Aggregation of data values plays an important role on distributed computations, in particular, over peer-to-peer and sensor networks, as it can provide a summary of some global system property and direct the actions of self-adaptive distributed algorithms. Examples include using estimates of the network size to dimension distributed hash tables or estimates of the average system load to direct load balancing. Distributed aggregation using nonidempotent functions, like sums, is not trivial as it is not easy to prevent a given value from being accounted for multiple times; this is especially the case if no centralized algorithms or global identifiers can be used. This paper introduces Extrema Propagation, a probabilistic technique for distributed estimation of the sum of positive real numbers. The technique relies on the exchange of duplicate insensitive messages and can be applied in flood and/or epidemic settings, where multipath routing occurs; it is tolerant of message loss; it is fast, as the number of message exchange steps can be made just slightly above the theoretical minimum; and it is fully distributed, with no single point of failure and the result produced at every node.

Consumer satisfaction plays a critical role in the success and survival of tourism organizations, including wine tourism. This study aims to identify the determinants of satisfaction and dissatisfaction in wine tourism experiences using a customer-centric approach and analyzing user-generated content. The analysis reveals that satisfaction and dissatisfaction in wine tourism are influenced by different factors, supporting the two- and three-factor theories. Common themes among satisfied and dissatisfied tourists include wine, visits, and related circuits. The study validates online reviews as a valuable source of information and introduces a qualitative content analysis methodology for wine tourism research. Theoretical implications demonstrate that satisfaction in wine tourism is multidimensional, reinforcing existing theories and expanding knowledge of sensory experiences and motivating factors. Managerially, the findings highlight the critical success factors of wine and related activities, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement. Dissatisfiers, such as waiting time and employee performance, can lead to a competitive disadvantage, while satisfiers like wine tastings and aesthetics present opportunities for enhancing customer satisfaction and gaining a competitive advantage. This research contributes to the body of knowledge by shedding light on the specific determinants of satisfaction and dissatisfaction in wine tourism experiences. It underscores the importance of a customer-centric perspective, validates online reviews as a data source, and enhances understanding of the multidimensional nature of satisfaction in wine tourism. The study offers insights for researchers and managers, suggesting alternative measurement tools and encouraging further exploration of sensory aspects and motivations.

Purpose: – The purpose of this paper is to examine the successor's perceptions of the major objective and subjective factors as well as networks that facilitate or inhibit the process of internationalisation of entrepreneurial family firms.Design/methodology/approach: – Based on a qualitative methodological approach, the current study relies on case study evidence from a sample of six mature entrepreneurial family firms operating in different sectors.Findings: – Relying on data collected, this study found that the perception of foreign market opportunities; international vision; successor's proactivity; innovative spirit and specific technical knowledge are relevant variables that initiate the process of internationalisation of a family firm within the context of (post-) succession. By contrast, the study did not find high evidence of the importance of speaking a foreign language and educational background. The study also confirmed that a disrupted process, such as succession, may re-position a mature domestic family firm in international markets.Research limitations/implications: – A major limitation of this study relates to the sample size. Interpretation of these findings and their generalisation should therefore, be made with caution. In terms of future recommendations, an area that deserves particular attention relates to the development and transfer of social capital within family firms.Originality/value: – This study attempts to fill a gap in the literature, and it particularly tries to understand the successors’ perceptions regarding interrelationships between succession and internationalisation. The findings provide valuable insights for policy makers and managers.

Purpose: Although the concepts of family business, internationalization, and agency theory have received some attention in the relevant literature, these concepts and theories have been used independently. The purpose of this paper is to help close the gap between what is known and what needs to be known about the decision-making processes of internationalization of family managers (FM) and non-family managers (NFMs).Design/methodology/approach: The paper analyzes the story of Busscar, a Brazilian firm that began internationalization under an FM and ended it under an NFM. The management transition took place suddenly, as the family CEO died in a tragic accident, and the company appointed an NFM to replace him virtually overnight. These circumstances, as well as the fact that Busscar accelerated its internationalization process after the transition only to go bankrupt a few years later makes this case critical.Findings: The paper concludes that under NFMs, the speed and scope of the firm internationalization processes were accelerated and the financial risks were augmented, which is in line with the agency theory hypothesis and contradicts suggestions that NFMs tend to be more structured.Research limitations/implications: Many researchers argue that it is important to professionalize the management of family firms. It is expected that an NFM leads to a more structured strategy. The study shows otherwise; changing the manager leads to opportunistic internationalization using emerging strategies rather than deliberate ones.Originality/value: This study suggests that firms, networks, entrepreneurship, and ownership are not the only important variables. Manager origin (inside or outside the family) can change everything.