bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing a civic capacity index: measuring community capacity to respond to civic challenges
Authors: Chrislip David D. , MacPhee David , Schmitt Patti
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Some communities in the USA are remarkably better at responding to civic challenges than others. These communities are more competent at marshaling their resources – material and human – in service of their own needs. The authors’ purpose in this paper is to enhance their collective understanding of ideas related to community-driven change and to describe the development of a civic capacity index (CCI), a measure of a community's capacity to respond to civic challenges and disruptions like COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a concept mapping process (akin to grounded theory) to develop the CCI. Using this process, a panel of 34 scholars and practitioners of civic leadership and civic engagement worked together to create measurable descriptors of civic capacity.

Findings

The CCI measures dynamic processes related to collective leadership, inclusion of diverse voices, how institutions and coalitions address shared challenges and collaboration among community members. Sample data from several states show the CCI's scales to have high internal reliabilities and to correlate strongly with validation scales such as collective efficacy, social justice and community connectedness. Confirmatory factor analyses support a bifactor model of a general CCI factor and six CCI scales.

Practical implications

With the help of the CCI, civic actors can take advantage of existing civic capacity, understand where it is lacking and build resilience for the future.

Originality/value

To date, most scholars have used qualitative research to determine the elements of civic capacity. The authors wanted to know what civic capacity looks like in sufficient detail to assess the extent to which it is present or not in a community. Other efforts to quantify or assess civic capacity or related ideas are less comprehensive or lack the specificity to provide guidance for building and mobilizing it in communities. This work enhances our understanding of leadership in the civic arena, a little understood aspect of leadership studies.
BIM-FM in existing buildings: a case study on educational and high-rise residential buildings
Authors: Kern Andrea Parisi , Rosa Fabiana Pires , Bragança Luis
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Facility management (FM) is regarded as an emerging issue in civil engineering and is responsible for ensuring the building's expected performance. The purpose of this study is to analyze buildings' current FM processes for educational and high residential segments and propose an FM-building information modeling (BIM) (BIM6D) to understand the information flow and leading players with and without FM-BIM integration.

Design/methodology/approach

The research strategy was a case study with data from the FM process of two buildings. This study was carried out in three stages: diagnosis of FM of the two buildings, FM-BIM integration and information flow and leading players analysis. Maintenance activities were categorized according to periodicity and status criteria for each project element for FM-BIM integration and were visualized in the Revit design using Dynamo software.

Findings

The results of this study show differences in how FM is conducted, especially in formalization and preventive character, and similarities regarding the difficulty of foreseen and lack of control because of scattered, disconnected and incomplete information on both. The visual appeal of the FM-BIM integration facilitates information access. It optimizes the use of the digital model through the most prolonged phase of the life cycle of a building (post-occupation phase). However, FM-BIM challenges buildings that do not have digital model expertise as residential segments. This study suggests a more significant role for construction companies in these cases.

Originality/value

This study investigates BIM-FM integration of buildings in two different contexts and reveals the importance of a construction company's role in buildings in the residential segment. This study contributes with real-life cases on BIM in existing buildings, discussing the value and challenges of BIM in FM applications.
Tourists' intention to visit a destination where child labor is employed: an application of the theory of planned behavior (TPB)
Authors: Özel Çağıl Hale , Çoban Eda
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explain the effect of tourists' attitudes towards child labor, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control (PBC) on their intention to visit a destination with the model created with the help of theory of planned behavior (TPB).

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized the convenience sampling technique. Data were collected through social media platforms from individuals over the age of 18 who live in Turkey and have traveled as tourists before. For this purpose, travel and tourism-themed groups were applied. Six hypotheses based on the literature were tested in the study. Data analysis was carried out using the Smart partial least square (PLS) program on data collected from 226 people.

Findings

Findings showed that the conceptual model explained tourists' intentions well. In detail, subjective norm, PBC and attitude, together with their belief constructs, all had a positive impact on visit intention.

Practical implications

Destination managers are recommended to protect children's rights in the destination. Any kind of exploitation of children and child labor can be prevented if stakeholders within the industry do not include any partners that violate children's rights. Destination managers should also guarantee the safety of children by launching codes of conduct and guidelines in coaction with local authorities and NGOs.

Originality/value

Many factors that may affect tourists' intention to visit a destination have been studied in the literature so far; however, tourists' perspective on child labor in a destination was not among these factors. It is not known whether the problem of child labor in destinations will affect tourists' intention to visit that destination. In this study, destination visit intention is discussed from this aspect, and this study differs from the previous studies in this respect. Recommendations were provided for practitioners to evolve into a child-friendly destination and highlight the efforts made to prevent child labor in their marketing practices.
Review on entrepreneurial orientation, economic stimulus packages, differentiation strategy and SME performance in Malaysia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Norsalehe Natalia Inani , Idris Aida
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The study aims to establish and conceptualise entrepreneurial orientation (EO) as a key construct that positively influences small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) performance. In this paper, a conceptual framework was developed, and three research propositions were outlined: EO (innovativeness, proactiveness and risk-taking) positively influences SME performance; the economic stimulus packages moderate EO and the differentiation strategy; and the differentiation strategy mediates EO and SME performance. Each of the constructs was defined, and the conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia were identified.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper suggests links between EO and SME performance and the effects of economic stimulus packages and differentiation strategies on Malaysia’s service and manufacturing industry. These concepts lead to the development of propositions based on prior empirical studies underpinning the resource-based view theory and contingency approach. The propositions aim to develop further findings and test the hypotheses.

Findings

The study proposes three research propositions to conceptualise the relationship between the four main constructs. The study also recommends an empirical approach to conduct and test the research model concerning Malaysia’s service and manufacturing industry.

Originality/value

While studies on EO and SME performance have been conducted extensively, studies on the impact of various economic stimulus packages by the Malaysian government on the existing EO and SME performance relationship during the COVID-19 pandemic are limited. Separately, this study uses a configuration approach to test the mediator and moderator during the COVID-19 pandemic.
An investigation on the natural rate of crime rates with Fourier panel unit root test in selected emerging economies
Authors: Uzuner Gizem , Yıldız Bünyamin Fuat , Mercan Murat Anıl , Wong Wing-Keung
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The specific objective of the study is to investigate the presence of natural rate of crime rates in selected emerging economies by using panel unit roots. The majority of the literature examines the issue using conventional unit root tests in a country-specific context. Meanwhile, there is no panel unit root investigation has been undertaken considering both cross-sectional dependence (CD) and structural changes.

Design/methodology/approach

As a result, this study is to fill the aforementioned gap and validate the natural rate of crime rates for 10 countries by using a Fourier panel unit root test. The advantage of the test is that structural shifts are modelled as gradual or smooth changes with a Fourier approximation, and it also accounts cross-sectional dependency. Thus, the Fourier panel unit root test may have better performance in capturing potential changes in the nature of data.

Findings

The result of the conventional unit roots test shows evidence of the hysteresis effect in crime, as it stands does not adequately account for smooth transitions or breaks. On contrary, the Fourier panel unit root test confirms the natural rate hypothesis in crime rates. The present results highlight the detrimental effects of crime cannot be abated by short-run deterrence policies.

Originality/value

Contrary to previous studies, the theoretical implications of the study imply that the empirical models consider the dynamic nature of crime rates should account for natural rate properties instead of the hysteresis assumption.
Library's quality impact on satisfaction and improvement priorities
Authors: Thuannadee Sunitiya
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to identify library service dimensions at the Suranaree University of Technology (SUT), Thailand, examine the effect of perceived quality on overall satisfaction and determine the library service's improvement priorities.

Design/methodology/approach

The modified service quality (SERVQUAL) questionnaire was administered to SUT faculty and students. The perceived quality of service attributes was determined by comparing the perception of the actual service received with the expectation. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was utilized to classify the service dimensions, and proportional odds ordinal logistic regression was employed to examine the impact of perceived quality on overall satisfaction. The improvement priorities were determined using the importance–performance analysis (IPA).

Findings

EFA suggested four service dimensions of the SUT library services: collection and access, organizational service, service delivery by staff and library as a place. The perceived quality of all dimensions positively affected overall satisfaction. However, the “library as a place” had a nonsignificant effect on faculty satisfaction, while the “collection and access” had a nonsignificant effect on student satisfaction.

Originality/value

In the context of library services, few studies have examined the effect of perceived quality on satisfaction and investigated improvement priorities using IPA. This study addresses these research gaps and provides deeper insights into the faculty and student perspectives on the university library services.
I have to apply this strategy! Understanding the mediating effect of digitalization on strategic orientations and sustainable competitive advantage among small enterprises in Tanzania
Authors: Ismail Ismail Juma
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The combination of strategic orientation and digitalization for sustainable competitive advantage among small businesses is still not given much attention in the literature. Therefore, this study aims to understand the influence of strategic orientation on sustainable competitive advantage while mediating the relationship with digitalization.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a cross-sectional design. This design helped collect data from 234 small businesses in Arusha city, Tanzania. Since the study used latent variables, structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze relationships and conduct confirmatory factor analysis. Through bootstrapping confidence intervals, Hayes's Process was also used to test how digitalization mediates the relationship between strategic orientations and sustainable competitive advantage.

Findings

The strategic orientation attributes that include market orientation, entrepreneurial orientation and learning orientation were positively and significantly related to digitalization. Furthermore, the results on digitalization and sustainable competitive advantage show a significant positive relationship. Finally, digitalization was analyzed to mediate the relationship between strategic orientation, market orientation, entrepreneurial orientation, learning orientation and sustainable competitive advantage. Hence, all hypotheses were supported.

Research limitations/implications

This study adopted a cross-sectional design that helped to capture the quantitative information. In addition, the current study is limited to Tanzania's small businesses; thus, the findings cannot assure generalization of the conclusion to other countries because of the differences in social, cultural and technology across countries.

Originality/value

This study integrates the concepts of strategic orientation from the strategic management discipline and digitalization from a technology perspective. As a result, the study adds new knowledge about combining two aspects and determining whether they add value in terms of providing a sustainable competitive advantage. This knowledge comes from digitalization, which acts as a mediator between strategic orientation dimensions and a sustainable competitive advantage.
Family–work enrichment and entrepreneurial intentions: a family affective support perspective
Authors: Xu Zuhui , Zhou Yan , Zhang Yue , Zhang Yingying , Ouyang Zhe
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Although research on entrepreneurial intentions has outlined the role of family instrumental support, little is known about the impact of family affective support. Building on social career cognitive theory, the purpose of this paper is to investigate entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) as a mediator and work–home segmentation preferences as a moderator in the relationship between affective family–work enrichment and individuals' entrepreneurial intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 202 business-oriented individuals enrolled in a Master of Business Administration (MBA) program at a large university in the east of China, this study tests the proposed theoretical framework by analyzing the first-stage moderated mediation model.

Findings

Affective family–work enrichment is positively related to entrepreneurial intentions through the mediating effect of ESE. This relationship is significantly stronger for individuals with lower levels of work–home segmentation preferences.

Originality/value

This study determines the relationship between family–work enrichment and entrepreneurial intentions, and enriches antecedents of entrepreneurial intentions from the perspective of family affective support. Moreover, our study provides novel understanding on the influence mechanisms of family–work enrichment on entrepreneurial intentions by exploring the mediating effect of ESE and the moderating effect of work–home segmentation preferences, which has rarely been explored in the extant literature.
Partial replacement of silica by naturally occurring pumice powder for enhancing mechanical and thermal properties of nitrile rubber cured by electron beam irradiation
Authors: El-Nemr Khaled F. , Radi H. , Helal Reham H.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

One of the low-cost minerals that can be used as reinforcing filler in polymer industry is pumice powder. Pumice is a highly porous volcanic glass formed during explosive eruptions. This pumice has received significant interest because of its large surface area with various polar groups and can be processed easily.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is carried out to investigate the effect of partial replacement of silica (as traditional filler) by naturally occurring pumice powder to improve the thermal and mechanical properties of nitrile butadiene rubber cured with electron beam radiation (doses from 25 to 150 kGy).

Findings

The results indicated that the addition of pumice powder increase the tensile strength at lower doses up to 75 kGy (especially at concentration of 5 phr). Besides, an improvement in the thermal stability was attained with the addition of pumice powder.

Originality/value

Pumice powder is volcanic-based alumina and silica which is mainly composed of SiO2. It has porous structure which is formed by dissolved gases precipitated during the cooling as the lava hurtles through air. Due to its porous structure, it has low density and high thermal insulation. It also has high temperature and chemical resistance, for these reasons it became preferable material to be used as filler in the plastic and rubber industry.
How external network and innovation affect the link between export orientations and export performance?
Authors: Kazemi Ali , Ghasempour Ganji Seyedeh Fatemeh , Johnson Lester W.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore empirically how the two kinds of strategic orientations including export market orientation (EMO) and technology orientation (TO) predict innovation performance (IP) and export performance (EP), by investigating the mediation effect of IP and the moderation effect of external network (EN).

Design/methodology/approach

The statistical population of this research is the food and agricultural products exporting firms which participated in the 26th International Agrofood Exhibition in Tehran, Iran. The sample of 296 managers filled out questionnaires using systematic random sampling methods. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data.

Findings

Results demonstrate that the increase of EMO and IP is related to a rise in EP. Furthermore, the research finds that IP is a partial mediator in the link between EMO and EP. Finally, the moderation impact of the external networks in an association between TO and IP is supported by the data.

Originality/value

This study is one of the limited number of studies to consider the mediation impact of innovation performance in the relationship between EMO and EP, and it is actually the first study, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, to investigate the moderating impact of EN in the relationship between TO and IP in the context of one developing country.
Design and implementation of a novel multi-faceted-efficient pneumatic dual-axis solar tracker
Authors: Fathi Mohammad , Amjadifard Roya , Eshghi Farshad , Kelarestaghi Manoochehr
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Photovoltaic (PV) systems are experiencing exponential growth due to environmental concerns, unlimited and ubiquitous solar energy, and starting-to-make-sense panel costs. Alongside designing more efficient solar panels, installing solar trackers and special circuitry for optimizing power delivery to the load according to a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) algorithm are other ways of increasing efficiency. However, it is critical for any efficiency increase to account for the power consumption of any amendments. Therefore, this paper aims to propose a novel tracker while using MPPT to boost the PV system's actual efficiency accounting for the involved costs.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposition is an experimental pneumatic dual-axis solar tracker using light-dependent resistor (LDR) sensors. Due to its embedded energy storage, the pneumatic tracker offers a low duty-cycle operation leading to tracking energy conservation, fewer maintenance needs and scalability potential. While MPPT assures maximum load power delivery, the solar PV's actual delivered power is calculated for the first time, accounting for the solar tracking and MPPT power costs.

Findings

The experiments' results show an increase of 37.6% in total and 35.3% in actual power production for the proposed solar tracking system compared to the fixed panel system, with an MPPT efficiency of 90%. Thus, the pneumatic tracking system offers low tracking-energy consumption and good actual power efficiency. Also, the newly proposed pneumatic stimulant can significantly simplify the tracking mechanism and benefit from several advantages that come along with it.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this work proposes, for the first time, a single-motor pneumatic dual-axis tracker with less implementation cost, less frequent operation switching and scalability potential, to be developed in future works. Also, the pneumatic proposal delivers high actual power efficiency for the first time to be addressed.
Family firms and business families: A field for anthropological research
Authors: Koellner Tobias
Published: December 2022

This article aims to bring the topics of kinship and economy together in a particular way. Family business researchers with a strong background in management studies dominate the analysis of family firms and business families. However, adding anthropological research to family business will benefit future research in both disciplines and provide a better understanding of family business beyond these research trajectories. This article aims to contribute to this literature.
Organization of pulmonary hypertension care in non‐expert care settings: Lessons learned from a multi‐site study
Authors: Gillmeyer Kari R. , Johnson Shelsey W. , Bolton Rendelle E. , McCullough Megan B. , Wiener Renda Soylemez
Published: December 2022

Objective

To examine how select Veterans Health Administration (VA) sites organized care for patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH), with a focus on describing existing practices and identifying unmet needs within the sites.

Data Sources and Study Setting

Semi‐structured interviews across seven diverse VA sites.

Study Design

Qualitative multiple‐site study.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

We interviewed 54 key informants including pulmonologists, cardiologists, primary care providers, advanced care practitioners, pharmacists, and clinical leaders to assess the structures and processes of PH care delivery. We analyzed transcripts using directed content analysis and constructed site profiles for each site, comparing profiles to existing guidelines for PH expert centers.

Principal Findings

Sites varied considerably in how they organized PH care, with wide variation in the availability of structures and processes recommended for expert centers, including availability of PH expertise and PH‐specific resources, multidisciplinary approach to care, establishment of clear referral pathways, and presence of PH education. Further, participants identified three areas of unmet need not directly addressed within current guidelines, including better integration of pharmacists into multidisciplinary teams, early and routine involvement of palliative care, and improved care coordination efforts.

Conclusions

The rising prevalence of PH and evolution of treatments for common PH subgroups underscore the need to standardize PH care delivery in non‐expert care settings to improve care quality and patient outcomes. The insight gained from this study may inform the development of guidance appropriate for care settings outside of expert centers.
Living electronics: A catalogue of engineered living electronic components
Authors: Atkinson Joshua T. , Chavez Marko S. , Niman Christina M. , El‐Naggar Mohamed Y.
Published: December 2022

Biology leverages a range of electrical phenomena to extract and store energy, control molecular reactions and enable multicellular communication. Microbes, in particular, have evolved genetically encoded machinery enabling them to utilize the abundant redox‐active molecules and minerals available on Earth, which in turn drive global‐scale biogeochemical cycles. Recently, the microbial machinery enabling these redox reactions have been leveraged for interfacing cells and biomolecules with electrical circuits for biotechnological applications. Synthetic biology is allowing for the use of these machinery as components of engineered living materials with tuneable electrical properties. Herein, we review the state of such living electronic components including wires, capacitors, transistors, diodes, optoelectronic components, spin filters, sensors, logic processors, bioactuators, information storage media and methods for assembling these components into living electronic circuits.
Testicular function is associated with cardiometabolic health markers: A cross‐sectional study of 2289 young men
Authors: Hansen Laura Smidt , Priskorn Lærke , Holmboe Stine A. , Jensen Tina Kold , Hansen Ann Holm , Andersson Anna‐Maria , Jørgensen Niels
Published: December 2022

Background

Testicular function, including compensated Leydig cell function, has been indicated to be an early marker of morbidity.

Objective

To study the association of testicular function and markers of metabolic and cardiovascular health in a population of young men.

Materials and methods

A cross‐sectional study of 2289 men (median age 19 years, 5–95 percentile 18.4–22.2) from the general population examined between 2012 and 2019. Participants answered a questionnaire, had a blood sample drawn for assessment of reproductive hormone levels and health markers (lipids, glycosylated hemoglobin), delivered a semen sample, underwent physical examination including blood pressure measurements, and dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry scan for assessment of body composition. Associations were assessed in both crude and adjusted linear regression analyses.

Results

The men were within the normal reference intervals of their age for reproductive and health biomarkers. Compared to the lowest quartile, having luteinizing hormone levels in the highest quartile was associated with higher mean arterial pressure (1.6 [95% confidence interval: 0.8; 2.5] mmHg), cholesterol (0.1 [95% confidence interval: 0.02; 0.18] mmol/L), and total body fat percentage (1.1 [95% confidence interval: 0.4; 1.8] %‐points). Higher serum testosterone levels were associated with more advantageous cardiometabolic health markers and higher total sperm count with a healthier body composition and lower glycosylated hemoglobin.

Discussion and conclusion

In this study of young men, unselected regarding reproductive hormones and semen quality, higher luteinizing hormone was associated with cardiovascular risk factors. Higher testosterone and total sperm count were associated with more favorable cardiometabolic indices. Thus, serum reproductive hormones and semen quality may be early appearing biomarkers of cardiovascular health even among young healthy men, which could potentially be useful for preventive initiatives to reduce the excess mortality and morbidity risk among infertile men. However, our study was cross‐sectional and cannot determine causation. Future longitudinal studies of reproductive health in young men are warranted.
Assemblies, Coalitions, and Conflicts Over Free Speech: From “Trespass” to “Encroachment” in Urban Space at Hyde Park, London, 1861–1962
Authors: Roberts John Michael
Published: December 2022

By drawing, among others, on the ideas of the Bakhtin Circle and Judith Butler, this paper explores spatial struggles over the right to free speech at Hyde Park, London, 1861–1962. From the 1860s to the early 20th century, the state gradually constructed a “monologic” discourse about an ideal‐typical “indecent” speaker who would “trespass” on Hyde Park through their “excitable speech” against a legally sanctioned right to give a “public address” in the park. This discourse gave the state some room to evict those it claimed to be transgressing “public address”. However, different “heteroglossic coalitions” of regulars ensured that Hyde Park remained not only a “political assembly” to discuss political issues, but also a “social assembly” to exercise free speech on a range of social topics. Indeed, by the 1950s, these coalitions used a nearby road scheme to successfully argue it was the state that was potentially trespassing, or “encroaching”, on free speech at Hyde Park.
Pathophysiology of drug hypersensitivity
Authors: Elzagallaai Abdelbaset A. , Rieder Michael J.
Published: December 2022

Drug hypersensitivity reactions (DHRs) are type B adverse drug reactions (ADRs) traditionally defined as unpredictable, dose independent and not related to the drug pharmacology. DHRs, also called drug allergy if the immune system involvement is confirmed, represent around one‐sixth of all ADRs and can cause major clinical problems due to their vague clinical presentation and irregular time course. Understanding the underlying pathophysiology of DHRs is very important for their diagnosis and management. Multiple layers of evidence exist pointing to the involvement of the immune system in DHRs. Recent data have led to a paradigm shift in our understanding of the exact pathophysiology of these reactions. Numerous hypotheses proposing explanation on how a low molecular weight drug molecule can elicit an immune reaction have been proposed. In addition to the classical “hapten” hypothesis, the reactive metabolite hypothesis, the pharmacological interaction with the immune system (p‐i) concept, the danger/injury hypothesis and the altered peptide repertoire hypothesis have been proposed. We here introduce the inflammasome activation hypothesis and the cross‐reactivity hypothesis as additional models explaining the pathophysiology of DHRs. Available data supporting these hypotheses are briefly summarized and discussed. We also introduced the cross‐reactivity model, which may provide a platform to appreciate the potential role played by other factors leading to the activation of the immune system. We believe that although the drug in question could be the trigger of the reaction, the components of the immune system mediating the reaction do not act in isolation but rather are affected by the proinflammatory milieu occurring at the time of the reaction. This review attempts to summarize the available evidence to further illustrate the pathophysiology of DHRs.
First impressions from faces in the real world: Commentary on Sutherland and Young (2022)
Authors: O'Toole Alice J. , Hu Ying
Published: December 2022

The study of first impressions from faces now emphasizes the need to understand trait inferences made to naturalistic face images (British Journal of Psychology, 113, 2022, 1056). Face recognition algorithms based on deep convolutional neural networks simultaneously represent invariant, changeable and environmental variables in face images. Therefore, we suggest them as a comprehensive ‘face space’ model of first impressions of naturalistic faces. We also suggest that to understand trait inferences in the real world, a logical next step is to consider trait inferences made to whole people (faces and bodies). On the role of cultural contributions to trait perception, we think it is important for the field to begin to consider the way in which trait inferences motivate (or not) behaviour in independent and interdependent cultures.
Safeguarding sloths and anteaters in the future: Priority areas for conservation under climate change
Authors: Borges Christielly , Bertassoni Alessandra , Liévano‐Latorre Luisa F. , Dória Thaís Andrade Ferreira , Santos‐Silva Rejane , Miranda Flávia , Barreto Elisa
Published: December 2022

Sloths and anteaters form the monophyletic order Pilosa, which is currently represented by only 16 extant species distributed exclusively in the Neotropics. This present‐day low species richness is an inheritance of the Pleistocene megafaunal extinctions, where over 65 Pilosa species known from the fossil record went extinct. The large number of species lost in the recent past suggests that this group is greatly vulnerable to extinction. Here, we propose long‐term priority conservation areas for the order Pilosa, considering different future climate change scenarios, biotic stability, and the multiple dimensions of the group's biodiversity, such as species richness, species endemism, and phylogenetic diversity. Projections of species distribution for future scenarios show increased fragmentation and clear habitat loss as the Amazon Forest is replaced by savanna‐like habitats. Conservation solutions were highly congruent for the different dimensions of biodiversity, with priority areas emerging mainly in the Atlantic Forest, Amazonian wetlands, highlands of Ecuador, and the Central American isthmus. Expanding the currently protected areas network by 6% with the proposed priority areas, independently of which future climatic scenario is considered, can increase sloths and anteaters' coverage in the future by 12%. As a group of high phylogenetic and ecological importance, future conservation planning should deliberately aim to protect areas favorable to Pilosa, especially given the current scenario of environmental dismantling and neglect of critical Neotropical biomes.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Bayesian species distribution models integrate presence‐only and presence–absence data to predict deer distribution and relative abundance
Authors: Morera‐Pujol Virginia , Mostert Philip S. , Murphy Kilian J. , Burkitt Tim , Coad Barry , McMahon Barry J. , Nieuwenhuis Maarten , Morelle Kevin , Ward Alastair I. , Ciuti Simone
Published: December 2022

Using geospatial data of wildlife presence to predict a species distribution across a geographic area is among the most common tools in management and conservation. The collection of high‐quality presence–absence (PA) data through structured surveys is, however, expensive, and managers usually have access to larger amounts of low‐quality presence‐only (PO) data collected by citizen scientists, opportunistic observations and culling returns for game species. Integrated species distribution models (ISDMs) have been developed to make the most of the data available by combining the higher‐quality, but usually scarcer and more spatially restricted, PA data with the lower‐quality, unstructured, but usually more extensive PO datasets. Joint‐likelihood ISDMs can be run in a Bayesian context using integrated nested laplace approximation methods that allow the addition of a spatially structured random effect to account for data spatial autocorrelation. Here, we apply this innovative approach to fit ISDMs to empirical data, using PA and PO data for the three prevalent deer species in Ireland: red, fallow and sika deer. We collated all deer data available for the past 15 years and fitted models predicting distribution and relative abundance at a 25 km2resolution across the island. Model predictions were associated to spatial estimate of uncertainty, allowing us to assess the quality of the model and the effect that data scarcity has on the certainty of predictions. Furthermore, we checked the performance of the three species‐specific models using two datasets, independent deer hunting returns and deer densities based on faecal pellet counts. Our work clearly demonstrates the applicability of spatially explicit ISDMs to empirical data in a Bayesian context, providing a blueprint for managers to exploit unexplored and seemingly unusable data that can, when modelled with the proper tools, serve to inform management and conservation policies.
Attitudes toward persons with epilepsy as friends: Results of a factorial survey
Authors: Walther Katrin , Kriwy Peter , Stritzelberger Jenny , Graf Wolfgang , Gollwitzer Stefanie , Lang Johannes D. , Reindl Caroline , Schwab Stefan , Welte Tamara M. , Hamer Hajo. M.
Published: December 2022

Objective

Discrimination against persons with epilepsy (PWEs) may persist. The aim of this study was to examine whether epilepsy is an obstacle to desired friendship.

Methods

A factorial survey (vignettes), which is less biased by social desirability, was applied to PWEs, their relatives, and lay persons. The vignettes described a person who was varied by the dimensions of age (younger, same age, older), gender (male, female), disease (healthy, mild epilepsy, severe epilepsy [generalized tonic–clonic seizures], diabetes), origin (German, non‐German), contact (phone/internet, activities at home, activities outside), frequency of contacts (weekly, monthly), and distance (around the corner, 10 km away). Respondents rated their willingness to befriend the person on a 10‐point Likert scale. Multivariate regression determined the contribution of each dimension on the judgment.

Results

Participants were 64 PWEs (age = 37.1 ± 14.0 years), 64 relatives of PWEs (age = 45.1 ± 13.6 years), and 98 controls without contact with PWEs (age = 24.4 ± 10.1 years). Controls were less interested in a friendship with a PWE with mild epilepsy (−3.4%) and even more avoided PWEs with severe epilepsy (−11.7%), whereas in PWEs with tonic–clonic seizures, a mild form of epilepsy was actually conducive to friendship (+7.0%). Controls preferred females (+5.0%) and disliked younger people (−12.3%) and contacts via the internet or telephone (−7.3%). PWEs were also less interested in younger people (−5.8%), and relatives of PWEs had a lower preference for friendships with longer distance (−2.3%).

Significance

PWEs still suffer from a risk of social avoidance, and this becomes more evident with generalized motor seizures.
Risk equivalence in data‐limited and data‐rich fisheries management: An example based on the ICES advice framework
Authors: Fischer Simon H. , De Oliveira José A. A. , Mumford John D. , Kell Laurence T.
Published: December 2022

Fisheries management needs to ensure that resources are exploited sustainably, and the risk of depletion is at an acceptable level. However, often uncertainty about resource dynamics exists, and data availability may differ substantially between fish stocks. This situation can be addressed through tiered systems, where tiers represent different data limitations, and tier‐specific stock assessment methods are defined, aiming for risk equivalence across tiers. As case studies, we selected stocks of European plaice, Atlantic cod and Atlantic herring, where advice is provided by the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES). We conducted a closed‐loop simulation to compare risk equivalence between the data‐rich ICES MSY rule, based on a quantitative stock assessment, and the revised data‐limited empirical management procedures of the ICES advice framework. The simulations indicated that the data‐limited approaches were precautionary and did not lead to a higher risk of depletion than the data‐rich approach. Although the catch based on generic data‐limited approaches was lower, stock‐specific optimisation improved management performance with catch levels comparable with the data‐rich approach. Furthermore, the simulation indicated the ICES MSY rule can fail to meet management objectives due to increased depletion risk when management reference points are set suboptimally. We conclude that the recent revisions of the ICES system explicitly account for risk equivalence for data‐limited fisheries management and are a major step forward. Finally, we advocate further consideration of simple empirical management procedures irrespective of data limitations due to their ability to meet fisheries management objectives with greater simplicity.
Developing a culture of nursing research through clinical‐academic partnership
Authors: McConkey Robert W. , Kelly Therese , Dalton Rachael , Rooney Geraldine , Healy Michelle , Murphy Louise , Dowling Maura
Published: December 2022

Evidence based practice is essential to advanced practice nursing, enabling the delivery of quality care and improved patient outcomes. As the name suggests, it requires healthcare decisions to be based on the best available and current evidence. Advanced practice nurses need astute critical analysis skills to appraise the evolving literature, and require research skills to lead on scientific inquiry and develop the profession. Yet, advanced practice nurses may not recognize themselves as research leaders. Participation in a journal club can promote evidence‐based practice, improve clinician's critical thinking skills, and expose members to different research methodologies, however, nurses continue to face barriers to participation in these clubs. Establishing a clinical‐academic partnership appears to be both mutually beneficial for clinicians and academics and is a significant enabler in the sustainability and functioning of the club through sharing expertise and experience. A supportive workplace culture is favourable to research utilization and knowledge translation. This paper outlines the role, practicalities, challenges, and benefits of setting up a hybrid urology journal and research club for advanced practice nurses in a clinical‐academic partnership.
Use of topical morphine gel in epidermolysis bullosa wounds—A series of case studies
Authors: Snelson Karen , Downe Annette
Published: December 2022

In recent years, the use of topical morphine gel has increased in the palliative care setting to reduce pain in chronic wounds and fungating tumours. However, there is a paucity of evidence to support its effectiveness. Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a rare genetic skin fragility disorder characterised by painful chronic wounds. Adequate control of wound pain can be challenging in this patient group due to other complexities associated with the more severe sub‐types of the disease. Topical morphine gel has been used as an adjunct therapy in a small number of EB patients in our tertiary centre in an attempt to improve pain control and quality of life. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the efficacy of topical morphine gel used in a variety of EB wounds as well as patient reported reduction in pain through a series of case studies. The case studies suggest a positive effect of topical morphine gel on painful wounds across a spectrum of EB subtypes.
Impact of technology on social isolation: Longitudinal analysis from the National Health Aging Trends Study
Authors: Umoh Mfon E. , Prichett Laura , Boyd Cynthia M. , Cudjoe Thomas K. M.
Published: December 2022

Background

Social isolation is a key public health concern and has been associated with numerous negative health consequences. Technology is increasingly thought of as a solution to address social isolation. This study examines the longitudinal association between the access and use of technology and social isolation in older adults 65 and older, living in the United States.

Methods

This observational cohort study included community‐dwelling older adults (N = 6704) who participated in the National Health and Aging Trends Study. Regression analyses were conducted using data from 2015 to 2019. Information about technology access and use was ascertained using self‐reported questionnaires. The primary outcome was the risk of social isolation.

Results

At baseline, the majority of older adults that were not socially isolated had a working cell phone (88%) or computer (71%) and used email or text messaging (56%). Older adults that had access to (cell phone‐ incidence rate ratio [IRR] 0.62 [95% CI 0.48–0.81]; computer‐ IRR 0.63 [95% CI 0.51–0.78]), and used technology (email or text messaging‐ IRR 0.64 [95% CI 0.51–0.80]) in the year prior had a lower risk of social isolation than older adults who reported they did not access or use technology. Additionally, over four years, older adults who reported that they had access to a computer had a lower risk (0.69 [0.57, 0.84]) for social isolation than their counterparts.

Conclusion

In this cohort study, technology access was associated with a lower risk for social isolation among community‐dwelling older adults. These findings suggest that technology has an important role in approaches that seek to prevent social isolation among older adults.
Spinal pain processing in arthritis: Neuron and glia (inter)actions
Authors: Schaible Hans‐Georg , König Christian , Ebersberger Andrea
Published: December 2022

Diseases of joints are among the most frequent causes of chronic pain. In the course of joint diseases, the peripheral and the central nociceptive system develop persistent hyperexcitability (peripheral and central sensitization). This review addresses the mechanisms of spinal sensitization evoked by arthritis. Electrophysiological recordings in anesthetized rats from spinal cord neurons with knee input in a model of acute arthritis showed that acute spinal sensitization is dependent on spinal glutamate receptors (AMPA, NMDA, and metabotropic glutamate receptors) and supported by spinal actions of neuropeptides such as neurokinins and CGRP, by prostaglandins, and by proinflammatory cytokines. In several chronic arthritis models (including immune‐mediated arthritis and osteoarthritis) spinal glia activation was observed to be coincident with behavioral mechanical hyperalgesia which was attenuated or prevented by intrathecal application of minocycline, fluorocitrate, and pentoxyfylline. Some studies identified specific pathways of micro‐ and astroglia activation such as the purinoceptor‐ (P2X7‐) cathepsin S/CX3CR1 pathway, the mobility group box‐1 protein (HMGB1), and toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) activation, spinal NFκB/p65 activation and others. The spinal cytokines TNF, interleukin‐6, interleukin‐1β, and others form a functional spinal network characterized by an interaction between neurons and glia cells which is required for spinal sensitization. Neutralization of spinal cytokines by intrathecal interventions attenuates mechanical hyperalgesia. This effect may in part result from local suppression of spinal sensitization and in part from efferent effects which attenuate the inflammatory process in the joint. In summary, arthritis evokes significant spinal hyperexcitability which is likely to contribute to the phenotype of arthritis pain in patients.

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Measuring institutional and structural racism in research on adolescence and developmental science
Authors: Neblett Enrique W. , Neal Aaron J.
Published: December 2022

Dismantling racism and oppression in adolescence requires sound measurement and rigorous methods. In this commentary, we discuss the measurement of institutional and structural racism and approaches to operationalizing structures and systems in adolescent research. Drawing on a recent framework for the conceptualization, measurement, and analysis of institutional racism and health (Needham et al., Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, in press), we highlight several considerations for measuring institutional and structural racism. These include definitional issues, the tension between individual‐ and area‐level measures, questions of timing, and matters of design and analysis. We conclude with suggestions to address gaps in existing literature and call for transdisciplinary training, collaboration, and partnership to promote the healthy development of Black and Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) adolescents and young people.