secondary sources such as, but not limited to, legislation, institutional reports, textbooks and peer-reviewed academic journal articles.

Findings

Post-disaster funding is inherently susceptible to economic crime due to characteristics identified such as time pressure; substantial inflow of money, goods and services; inadequate needs assessment, large-scale reconstruction and the involvement of contractors or suppliers; power imbalance; and the responsibility of governments. The Disaster Management Act and National Disaster Management Framework provide an extensive regulatory framework for mitigating post-disaster funding risks by attempting to find a balance between quick aid distribution and financial controls. This paper finds that even though South Africa is known to have some of the best disaster risk management laws, the pervasive nature of the characteristics could still render post-disaster funding structures susceptible to the risk of economic crime.

Originality/value

There is limited scientific research on this topic. The expected prevalence of future disasters requires the regulatory and legislative disaster risk management instruments to evolve concomitantly. Research on this topic must continue to ensure that risks associated with post-disaster funding and its susceptibility to economic crime can be mitigated as far as possible.
The effect of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance on the volatility of stock price returns: the moderating role of tax payment
Authors: Mechrgui Sabri , Theiri Saliha
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine how environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance influences stock price volatility, with a specific focus on the moderating role of tax engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

ESG performance is measured by an ESG score calculated from the weighting of three dimensions: environmental, social and governance. Stock price volatility is measured by the degree of stock price variations over 12 months, based on the last 52 weeks’ prices. A sample of French-listed firms in the SBF120 is used, with 770 observations extracted from the 2012–2022 period. The feasible generalized least squares approach is used to eliminate endogeneity and multicollinearity problems.

Findings

The results show that the ESG score negatively impacts stock price volatility, with this impact being more significant in the social dimension than in the environmental and governance dimensions. In addition, the tax payment variable moderates the relationship and increases the effect of the ESG score on stock price volatility. These findings suggest that ESG practices and tax transparency are not only ethical elements but also key components for financial stability, promoting the high-quality development of listed firms.

Research limitations/implications

This study is significant for firms, regulators, policymakers and investors. Overall, it underscores the importance of firms adopting ESG activities and engaging in tax management to mitigate risks and maintain viability in the contemporary business environment.

Originality/value

This study provides new empirical evidence regarding the factors driving corporate stock price volatility. In addition, it offers pertinent policy recommendations for businesses and governments regarding the significance of ESG investments.
The influence of board and audit committee characteristics on CSR reporting in Bahrain: the legitimacy perspective
Authors: Desoky Abdelmohsen M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine, from a legitimacy perspective, the potential influence of board and audit committee (AC) characteristics on the level of corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure by listed firms in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Design/methodology/approach

Throughout a 10-year period (2013–2022), 160 firm-year observations from listed firms in Bahrain are used. Four hierarchical multiple regression (HMR) models are developed to examine the effects of five independent variables and three control variables.

Findings

HMR model results show that CSR reporting is determined by only two independent variables: board independence and AC independence. Also, the results of this study partially support the argument that legitimacy theory is a key factor in explaining CSR.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include a small sample of 160 firm-year observations over a 10-year period (2013–2022) using a small CSR index of 16 items and not considering other board and AC characteristics.

Practical implications

This study assists policymakers in achieving strategic goals and guiding future environmental, social and governance reporting guidelines.

Social implications

This study reveals that the CSR practices of Bahraini listed firms are not determined by factors like board size, AC size and AC number of meetings. It offers insights for accounting scholars on the importance of including board and AC features in CSR research.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is among the first to investigate this topic in Bahrain and to use board and AC characteristics as independent variables.
Development of entrepreneurial identity among young people: analysis of the effectiveness of an educational program on entrepreneurial potential
Authors: Di Giusto Valle Cristina , Escolar-Llamazares María-Camino , de la Torre Cruz Tamara , Luis Rico M. Isabel , Palmero Cámara Carmen , Jiménez Alfredo
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The efficiency of an educational program on entrepreneurial competence, Training the Potential Entrepreneur. Generation of an Educational Model for Entrepreneurial Identify (PEIEO) is evaluated in this study.

Design/methodology/approach

Pre and post intervention tests were administered to an Experimental Group (EG) and a Control Group (CG). Moreover, four hypotheses are proposed (H1, H2, H3, H4) and tested on a sample of 1036 Spanish students. The following instruments were applied: Attitude Towards Entrepreneurship-Spanish adaption; Measurement Scale of Personal Initiative in Educational Settings and Scale of General Self-Efficacy. ANCOVA and the Student's t-test were applied to the results.

Findings

The results show that training in entrepreneurial identity increases the entrepreneurial potential of young people (H1). A notable increase in proactivity and being a self-starter was observed with regard to personal initiative within the EG, and for self-efficacy (H3) both of which were predictors of entrepreneurial identity. Gender was likewise a predictor (H4).

Practical implications

Young people attending the PElEO training program in entrepreneurial potential increased their levels of entrepreneurial identity, thereby confirming the effectiveness of the program.

Originality/value

The program (PEIEO) is based on the development of entrepreneurial potential, a dimension that generates entrepreneurial identity (creativity, leadership, achievement and personal control).
Interactions between the context of a health-care organisation and failure: the situational impact of failure on organisational learning
Authors: Horck Stijn
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore how health-care organisations learn from failures, challenging the common view in management science that learning is a continuous cycle. It focuses on understanding how the context of a health-care organisation and the characteristics of failure interact.

Design/methodology/approach

Systematically collected empirical studies that examine how health-care organisations react to failures, both in terms of learning and non-learning, were reviewed and analysed. The key characteristics of failures and contextual factors are categorised at the individual, team, organisational and global level.

Findings

Several factors across four distinct levels are identified as being susceptible to the situational impact of failure. In addition, these factors can be used in the design and development of innovations. Taking these factors into account is expected to stimulate learning responses when an innovation does not succeed. This enhances the understanding of how health-care organisations learn from failure, showing that learning behaviour is not solely dependent on whether a health-care organisation possesses the traits of a learning organisation or not.

Originality/value

This review offers a new perspective on organisational learning, emphasising the situational impact of failure and how learning occurs across different levels. It distinguishes between good and bad failures and their effects on a health-care organisation’s ability to learn. Future research could use these findings to study how failures influence organisational performance over time, using longitudinal data to track changes in learning capacity.
Evaluation of green governance of energy projects along the Belt and Road
Authors: Chen Haonan , Wan Anxia , Wei Guo , Benhong Peng
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to enhance the assessment of green governance in energy projects along the Belt and Road, reduce the influence of fuzzy judgment, and construct a grey network analysis model from the perspective of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG).

Design/methodology/approach

The ESG concept is used to establish an evaluation indicator system. The Analytic Network Process (ANP) and the Grey System Theory are applied sequentially to determine the green governance grade of energy projects, exemplified by an evaluation of five projects.

Findings

The Karot hydropower project has the best green governance status among the five projects and is of excellent grade. This is followed by the Hongfeng photovoltaic project, the De Aar wind power project, and the Yamal liquefied natural gas project, which are of good grade. The Lamu coal power station project has the worst green governance and is at a medium level.

Practical implications

This study can assist Belt and Road energy projects in identifying their deficiencies and promoting sustainable development by providing a robust framework for green governance evaluation.

Originality/value

The indicator system developed in this study includes social and project governance aspects in addition to environmental performance, reflecting the comprehensive green governance status of projects. The combined use of ANP and grey system theory fully considers the mutual influence relationship between indicators and improves the objectivity of green governance grade judgment.
The rise of the egocentric brand and consumer: the case of soulbound tokens (SBT)
Authors: Ramadan Zahy
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The development of the next Web 3.0 digital generation will be built on a decentralized society and blockchain technologies such as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and “soulbound tokens” (SBTs). These technologies will enable a digital proof of personhood that would make it possible for people to differentiate themselves through their unique credentials and reputation. SBTs can include unique information relating to the user’s identity that can enhance consumer’s self-perception, uniqueness and reputation building. The literature remains scant on the underlying consequences of SBTs from a consumer behavior perspective, and consequently the implications for brands given rising egocentric consumer needs which this study addresses.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted an exploratory approach using in-depth interviews with experts to increase our understanding related to SBTs, and their potential impact on consumers’ behaviors and brands’ marketing strategies.

Findings

The findings unveiled an SBT-led egocentrism cycle comprising the following stages: penetration and proliferation of SBTs, consumers’ need for uniqueness and differentiation, brand’s reputation, brand’s personality matching, brand-based NFTs’ characteristics and shift in the competitive landscape for both consumers and brands.

Originality/value

This research is among the first to study SBTs and their potential impact in the Web 3.0 environment where digital identities and ownership are decentralized and authentic.
Insights on the role of performance measurement systems in the digital servitization landscape: a longitudinal case study
Authors: Marelli Alessandro , Dello Sbarba Andrea
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the role of performance measurement systems (PMS) within the context of digital servitization (DS), especially in collaborations involving multiple actors. The paper adopts a bottom-up ecosystem perspective to gain insights into how companies can effectively manage the complexities of digital transformation in the servitization domain.

Design/methodology/approach

This research draws upon a longitudinal case study within the wine and spirit supply chain. It focuses on a logistics company, “GR”, which has promoted a DS strategy to offer advanced services and enhance the competitiveness of the entire ecosystem.

Findings

The study offers valuable insights into the evolution of PMS roles throughout the DS journey, promoting cooperation, coordination, collaboration and control among ecosystem actors, thereby facilitating the development of a DS strategy.

Research limitations/implications

The study is focused on a logistics company with unique capabilities and networks. Future research should include a broader range of contexts. Furthermore, our analysis focuses on the initial stages of ecosystem emergence, particularly the initiation and momentum phases. Further research should explore how DS impacts organizations in the following ecosystem phases.

Practical implications

This research offers valuable insights for managers, particularly in the development of DS strategy. It underscores the significance of PMS as key facilitators in crafting DS strategy and in the broader ecosystem evolution. The findings demonstrate that PMS is instrumental across different phases of the servitization process, improving aspects such as performance monitoring, resource allocation, collaboration and communication. Moreover, this study emphasizes the importance for small and medium-sized enterprises manufacturers and logistics firms to build and nurture collaborative relationships with various supply chain stakeholders to successfully implement a servitization strategy. In the wine industry, embracing a multiactor perspective is crucial. The delivery of advanced services necessitates a wide spectrum of knowledge and skills on one hand, and adaptability and flexibility in developing relationships on the other.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the literature on management accounting by exploring the role of PMS in DS. It reveals that PMS acts as a fundamental enabler, promoting seamless coordination and collaboration among various actors involved in DS. This sheds light on the transformative potential of PMS in creating a collaborative environment, where multiple organizations work together to offer value-added services.
Crack detection and localization in composite plates by intersection of first three normalized mode shape curves from experimental modal analysis
Authors: Shinagam Rama Krishna , Vengalasetti Deepak Raj Kumar , Maruvada Tarun
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify the location of cracks in composite plates using a normalized mode shape curve algorithm. Crack in any structure is a destructive occurrence. Detecting these cracks early is pivotal for ensuring safety and preventing potential accidents. To prevent failure of structures, it is crucial to detect these cracks effectively and take the necessary precautions. Hence, crack detection and localization techniques are used to avoid sudden failures of structures while in operation.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental modal analysis is conducted on composite plates with and without cracks to determine the natural frequencies and mode shapes. For this purpose, an impact hammer, uniaxial accelerometer and four-channel vibration analyzer are used to find the natural frequencies and mode shapes. Numerical modal analysis is performed on no crack and cracked composite plates using ANSYS software, and these are validated by the experimental modal analysis results. The normalized mode shapes algorithm is trained using test data of the first three natural frequencies collected from numerical modal analysis on different cracked composite plates for localization of crack.

Findings

The natural frequencies derived from both experimental modal analysis and numerical modal analysis exhibit a variance of 9.6%. The estimation of the crack location is achieved with exceptional precision by intersecting the first three normalized mode shapes. The first three normalized mode shape curve intersections provide a solid indication of the crack’s location. As the difference in error between the actual and estimated crack locations is only 0.9%.

Originality/value

This study introduces the first application of experimental modal analysis in conjunction with the normalized mode shape curve algorithm for localizing cracks in composite plates. The normalization process of mode shapes, derived from experimental modal analysis, forms a fundamental component of the mode shape curve algorithm specifically designed for crack localization. Combining experimental modal analysis with a specific algorithm of normalizing mode shapes is used to identify and locate cracks within these composite plates.
From Trauma to Trust: The Case for Integrating Reconciliation Practices
Authors: Kyprianides Arabella , Taylor Emmeline
Published: July 2024

Deep‐seated historical traumas continue to ricochet through communities, mediating how contemporary policing is viewed and experienced. This article presents a case for embedding reconciliation practices into policing strategies to repair and rebuild frayed relations with the public. It examines the practical applications of reconciliation practices, some barriers to implementation and suggested strategies for overcoming resistance. Drawing from limited, yet insightful, empirical research and international best practice, the article proposes a model comprised of five elements to promote healing, foster trust and highlight the importance of sustainable community‐police engagement.
Curating ‘the good story’: Care as representative performance in Danish veteran rehabilitation
Authors: Krause Eva Graae , Christensen Ulla , Svendsen Mette N.
Published: July 2024

In this article, we explore the intricacies of veteran care and show how care practices come to incorporate veterans’ ‘self‐performances’ to raise political attention and funding for future rehabilitation activities. By bringing into dialogue theories of care and theories of performance and representation, we illustrate how a seemingly classic form of care—veteran rehabilitation—takes the form of representative performance. Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork and interviews with the Danish Invictus Games team, we demonstrate how politics, research and TV documentaries are integrated into veteran care practices. Through this integration, mentally wounded veterans, while performing ‘themselves’ for shifting audiences with shifting agendas, come to assume the roles of both caregivers and care receivers. Crucially, we highlight that wounded veterans, while undertaking their personal rehabilitation journey, are curated into and (un)willingly positioned as representatives of others. By showing how caring for wounded veterans goes hand in hand with caring for fictive, future wounded veterans and for political, research and media agendas, this article offers new ways of thinking of and with care.
The Christian and the Philosopher: Defoe's The Storm Between Empiricism and Narrative
Authors: Mattana Alessio
Published: July 2024

This article examines the scientific background of Daniel Defoe's The Storm (1704). This work is a collection of letters on the Great Storm, a tempest which battered the south of England on 26–27 November 1703 causing casualties in the thousands and extensive damage. Like other extreme natural phenomena, the Great Storm was interpreted by many as divine warning. This article argues that, differently to Defoe's other works on the Great Storm, The Storm reconciles the traditional religious reading of catastrophes with recent breakthroughs in empiricist philosophy and early meteorology. In its concluding section, the article offers a reassessment of Defoe's interest in scientific ideas in The Storm so as to include early‐eighteenth‐century empiricism and examines Defoe's ambivalent attitude towards them.
Higher‐order dissimilarity in biodiversity: Identifying dissimilarities of spatial or temporal dissimilarity structures
Authors: Nakadai Ryosuke , Fukasawa Keita , Kadoya Taku , Ishihama Fumiko
Published: July 2024

Elucidating biodiversity patterns and their background processes is critical in biodiversity science. Dissimilarity, which is calculated based on multivariate biological quantities, is a major component of biodiversity. As spatial and temporal biodiversity information availability increases, the scope of dissimilarity studies has been expanded to cover various levels and types of spatiotemporal biodiversity facets (e.g. gene, community and ecosystem function), and diverse pairwise dissimilarity indices have been developed. However, further development of the dissimilarity concept is required in comparative studies on spatiotemporal structures of biodiversity compositional patterns, such as those exploring commonalities of biogeographical boundaries among taxa, compared to the conventional ones to consider higher dimensions of dissimilarity: dissimilarity of dissimilarity structures.

This study proposes a novel and general concept, higher‐order dissimilarity (HOD), for quantitatively evaluating the dissimilarities of spatial or temporal dissimilarity structures among different datasets, proposes specific implementations of HOD as operational indices, and illustrates the potential resolution of scientific and practical questions through HOD.

We further demonstrate the advantages of the HOD concept by applying it to actual patterns, such as long‐term and/or large‐spatial hypothetical monitoring datasets.

Our conceptual framework on HOD extends the existing framework of biodiversity science and is versatile, with many potential applications in acquiring more valuable information from ever‐increasing biodiversity data.
Assessment of environmental DNA for detecting and monitoring translocated North American beaver
Authors: Burgher J. A. S. , Goldberg C. S. , Duke A. C. K. , Garrison S. , Piovia‐Scott J.
Published: July 2024

There is growing interest in working with beavers (Castor canadensis and Castor fiber) to restore and maintain ecosystem function, improve hydrologic conditions and build climate resiliency in freshwater ecosystems. Beaver translocation into historically occupied but degraded systems has been increasingly applied as a restoration practice over the last two decades. Knowledge of beaver distributions on the landscape is critical to understanding where and when beaver translocations may be effective. However, current understanding of beaver occupancy and translocation success is limited by uncertainty, subjectivity and inefficiency associated with available monitoring methods. We evaluated the efficacy and spatial inference associated with environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques for detecting beaver presence in natural wetland and stream systems in the Cascade mountains of Washington State. We conducted eDNA sampling paired with radio‐tracking of translocated beavers at four relocation sites from October 2020 through October 2022 to elucidate spatial patterns of site use, eDNA detection probability and eDNA quantity. We found that eDNA techniques detected beaver rapidly over long distances – up to 2.9 km from known locations within the first week after release – and reliably detected beavers when they were upstream, with positive detections in 92.4% of downstream eDNA samples collected 1–3 months after release. We also found that eDNA quantity decreased with increasing distance from beaver and increased with the amount of upstream beaver activity. Our study suggests that eDNA is a sensitive tool for monitoring translocated beaver and can provide spatial information on beaver location and site use within a stream system. Hence, eDNA methods could be a valuable tool for rapid inventory and assessment of beaver occupancy and our findings highlight important implications for using eDNA to monitor other semi‐aquatic mammal species that share similar life histories.
Factors affecting microhabitat use in two agamid species from south‐eastern Australia
Authors: Westaway Dylan M. , Jolly Chris J. , Michael Damian R. , Nimmo Dale G.
Published: July 2024

Despite being a central aspect of a species' ecology and having important conservation implications, the use of fine‐scale habitat features (microhabitats), and how they vary over time, are poorly known for most species. In this study, we leveraged 522 relocations of radio‐tracked mallee tree dragons (Amphibolurus norrisi) and painted dragons (Ctenophorus pictus) to investigate the effect of environmental and individual variables on microhabitat use. Mallee tree dragons were more likely to use trees on hot days and in the middle of the day (the hottest time of day), whereas shrub use was more likely on cool days and in the mornings. Painted dragons were more likely to use shrubs and grass trees on warmer days and during the middle of the day, whereas burrows were used during cooler days and in the mornings and afternoons. We expect these patterns represent animals moving from refuge resources, occupied during unsuitable thermal conditions, to microhabitats offering basking, foraging and social opportunities during periods of thermal optimum. Additionally, we found evidence of an ontogenetic shift, with larger mallee tree dragons favouring tree use and higher perches, suggesting a transition from shrub to tree use with age. Our findings underscore the need for diverse microhabitats to accommodate the thermoregulatory and ontogenetic requirements of lizards. These insights can inform conservation and habitat restoration efforts, ensuring the provision of essential microhabitats to support species persistence.
Exploring environmental factors that influence the distribution of poplar trees
Authors: Mapuru Morena J. , Xulu Sifiso , Gebreslasie Michael , Daemane Ernest M.
Published: July 2024

Poplar is an invasive alien plant (IAP) that encroaches on fragile landscapes in South Africa, but the environmental factors that contribute to its spread are not well understood. To address this gap, we conducted a study using generalised linear models (GLM) to identify the most significant local environmental factors that drive poplar establishment and dispersion in Golden Gate Highlands National Park (GGHNP). We then ranked these variables according to their contribution to poplar occurrence using a random forests regression approach. Our GLM analysis revealed that soil properties such as soil organic carbon, sand and silt, topographical variables such as aspect and slope, normalised difference moisture index (NDMI) and poplar distance from rivers are significant factors affecting poplar survival. After ranking the variables, we found that the three most important factors influencing poplar occurrence were aspect, slope and poplar distance to rivers, followed by the sand, silt, NDMI, and soil organic carbon. Our results are consistent with previous studies, indicating that topographical variables and the availability of sufficient water supply are the primary drivers of the spread of IAPs. This study provides useful insights in managing and monitoring poplars in delicate landscapes.
Unique breeding biology of the recently described Beytell's bullfrog Pyxicephalus beytelli
Authors: Du Preez Louis H. , Lumpkin Steven K. , Netherlands Edward , Channing Alan
Published: July 2024

At the time of the recent description of Beytell's bullfrog (Pyxicephalus beytelli), no information about the breeding biology of this frog was known to science. The intensive publicity in the social media that followed this description caught the eye of a USA‐based film maker who incidentally recently filmed the breeding biology of this frog in the Okavango Delta in northern Botswana. This paper is based on these observations.
The c.‐265G>A GLA gene promoter variant causes Fabry disease: The hidden culprit identified
Authors: Zampieri Stefania , Cattarossi Silvia , Ferri Lorenzo , Graziano Claudio , Santostefano Marisa , Morrone Amelia , Dardis Andrea
Published: July 2024

Here, we report the identification and functional characterization of a novel GLA variant, not detectable by routine molecular tests, in a family with FD suspicion.
Lipocalin‐2 induced LDHA expression promotes vascular remodelling in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Wang Guoliang , Liu Shenghua , Kong Xiaohui , Jiao Hong , Tong Feng , Guo Zhangke , Zhang Meng , Guan Xiaoxing , Ren Na , Li Wanzhen , Qi Lihua , Wei Yingjie
Published: July 2024

Aerobic glycolysis is involved in the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension (PH). The mechanisms by which glycolysis is increased and how it contributes to pulmonary vascular remodelling are not yet fully understood. In this study, we demonstrated that elevated lipocalin‐2 (LCN2) in PH significantly enhances aerobic glycolysis in human pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) by up‐regulating LDHA expression. Knockout of Lcn2 or having heterozygous LDHA deficiency in mice significantly inhibits the progression of hypoxic PH. Our study reveals that LCN2 stimulates LDHA expression by activating Akt‐HIF‐1α signalling pathway. Inhibition of Akt or HIF‐1α reduces LDHA expression and proliferation of PASMCs. Both Akt and HIF‐1α play critical roles in the development of PH and are suppressed in the pulmonary vessels of hypoxic PH mice lacking LCN2. These findings shed light on the LCN2‐Akt‐HIF1α‐LDHA axis in aerobic glycolysis in PH.
Clinicopathologic features of pityriasis rosea‐like drug eruption secondary to imatinib: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Durgin Joseph S. , Whittington Carli P. , Harrell Jane , Mervak Julie E. , Smith Emily H.
Published: July 2024

Pityriasis rosea is an acute, self‐limited exanthem that typically occurs in adolescence and young adulthood, classically featuring ovoid erythematous and scaly lesions on the trunk and proximal extremities. While its cause is not definitively known, the classic form of pityriasis rosea may result from the reactivation of latent human herpesvirus (HHV) infections (HHV‐6 and HHV‐7). Interestingly, drug eruptions that clinically and/or histopathologically resemble pityriasis rosea have also been reported. These pityriasis rosea‐like drug eruptions tend to occur at an older age and have a shorter duration than the classic type. As there are different management paradigms, the distinction between classic pityriasis rosea and the mimicking drug eruption is important to recognize. Herein, we report a case of a pityriasis rosea‐like drug eruption that occurred in association with imatinib mesylate treatment for chronic myeloid leukemia. We also review the clinicopathologic features of reported cases of pityriasis rosea‐like drug eruption, including those due to imatinib. While the clinical morphology of the cutaneous drug‐related eruption mimics the lesions seen in classic pityriasis rosea, the presence of unique histopathologic findings, including necrotic keratinocytes, interface dermatitis, and eosinophils, may aid in distinction.
Parental expressions of love in Chinese American immigrant families: Implications for children's attachment security
Authors: Williams Aya Inamori , Liu Chang , Zhou Qing , Wu Jinli , Meng Lionel , Fang Deng Xue , Chen Stephen H.
Published: July 2024

Harlow's seminal work on the nature of attachment focused on the importance of warm, responsive, and loving relationships in children's healthy development. While the need for love and care is arguably universal, the ways in which these emotions are expressed can vary across cultural contexts. We examined how Chinese American parents’ expressions of love were associated with children's attachment security. A total of 110 Chinese American immigrant parent–child dyads (children 7–11 years old, 49% girls) participated in 3‐min conversations in which parents were instructed to communicate love and care. Proposition‐level analyses in speech (total 8825 propositions) identified three types of affection: training (guan and chiao shun); relational affection (qin); and validation (acceptance and encouragement of child's own expression of emotion, thoughts, and behaviors). Higher training was observed in parents with lower American orientation and lower income. Higher relational affection was observed in parents with lower income. Higher validation was observed in parents with higher income. Using path analyses, training and validation were found to be positively associated with children's attachment security beyond parenting styles. Effects of parents’ relational affection were moderated by children's American orientation. Results demonstrate how immigrant parents draw on multiple cultural scripts to express love and care. These findings expand traditional concepts of parental love in immigrant families and illustrate how bicultural expressions of love can shape attachment security in middle childhood. A video abstract of this article
can be viewed at https://youtu.be/HqUfIDxkFsE

Research Highlights

Analyses of parent‐child discussions identified three parental affection styles (i.e., training, relational affection, and validation) as expressions of love and care in Chinese American immigrant families.

Training and validation were positively associated with children's attachment security.

Relational affection was associated with lower attachment security for children with higher American cultural orientation, suggesting the effects of parent–child expressions of love are shaped by acculturation.
Suboptimal monitoring and management in patients with unrecorded stage 3 chronic kidney disease in real‐world settings: Insights from REVEAL‐CKD
Authors: Tangri Navdeep , Alvarez Christian S. , Arnold Matthew , Barone Salvatore , Cebrián Ana , Chen Hungta , De Nicola Luca , Järbrink Krister , Kanumilli Naresh , Lim Kean‐Seng , Moriyama Toshiki , Pecoits Filho Roberto , Ribeiro de Castro Maria Cristina , Santamaria Rafael , Schneider Markus P. , Virgitti Jean Blaise , Kushner Pamela
Published: July 2024

Background

Clinical practice guidelines for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) recommend regular monitoring and management of kidney function and CKD risk factors. However, the majority of patients with stage 3 CKD lack a diagnosis code, and data on the implementation of these recommendations in the real world are limited.

Aim

To assess the implementation of guideline‐directed monitoring and management practices in the real world in patients with stage 3 CKD without a recorded diagnosis code.

Methods

REVEAL‐CKD (NCT04847531) is a multinational, observational study of patients with stage 3 CKD. Eligible patients had ≥2 consecutive estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) measurements indicative of stage 3 CKD recorded >90 and ≤730 days apart, lacked an International Classification of Diseases 9/10 diagnosis code corresponding to CKD any time before and up to 6 months after the second eGFR measurement. Testing of key measures of care quality were assessed.

Results

The study included 435,971 patients from 9 countries. In all countries, the prevalence of urinary albumin–creatinine ratio and albuminuria testing was low. Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor, angiotensin receptor blocker and statin prescriptions were highly variable, and sodium–glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitor prescriptions remained below 21%. Blood pressure measurements were recorded in 20.2%–89.9% of patients.

Conclusions

Overall, a large proportion of patients with evidence of stage 3 CKD did not receive recommended, guideline‐directed monitoring and management. The variability in standard of care among countries demonstrates a clear opportunity to improve monitoring and management of these patients, most likely improving long‐term outcomes.
Decolonially speaking, sensing, and thinking: Racialized tuition‐based family therapists learning without teaching
Authors: polanco marcela , Kumar Pankaj , Olyad Fraol “Frada” , Enemark Claire Henry
Published: July 2024

We address the ethical implications of training and becoming family therapists in the United States when considering the colonial control and management of knowledge by the westernized institutionalized university. We do so decolonially. Through the work of decolonial thinkers, doers, and sensers, we center our discussion on the heteropatriarchal Eurocentric institutionalization of knowledge linked to the development and sustainability of structures of family therapy training through racialization and monetization. We discuss a decolonial understanding of race in relation to the liberalized politics of diversity, equity, and inclusion and upward mobility of family therapy education. Most importantly, we reflect upon the possibilities of reexistence within family therapy, fissuring the colonial structures of training tuition‐based family therapists. We locate those possibilities through practices of crack‐making, epistemic insurgence, and mischief. Our discussions and reflections are developed throughout by thinking, sensing, and speaking decolonially, storying our racialized incarnated lives from the saberes, ज्ञान, rhythms, vapors, or tastes of our communities, displaced by the European cannon. We embrace a decolonial pedagogy of learning without teaching, positioning family therapy education as a site for sociopolitical struggle and action toward possibilities of reexistence.
Effectiveness of an interdisciplinary home care approach for older adults with chronic conditions: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kamei Tomoko , Kawada Aki , Minami Kotoko , Takahashi Zaiya , Ishigaki Yasunori , Yamanaka Takashi , Yamamoto Noriko , Yamamoto Yuko , Suzuki Yusuke , Watanabe Takamasa , Iijima Katsuya ,   Academic Group in Japan Home Health Care Alliance
Published: July 2024

The effectiveness of interdisciplinary home healthcare service consisting of at least two or more healthcare providers, such as a nurse, physician and physiotherapist, for community‐dwelling older adults remains unclear. This systematic review assesses the effects of interdisciplinary home care on quality of life (QOL) and health outcomes in older adults with chronic conditions using validated tools. Databases were searched using CINAHL Plus with Full Text, PubMed, EMBASE, CENTRAL, PsycINFO, and OpenGrey from inception to January 25, 2021. Eligibility criteria included (i) an interdisciplinary home care approach, (ii) participants aged 65 years and older with chronic conditions, (iii) randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and (iv) original literature in English. The study reviewer's dyad independently screened the literature and assessed the study quality using the Cochrane's Risk of Bias 2 tool. The analysis employed qualitative and quantitative integration and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation. This study included 13 RCTs with 4709 participants. Four RCTs indicated that interdisciplinary home healthcare services reduced hospital admissions during the initial 6 months after the start of home care interventions (risk ratio [RR] = 0.73; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.61–0.88; p < 0.001; I2 = 0%). However, evidence certainty was moderate; QOL and mortality showed low certainty; and institutionalization and adherence showed moderate certainty of evidence. This study suggests that the interdisciplinary home care approach reduces hospital admissions but lacks effects on other outcomes. More robust studies are required to evaluate this evidence. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 827–840.
Work re‐entry following maternity leave for first‐time mothers: An events, social identity and intersectional theories informed identity work framework
Authors: Cross Christine , Darcy Colette , Garavan Thomas
Published: July 2024

Many first‐time mothers experience significant identity issues on work re‐entry following maternity leave, an important individual and life‐related event. Work re‐entry prompts significant identity tensions leading to identity work challenges and potential career changes. We address this significant life event and develop a subjective identity informed conceptual framework explaining its key components and outcomes. We propose that for first‐time mothers, re‐entry following maternity leave triggers a cognitive and subjective assessment of identity threat and opportunity leading to the use of multiple identity work strategies to address personal, role, and collective identities. We analyze the impacts of these reworked identities and identity work for career decision making and outcomes. We theoretically underpin our framework using event systems, a subjective perspective on social identity and intersectional theories and in doing so, propose future research questions and highlight implications for national policy and organizational practices.