Conceptual Roadmap Research Articles

Can we work it out? Affordances and constraints for cultivating perspective‐taking in digital contexts

AbstractBackgroundThe rising importance of digital technologies in everyday communication has played a key role in processes of political polarization and rising mistrust and intolerance. We suggest this crisis could be productively conceptualized as a crisis in perspective‐taking—the tendency and competency to actively consider others' mental and emotional states.ObjectivesThis conceptual paper sets out to propose a theoretical framework that identifies the key affordances of digital platforms for promoting perspective‐taking in formal educational settings (K‐12 and higher education): (1) connecting diverse individuals, (2) simulating interactions with other perspectives and (3) supporting the articulation and sharing of perspectives.MethodsRather than summarizing the state of existing research, this paper aims to offer a novel conceptualization that allows unpacking the interplay between research on perspective‐taking and work on the affordances and constraints of digital media. We identify the three key affordances outlined above, exemplifying them by focusing on one type of digital tool and comparing them along two axes: (i) the depth vs. diversity of interactions it supports and (ii) its cultivation of intergroup perspective‐taking vs. interpersonal perspective‐taking.Results and ConclusionsThis framework, we argue, articulates the advantages and limitations of digital tools towards engagement in perspective‐taking, while providing a conceptual roadmap, and practical considerations, for researchers and practitioners interested in cultivating digitally mediated perspective‐taking in educational settings.

Consequences of Local Conspecific Density Effects for Plant Diversity and Community Dynamics.

Conspecific density dependence (CDD) in plant populations is widespread, most likely caused by local-scale biotic interactions, and has potentially important implications for biodiversity, community composition, and ecosystem processes. However, progress in this important area of ecology has been hindered by differing viewpoints on CDD across subfields in ecology, lack of synthesis across CDD-related frameworks, and misunderstandings about how empirical measurements of local CDD fit within the context of broader ecological theories on community assembly and diversity maintenance. Here, we propose a conceptual synthesis of local-scale CDD and its causes, including species-specific antagonistic and mutualistic interactions. First, we compare and clarify different uses of CDD and related concepts across subfields within ecology. We suggest the use of local stabilizing/destabilizing CDD to refer to the scenario where local conspecific density effects are more negative/positive than heterospecific effects. Second, we discuss different mechanisms for local stabilizing and destabilizing CDD, how those mechanisms are interrelated, and how they cut across several fields of study within ecology. Third, we place local stabilizing/destabilizing CDD within the context of broader ecological theories and discuss implications and challenges related to scaling up the effects of local CDD on populations, communities, and metacommunities. The ultimate goal of this synthesis is to provide a conceptual roadmap for researchers studying local CDD and its implications for population and community dynamics.

From snapshots to panoramas: navigating power, space, and time in the study of armed groups

ABSTRACT The complex nature of civil conflict makes it inherently difficult to study, which is exacerbated by the challenges of conducting field research in volatile conflict zones. How do these challenges affect the data gathered and inferences drawn about armed groups? This article examines the epistemological, practical, and ethical issues of researching armed organisations across varying power relations, space, and time. We highlight the divergent perspectives that emerge within armed group hierarchies, the varying realities across conflict geographies, and shifts in armed group trajectories and narratives that arise over time. Based on research in Africa and Latin America, we identify the pitfalls of capturing isolated ‘snapshots’ related to with whom, where, and when research was conducted, and we advocate for a ‘panoramic’ approach to the study of armed groups, recognising both limits to available data and the evolving nature of armed groups and their behaviour. Ultimately, we offer a conceptual roadmap for understanding the main axes along which variation in armed group organisation and behaviour unfolds, provide recommendations on how to navigate them, and call for caution in the generalisation of research findings and policy prescriptions, given the limitations and liminal nature of knowledge about armed groups.

Blockchain unlocking collaborative opportunities for environmental sustainability through innovation intermediaries

AbstractThis paper delves into the growing need for collaborative technological solutions to address environmental challenges, with a focus on the underexplored potential of Industry 4.0 technologies, in particular as regards blockchain technology (BCT) in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Recognizing the obstacles faced by SMEs when embracing green and digital transformation, this research aims to investigate how innovation intermediaries are able to unlock the collaborative potential of BCT for SMEs so as to enhance their environmental sustainability. When assessing and analysing the role of innovation intermediaries, we have also considered their interconnections and interactions with other actors: universities, government institutions and firms (the so-called “stakeholders”). Our research is based on a multiple case study of a still largely unexplored intermediary in the European context, the digital innovation hub (DIH), which extends the applicability of the technological innovation system framework. This approach contributes to research both on innovation intermediaries and on the development of collaborative partnerships for digitalization. The findings reveal the challenges encountered by DIHs, particularly in legitimizing BCT-based solutions. To address these, identified, weaknesses, the paper proposes a conceptual roadmap aimed at improving collaboration among DIHs, SMEs, and their stakeholders. This roadmap outlines three essential functions: enabling, core, and facilitating effective partnerships and innovation processes.

The Triangulated Influence Of Electronic Word Of Mouth (eWOM) Information On Consumer Purchase Intention: A Conceptual Paper

In the contemporary digital era, consumer decision-making processes have evolved significantly in response to the proliferation of information sources. This conceptual paper explores the intricate nexus between information credibility, valence information, information quality, and resultant consumer purchase intention across diverse industry domains. Recognizing the pivotal role of consumer perceptions in shaping buying decisions, this paper aims to elucidate the conceptual framework governing these variables. Through a comprehensive literature synthesis and theoretical analysis, this paper endeavours to delineate the interconnections among information credibility, valence content, and information quality, elucidating their collective influence on consumer decision-making. By proposing a conceptual framework that integrates these variables, this paper aims to offer a conceptual roadmap for understanding how consumers perceive and evaluate information credibility, react to valence content, and assess information quality, culminating in their purchasing behaviours across industry sectors. This conceptual exploration aims to lay the foundation for future empirical investigations and strategic business approaches, facilitating a deeper comprehension of the intricate dynamics guiding consumer behaviour in the digital age.

Coherent Transition and Implementation Roadmap for Adoption of Industry 4.0 among SMEs in Africa

The industry 4.0 technology has been in existence and development for a while now and it has been fully implemented by the “big player” manufacturing companies in the world. This paper provides an assessment of the key technologies and the low state of implementation of this technological transformation by industries in Africa and especially the SMEs. Therefore, the article gives a guide and conceptual roadmap with necessary resources, practices and strategies for the middle African companies to implement industry 4.0 in their organization and reap the benefits of this industrial and technological revolution.

Industry 4.0 Readiness and Roadmap in Food Industry: Insights from Indonesian Manufacturing Enterprises Using Explanatory Sequential Mixed-Method Design

The paper aims to understand the current readiness level of Industry 4.0 in the food industry. Furthermore, the study explores the prioritized Industry 4.0 dimensions and initiatives needed to improve the readiness level. The study uses an explanatory sequential mixed-method design. In the quantitative phase, the Industry 4.0 readiness assessment was conducted using the Smart Industry Readiness Index framework. The quantitative study further explores the prioritized dimensions using The Prioritization Matrix framework. In the qualitative phase, interviews with industry practitioners from the participating companies were conducted to gain more understanding and propose the conceptual roadmap. The study found that the Indonesian food industry has a better average readiness than the global average but significantly lower than the best-in-class manufacturers. Vertical Integration, Shop Floor Intelligence, Shop Floor Automation, and Workforce Learning & Development are four priority dimensions to increase the readiness level in the food industry. A conceptual roadmap was proposed to improve the readiness index based on the strategic planning horizon, prioritized dimensions, and initiatives identified from interview results. The results of this study would provide an additional reference for applying explanatory sequential mixed-method design. The prioritized dimensions found would also benefit other researchers in the development of the readiness or maturity model. This paper provides a deeper understanding of Industry 4.0 readiness, the prioritized dimensions, and related improvement initiatives to propose the strategic roadmap for the food industry by utilizing explanatory sequential mixed-method design.

Bringing Back the Old Religiosity: Interfaith Cosmopolitan Civil Religion (ICCR)

Abstract Highlighting the transformed landscape of political communities in the twenty-first century, I reexamine the discourse of civil religion (DCR). Widely recognized in religious studies and notably in American history, this concept reveals a subtle yet intricately functional framework of community consciousness within political entities. This article posits that the prevalent interpretation of civil religion, and its application across diverse contexts, falls short of effectively reflecting and utilizing the essence identified by Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Robert Bellah—classical and modern architects of civil religion, respectively. Many discussions of DCR often disregard the role of the traditional sense of religion and religiousness. Instead, they fixate on superficial symbols and rituals associated with secular institutional bodies and communities. In this article, I contend that reintegrating the ordinary sense of religion into the discourse is crucial for envisioning and constructing a new community consciousness capable of adeptly responding to the burgeoning demands of our highly multicultural world. Following the conceptual roadmap of civil religion, which seeks transcendent, sacred, and unifying narratives, symbols, and rituals, I introduce a new model termed Interfaith, Cosmopolitan Civil Religion (ICCR). Within this model, ordinary religious agents, through interfaith engagement, assume positive roles in nurturing a broader sense of community and unity.

Facilitating Meditation Practice in the Higher Education Classroom: A Conceptual Framework

The practice of meditation in higher education classrooms has gained interest as an intervention to assist students with stress, focus, and academic performance. However, relevant literature on actual teaching and learning methods to facilitate meditative techniques remains sparse. Five areas, including professional development for faculty, how to introduce meditation, and the selection of meditation techniques suitable for the classroom, are explored as avenues for additional research. Drawing upon recent scholarship, a Classroom Meditation Facilitation Framework (CMFF) is posited as a conceptual roadmap to help faculty and instructors interested in implementing classroom meditation. The framework outlines five sequential steps in the process, emphasizing the need for faculty to establish personal meditation practices, better understand student vulnerabilities, recognize the importance of inviting students and creating inclusiveness environments, and using active teaching geared toward emerging adults to sustain motivation and interest.

Digital transformation in AECO industry: impending dilemma in the Indian context

PurposeThe Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) holds the potential to significantly improve capabilities and performances for architectural, engineering, construction and operation and maintenance (AECO) companies in India. The top management of such companies seems unsure and reluctant to implementation of the 4IR applications. The objective of this research is to identify the 4IR technology applications, which would have a significant impact on the operation of the AECO companies in India. Moreover, the paper further attempts to give a conceptual roadmap for the implementation of these 4IR technologies in the AECO value chain.Design/methodology/approachThe nascent level of research in 4IR in construction necessitated the adoption of mixed methodologies in research. Hypothesis testing has been carried out on the quantitative data to ascertain the potential of 4IR technologies, which could significantly impact the AECO companies. Subsequently, qualitative research has been used to explore the reasons impacting the technology adoption and generate a possible road map for the implementation of the significant 4IR technology applications.FindingsThe AECO value chain is challenged due to its complexity, uncertainty, fragmented supply chains, myopic thinking and a culture reluctant to change. The study provides insights into the dilemmas of practitioners in the Indian context while exploring possible approaches to carry out the transformation in AECO.Research limitations/implicationsThe study validation relied on the opinions, perspectives and recollections of respondents. The opinion of practicing professionals was limited to the Indian context.Originality/valueThe article may help leaders of AECO firms, industry associations, policymakers and academia to take steps in relevant directions to enable digital transformation.

Hormonal computing: a conceptual approach.

This paper provides a conceptual roadmap for the use of hormonal bioinspired models in a broad range of AI, neuroengineering, or computational systems. The functional signaling nature of hormones provides an example of a reliable multidimensional information management system that can solve parallel multitasks. Two existing examples of hormonal computing bioinspired possibilities are shortly reviewed, and two novel approaches are introduced, with a special emphasis on what researchers propose as hormonal computing for neurorehabilitation in patients with complete spinal cord injuries. They extend the use of epidural electrical stimulation (EES) by applying sequential stimulations to limbs through prostheses. The prostheses include various limb models and are connected to a neurostimulation bus called the central pattern generator (CPG). The CPG bus utilizes hormonal computing principles to coordinate the stimulation of the spinal cord and muscles.

The art and science of scholarly writing: framing symmetry of specificity beyond IMRAD

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide scholars with a robust, easy-to-follow structural model for crafting compelling academic publications. Recognizing the diversity of research methodologies and genres, the paper proposes the symmetry of specificity framework as a guide to maintaining coherence, depth and relevance across different sections of an academic paper.Design/methodology/approachThis paper presents a theoretical framework – “symmetry of specificity” – through an iterative approach inspired by supervision and examination of theses, writing and reviewing research papers and editorial work. The framework builds upon the established IMRAD model and uses the concept of symmetry to explain the structural elements of academic publications. Its unique contribution lies in elucidating the two-dimensional funneling process that takes place within academic writing, and providing a nuanced understanding of how to maintain balance between different sections.FindingsThe symmetry of specificity framework introduces a novel perspective on academic writing, emphasizing the concept of “symmetry in specificity”. It shows how maintaining a balance in detail and focus across different sections of a research paper can significantly enhance its coherence and relevance. By elucidating the interaction between theory and data in research writing, it provides valuable insights into the nuances of crafting a compelling academic paper.Research limitations/implicationsWhile the proposed symmetry of specificity framework may not be universally applicable across all types of research, it provides a solid foundation for the development of alternate structures tailored to specific research paradigms. There is ample opportunity for future research to explore adaptations of this model for various types of academic writing, offering a fresh perspective on structuring academic publications and potentially sparking new discussions and innovations in this realm.Practical implicationsThis framework can aid both novice and experienced scholars in structuring their research papers effectively. By offering a conceptual roadmap, it guides the writer through the complex process of academic writing, from crafting the methodology and analysis sections to articulating compelling conclusions. Thus, it serves as a useful tool in enhancing the quality and impact of research communication.Originality/valueThis paper presents a unique approach to structuring academic publications that goes beyond the conventional IMRAD model. By offering a theory-based structural model, it contributes to an underexplored area in academic writing and opens up new avenues for pedagogy and practice in research communication.

Post-Keynesian Economics: New Foundations, by Marc LavoieChapter 7: Open Economy Macroeconomics

ABSTRACT Reviewing Marc Lavoie’s comprehensive and well-structured discussion of open-economy macroeconomics allows us to revisit some key Post-Keynesian contributions and confirm their continued relevance to our understanding of international economic, financial and monetary relations. In the process Lavoie draws a consistently sharp contrast with standard-theory concepts and models, much of it organized around his elaboration of endogenous money in an international context and modern trade flows embedded in a highly globalized and financialized world economy which have little to do with comparative advantage. He thereby provides us with a conceptual road map for a meta-economic revolution which recognizes that the world economy has a growth dynamic all of its own rather than being just the sum of its parts, the two-hundred or so national economies connected to each other through their balance of payments and exchange rates.

A Conceptual Approach towards Improving Monitoring of Living Conditions for Populations Affected by Desertification, Land Degradation, and Drought.

Addressing the global challenges of desertification, land degradation, and drought (DLDD), and their impacts on achieving sustainable development goals for coupled human-environmental systems is a key component of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In particular, Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15.3 aims to, "by 2030, combat desertification, restore degraded land and soil, including land affected by desertification, drought and floods, and strive to achieve a land degradation-neutral world". Addressing this challenge is essential for improving the livelihoods of those most affected by DLDD and for safeguarding against the most extreme effects of climate change. This paper introduces a conceptual framework for improved monitoring of DLDD in the context of United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) Strategic Objective 2 (SO2) and its expected impacts: food security and adequate access to water for people in affected areas are improved; the livelihoods of people in affected areas are improved and diversified; local people, especially women and youth, are empowered and participate in decision-making processes in combating DLDD; and migration forced by desertification and land degradation is substantially reduced. While it is critical to develop methods and tools for assessing DLDD, work is needed first to provide a conceptual roadmap of the human dimensions of vulnerability in relation to DLDD, especially when attempting to create a globally standardized monitoring approach.

A Conceptual Roadmap to Success: Understanding the 7 Determinants of Business Performance

This paper emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to achieving business success. The approach includes seven key factors mentioned in the literature: 1-Business model: which encompasses the definition of a business creating, delivering, and capturing values. 2-Vision and goal clarity: This ensures the alignment and cooperation between the departments within the organization. 3-Strategies: This shows the path to achieving the business’s visions and missions. 4-Human resources: which the business performance depends on it. 5-Process: which if managed effectively, results in increased efficiency, costs getting reduced, and customer satisfaction having improved? 6-Structure: which encompasses variables such as hierarchy, function, inclusion, and formalization which influence the organization’s performance. 7-System: which includes different metrics. These metrics offer information about a business's finances, and customer and employee satisfaction. It stresses the importance of the consistent presence of these interconnected factors for business success.

Elucidating gut microbiota-hippocampus interactions in emerging psychosis: A new perspective for the development of early interventions for memory impairments.

Hippocampal dysregulation might be a key pathophysiological factor for memory impairments in psychosis. Contemporary models particularly postulate that an imbalance of hippocampal glutamate and GABA leads to impaired memory and may thus serve as a therapeutic target to improve memory deficits. However, currently available interventions in early stages of psychosis do not explicitly target hippocampal pathology. A novel approach for manipulating hippocampus-dependent memory processes is provided via the gut microbiota. In this perspective article, we first recapitulate compelling evidence for emerging hippocampus pathology during the development of psychosis. The following sections emphasize the critical role of the gut microbiota in hippocampus plasticity and memory, and summarize existing evidence of gut microbiota alterations in different stages of psychosis. Finally, we propose a novel conceptual roadmap for future studies deciphering gut microbiota-hippocampus synergisms in emerging psychosis and argue that specific microbial supplementation might be promising for improving hippocampus-dependent memory deficits in early stages of psychosis.

The evolution of the civic–ethnic distinction as a partial success story: Lessons for the nationalism–patriotism distinction

AbstractThis article brings, for the first time, two of the most pivotal distinctions in nationalism studies into extended dialogue: the civic–ethnic distinction (CED) and the nationalism–patriotism distinction (NPD). By reviewing both the evolution of those distinctions over the previous decades and the ways in which they have been used in quantitative empirical research, we argue that the CED's evolution has been a partial success story, whereas discourse around the NPD has not seen substantial development. Despite lingering inconsistencies, researchers drawing on the CED have been successful in addressing different lines of critique and in using the CED as a heuristic for investigating notions of nationhood as expressed in public perceptions. In contrast, there has been only limited dialogue between theoretical and empirical approaches to the NPD. The article illustrates how research drawing on the NPD could profit from the CED's evolution. We close by providing a conceptual roadmap to guide the path towards more terminological clarity and to construct more theoretically robust measures for nationalism and patriotism. We specifically suggest that nationalism and patriotism should be consistently understood as ideal types that citizens can simultaneously hold to varying degrees.

Manifold epigenetics: A conceptual model that guides engineering strategies to improve whole-body regenerative health.

Despite the promising advances in regenerative medicine, there is a critical need for improved therapies. For example, delaying aging and improving healthspan is an imminent societal challenge. Our ability to identify biological cues as well as communications between cells and organs are keys to enhance regenerative health and improve patient care. Epigenetics represents one of the major biological mechanisms involving in tissue regeneration, and therefore can be viewed as a systemic (body-wide) control. However, how epigenetic regulations concertedly lead to the development of biological memories at the whole-body level remains unclear. Here, we review the evolving definitions of epigenetics and identify missing links. We then propose our Manifold Epigenetic Model (MEMo) as a conceptual framework to explain how epigenetic memory arises and discuss what strategies can be applied to manipulate the body-wide memory. In summary we provide a conceptual roadmap for the development of new engineering approaches to improve regenerative health.

Developing local crisis leadership - A research and training agenda.

The crisis triggered by Covid-19 has exposed the interdependencies of modern society and sparked interest in local response to protracted and complex crisis situations. There has been a growing awareness and interest in the key roles of political and professional stakeholders, their emotional regulation and how they influence team performance and outcomes in dealing with uncertainty and complex crisis situations. While cognitive and behavioral aspects of crisis leadership are well researched, less is understood about how one can mitigate negative emotions, instill trust, or restore public faith and support of security forces and emergency response teams during crises. In addressing this gap, we propose a simplified conceptual roadmap for research and training of local crisis leadership. In this, we emphasize complex problem solving, team interaction, team context and technology and team training design. These four factors represent significant barriers if neglected. On the other side, they may be considerable force multipliers when better understood and managed. We suggest how seven research and training questions could be linked to the four conceptual factors and guide an evidence-based approach to develop local crisis leadership.

Visualizing External Validity: Graphical Displays to Inform the Extension of Treatment Effects from Trials to Clinical Practice.

In the presence of effect measure modification, estimates of treatment effects from randomized controlled trials may not be valid in clinical practice settings. The development and application of quantitative approaches for extending treatment effects from trials to clinical practice settings is an active area of research. In this article, we provide researchers with a practical roadmap and four visualizations to assist in variable selection for models to extend treatment effects observed in trials to clinical practice settings and to assess model specification and performance. We apply this roadmap and visualizations to an example extending the effects of adjuvant chemotherapy (5-fluorouracil vs. plus oxaliplatin) for colon cancer from a trial population to a population of individuals treated in community oncology practices in the United States. The first visualization screens for potential effect measure modifiers to include in models extending trial treatment effects to clinical practice populations. The second visualization displays a measure of covariate overlap between the clinical practice populations and the trial population. The third and fourth visualizations highlight considerations for model specification and influential observations. The conceptual roadmap describes how the output from the visualizations helps interrogate the assumptions required to extend treatment effects from trials to target populations. The roadmap and visualizations can inform practical decisions required for quantitatively extending treatment effects from trials to clinical practice settings.