Surface sediments from multi-use estuaries receive petroleum and biogenic hydrocarbons, which complicates source assignment. We measured n-alkanes, unresolved complex mixtures (UCM), hopanes, steranes, and selected elements in 192 samples from 96 sites along the west coast of Trinidad. Significant spatial variability of n-alkanes and UCM (p < 0.05) in the coastal area is linked to land use activity. Analysis of the samples revealed the carbon preference index ranged from 1.33 to 8.28, pristane/phytane ranged from 0.20 to 2.28, and UCM/resolved-alkane ranged 0.60 to 12.0. These results indicate mixed terrestrial-biogenic and petrogenic inputs. Gammacerane (G) biomaker was noticeably enriched near petroleum processing, shipping, and production areas, whereas the biomaker 22,29,30-Trisnorhop-17(21)-ene (Te) predominated in relatively undisturbed mangrove wetlands. We explored the utility of the G/Te ratio as an empirical screening tool: values exceeding unity characterized relatively unpolluted wetland areas, while ratios below unity were associated with petroleum-impacted sites. Steranes ternary plots placed most of the hydrocarbons within overlapping estuarine/open-marine and planktonic-bacterial source domains. Bulk-sediment elemental analyses revealed anoxic depositional environment with V/(V + Ni) ratios above 0.5 and negative Eu/Eu* anomalies (values <1). Our findings demonstrated that G/Te ratio along with other multiparametric biomarker approaches provide increased diagnostic capability to identify hydrocarbons sources in modern intensively used estuarine environments, offering a robust framework for environmental monitoring in chronically impacted coastal systems.
This study develops a temporal socioemotional wealth (SEW) perspective to examine how family firms' strategic decisions shift as intergenerational succession approaches. Integrating SEW perspective with temporal construal theory, we argue that perceived proximity to succession triggers a shift from aspiration-based to temporal-needs-based SEW, reducing the salience of long-term benefits such as innovation while increasing the appeal of short-term concrete actions such as asset investment. Using data on pre-succession Chinese family firms, we find that firms approaching succession reduce R&D investment while increasing asset investment over time. Successor preparation weakens, while sibling competition strengthens, these effects. Our findings highlight the importance of temporal distance to succession in shaping SEW priorities and offer new insights into heterogeneity among family firms.
We propose a Bayesian multilevel weighted Poisson regression model to analyse data from the UNICEF 2022–2023 Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys from Afghanistan to examine the association of individual, familial, societal, and regional factors with the fertility rates. Our proposed methodology probabilistically incorporates survey weights into the model, making the estimates of the regression coefficients more representative to both the population and subpopulation levels. The proposed model demonstrates superior performance over existing models based on the Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) and Deviance Information Criterion (DIC) and remains insensitive against changing prior distributions with differing amounts of shrinkage. Our findings highlight the significant association of women’s age, age at marriage, education (both of women and household heads), and household wealth with fertility rates. The estimated overall fertility rate was 4.45 children per woman, with notable differences between women without education (4.50, 95
Purpose During the era of Industry 4.0, organizations must increasingly rely on their ability to transform data and information into actionable knowledge. Grounded in the knowledge-based view and absorptive capacity theory, this study aims to examine how realized absorptive capacity – specifically, the transformation and exploitation dimensions – affects the development of technical knowledge and business/marketing knowledge required for the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies in sustainable global distribution contexts. Design/methodology/approach Survey data were collected in 2024 from marketing, operations and business development professionals in firms operating in global markets in Canada and the USA. After applying the qualification criteria, the final sample consisted of 131 respondents. Measurement items were adapted from established scales in previous research. The proposed model was tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling with SmartPLS. Findings The results indicate that both dimensions of realized absorptive capacity significantly influence the development of organizational knowledge capabilities. Transformation strongly drives exploitation, and both constructs positively affect technical knowledge and business/marketing knowledge. The effect sizes are medium to large, suggesting that realized absorptive capacity plays a substantial role in developing the knowledge required to implement Industry 4.0 technologies. Research limitations/implications The study is based on cross-sectional survey data and self-reported responses from a single informant per firm, which may limit causal interpretation and introduce potential bias. In addition, the sample size and industry composition may constrain generalizability. Future research could use longitudinal designs, multi-informant data and broader industry samples to examine how absorptive capacity evolves over time and influences organizational performance and sustainability outcomes. Practical implications The findings suggest that Industry 4.0 adoption should be viewed as a knowledge-driven transformation rather than purely a technological investment. Managers should, therefore, invest in employee expertise, cross-functional collaboration and knowledge-sharing systems that enable organizations to transform and exploit technological insights. Strengthening realized absorptive capacity can help firms convert digital information into capabilities that support innovation and operational efficiency in global distribution systems. Social implications By enabling firms to integrate and apply digital knowledge effectively, realized absorptive capacity can support more efficient and sustainable global distribution systems. Improved use of Industry 4.0 technologies may enhance demand forecasting, logistics optimization and resource utilization, thereby reducing waste and supporting environmentally responsible supply-chain practices. Originality/value This study contributes to Industry 4.0 research by linking realized absorptive capacity to two critical knowledge domains – technical knowledge and business/marketing knowledge. The proposed model provides new insights into how firms convert knowledge processes into capabilities that support digital transformation in global distribution contexts.
Culturally safe dementia care (CSDC) remains inconsistently defined, which makes it difficult for health professionals and researchers to operationalize in practice. To clarify CSDC, we conducted a concept analysis using Rodgers' evolutionary method. Eighteen records from diverse cultural groups and care settings were included. Prominent surrogate terms were cultural sensitivity, cultural competency, and cultural appropriateness, while common related terms were person-centred care, compassionate care, and holistic care. Antecedents included provider awareness through self-reflection and commitment to continuous learning, as well as structural, organizational support. Core attributes of CSDC focused on provider qualities such as demonstrating respect, building trust, using culturally responsive communication, and applying holistic and strengths-based approaches; other attributes pointed to organizational responsibilities like creating affirming care environments, providing information, and honouring cultural preferences. Consequences consisted of reduced social isolation and fear of discrimination, and improved trust, care experiences, and quality of life. This analysis emphasizes that CSDC requires ongoing reflection, meaningful engagement, and system-wide accountability. Importantly, CSDC must be co-created with families and communities and should be rooted in their knowledge systems, histories, and priorities. To support application, we share a conceptual model and four model cases to illustrate CSDC in both urban and rural healthcare settings. The model offers a practical pathway that can guide care providers and organizations in implementing culturally safe approaches. Clearer operational frameworks and community-led strategies are needed to move from intention to sustained, culturally grounded practice.
