bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultura e identidade na obra A Guerra dos Farrapos, de Flavio Colin
Authors: Fonseca Neuza de Fátima da , Queluz Marilda Lopes Pinheiro
Published: February 2024

Busca refletir sobre a obra de Flavio Colin e Tabajara Ruas, A Guerra dos Farrapos, lançada em 1985. A interpretação de Colin apropria-se de alegorias e símbolos, procurando criar o efeito de um realismo visual, investindo em pesquisa imagética para a caracterização de um jeito específico dos personagens, dos cenários e dos figurinos. Nas análises dos quadrinhos foram considerados os signos plásticos (linhas, texturas, planos, cores, composição), icônicos (figuras, cenários, caracterização de personagens, símbolos) e verbais. Os elementos da cultura gaúcha foram representados, principalmente nas cenas de lutas e negociações, construindo uma narrativa que usa os acontecimentos dessa revolta para pensar as diferentes identidades de um Brasil sulista. Os traços expressionistas deram tom de crítica, heroísmo e aventura a alguns dados históricos.
Entre autor e leitor se mete a colher: notas de tradução em scanlations de Mo Dao Zu Shi
Authors: Silva Beatriz Corrêa Oscar da
Published: February 2024

Visa elencar e analisar os tipos de notas de tradução encontrados em scanlations de quadrinhos asiáticos, particularmente no quadrinho chinês Mo Dao Zu Shi, para que possamos entender como essas notas podem contribuir para a leitura de uma obra. Para isso, utilizaremos sete das categorias de paratexto de Kathryn Batchelor (2018), considerando as notas de tradução como elementos paratextuais.
Uma breve reflexão para pensar os rituais de consumo no museu: ingressos, ecobags e pôsteres
Authors: Silva Lucas Nibbering Alves da , Nassar Paulo Roberto
Published: February 2024

What is the place for consumption in museums? How does this relate to the logics of social distinction? What meanings are evoked by the acquisition of objects in the stores from these spaces? What may this reveal regarding the relations the public keeps with these institutions? Is it possible that the act of consuming the museum brand makes the visitor feel closer to it? These are some questions that we seek to answer, even if partially, in this work. To this end, we consider the museum as a means of communication and a device of knowledge and power, therefore, a vector of mediations that give meaning to social reality. The consumption rituals are inscribed in this intersection as one way of experiencing the museum – understood here as the visit to the museum.
Projeção, representatividade e racionalidade: análise da recepção dos consumidores de baixa renda aos anúncios que usam personagens e pessoas reais
Authors: Patriota Karla Macena , Lima Gabriela Bezerra
Published: February 2024

This article investigates the reception and acceptance of advertising messages that use "characters" (animated and human) and "real people" to reach low-income consumers. To do this, we conducted a reception study through three focus groups in the Northeast, Midwest, and South regions of Brazil, with men and women enrolled in the "Cadastro Único" of the Federal Government, a system that groups families characterized by this income profile. The research was grounded in the sociocultural perspective, in which communication is conceived as a complex cultural process, and the audience is recognized as a meaning producer. The results point to the levels of effectiveness of the formats to persuade and engage this specific target, as well as lessons that can guide the future application of similar formats.
A ecologia publicitária de Barbie: a cor rosa como signo cromático midiatizado e o meta-consumo de uma marca
Authors: Perez Clotilde , Pompeu Bruno , Freire Diego
Published: February 2024

Tendo por contexto o lançamento do filme Barbie, gerador de grandes debates, inclusive no campo acadêmico, partimos neste artigo do questionamento: de que forma o filme pode ser compreendido como recurso publicitário e em que medida se revela expressão da centralidade do consumo nas pautas e no imaginário contemporâneos? Em síntese, nosso objetivo é compreender a produção de significados construídos pelo filme. Como metodologia, utilizaram-se a revisão bibliográfica e a análise das expressões publicitárias do filme em mídias físicas e digitais e fora delas, além de análise semiótica do filme como apoio à compreensão da ecologia publicitária. Constatam-se, como resultado, a centralidade da cor rosa, signo qualitativo de alta complexidade, capaz de expressar visualmente distintos aspectos implicados no filme e o caráter ambíguo da produção, misturando aspectos publicitários e cinematográficos.
Macroecology of reproductive modes in the diverse anuran fauna of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: Gimenez Paula L. A. , Vasconcelos Tiago S.
Published: February 2024

Anurans exhibit the widest variety of reproductive modes among tetrapod vertebrates. The Atlantic Forest is a hotspot for biological conservation; however, biogeographic documentation of the richness of anuran reproductive modes are underexplored. By overlaying maps of 249 species having reproductive modes with aquatic eggs and 101 species with non-aquatic eggs, we described the geographical patterns of anuran reproductive modes in the Atlantic Forest and identified the main correlates of reproductive diversity of these two major types of anuran reproduction. We found the greatest diversity of reproductive modes in the coastal region of the Atlantic Forest, whereas a smaller number of reproductive modes was found in inland regions of the hotspot. These regions are broadly characterized by deciduous/semideciduous forests and a warmer and more seasonal climate regime in southeastern and southern Brazil. In this climatically harsher region, reproductive modes were more basal and generalized in anurans. Correlative analyses showed that the richness of reproductive modes with aquatic eggs can be described by general combinations of climate, topography, and vegetation types, whereas larger numbers of reproductive modes with non-aquatic eggs are better described by specific variables of temperature seasonality, amount of ombrophilous forests, and rugged topography. The predictors identified here are environmental variables that should be continuously monitored in situ; identifying threshold values that could lead a species to a critical conservation status is key to efficiently protecting the rich anuran fauna of the Atlantic Forest.
Yerba mate, patrimonio inmaterial y poder blando en tiempos de Juan Manuel de Rosas (1829-1852)
Authors: Munizaga Jose Jeffs , Lacoste Pablo , Skewes Juan Carlos , Alegría Luis
Published: February 2024

Se examina la valoración de la yerba mate como patrimonio agroalimentario regional, en el proceso de construcción del ideario americanista durante la gestión de Juan Manuel de Rosas al frente de la Confederación Argentina. Se detecta que la cultura de la yerba mate alcanzó un fuerte arraigo en la sociedad del Cono Sur en los siglos XVII y XVIII, pero, después de la independencia, la estrategia comercial británica procuró sustituirla por el té, producto imperial funcional a sus intereses. Este proyecto tuvo éxito en varios territorios, como por ejemplo en Chile, donde la élite se plegó a la moda impuesta por los ingleses. Pero en el Río de la Plata, Rosas se empeñó en promover y fortalecer la cultura del mate, como medio estratégico de afirmar la identidad americanista y de resistencia a las pretensiones neocoloniales europeas. Con esta actitud, Rosas fue un pionero en la valoración del patrimonio agroalimentario regional.
representação do lobisomem nos boletins da Subcomissão Catarinense de Folclore (1949-1952): diálogos entre o folclore brasileiro e a dinâmica histórica
Authors: Melo Junior Claudinei de
Published: February 2024

Aquilo que o povo vê, aquilo que o povo conta, aquilo que o povo acredita. As mudanças que as pessoas causam e vivem ao longo do tempo no espaço e seus contextos são permeadas por diversas representações que na complexa dinâmica da passagem do tempo nos fornecem valiosas informações sobre as pessoas e as formas que encontramos para nos relacionar com o próximo e com o mundo. O imaginário social é um campo de complexas e valiosas construções e interpretações dos contextos históricos ao longo dos anos. Com a nova história e os debates no campo da história cultural e da representação, a seguinte pesquisa tem como objetivo analisar a construção, representação e imaginário da figura do lobisomem presente no folclore brasileiro e suas interações com a cultura popular do Brasil na década de 1950.
O enquadramento jurídico dos esportes eletrônicos no Brasil: podemos considerá-lo como uma tecnologia disruptiva para fins regulatórios?
Authors: Coutinho Lucas Marques , Gomes Filipe Lôbo
Published: February 2024

Esta pesquisa aborda, com base na metodologia qualitativa-bibliográfica, a conceituação dos esportes eletrônicos no ambiente jurídico brasileiro, perpassando pela promoção de novos conceitos derivados das novas tecnologias no Direito. A problemática gira em torno do seguinte questionamento: os eSports podem ser enquadrados como tecnologia disruptiva para fins de regulação? Os objetivos dessa pesquisa são, inicialmente, analisar os conceitos de esporte na legislação brasileira, traçando parâmetros que contribuirão para a conceituação do esporte eletrônico e, posteriormente, entregar ao leitor a fundamentação necessária para discussões sobre a regulamentação na perspectiva das tecnologias disruptivas, auxiliando, assim, no combate à escassez doutrinária nacional sobre o assunto. Ao final, o resultado exposto baseado em fundamentação doutrinária moderna aponta para a não atribuição do caráter disruptivo para os eSports, de modo que será apresentada outra solução para a sua regulação no Brasil.
Justiça negocial aplicada à nova Lei de Licitações e Contratos Administrativos: uma análise da (im)possibilidade da expansão dos espaços de consenso nas soluções de controvérsias
Authors: Silva Neto Carlos Eugênio da , Morais Kassia Kalianny Gomes da Silva
Published: February 2024

The reduction of lawsuits in the field of contracting and bidding processes is one of the challenges that Public Administration tries to achieve. The current regulatory apparatus favors the option for conflicts to be resolved without necessarily using the Judiciary, corroborating with concerted negotiating justice. Thus, the main objective of the present work is to analyze the (im)possibility of expanding the areas of consensus applied to the new Law on Public Procurement and Administrative Contracts (Law No. 14.133/2021), in dispute resolution. In the first chapter, it discusses the legal possibilities for consensus in Public Administration. Then, an approach is made to the alternative means for access to justice. The final chapter proposes to analyze possible proposals aimed at practices for preventing and resolving conflicts that the aforementioned law proposes in the light of administrative consultation. In the final considerations, recommendations are suggested that contribute to future research on the subject.
Consultas públicas: o que mudou com a LINDB?
Authors: Marrara Thiago
Published: February 2024

This article deals with the role of public consultation as an instrument of popular participation. It presents its practical uses and addresses the general discipline of the institute in the Introduction Law to the Norms of the Brazilian Law – LINDB. The objective of the article is to verify whether and how LINDB changed the public consultation regime and to point out some technical problems in the wording of the art. 29 of this law. The method applied is deductive and analytical, i.e., through the examination of the legal text, it aims at demonstrating its ambiguities, flaws and practical problems.
Personalized Antihypertensive Treatment Optimization With Smartphone‐Enabled Remote Precision Dosing of Amlodipine During the COVID‐19 Pandemic (PERSONAL‐CovidBP Trial)
Authors: Collier David J. , Taylor Mike , Godec Thomas , Shiel Julian , James Rebecca , Chowdury Yasmin , Ebano Patrizia , Monk Vivienne , Patel Mital , Pheby Jane , Pheby Ruby , Foubister Amanda , David Clovel , Saxena Manish , Richardson Leanne , Siddle James , Timlin Gregor , Goldsmith Paul , Deeming Nicholas , Poulter Neil R. , Gabe Rhian , McManus Richard J. , Caulfield Mark J.
Published: February 2024

Background

The objective of the PERSONAL‐CovidBP (Personalised Electronic Record Supported Optimisation When Alone for Patients With Hypertension: Pilot Study for Remote Medical Management of Hypertension During the COVID‐19 Pandemic) trial was to assess the efficacy and safety of smartphone‐enabled remote precision dosing of amlodipine to control blood pressure (BP) in participants with primary hypertension during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods and Results

This was an open‐label, remote, dose titration trial using daily home self‐monitoring of BP, drug dose, and side effects with linked smartphone app and telemonitoring. Participants aged ≥18 years with uncontrolled hypertension (5–7 day baseline mean ≥135 mm Hg systolic BP or ≥85 mm Hg diastolic BP) received personalized amlodipine dose titration using novel (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 mg) and standard (5 and 10 mg) doses daily over 14 weeks. The primary outcome of the trial was mean change in systolic BP from baseline to end of treatment. A total of 205 participants were enrolled and mean BP fell from 142/87 (systolic BP/diastolic BP) to 131/81 mm Hg (a reduction of 11 (95% CI, 10–12)/7 (95% CI, 6–7) mm Hg,
P
<0.001). The majority of participants achieved BP control on novel doses (84%); of those participants, 35% were controlled by 1 mg daily. The majority (88%) controlled on novel doses had no peripheral edema. Adherence to BP recording and reported adherence to medication was 84% and 94%, respectively. Patient retention was 96% (196/205). Treatment was well tolerated with no withdrawals from adverse events.

Conclusions

Personalized dose titration with amlodipine was safe, well tolerated, and efficacious in treating primary hypertension. The majority of participants achieved BP control on novel doses, and with personalization of dose there were no trial discontinuations due to drug intolerance. App‐assisted remote clinician dose titration may better balance BP control and adverse effects and help optimize long‐term care.

Registration

URL:
clinicaltrials.gov
. Identifier: NCT04559074.
Impact of Land Surface Snow Processes on the Arctic Stable Boundary Layer
Authors: Hong Xiaodong , Jiang Qingfang
Published: February 2024

The impact of land surface snow processes on the Arctic stable boundary layer (ASBL) is investigated using the Navy’s Coupled Ocean/Atmosphere Mesoscale Prediction System (COAMPS) to reduce the cold bias caused by decoupling between the land surface and atmosphere. The Noah land surface model (LSM) with improved snow processes is examined using COAMPS forecast forcing in the one-dimensional mode for one month. The new snow physics shows that the snow properties, roughness length, and sensible heat flux are modified as expected to compensate for the old LSM deficiency. These new snow processes are incorporated into the COAMPS Noah LSM, and the 48-h forecasts using both old and new Noah LSMs are performed for January 2021 with an every-6-h data assimilation update cycle. Standard verifications of the 48-h forecasts have used all available observational datasets and the snow depth from the Land Information System (LIS) analyses. The statistics have shown reduced monthly mean cold biases ∼1°C by the new snow physics. The weaker strength of surface inversion and stronger turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) from the new snow physics provides a higher boundary layer due to significantly stronger eddy mixing. The simulations have also shown the insignificant impact of different lateral boundary conditions obtained from the global forecasts or analyses on the results of the new snow physics. This study highlights the importance of the revised snow physics in Noah LSM for reducing the decoupling problem, improving the forecasts, and studying ASBL physics over the Arctic region.
Unplanned Return to Hospital After Same Day Oral Cavity Resection: A Dual Institution Study
Authors: Meers Aaron J. , Warren James D. , Dmowska Julia , Kane Anne C. , Tassone Patrick
Published: February 2024

Objectives:

Primary objective: describe rates of 30-days unplanned readmission following outpatient resection of oral cavity cancer. Secondary objective: evaluate for patient and treatment factors associated with readmission.

Methods:

Retrospective, dual-institution cohort study of 2 tertiary care referral centers involving adult patients undergoing resection of oral cavity cancer with plans for same-day discharge. Consecutive sample of 77 patients included. Primary outcome was unplanned readmission to emergency room or inpatient stay in the 30 days following surgery. Comparison testing was used between return and non-return groups.

Results:

Among 77 patients treated with outpatient surgery for oral cavity cancer, 19 (25%) returned to the hospital within 30 days. Among the reasons for return, 16 (80%) were directly related to surgery, and 4 (20%) were related to perioperative medical complications not directly related to a surgical site. Among the 25 patients also undergoing sentinel lymph node biopsy with their oral cavity resection, none returned to the hospital for neck-related complications. While most patients could be safely observed and discharged after return to the hospital, 8 patients (10%) required inpatient readmission. No significant differences between return and non-return groups were identified, although there was a trend toward shorter driving distance from hospital for the return group (47.6 miles vs. 69.5 miles, P = 0.097).

Conclusion:

Unplanned return to the hospital following outpatient oral cavity resection is prevalent and primarily driven by postoperative primary resection site concerns. Among patients selected for same day discharge, no definite population at highest risk of unplanned return was identified.
Development and Evaluation of a Prototype Mobile Application for Intravenous Drug Dose Calculation in Overweight and Obese Thai Children: Precision Dosing in Practice
Authors: Boonrit Nuntapong , Klaidokchan Nansinee , Niyomdecha Apisit , Noppamas Janyaporn , Suknuntha Krit , Prasertsan Pharsai , Thaworncheep Supatcha , Ruanglertboon Warit
Published: February 2024

Background: Medication dosing in overweight and obese children often involves complex weight-based calculations, leading to higher dosing errors, particularly with intravenous drugs. Currently, tools to aid in dosage calculations are lacking for these patients, especially in Thai population. Objective: This study aimed to develop a mobile application with the intent of utilizing it as a tool to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of dosing calculations required for obese and overweight Thai children. Methods: The performance of the application was assessed in 3 key aspects using a sample of 30 healthcare professionals. These key aspects included: 1) the accuracy of dosage calculations, assessed through pre- and posttests comparing manual calculations to app-based calculations using a 10-item questionnaire, 2) the time taken for calculations before and after app usage, 3) user satisfaction, which was measured through a questionnaire. Results: The integration of applications into the calculation demonstrated a significant improvement when compared to the manual calculation in both accuracy (6.10 vs 9.33 out of 10, P < .001) and efficiency (10.40 vs 8.53 minutes per 10 questions, P = .008). Also, the application elicited high levels of satisfaction among users, as reflected by an overall mean satisfaction score of 4.57 on a 5-point scale. Conclusion: The integration of this application to assist in dosage calculations for overweight and obese pediatric Thai patients has yielded favorable outcomes concerning accuracy, efficiency, and user satisfaction. Further development should be pursued within a larger cohort, with an emphasis on real-world implementation in clinical settings.
How Do Invested Partners Become Invested? A Prospective Investigation of Fledgling Relationship Development
Authors: Joel Samantha , Machia Laura
Published: February 2024

Investment—the feeling that one has put considerable resources into a relationship—is theorized to play a key role in relationship persistence. Yet, the development of investment is not well-understood. We recruited 256 individuals in new dating relationships and surveyed them each week for up to 25 weeks. This design allows us to test underlying theoretical assumptions about how people become invested in new dating partners. Some assumptions, such as the idea that investment increases over time, were confirmed. Other assumptions were not supported: Feelings of investment were quite high after only a few weeks of dating and were not strongly shaped by concrete relationship milestones. Rather, feelings of investment were strongly linked to other subjective indicators of relationship development, such as feeling attached to the partner and believing that the relationship had a good future. We discuss the implications of these findings for existing models of investment.
Building an empirically grounded conceptual frame for business networking as a mechanism for pro-environmental business growth
Authors: Paterson Fred , Gallotta Bruno , Baranova Polina
Published: February 2024

Whilst there is a growing body of evidence relating to the environmental capabilities, eco innovation, sustainable supply chains and green skills of individual SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises), much less attention has been paid to networked approaches to pro-environmental and sustainable SME support. The empirical studies that do exist mostly take a firm-centric approach. This study takes a network centric view to describe hitherto under-explored features of network functionality based on case analysis of a single business support network in the East Midlands of the UK. The resulting conceptual framework offers an analytical tool that can be used to study network functionality in the service of pro-environmental SME development more widely. Empirical data for this case analysis of a regional ‘low carbon’ business network is drawn from interviews with 25 stakeholders, analysis of programme level data and documentation, ‘insider’ observation of network activity and evidence from both independent and internal evaluations. The study charts key aspects of network provision and its impact upon SMEs and wider stakeholders. The paper then presents a conceptual model of pro-environmental business networking that identifies key internal features of network activity as well as various external drivers of multi-stakeholder engagement in the shift to a more sustainable local economy.
Predicting the malignancy of extremity soft-tissue tumors by an ultrasound-based radiomics signature
Authors: Li Ao , Hu Yu , Cui Xin-Wu , Ye Xin-Hua , Peng Xiao-Jing , Lv Wen-Zhi , Zhao Chong-Ke
Published: February 2024

Background

Accurate differentiation of extremity soft-tissue tumors (ESTTs) is important for treatment planning.

Purpose

To develop and validate an ultrasound (US) image-based radiomics signature to predict ESTTs malignancy.

Material and Methods

A dataset of US images from 108 ESTTs were retrospectively enrolled and divided into the training cohort (78 ESTTs) and validation cohort (30 ESTTs). A total of 1037 radiomics features were extracted from each US image. The most useful predictive radiomics features were selected by the maximum relevance and minimum redundancy method, least absolute shrinkage, and selection operator algorithm in the training cohort. A US-based radiomics signature was built based on these selected radiomics features. In addition, a conventional radiologic model based on the US features from the interpretation of two experienced radiologists was developed by a multivariate logistic regression algorithm. The diagnostic performances of the selected radiomics features, the US-based radiomics signature, and the conventional radiologic model for differentiating ESTTs were evaluated and compared in the validation cohort.

Results

In the validation cohort, the area under the curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity of the US-based radiomics signature for predicting ESTTs malignancy were 0.866, 84.2%, and 81.8%, respectively. The US-based radiomics signature had better diagnostic predictability for predicting ESTT malignancy than the best single radiomics feature and the conventional radiologic model (AUC = 0.866 vs. 0.719 vs. 0.681 for the validation cohort, all P <0.05).

Conclusion

The US-based radiomics signature could provide a potential imaging biomarker to accurately predict ESTT malignancy.
Proceed with care and intention: Factors to consider when introducing a doctoral-level route to occupational therapy registration in the UK
Authors: Watson Jo , Tempest Stephanie , Hay Carolyn
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Several United Kingdom Higher Education Institutions are seeking accreditation of new, doctoral entry routes to occupational therapy. This research explored stakeholder perspectives regarding the implications of introducing this additional pre-registration pathway.

Method:

A mixed-method design gathered data via four virtual events ( n = 42). Descriptive statistics summarise the levels of agreement with prepared belief statements. Qualitative data from online functions were subject to reflexive thematic analysis.

Findings:

Participants agreed that introducing pre-registration doctorates was beneficial (68%) and an exciting opportunity with the potential to expedite evidence-base expansion (68%). Recognising the challenges, eight emergent themes coalesced into a statement guiding future work: ‘It will take an ongoing commitment from all of us to influence, shape and take positive actions to make structural changes to enhance equity and justice into and within the profession encompassing the themes of value, visibility, viability, expectations, perceptions, equity and diversity, accessibility and clarity of vision. Continued dialogue and communication, with compassionate listening, is required for this’.

Conclusion:

An additional pre-registration doctoral route into United Kingdom occupational therapy is broadly welcomed, acknowledging the need for ongoing dialogue. The emergent themes provide a framework for proceeding with care and intention as discussions move towards implementation and may assist other nations having similar debates.
Dialogue in the Median Group: Inter-subjectivity that helps to reclaim the fused, confused, obsessed Mind. Part I: Theory
Authors: Schöllberger Roberto
Published: February 2024

After a short review of the development of the concept of inter-subjectivity in psychoanalysis, drive theory, infant research and phenomenology, I discuss the primary function of dialogue as it expresses the functioning of the ‘Mind’ itself while it works towards disentangling dualities amongst pluralities. The human mind is defined and its existence firmly asserted. Finally, I suggest introducing dialogic communication in every encounter, especially in a therapeutic one, with some guidelines from the psychotherapy of psychosis.

I describe the Median Group as Patrick de Maré (1990) developed in its clinical application as socio-therapy. It is a suitable setting where inter-subjectivity is fostered through dialogue by meeting minds at a level that promotes lateralization (both brain hemispheres simultaneously) in the here and now. I explain that using the mind to synthesize dualities makes it possible to transform the counter-reaction of the hatred of being together into koinonia or non-personal fellowship. Reference is made to the Theory of Mind in Part I (de Maré and Schöllberger 2002–08) and clinical experiences in Part II (Schöllberger, 2023).
From Public Sociology to Sociological Publics: The Importance of Reverse Tutelage to Social Theory
Authors: Meghji Ali
Published: February 2024

This article develops an alternative vision of public sociology. Whereas public sociology is often defined through the actions of professional sociologists, this article calls for a recognition of reverse tutelage in public sociology. Here, publics are seen as sociological interlocutors who can, and often do, produce sociological theories and analyses that can inform professional sociology. I demonstrate this reverse tutelage by focusing on anticolonial and anti-racist social movements, including the Zapatistas, Black Lives Matter, Palestine Action, and Cops Are Flops. I highlight how they produce sociological theories of power, neoliberalism, race, bordering, and violence that can orient professional sociology toward relational forms of analysis that build connections between different sites of resistance. In doing so, I highlight how the boundary between what Burawoy terms “professional” and “critical” sociology is much more porous than initially theorized and that critical sociology—from wider publics—can significantly shape professional sociology.
Intimate Partner Violence and Help-seeking Behavior Among College Students Attending A Historically Black College and University
Authors: An Soonok , Welch-Brewer Chiquitia , Tadese Helen
Published: February 2024

This study provides critical evidence of the diversity of college students’ experiences with intimate partner violence (IPV) and their informal and formal help-seeking behaviors at a historically Black college and university (HBCU). The study collected data on college students ( N = 266) in fall 2021 using a one-site cross-sectional survey data. Findings revealed that many students at the HBCU reported IPV victimization (68.4%), IPV perpetration (68.0%), and coexperience of IPV victimization and perpetration (61.3%) in the past 12 months, but a few student survivors of IPV sought help from formal or informal support systems. Further, we found that IPV victimization types (e.g., physical, psychological, sexual abuse, and injury) with different severity levels (e.g., less severe or more severe) were differently related to the student survivor’s help-seeking behaviors from formal and informal support systems. The findings of this study highlight the importance of supporting students attending HBCUs by addressing their perceptions of IPV help-seeking and coping with different types of IPV victimization via culturally tailored IPV prevention programs. HBCU campuses should promote physical health and mental health services for Black/African American survivors in HBCUs.
Refractory lupus hepatitis successfully treated with telitacicept who failed to belimumab: A case report and literature review
Authors: Fan Qiuyu , Ji Hongyan , Liu Ya , Jia Chao , Zou Liang , Yang Huiqin
Published: February 2024

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)–associated hepatitis (“lupus hepatitis”) was one of the most frequent causes of liver function abnormalities in patients with SLE. Lupus hepatitis (LH) is commonly treated with conventional treatment, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and immunomodulators. However, in refractory cases, other treatment options may be required.

Methodology: We report the case of a patient with lupus hepatitis refractory to both conventional therapy and belimumab who was successfully treated with telitacicept, a new dual B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS)/APRIL (a proliferation-inducing ligand) inhibitor.Literature review was performed on PubMed search forum.

Result: The specific search term was “telitacicept”, 23 papers were searched, among them 10 case reports/series articles reporting telitacicept treatment were elected.Apart from our literature reporting the effectiveness of telitacicept in treating LH, there is no report on it in treating LH.

Conclusion: This case suggests that telitacicept should be an effective and safe treatment for LH refractory, even to those who failed to belimumab based on the standard treatment, and can reduce the dosage of glucocorticoids.However, further investigations, particularly prospective randomized controlled trials, are warranted to verify our findings and ensure patient safety.
A socio-historical ontology of technics: Beyond technology
Authors: Almazán Adrián
Published: February 2024

Ours are Days of Decision and it's indispensable to transform our technics. For it, we must abandon the inherited conception of technics based on neutrality and autonomy. To this end, in this article we develop a socio-historical ontology for technics that argues: (a) To understand technics we have to take into consideration technical objects, handling, and the degree of guidance of the animal user. (b) Each technics is inseparable from its society. (c) The idea of a free use of technics is illusory. There are always unexpected impacts and various uses of a given technics. (d) Technologies of the Capitalocene are imperial. (e) Technologies have acquired a destructive inertia and we have the obligation to understand technological development as a political phenomenon. (f) In order to go beyond the Capitalocene and advance towards Degrowth, we have to move from imperial technologies to humble technics.
The Public Sector Value-based Management: Effect of the Digital Matrix on the Optimisation of Resources for Micro-organisations
Authors: Amedzro St-Hilaire Walter
Published: February 2024

This article empirically evaluates the effect of the digital matrix on the value base of public sector micro-organisations. The results indicate that the digital matrix is a factor that optimising the value base of government start-ups and has a significant impact on their productivity and performance. Indeed, the optimisation of resources, generated by the digital matrix, leads to business performance and operational efficiency at the strategic planning level. The interconnection between the matrix and the value chain favours the technical flexibility of operationalisation strategies in the value-based public sector micro-organisations’ management. Thus, the matrix allows young public sector micro-organisations to optimise their resources for a greater appropriation of the value created.
Taraxacum officinale Extracts Alleviate Anhedonia and Depression by Inhibiting UPRmt and Mitophagy in the Hippocampi of T2DM Rats
Authors: Wang Meng , Gao Zhen’an , Ma Leilei , Wang Xiuping , Li Zhaojia , Li Ji’an
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of Taraxacum officinale extracts on mitochondrial unfolded protein response (UPRmt) and mitophagy in the hippocampi of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats.

Materials and Methods

The T2DM model was established by a high-fat high-sucrose diet (HFSD) for 6 weeks and streptozotocin (STZ) administration. The rats were randomly divided into control, model, metformin (100 mg/kg/day), and T. officinale extracts (1,500 mg/kg/day) treatment groups. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) levels, 2-h postprandial plasma glucose (2hPPG) levels, and sucrose preference rates (SPR) were ascertained. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to quantify the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malonaldehyde (MDA) in the serum. Finally, the expression levels of UPRmt and mitophagy-related proteins were determined via Western blot analysis.

Results

Rats in the model group exhibited significantly higher levels of FPG and 2hPPG but lower SPR than those in the control group. Rats in the Taraxacum group had lower FPG and 2hPPG levels and higher SPR than those of the model group. Moreover, clpP, HSP60, PINK-1, Parkin, P62, Beclin-1, and LC3-II/I proteins were significantly upregulated in the rats of the model group, relative to the control group. UPRmt and mitophagy-related proteins were markedly downregulated in rats of the Taraxacum group, relative to the model group.

Conclusion

T2DM rats exhibited certain levels of anhedonia and depression, which were effectively alleviated by T. officinale extracts through the downregulation of UPRmt and mitophagy, and also by conferring protection to mitochondrial function.
Chronic Fluoxetine Treatment Reverses Depressive-like Behaviors in Mice via Enhancing Neuroplasticity
Authors: Qian Xu , Zhang Yao , Tan Hui-Jun
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Depression remains a refractory psychiatric disorder. Fluoxetine is a preferred class of antidepressant medication due to restrain retaking of biogenic monoamines. There was a new mechanism discovery that neuroplasticity was considered to underlie clinical antidepressant effects. However, reports display that fluoxetine’s actions on neuroplasticity still remain controversial. This study investigates fluoxetine’s role in the impact of synaptic function and morphology by different durations of fluoxetine treatment and the possible mechanisms involved.

Materials and Methods

The chronic depression mice model was established by using the 7-week-old male C57BL/6 mice. Fluoxetine 10 mg/kg was treated for 7 days and 14 days. The depression-like behaviors were assessed using the tail-suspension test, forced swim test, sucrose preference, and open-field tests. Nissl staining was applied to assess hippocampus formation. Immunofluorescence and Golgi staining were used to investigate synaptic function and morphology. The hippocampal protein expression of SYP was examined using Western blotting.

Results

We found that fluoxetine treatment for 2 weeks, as opposed to just 1 week, significantly alleviated symptoms of behavioral despair, anhedonia, and anxiety in the depressive mice. Furthermore, both 7- and 14-day fluoxetine administrations resulted in reduced impairment of hippocampal neurons and a tendency to increase the dendritic spine numbers in the context of depression. Additionally, only the 14-day fluoxetine treatment promoted the expression of SYP in the hippocampus.

Conclusion

Chronic administration of fluoxetine significantly reduced depressive and anxiety-like behaviors and hippocampal impairment and enhanced synaptic plasticity in mice.
The “Creuseurs” (“Diggers”), at the Center of the World's Push for EVs, are in Peril: Part Two—Obstacles and Opportunities to Improve Conditions for Miners
Authors:   Fabrice Warneck
Published: February 2024

In part one, we reported on some of the shocking working conditions that the Electronics Watch team found on our visit to cobalt mines in the DRC. Now, we look at the vested interests in Congolese politics, the mining industry, the Congolese government's desire to regulate the cobalt supply chain, and what else might be done to improve conditions.
Validation of a Multi-Dimensional Social Support Measure for Individuals Who Are Incarcerated
Authors: Curley Elizabeth , Killian Michael , Renn Tanya , Veeh Christopher , Pettus Carrie
Published: February 2024

Purpose: This study sought to validate the psychometric properties of the Network Composition Survey (NCS), a multi-dimensional conceptualization of social support for individuals who are incarcerated. Methods: Data included 1,539 individuals recruited in 50 prisons across four states to participate in the pilot trial of a prison reentry program. Exploratory factor analysis using the first support person data identified a factor structure, and confirmatory factor analysis verified that structure using the second and third support person data conducted with Mplus 8.2. Results: Two of the hypothesized dimensions, informational and emotional support, were confirmed, and a third factor of companionship was identified. Conclusion: The reduced NCS is a reliable and valid measure of multi-dimensional social support for individuals during incarceration. The NCS reflects a more nuanced assessment of the complexities of interpersonal dynamics with support figures. The NCS also provides utility services targeted for social support during reentry.
Differences in Attitudes and Barriers Towards Advance Care Planning Amongst Ischemic Heart Disease Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ng Alyssa , Khoo Athena Ming-Gui , Lau Jerrald , Ang Chermaine , Sim Hui-Wen , Tan Ker-Kan
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Perceptions towards advanced care planning (ACP) amongst individuals with Ischemic Heart Disease before or after a life-threatening Acute Myocardial Infarction event is underexamined and could impact the appropriate timing for ACP advocacy. This cross-sectional study assessed awareness and intentions regarding ACP in individuals with Ischemic Heart Disease, both before and after an Acute Myocardial Infarction, and explored the motivating effect of a near-fatal Acute Myocardial Infarction event on its engagement.

Methods

This study was conducted from 24 August 2021 through 13 March 2023, whereby patients were administered a one-time questionnaire with no follow-up required. Patients with either chronic Ischemic Heart Disease (group A) or a recent Acute Myocardial Infarction event (group B) were recruited from the outpatient National University Heart Centre, Singapore.

Results

101 patients (n = 51 for Group A, n = 50 for Group B) were recruited. Mean age (SD) was 59 (10.5) years and 84 were male (83.2%). Between both groups, patients in group B reported significantly higher scores on ‘Lack of information’ and ‘Self-efficacy’ domains, and had no ACP awareness nor plans of doing an ACP compared to group A. ACP awareness was the sole significant predictor of intentions of doing an ACP in the final regression model ( P < .05).

Conclusions

Interestingly, this study suggests that surviving a potentially life-threatening heart condition did not result in higher intention of doing an ACP. Thus, advocacy of ACP in the community should simply start by raising awareness levels widely and may not need to be focused on individuals’ state of health.
Benefits of Collaboration on Capacity Investment and Allocation
Authors: Ahn Hyun Soo , Çetinkaya Eren , Duenyas Izak , Zhang Mengzhenyu
Published: February 2024

This paper studies how capacity collaboration can benefit two competing firms. We consider a two-stage model where capacity decisions are made in the first stage when there are significant uncertainties about market conditions, and then production decisions are made in the second stage after most of these uncertainties are resolved. We vary the degree of collaboration between the two firms in their capacity and production decisions, examining multiple models and comparing the outcomes. We find that a firm can benefit from collaboration even with its competitors. Interestingly, the firms do not have to make production decisions jointly to realize the benefits of collaboration. Additionally, while collaborative capacity investment proves beneficial, collaborating on production with existing capacity can often yield greater benefits. We find that the advantages of collaboration are most pronounced when competition intensifies, demand fluctuates significantly, and investment costs are high.
The Effects of Terrorist Attacks on Supplier–Customer Relationships
Authors: Tan Weiqiang , Wang Wenming , Zhang Wenlan
Published: February 2024

We examine the causal effects of nearby terrorist attacks on supplier–customer relationships. We find that for supplier firms located near terrorist attacks, the probability of relationship termination with their major customers increases by 2.9 percentage points within two years following the attacks. The major customers’ intensified perceptions of supply chain risk largely drive the relationship termination. Further analyses show that major customers tend to switch to suppliers with lower terrorism risks after they end their relationships with the suppliers near attacks. This study provides new insights into the consequences of terrorism by extending the focus to the response of a key stakeholder group (i.e., trade partners) instead of the attack-afflicted firms per se.
WeStore or AppStore: How Customers Shop Differently in Mobile Apps vs. Social Commerce
Authors: Hu Kejia , Karacaoglu Nil
Published: February 2024

In the dynamic e-commerce environment, social commerce has emerged as a revolutionary force, transforming how consumers interact and transact online. This paper investigates the differences in customers’ search and purchase patterns between a prominent online retailer’s burgeoning social commerce channel, the WeChat mini-program, and its native mobile app. We analyze the customers’ entire journey through a sequential search model that encapsulates decisions from channel selection to product search, search termination, and the final purchase. This study contributes to the search model literature by being the first to estimate both fixed and marginal search costs in a sequential search model in an omnichannel retail environment. We calculate fixed search costs, marginal search costs, and preferences for each channel, revealing differences in customers’ behaviors across channels. Our analysis shows that customers’ fixed search costs are higher, but marginal costs are lower on WeChat channel compared to the App channel. Also, customer characteristics like historical spending levels and search timing influence their search costs. From these insights, we suggest strategies tailored to each channel capitalizing on the differences in customers’ search costs. The first strategy encourages search initiation by lowering fixed search costs through peer-to-peer link sharing in the WeChat channel. The second strategy aims to minimize marginal search costs using search-triggering coupons in the App channel. Implementing these strategies significantly boosts conversion rates and profits for the online retailer. This research is one of the first to explore the differences between traditional retail channels and emerging social commerce channels.
Donations by Disaster-Afflicted Firms and Changes in Firm Value: Self-Protection and Reputation-Building Perspectives
Authors: Xiao Ping , Hsieh Kai-Yu , Bao Weining
Published: February 2024

If a firm afflicted by a disaster chooses to donate to disaster relief, how will this decision affect the firm's market value? From a self-protection perspective, diverting resources to support the public may jeopardize a firm's continuity and thereby reduce its value. Yet from a reputation-building perspective, supporting the public in need may enhance corporate reputation and thus increase firm value. In this study, we contrasted the two perspectives to develop a conceptual framework consisting of various competing hypotheses. We tested these hypotheses using data on Chinese firms’ donations to disaster relief during the first coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak. Our analysis shows that firms’ donations generally led to an increase in firm value. This was especially true for firms that were smaller or less profitable, firms that donated goods in addition to cash, and firms that donated before an increasing number of industry peers had done so. These results support the reputation-building perspective, suggesting that even when firms are afflicted by disaster exposure, their donations are still recognized as a value-adding investment. In contrast, donating a larger amount of cash and donating on an earlier day after the onset of the outbreak resulted in a lower firm value. These results align with the self-protection perspective, pointing to the need to consider resource preservation.
ADHD and Anxiety Symptoms: Does Construct or Assessment Type Matter More?
Authors: Bucherbeam Thea R. , Lovett Benjamin J. , Harrison Allyson G.
Published: February 2024

Objective:

This study examined the relationships between self-reported ADHD symptoms, self-reported anxiety, and continuous performance test (CPT) performance.

Method:

128 postsecondary students referred for clinical evaluation for possible ADHD and related conditions completed the Conners Adult ADHD Rating Scale, the Behavior Assessment Scale for Children, Third Edition, and either of two CPTs.

Results:

Multiple regression models found that when self-reported anxiety and CPT performance were used to simultaneously predict self-reported ADHD symptoms, CPT performance was not a significant predictor, whereas self-reported anxiety was. This finding was replicated across two different subsamples that took different CPTs.

Conclusion:

Self-reported anxiety and ADHD symptoms are strongly related, but neither of these variables is significantly related to CPT performance. Implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed.