Search Results (232)

Environmental commitments disclosed in merger and acquisition (M&A) announcements have become an important channel through which firms signal their green governance intentions. However, systematic empirical evidence remains limited regarding whether and how capital markets respond to such commitments. Using a sample of M&A events involving Chinese A-share listed firms from 2010 to 2023, this study develops a multidimensional framework to measure environmental commitment quality and examines its association with market performance while exploring potential channels through which capital markets respond to such disclosures. The results show that: (1) high-quality environmental commitments are associated with significant short-term and long-term abnormal returns, suggesting that investors respond positively to such disclosures. (2) Increased public attention and enhanced green innovation emerge as key channels linking environmental commitments to market performance. (3) More importantly, firms issuing high-quality commitments subsequently exhibit improvements in long-term financial, environmental, market, investment, and governance performance, suggesting that these commitments may function as credible signals rather than mere “greenwashing” rhetoric. (4) These observed patterns are structurally heterogeneous and more pronounced in firms with abundant resource endowments and stronger executive environmental awareness. Overall, this study provides new evidence on how event-driven environmental disclosures are associated with firms’ resource acquisition processes and offers insights for policies aimed at improving disclosure regulation and guiding capital toward green transformation. Full article

Sustainable coastal destinations offer a variety of natural and cultural activities that form a construct of motivations that influence tourist behavior regarding their willingness to return to and recommend the destination. In this sense, the present study aimed to achieve the following objectives: to identify the motivations that drive tourist demand in sustainable coastal destinations, to establish which motivations predict tourist satisfaction in coastal destinations, and to determine which motivations predict tourist loyalty in coastal destinations. There are behavioral variables to consider, such as the intention to return, willingness to recommend the destination, and propensity to speak positively about it. The study was carried out in Montañita (Ecuador), a major surfing city in Latin America with extensive potential for water sports. A total of 380 valid surveys were collected on-site for quantitative analysis. Multiple regression and exploratory factor analysis were among the methods used. The final results showed five motivational dimensions linked to tourism in coastal areas, including nature and culture, sun and sea, recreational and sporting activities, novelty, and social interaction. Among all these factors, social interactivity and novelty stood out as the elements that had the greatest impact on visitor loyalty and satisfaction, followed by the sun and beach component. The findings will serve as input for destination managers to develop sustainable management guidelines and are also a contribution to academic literature. Full article

The political transition in Syria following the fall of the Al-Assad regime in December 2024 has renewed debates about refugee return. This study examines Syrian refugees’ intentions to return from Jordan and the factors shaping these decisions using a mixed-method design. A stratified random sample of 1070 refugees residing in host areas and camps was surveyed through telephone interviews, complemented by four focus group discussions and two key informant interviews with experts. Although 61% of respondents expressed an intention to return, only 20% indicated concrete or immediate plans, suggesting that return remains largely aspirational rather than imminent. Access to housing and property (55%), economic condition (46%), and safety and security (40%) emerged as central determinants, indicating that structural barriers, rather than regime change alone, shape decision-making. Qualitative findings further reveal that emotional attachment to Syria sustains return aspirations, yet financial hardship, debt in Jordan, and housing destruction in Syria constrain refugees’ capabilities to act. These findings underscore that voluntary, safe, and dignified repatriation depends not only on addressing structural barriers in Syria, but also on maintaining essential protection and support for Syrian refugees in Jordan. Full article

This study explores how immersive e-learning technologies influence entrepreneurial intention among business education students, with a focus on the mediating role of learning satisfaction. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from 561 final-year undergraduate students enrolled in business and entrepreneurship programs at globally ranked universities. The relationships between immersive learning design features, learning satisfaction, and entrepreneurial intention were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The study draws on Experiential Learning Theory, Self-Determination Theory, and Expectancy–Value Theory to explain how immersive learning experiences shape entrepreneurial motivation. The results show that interactivity, experiential engagement, and personalization positively influence entrepreneurial intention, primarily by enhancing learning satisfaction. Students are more inclined toward entrepreneurial careers when immersive learning environments support autonomy, meaningful engagement, and perceived value. In contrast, high levels of realism and multisensory intensity do not consistently strengthen entrepreneurial intention, suggesting that excessive immersion may create cognitive strain or diminishing motivational returns under certain conditions. These findings highlight the importance of balanced and learner-centered immersive learning design rather than increased technological intensity alone. From a practical perspective, the study suggests that business schools should integrate immersive technologies in ways that emphasize experiential learning, adaptability, and cognitive balance. However, the findings should be interpreted with caution due to the cross-sectional design, reliance on self-reported data, and focus on final-year students. Overall, the study provides a nuanced understanding of how immersive e-learning can support entrepreneurial intention while also identifying important boundary conditions that shape its effectiveness. Full article

A retrospective study on 135 cases of teat and udder surgical conditions in 129 small ruminants is described. On 19 repairs of teat lacerations, a primary- and a secondary-intention healing in 13 (68%) and in 4 (21%) cases, respectively, was observed; 2 (11%) had poor response and consequent mastitis. Good outcome and first-intention healing in 100% of the fistula repairs (2 cases), thelectomies (5 cases), teat neoplasm removals (14), and mastectomies (2 cases) were observed. Among 26 teat curettage cases, all 18 (69%) unilateral lesions treatment had a good outcome versus the 8 (31%) with bilateral lesion that suffered definitive relapse. In 67 skin udder neoplasm removals, a primary- and a secondary-intention healing in 59 (88%) and in 8 (12%) cases, respectively, was observed; however, 2 of the latter suffered mastitis. These procedures are associated with a good prognosis, and the percentage of favorable outcomes was high. Wound infections and dehiscence were the main complications observed. More interest in teat and udder surgery on small ruminants should be encouraged, and farmers should be made aware that the animal can often return into production at a reasonable cost; however, their post-operative care is the key to success. Full article

This mixed methods study explored perspectives from volunteer coaches and team parents involved in one sport-based youth development program, Junior Giants. The purpose was to (a) compare multiple perspectives on program impact and (b) investigate processes behind program impact and intentions to return. The sample (N = 11,638) included 1541 volunteer coaches, 861 team parents, and 9236 caregivers who completed an online survey assessing perceptions of players’ character development, antibullying, and league organization. Coaches and team parents also responded quantitatively and qualitatively about attending the initial training, use of practice plans, and intentions to return. Coaches reported significantly higher perceptions of participant change in character development and antibullying compared to caregivers (effect sizes were small), and team parents’ perceptions were not significantly different from coaches or caregivers. Perceptions of program outcomes did not differ by sport type (baseball v. softball), binary gender, age, or years in Junior Giants. For process variables, coaches were significantly more likely to attend the training and use the practice plans than team parents (small effects). Several themes emerged from open-ended questions, including not attending the initial team meeting due to schedule conflicts or signing up late to coach, not using practice plans due to limited time or needing modifications, and not intending to return due to child aging out or time commitment. Results suggest Junior Giants is perceived to have a positive impact and offer advice for supporting volunteers in sport-based youth development programs. Full article

This study investigates how next-generation digital infrastructures—terahertz (THz) communication and AI-driven network orchestration—shape perceived service quality, luxury perception, and loyalty within the context of luxury hospitality. An empirical survey was conducted among 693 guests at Torre Melina Gran Meliá (Barcelona) between June 2024 and June 2025. Using a refined 38-item Likert-scale instrument, a three-factor structure was validated: (F1) Network Performance (speed, stability, coverage, seamless roaming, and multi-device reliability), (F2) Luxury Perception (modernity, innovation, and brand image), and (F3) Service Loyalty (satisfaction, return intentions, recommendations, and willingness to pay a premium). The results reveal that superior network performance functions both practically and symbolically. Functionally, it enables uninterrupted video calls, smooth streaming, low-latency gaming, and reliable multi-device usage—now considered essential utilities for contemporary travelers. Symbolically, high-performing and intelligently managed connectivity conveys technological leadership and exclusivity, thereby enhancing the hotel’s luxury image. Collectively, these effects create a “virtuous cycle” in which technical excellence reinforces perceptions of luxury, which in turn amplifies satisfaction and loyalty behaviors. From a managerial perspective, advanced connectivity should be viewed as a strategic investment and brand differentiator rather than a cost center. THz-ready, AI-orchestrated networks support personalization, dynamic bandwidth allocation (i.e., real-time adjustment of network capacity in response to fluctuating user demand), and monetizable premium service tiers, directly strengthening guest retention and brand equity. Ultimately, next-generation connectivity emerges not as an ancillary amenity but as a defining pillar of luxury hospitality in the emerging 6G era. Full article

This study explains repeat purchase intentions on e-commerce platforms as a problem of fit between what the interface signals (Customer Service Orientation, CSO) and what the system delivers (Internal Service Quality, ISQ). Using survey data from Chinese platform users (N = 605), second-order polynomial models with response-surface analysis (RSA) show that repurchase intention rises when CSO and ISQ increase together, exhibits diminishing returns at high joint levels, and declines as the two diverge. A structural equation model (SEM) provides cross-sectional evidence consistent with mediation via pride in membership; when CSO and ISQ are modeled jointly with pride, CSO shows the larger direct association with repurchase. We also find that trust and security awareness initiatives act as a structural assurance that flattens the CSO–ISQ surface, attenuating both slopes and curvatures. Taken together, the results advance a fit-based account of digital service in which outcomes depend on the alignment of interface signals with executional capability and operate through identity-based pride, with platform-level assurances bounding marginal returns. Managerially, the findings imply prioritizing the closure of CSO–ISQ gaps and reducing execution variance before pursuing further single-dimension upgrades. Full article

Background/Objectives: Financial toxicity (FT) refers to the financial burden directly or indirectly caused by a patient’s medical care. Patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) are particularly vulnerable to FT due to lower rates of return to work and higher out-of-pocket payments (OOPP). In this cross-sectional study, we assessed the amount and types of OOPP, as well as the prevalence of FT, in HNC patients who had completed curative radiotherapy. Methods: We included HNC patients who underwent curative-intent radiotherapy at four private clinics in Romania, within 12 months of completing treatment. Participants completed a 25-item questionnaire capturing sociodemographic information, insurance status, income, and OOPP. To assess subjective FT, we used the validated nine-item Financial Index of Toxicity (FIT), which measures three FT domains: financial stress, financial strain, and lost productivity. Each domain and the total score range from 0 to 100, with higher scores indicating greater financial toxicity. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize patient characteristics. Pearson’s chi-square, t-tests, and one-way ANOVA were used to assess statistical associations, with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. Results: Among 113 patients (mean age: 59), the majority were male (74.3%) and married (74.3%), with 40% having completed university or higher education. The most frequent tumor sites were the oropharynx (29 cases), larynx (22), and oral cavity (21). Concurrent chemoradiation was the most common treatment modality (47%). The mean total FT score was 18.8. Overall, 39.8% of patients experienced financial toxicity, and 29.2% scored above the mean in financial stress. Moderate financial strain (score > 21) was reported by 39.8% of participants, and approximately one-third reported loss of productivity. Transportation and nutritional supplements were the most common OOPP categories. Notably, 42% of patients spent at least 400 euros—equivalent to Romania’s monthly minimum income—on transportation during radiotherapy. FT was significantly associated with employment and marital status, but not with tumor site or treatment type. Conclusions: Among Romanian HNC patients treated with curative radiotherapy, we found substantial OOPP, particularly for transportation and nutritional supplements. While overall FT levels were moderate, divorced patients and those retired due to other chronic conditions were the most vulnerable to financial distress. Financial toxicity can directly affect treatment adherence, survival, and quality of life. By integrating financial counseling, social support, and broader coverage of treatment-related expenses, healthcare systems can mitigate FT for these patients. Full article

“After this I will return, and I will rebuild the dwelling of David, which has fallen; from its ruins I will rebuild it, and I will set it up” (Acts 15:16 NRSV). This verse, quoting Amos 9:11, is part of James’ speech to the Jerusalem “council” considering the issue of Gentile believers and their relationship to the Law. In some Pentecostal circles, especially those influenced by the “Latter Rain” revival of 1948, this verse has taken on a different force based on the Greek skēnē, literally a tent or traditionally “tabernacle.” This teaching is based on the “tabernacle of David” as described in 1 Chron. 16:1–6 and other places and likely the venue in which some of the original psalms were performed. Their argument is that this is part of a model for experiencing the dynamic presence of God in worship and the restoration of the NT church. It forms a theological basis or rationale for contemporary praise and worship with the use of musical instruments, lifted hands, dance, clapping, etc., following the Psalms. However, this interpretation of “David’s fallen tent” seems to fail interpretive tests such as context, authorial intention and audience understanding. This article discusses the interpretive challenges raised by Acts 15:16, how skilled interpreters have understood the “tent of David,” and some weaknesses in these readings. The argument of “Latter Rain” authors on the “Tabernacle of David” is explained and evaluated in the light of some other contemporary research and hermeneutical principles associated with typology. The Latter Rain position is found to have considerable strengths but overreaches in some key points especially by making structure too central. Full article

Perceived time poverty is a major stress factor in university life, reflecting a lack of attentional resources. While nature-based interventions (NBIs) are recognized for restoring psychological resources, the psychological processes behind these interventions are not fully understood. This three-wave longitudinal study (N = 36) used linear mixed-effects models to examine the impact of a three-day camping trip on students’ psychological outcomes before, immediately after, and one month later. Findings show that the trip immediately and significantly boosted state nature connectedness and prosocial behavior intentions, while reducing perceived time poverty and psychological distress. Unexpectedly, it also led to a temporary decrease in both hedonic and eudaimonic well-being. By one month, most benefits had returned to baseline levels. Significantly, perceived time poverty fully mediated the link between nature connectedness and most outcomes. These results suggest camping helps restore attention, but short-term NBIs can only exert a temporary effect. The study enhances scarcity and attention restoration theories by testing specific psychological pathways and targets, offering valuable insights for creating nature-based programs that reduce stress and improve experiences, especially for university wellness initiatives. Full article

County-wide distributed rooftop photovoltaic (DRPV) systems, as an emerging form of renewable energy development, constitute a critical component for the low-carbon energy transition and carbon reduction. However, the pilot implementation in China has faced many challenges, with resistance from rural residents being a key issue requiring urgent resolution. This study aimed to investigate the underlying factors influencing their participation in DRPV and identify the key determinants. The topic modeling and evolutionary analysis were first conducted based on the multi-platform online textual data. The theoretical model was constructed combining the antecedent variables identified by the online textual analysis and the classic Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework. This model was validated through questionnaire surveys and structural equation modeling. The results revealed that facilitating conditions were the core determinant of rural residents’ participation in DRPV systems. Government-led safeguard mechanisms served as the primary enhancer of perceived convenience. Additionally, effort expectancy (0.301), performance expectancy (0.253), and social influence (0.424) all positively correlated with participation intention, with social influence exhibiting the strongest impact. Notably, rural residents equally prioritize environmental benefits and economic returns from DRPV systems. These findings provided policy insights for promoting DRPV projects in the future. Full article

Cultural landscapes are facing increasing challenges in terms of sustainable financing, owing to fiscal austerity and limited public funding. This study explores tourists’ willingness to pay (WTP) for the conservation of cultural landscapes through Japan’s Furusato Nozei (Tax payment to hometown)—a policy that pairs tax deductions with tangible “return gifts,” institutionalising a form of mixed (or “impure”) altruism that can convert intention into action. Using a survey of 500 visitors to Shibamata, Tokyo, we estimate an integrative model that links psychological pathways (motivation → destination evaluation), behavioural investments (time, spending, and interactions with residents), and socio-demographic characteristics. To analyse the collected data, we use partial least squares structural equation modelling. Results reveal that interaction with local communities has the strongest direct effects on WTP, while motivation influences WTP indirectly through destination evaluation. Age shows a negative relationship, whereas marital status has a positive one; income and gender are not significant predictors. These findings suggest that institutional incentives embedded in Furusato Nozei can transform altruistic intention into actual financial support for heritage conservation. This study contributes theoretically by linking institutional design to behavioural intention–action gaps and practically by providing insights for participatory and incentive-based heritage financing. The findings are based on a single-site case in Shibamata, Tokyo, and should therefore be interpreted within its local and cultural context. Full article

Background: Sport-related concussion (SRC) is a recognised public health concern, with combat sport athletes particularly vulnerable due to frequent head impacts. In Taekwondo, concussion incidence is comparable to other contact sports, yet underreporting and misconceptions may hinder safe management. Understanding knowledge, attitudes, and behaviours in this cohort is critical for athlete safety. Methods: This cross-sectional online survey was distributed to Australian Taekwondo athletes (AKA). Participants completed demographic, concussion history, and the Rosenbaum Concussion Knowledge and Attitudes Survey. Knowledge (CKI) and attitudes (CAI) indices were derived. Group differences were analysed using non-parametric tests, with associations between knowledge, attitudes, and reporting behaviours explored via correlation and logistic regression. Results: Athletes (n = 98) demonstrated good knowledge (mean CKI 19.8/25) and positive attitudes (mean CAI 61.6/75), though misconceptions remained. While 92% indicated they would seek medical attention, 21% reported returning to play the same day as a suspected concussion, and over 20% admitted to concealing symptoms. Higher CAI scores, but not CKI, were associated with safer reporting intentions. Conclusions: AKA showed strong knowledge and attitudes towards concussion; however, risky behaviours persisted. Attitudes, rather than knowledge, were more predictive of reporting behaviours, underscoring the need for interventions that strengthen positive attitudes and cultural support for symptom disclosure. Full article

The COVID-19 pandemic has severely affected Thailand’s economy, forcing many workers to return to their hometowns and engage in agricultural activities. Community-Based Tourism (CBT) has become a significant strategy to mitigate these effects by leveraging local cultural resources. This study aims to (1) assess the potential of cultural resources for tourism development in Koh Perd fishing village, Chanthaburi, Thailand, and (2) examine the determinants of revisit intentions among Thai tourists. To address the first objective, qualitative research was conducted through in-depth interviews with 15 Thai tourists, analyzed using coding analysis, while a quantitative survey of 400 respondents assessed the perceptions of cultural resources. The findings indicate that the village’s historic houses (Ruen Ran Kha) are perceived as the most valuable tourism assets, followed by cultural authenticity and aesthetics, respectively. For the second objective, data from 400 Thai tourists were analyzed using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) and multiple regression. The results reveal that destination attractions, marketing and accessibility, and safety and security are significant factors influencing revisit intentions. Full article