bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
papel da burocracia na Gestão da Informação
Authors: Santos Beatriz Rosa Pinheiro dos , Damian Ieda Pelógia Martins
Published: January 2022

Presume-se que em uma organização, um processo burocrático bem gerenciado transfigura-se essencial para que os funcionários tenham acesso a informações precisas, de qualidade e nos momentos desejados para que decisões assertivas possam ser tomadas. Além disso, as empresas necessitam compreender o papel relevante desempenhado pela gestão burocrática no provimento da informação, uma vez que tal gestão faz parte do processo de gestão da informação. Diante disso, a presente pesquisa parte do seguinte problema: no contexto organizacional, qual é o papel da burocracia nos processos de gestão da informação? O objetivo desta pesquisa é analisar as implicações positivas e negativas da burocracia na gestão da informação e demonstrar como potencializar suas implicações positivas nos ambientes organizacionais, a fim de tornar os resultados obtidos pelos processos da gestão da informação cada vez mais expressivos. Para tanto, foi desenvolvida uma pesquisa de natureza qualitativa, do tipo exploratória e de cunho teórico. Considera-se que a gestão da informação não consegue ser implantada com eficiência se na organização existir uma burocracia com características ultrapassadas e não combinadas com a sociedade da informação.
Motivações para a formação de redes de colaboração em bancas examinadoras de defesas de mestrado e doutorado
Authors: Souza Kelma Patrícia de , Maricato João de Melo
Published: January 2022

A formação de bancas examinadoras para avaliar dissertações e teses é um requisito do processo de titulação de mestres e doutores no Brasil. A definição da composição requer tempo e dedicação de orientandos, orientadores e membros dessas comissões avaliativas, havendo motivações objetivas e subjetivas. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi investigar fatores influenciadores dos processos de escolha desses componentes motivacionais. Para isso, estudaram-se as dinâmicas de colaboração e organização de redes dos membros dessas comissões em trabalhos submetidos ao Programa de Pós-Graduação em Geografia da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia (PPGeo/UFU), entre 2000 a 2018. Assim, a coleta dos documentos ocorreu via página eletrônica do Repositório Institucional (RI/UFU) e por meio de dados acadêmicos de docentes registrados na Plataforma Lattes do Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq). A partir desses levantamentos, foram produzidos quadros, tabelas, gráficos e grafos que subsidiaram as análises. Constatou-se que a rede de colaboração em questão é baseada em vínculos originados na área da Geografia e composta por docentes e/ou pesquisadores de universidades localizadas no estado de Minas Gerais. Observou-se, por fim, não haver influência de relações, entre orientadores e examinadores, estabelecidas durante sua formação acadêmica.
Um amontoado de versos: o cordel nas mídias digitais em tempos de pandemia
Authors: Santos Hiago da Silva , Nunes Martha Suzana Cabral , Paixão Pablo Boaventura Sales
Published: January 2022

Do folheto ao ciberespaço, a literatura de cordel tem ganhado força e espaço em diferentes mídias sociais, em especial, no atual momento de pandemia do novo coronavírus. O presente estudo busca identificar a motivação da cordelista sergipana Claudia Emilly Silva Barreto para atuar no meio digital, conhecendo suas principais estratégias de marketing digital, bem como, analisando como a utilização das mídias digitais tem influenciado em seu trabalho durante a pandemia e as principais dificuldades que enfrenta nesse contexto. O intuito é responder à questão: Como tem sido a atuação da cordelista do perfil “Um amontoado de versos” no contexto da era das mídias digitais no atual momento de pandemia por Covid19? A metodologia utiliza uma abordagem qualitativa, por estudo de caso, sendo as análises feitas mediante Análise de Conteúdo de Laurence Bardin. Os resultados da pesquisa apontam forte relação na utilização das mídias digitais pela cordelista, motivada pela situação de quarentena decorrente da pandemia instalada no país. Sua principal mídia social é o Instagram, por onde busca e é encontrada por outros artistas que desejam fazer parceria. Dentre as dificuldades encontradas na atuação no meio digital está a falta de equipamentos de qualidade para produção de seu conteúdo, sendo que a pandemia não influenciou negativamente em seu trabalho.
Ciência da Informação e Organização do Conhecimento no Brasil à luz da reflexão epistemológica francesa de Análise do Discurso
Authors: Terra Marcos Vinícius Santos de Carvalho , Sabbag Deise Maria Antonio
Published: January 2022

O artigo explora as interações teóricas estabelecidas entre as linhas francesas de Análise do Discurso e o campo informacional. O foco deste estudo analítico está nas questões interdisciplinares, bem como nas relações epistemológicas, que esse diálogo apresenta para Ciência da Informação e a Organização do Conhecimento. O objetivo é investigar o estabelecimento das relações interdisciplinares desses campos no contexto brasileiro, tendo como caminho metodológico para o entendimento desta perspectiva diacrônica a epistemologia crítica. Três linhas de análise do discurso foram eleitas para efeitos da relação epistemológica: a linha de Michel Pêcheux, a linha da Sociolinguística e a linha de Michel Foucault. As teses e as dissertações analisadas revelam que as interações epistemológicas entre as teorias francesas do discurso e o campo informacional se encontram em estudos sobre a epistemologia e a historicidade da Ciência da Informação, estudos bibliométricos, estudos arquivísticos, estudos sobre a leitura dos profissionais da informação, estudos sobre Organização da Informação e do Conhecimento, estudos metodológicos e estudos sobre Representação da Informação e do Conhecimento.
Falas de um monumento
Authors: Furtado Joaci Pereira
Published: January 2022

Reflexões que precederam e constituíram um projeto de documentário reunindo depoimentos sobre o icônico Museu de Arte Contemporânea de Niterói (RJ), que comemora 25 anos de inauguração em 2021. A proposta, instigada por um edital da Prefeitura Municipal que, por sua vez, provocava os docentes da Universidade Federal Fluminense para que apresentassem projetos de modernização e desenvolvimento socioeconômico da cidade, não foi realizada porque não obteve financiamento, ainda que aprovada quanto ao “mérito”. Compartilham-se aqui os fundamentos teóricos e alguns aspectos técnicos desse projeto, que aguarda outra oportunidade para se realizar.
DPP4 (Dipeptidyl Peptidase-4) Inhibition Increases Catecholamines Without Increasing Blood Pressure During Sustained ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme) Inhibitor Treatment
Authors: Wilson Jessica R. , Garner Erica M. , Mashayekhi Mona , Hubers Scott A. , Ramirez Bustamante Claudia E. , Kerman Scott Jafarian , Nian Hui , Shibao Cyndya A. , Brown Nancy J.
Published: January 2022

Background:

DPP4 (dipeptidyl peptidase-4) inhibitors comprise a class of oral diabetes medication that have the potential for off-target cardiovascular effects. We previously showed that DPP4 inhibition attenuates the hypotensive effect of acute ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibition and increases norepinephrine. Here, we investigated the effects of DPP4 during sustained ACE inhibition compared with during therapy with an ARB (angiotensin receptor blocker) or calcium channel blocker (neutral comparator) in a randomized, double-blinded crossover study.

Methods:

We enrolled 106 adults with type 2 diabetes and hypertension and 100 received intervention. Subjects were randomized to one of 3 blood pressure arms: ramipril, valsartan, or amlodipine for a total of 15 weeks and received 3 one-week crossover therapies in random order: placebo + placebo, sitagliptin + placebo, and sitagliptin + aprepitant separated by 4-week washout.

Results:

We found that DPP4 inhibition increased norepinephrine during ramipril but did not increase blood pressure. Aprepitant, a NK1 (substance P) receptor blocker, lowered standing heart rate during renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system blockade with ramipril or valsartan.

Conclusions:

Increased catecholamines during concurrent ACE and DPP4 inhibition may contribute to cardiovascular complications in patients predisposed to heart failure.
Joint Effect of West Pacific Warming and the Arctic Oscillation on the Bidecadal Variation and Trend of the East Asian Trough
Authors: Leung Marco Y.-T. , Wang Dongxiao , Zhou Wen , Cheung Paxson K. Y. , Jian Yuntao , Xiao Fuan
Published: January 2022

This study investigates bidecadal variation and trends in the winter East Asian trough (EAT) intensity for the period from 1958 to 2020. The EAT intensity index, calculated with the JRA55 reanalysis, demonstrates bidecadal variation, which is closely related to the intensity of cold advection in East Asia that affects northeast China, the Korean Peninsula, and Japan. In addition, it is noted that the positive phase of the Arctic Oscillation (AO) plays an important role in suppressing EAT intensity, particularly on a bidecadal time scale. On the other hand, a warm anomaly in the west Pacific can enhance the intensity of the EAT, which is also reproduced by numerical simulation. The influence of a significant warming trend in the west Pacific and a weak positive trend in the AO on the EAT intensity and the East Asian winter monsoon is investigated. Warming in the west Pacific supports a strengthening of EAT intensity, cooling in northeast Asia, and enhancement of easterly wind in the subtropical west Pacific. A weak positive AO trend plays an insignificant role in affecting the trend of EAT intensity, but it supports warming in northeast Asia.
Improving the ESA CCI daily soil moisture time series with physically-based land surface model datasets using a Fourier time-filtering method
Authors: Seo Eunkyo , Dirmeyer Paul A.
Published: January 2022

Models have historically been the source of global soil moisture (SM) analyses and estimates of land-atmosphere coupling, even though they are usually calibrated and validated only locally. Satellite-based analyses have grown in fidelity and duration, offering an independent observationally-based alternative. However, satellite-retrieved SM time series include random and periodic errors that degrade estimates of land-atmosphere coupling, including correlations with other variables. This study proposes a mathematical approach to adjust daily time series of the European Space Agency (ESA) Climate Change Initiative (CCI) satellite SM product using information from physical-based land surface model (LSM) datasets using a Fourier transform time-filtering method to match the temporal power spectra locally to the LSMs, which tend to agree well with in situ observations.

When the original and time-filtered SM products are evaluated against ground-based SM measurements over the conterminous U.S., Europe, and Australia, results show the filtered SM has significantly improved subseasonal variability. The skill of the time-filtered SM is increased in temporal correlation by ∼0.05 over all analysis domains without introducing spurious regional patterns, affirming the stochastic nature of noise in satellite estimates, and skill improvement is found for nearly all land cover classes, especially savannas and grassland. Autocorrelation-based soil moisture memory (SMM), and the derived random component of soil moisture error (SME) are used to investigate the improvement of SM features. Time filtering reduces the random noise from the satellite-based SM product that is not explainable by physically-based SM dynamics; SME is usually diminished and the increased SMM is generally statistically significant.
Electoral Rules, Women’s Representation and the Qualification of Politicians
Authors: Profeta Paola , Woodhouse Eleanor F.
Published: January 2022

Proportional electoral rules are associated with more substantial women’s representation than majoritarian ones. To provide causal evidence that electoral rules affect women’s representation and the qualification of politicians, we collect panel data on the universe of Italian politicians from all levels of government over the period 1987–2013 and analyse an Italian reform which, in 2005, changed the electoral rule for national elections from (mostly) majoritarian to proportional, but did not affect subnational level elections. We find that this reform increased the number of women elected by 5%, while not decreasing the overall qualification levels of politicians, measured by the level of education and political experience. We provide evidence that the highest qualification women are not elected and that the overall qualification of elected politicians could have increased (rather than remain constant) if the best women candidates had been elected.
On Effect Size Measures for Nested Measurement Models
Authors: Raykov Tenko , DiStefano Christine , Calvocoressi Lisa , Volker Martin
Published: January 2022

A class of effect size indices are discussed that evaluate the degree to which two nested confirmatory factor analysis models differ from each other in terms of fit to a set of observed variables. These descriptive effect measures can be used to quantify the impact of parameter restrictions imposed in an initially considered model and are free from an explicit relationship to sample size. The described indices represent the extent to which respective linear combinations of the proportions of explained variance in the manifest variables are changed as a result of introducing the constraints. The indices reflect corresponding aspects of the impact of the restrictions and are independent of their statistical significance or lack thereof. The discussed effect size measures are readily point and interval estimated, using popular software, and their application is illustrated with numerical examples.
Microstructural exploration of a carbon nanotube yarn reinforced composite using a peridynamic approach
Authors: Baber Forrest , Kim Jae-Woo , Sauti Godfrey , Wincheski Russell A , Jensen Benjamin D , Wise Kristopher E , Siochi Emilie J , Guven Ibrahim
Published: January 2022

A framework using peridynamic theory is developed and demonstrated for deformation and failure analysis of carbon nanotube (CNT) yarn-based structural composites. Experimental work involved tension testing of a CNT yarn/polymer composite resulting in stress–strain response up to and including failure. The as-prepared specimen was characterized using x-ray micro computed tomography (CT), which was then converted into voxel-based data with CNT yarn, polymer, and void phases as well as surface undulation. A Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise algorithm was applied to detect and quantify the clusters of voids, of CNT-rich, and of resin-rich regions. The voxel data, with all microstructural details, were used in peridynamic simulations. These demonstrate the critical roles of resin and void clusters and surface undulation in fracture initiation and propagation. Additional analysis was performed to construct probability density functions (PDFs) of different phases (yarn, resin, and void) with the goal of constructing synthetic virtual composite specimens. The synthetically reconstructed peridynamic models correctly captured the experimental stress–strain response. The similarities and differences between the failure (initiation and propagation) behaviors predicted by x-ray CT-based and PDF-based peridynamic model simulations are presented in detail and discussed.
The Pet Exposure Effect: Exploring the Differential Impact of Dogs Versus Cats on Consumer Mindsets
Authors: Jia Lei , Yang Xiaojing , Jiang Yuwei
Published: January 2022

Despite the ubiquity of pets in consumers’ lives, scant research has examined how exposure to them (e.g., recalling past interactions with dogs and cats, viewing ads featuring a dog or a cat) influences consumer behavior. The authors demonstrate that exposure to dogs (cats) reminds consumers of the stereotypical temperaments and behaviors of the pet species, which activates a promotion- (prevention-) focused motivational mindset among consumers. Using secondary data, Study 1 shows that people in states with a higher percentage of dog (cat) owners Google more promotion- (prevention-) focused words and report a higher COVID-19 transmission rate. Using multiple products, Studies 2 and 3 demonstrate that these regulatory mindsets, when activated by pet exposure, carry over to influence downstream consumer judgments, purchase intentions, and behaviors, even in pet-unrelated consumption contexts. Study 4 shows that pet stereotypicality moderates the proposed effect such that the relationship between pet exposure and regulatory orientations persists to the extent consumers are reminded of the stereotypical temperaments and behaviors of the pet species. Studies 5–7 examine the role of regulatory fit and evince that exposure to dogs (cats) leads to more favorable responses toward advertising messages featuring promotion- (prevention-) focused appeals.
Nursing Students’ Opinions About Covid-19: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Tülüce Derya , Kaplan Serin Emine
Published: January 2022

Healthcare professionals play important roles during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to evaluate nursing students’ opinions about COVID-19. This study was planned using a descriptive phenomenological design. The data were collected using a semi-structured interview form during individual interviews carried out through phone calls or online. After the interviews were recorded, they were documented. The study found that students experienced anxiety because of the pandemic, that they protect themselves through personal hygiene and isolation methods, that most of them found the social measures sufficient, that they were worried about their relatives, and that they wanted to go back to their social lives. Positive occupational value and investment in the health sector are positive effects of the pandemic on nursing, while an increased workload and the high risk of death are negative effects. Nursing students should be supported with both theoretical information and psychological support during the pandemic.
Exploring the Essential Stroke Care Structures in Tertiary Healthcare Facilities in Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Osuegbu Osborne Ikechuckwu , Adeniji Foluke Olukemi , Owhonda Golden Chukwuemeka , Kanee Rogers Bariture , Aigbogun Eric Osamudiamwen
Published: January 2022

This study evaluated the essential stroke care structure available in the two Tertiary Health Facilities in Rives State, Nigeria. This was a descriptive survey involving the Stroke Care Survey and Assessment Tool (checklist/questionnaire) developed by the World Stroke Organisation to obtain information about the available essential stroke care structure (facilities, equipment, personnel and management protocol) at the two tertiary health facilities (RSUTH & UPTH). The study gathered relevant information, which was summarised into tables and graphs using Microsoft Excel 2016. From the results, although facilities had A and E departments, dedicated stroke units (fixed or mobile) were unavailable, and there was no locally developed protocol to support rapid triage of stroke patients. The facilities and equipment were either unavailable or insufficient. Only one health facility (RSUTH) provided 24 hrs/7 days laboratory services. The workforces were a mix between regular clinical staff and some specialists. Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) use was non-existent, though specialists were trained on its administration. There was no locally developed or adopted stroke-specific clinical guidelines. In conclusion, the structural services available for stroke care within the studied tertiary health facilities were poor, unavailable or grossly insufficient. The state facility (RSUTH) suffered the most in terms of unavailable national support and staff development.
Suspensory Versus Interference Tibial Fixation of Hamstring Tendon Autografts in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: Results From the New Zealand ACL Registry
Authors: Rahardja Richard , Love Hamish , Clatworthy Mark G. , Monk Andrew P. , Young Simon W.
Published: January 2022

Background:

The hamstring tendon is frequently used to reconstruct the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), but there is a lack of consensus on the optimal method of fixation. Registry studies have shown that the type of femoral fixation device can influence the risk of revision ACL reconstruction (ACLR), but it is unclear whether the type of tibial fixation has an effect. In New Zealand, over 95% of hamstring tendon grafts are fixed with an adjustable loop suspensory device on the femoral side, with variable usage between suspensory and interference devices, with or without a sheath, on the tibial side.

Purpose:

To investigate the association between the type of tibial fixation device and the risk of revision ACLR.

Study Design:

Cohort Study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

Prospective data recorded in the New Zealand ACL Registry were analyzed. Only primary ACLRs performed with a hamstring tendon autograft fixed with a suspensory device on the femoral side were included. A Cox regression survival analysis with adjustment for patient factors was performed to analyze the effects of the type of tibial fixation device, the number of graft strands, and graft diameter on the risk of revision.

Results:

A total of 6145 primary ACLRs performed between 2014 and 2019 were analyzed. A total of 59.6% of hamstring tendon autografts were fixed with a suspensory device on the tibial side (n = 3662), 17.6% with an interference screw with a sheath (n = 1079), and 22.8% with an interference screw without a sheath (n = 1404). When compared with suspensory devices, a higher revision risk was observed when using an interference screw with a sheath (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 2.05; P = .009) and without a sheath (adjusted HR, 1.81; P = .044). The number of graft strands and a graft diameter of ≥8 mm were associated with the rate of revision on the univariate analysis; however, after adjusting for confounding variables on the multivariate analysis, they did not significantly influence the risk of revision.

Conclusion:

In this study of hamstring tendon autografts fixed with an adjustable loop suspensory device on the femoral side during primary ACLR, the use of an interference screw, with or without a sheath, on the tibial side resulted in a higher revision rate when compared with a suspensory device.
Evolution of silicate bioglass particles as porous microspheres with a view towards orthobiologics
Authors: Islam Md Towhidul , Nuzulia Nur Aisyah , Macri-Pellizzeri Laura , Nigar Farah , Sari Yessie W. , Ahmed Ifty
Published: January 2022

Although FDA approved and clinically utilised, research on 45S5 Bioglass® and S53P4 including other bioactive glasses continues in order to advance their applicability for a range of alternate applications. For example, rendering these particles porous would enable incorporation of varying biological payloads (i.e. cells, drugs and growth factors) and making them spherical would enhance their flow properties enabling delivery to target sites via minimally invasive injection procedures. This paper reports on the manufacture of solid (non-porous; SGMS) and highly porous microspheres (PGMS) with large external pores and fully interconnected porosity from bioactive silicate glass formulations (45S5 and S53P4) via a single stage flame spheroidisation process and their physicochemical properties including in vitro biological response. Morphological and physical characterisation of the SGMS and PGMS revealed interconnected porosity up to 65 ± 5%. Mass loss studies comparing between SGMS and PGMS revealed 1.5 times higher mass loss for the PGMS over 28 days. Also, in vitro bioactivity studies using simulated body fluid (SBF) revealed hydroxyapatite (HA) formation at earlier time point for PGMS compared to their SGMS counterparts (i.e day 1 for PGMS and day 3 for SGMS of 45S5). In addition, HA layers were also formed in cell culture media, with the exception of SGMS of 45S5, which revealed CaP formation with a ratio of 1.52–1.78. Direct cell seeding and indirect cell culture studies (via incubation with microsphere degradation products) revealed mouse 3T3 cells were able to grow and undergo osteogenic differentiation in vitro, confirming cytocompatibility of both 45S5 and S53P4 SGMS and PGMS. More importantly and especially for orthobiologic applications, cells were observed to have migrated within the pores of the PGMS. As such, the PGMS developed from these bioactive silicate glasses are highly promising candidate materials for orthobiologics and alternate applications requiring delivery of biologic payloads.
Intimate Partner Violence in Fiji: How the Perpetrator Is “Rewarded” for Perceived Victim Suffering
Authors: Johnson James , Smith-Enoe Shonell , Luo Shanhong , Pacilli Maria Giuseppina , Pagliaro Stefano
Published: January 2022

Although intimate partner violence is rampant in Fiji, limited research has investigated the perception of appropriate legal sanctions for the perpetrators. We explored whether victim characteristics and perceived victim suffering would independently or jointly influence perpetrator-directed legal sanctions. Undergraduates read an IPV passage with the victim portrayed as a sexual norm violator, a career-focused mother, or a control victim. At high levels of perceived victim suffering, participants “rewarded” the perpetrator by reporting less punitive reactions and reduced perceived culpability in the norm violating victim condition. No differences emerged at low levels of perceived suffering. Implications for the Metanorm Perspective are discussed.
Liquiritigenin Blocks Breast Cancer Progression by Inhibiting Connective Tissue Growth Factor Expression via Up-Regulating miR-383-5p
Authors: Zhang Zhanwei , Lin Jie , Hu Jinhui , Liu Lifang
Published: January 2022

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of liquiritigenin (LQ) on breast cancer (BC) and its mechanism. After BC cell lines and normal mammary epithelial cells were cultured with LQ, CCK-8, and Scratch, Transwell assays and flow cytometry were applied to test the effect of LQ on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. The effect of LQ on the expression of microRNA-383-5p (miR-383-5p) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was measured by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Bioinformatics prediction was used to evaluate the binding relationship between miR-383-5p and CTGF, which was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay. After miR-383-5p and/or CTGF expression was upregulated through cell transfection, the relationship between miR-383-5p and CTGF, as well as their effects on BC, was further assessed. The results showed that LQ can significantly inhibit CTGF expression and the proliferative, migratory, and invasive abilities of BC cells, while facilitating apoptosis of BC cells and miR-383-5p expression. The inhibiting effect of LQ was dose-dependently enhanced in BC cells. Dual-luciferase reporter assay verified that miR-383-5p targeted CTGF. CTGF expression was inversely regulated by miR-383-5p. CTGF upregulation repressed the suppressive effect of miR-385-5p on BC cell development. In conclusion, LQ can inhibit CTGF expression by upregulating miR-383-5p, thereby inhibiting proliferative, migratory, and invasive abilities and promoting apoptosis of BC cells.
Exploring the Role of Social Networks in Facilitating Health Service Access Among Low-Income Women in the Philippines: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Luu Kathy , Brubacher Laura Jane , Lau Lincoln L , Liu Jennifer A , Dodd Warren
Published: January 2022

Despite efforts to implement universal health care coverage (UHC) in the Philippines, income poor households continue to face barriers to health care access and use. In light of recent UHC legislation, the aim of this study was to explore how gender and social networks shape health care access and use among women experiencing poverty in Negros Occidental, Philippines. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with women (n = 35) and health care providers (n = 15). Descriptive statistical analyses were performed to report demographic information. Interview data were analyzed thematically using a hybrid deductive-inductive approach and guided by the Patient-Centred Access to Health Care framework. Women’s decisions regarding health care access were influenced by their perceptions of illness severity, their trust in health care facilities, and their available financial resources. Experiences of health care use were shaped by interactions with health professionals, resource availability at facilities, health care costs, and health insurance acquisition. Women drew upon social networks throughout their lifespan for social and financial support to facilitate healthcare access and use. These findings indicate that social networks may be an important complement to formal supports (eg, UHC) in improving access to health care for women experiencing poverty in the Philippines.
Tracing policy change: Intercurrent (de)politicisation and the decline of nationalisation in the 1970s
Authors: Warner Sam , Luke Darcy
Published: January 2022

When faced with complex public policy challenges, policymakers grapple with a dilemma between assuming direct political control (politicisation) or creating ‘distance’ through arm’s length, often market-orientated governance arrangements (depoliticisation). We contend that both processes co-exist and operate simultaneously though empirically speaking, little is known about how they interact over time to inform policy change. We compare how the Heath and Wilson-Callaghan governments responded to this ‘recurrent dilemma’ in the Nationalised Industries during the 1970s. Drawing on new archival material, our research reveals that a desire to retain political control was repeatedly supplemented by attempts to embed depoliticising, quasi-market disciplinary mechanisms. Our focus on the ‘intercurrence’ of politicisation and depoliticisation, understood as the simultaneous operation of older and newer governance arrangements, reveals the long, complex lineage of privatisation, adding nuance to accounts that present it simplistically as part of a paradigm shift in the 1980s.
Hygro-thermo-chemical transfer analysis of clothing microclimate using three-dimensional digital clothing model and computer-simulated person
Authors: Murota Kei , Kang Yujin , Hyodo Sena , Yoo Sung-Jun , Takenouchi Kazuki , Tanabe Shin-ichi , Ito Kazuhide
Published: January 2022

Several studies regarding indoor environmental quality assessments based on computational human models have been reported. Recently, various computer-simulated persons for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations that reproduce a detailed human body geometry has been developed. However, clothing is usually treated with simplification as a resistance to heat/contaminant transfer, and detailed hygro-thermo-chemical transfer phenomena in clothing-centred area with complex geometry have not been fully discussed. It is also important to investigate the ventilation characteristics inside the air gap between the clothing and the human body. Thus, this study aimed to develop an analytical method of three-dimensional clothing model that can be applied to a computer-simulated person (CSP) for indoor computational fluid dynamics analysis. To identify the impact of the clothing model on the human and the microclimate around the body, hygro-thermo-chemical transfer analyses were conducted in a virtual simplified model room. By reproducing the detailed clothing geometry, ventilation inside the air gap and clothing-centred hygro-thermo-chemical transfer characteristics were quantitatively investigated. The data analysis technique established in this study could contribute to preparing foundational data for simplification of numerical modelling of clothing.
Exploring changing news repertoires: Towards a typology
Authors: Vulpius Julie , Lehaff Josephine , Schrøder Kim Christian , Peters Chris
Published: January 2022

The past few decades of journalism studies have been characterized by a focus on change, from the transforming digital media ecology, to shifting usage patterns, transitioning business models, and other pressing developments. However, specifying such changes in relation to news audiences and engagement is challenging. This article aims to unfold the complexity of consumption to specify different processes of changing news use. Employing an abductive approach that augments existing literature with a study on the processes and catalysts of transformation, we develop a heuristic framework to explicate changing news repertoires. The framework establishes where change takes place, explores what qualities change has, examines what dynamic factors drive change, and ultimately elaborates a more precise vocabulary to identify different change processes. Further specifying and modeling the exploration and elaboration phases, the article details how deliberateness, permanence, and scale vary the intensity and direction of change, before developing a typology that systematizes different analytical characteristics of how news media become part of ( emergence), exist within ( maintenance), and are removed from ( disappearance) an individual’s media repertoire. The article provides a detailed, systematic, and innovative approach to analyze news use, providing scholars with a comprehensive, actionable framework for qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research to better understand what, exactly, repertoire change “is”. In terms of applicability, the theoretical perspective developed alerts us to the fact that changing news use is often conceptualized by audiences in association with non-journalistic, contextual considerations, which are key to whether or not the potential for changing news use is actualized.
Effect of lanthanum cerium methionine on the properties of natural rubber
Authors: Li Shuai , Liu Zhaogang , Hao Wei , Zhang Wentao , Hu Yanhong , Wu Jinxiu
Published: January 2022

Lanthanum cerium methionine was synthesized using the metathesis method and its molecular formula was confirmed as La0.35Ce0.65Cl3(C5H10NO2S)3·2H2O via Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometer, FTIR, and thermogravimetry-differential scanning calorimetry characterization methods. Lanthanum cerium methionine can significantly reduce the activation energy of the vulcanization reaction. The vulcanization kinetics model is used to fit the vulcanization curve of the rubber, and the obtained vulcanization activation energy of lanthanum cerium methionine for rubber is E1 = 76.89 KJ/mol, E2 = 102.36 KJ/mol and E3 = 126.00 KJ/mol. The above value is lower than pristine rubber. The Kissinger method and Flynn–Wall–Ozawa method were used to analyze the activation energy of thermal-oxidative degradation of vulcanized rubber. It was found that the rubber added with lanthanum cerium methionine exhibited higher thermal-oxidative degradation activation energy compared to that of pristine rubber; in addition, it was more difficult to age under the same environment. These results indicated that lanthanum cerium methionine can be not only used as a vulcanization accelerator, but also plays a role in resisting thermal and oxygen aging.
Outcomes of First Metacarpal Extension Osteotomy for Base of Thumb Arthritis
Authors: Chiang Jenny , Graham David , Lawson Richard , Sivakumar Brahman
Published: January 2022

Background:

First metacarpal extension osteotomy (FMEO) aims to correct the adduction deformity associated with thumb arthritis, as well as improve the congruity at the first carpometacarpal (FCMC) joint. However, the benefits of this procedure are currently unclear. The purpose of this study is to investigate the outcomes of FMEO in the treatment of FCMC joint arthritis.

Methods:

Electronic databases were searched systematically for original data studies in the English language reporting outcomes following FMEO for base of thumb arthritis. Data were extracted from the text, tables, and figures of publications and meta-analyzed where possible.

Results:

Ten publications comprising 211 thumbs were included. FMEO was associated with an improvement in pain relief and patient-reported functional outcomes, however meta-analysis showed no significant long-term improvement in grip strength or lateral pinch grip. Although there was disease progression in one third of patients after FMEO, most did not require further procedures. Outcomes following secondary procedures was not analyzed in the literature. FMEO produced a range of minor complications, however, major complications were rare.

Conclusions:

The available evidence suggests FMEO does not improve grip or pinch strength. However, it may have a role in analgesia and improvement in functional outcomes. Further studies should compare outcomes of FMEO to continued nonoperative treatment, or other surgical options including arthroscopy or ligamentous reconstruction.
Rates, Barriers, and Facilitators of Outcome Collection on Hand Surgery Outreach to Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Welch Jessica M. , Kamal Robin N. , Chatterjee Maya , Shapiro Lauren M.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Global outreach to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) continues to grow in an effort to improve global health. The practice of quality measurement is empirically lacking from surgical outreach trips to LMICs, which may limit the safety and quality of care provided. Using convergent mixed-methods, we aimed to: (1) identify and evaluate barriers and facilitators to outcome measure collection; and (2) report the sample rate of such collection on hand surgery outreach trips to LMICs.

Methods:

Surgeons and administrators involved in hand surgery outreach trips completed a survey regarding rates of outcome measure collection and a semi-structured interview to explore barriers and facilitators of outcome collection. Survey data were reported descriptively. Interviews were recorded and transcribed, and excerpts were categorized according to the Pettigrew framework for strategic change (content, process, and context). Results were combined through convergent mixed-methods analysis.

Results:

Thirty-three participants completed the survey, and 21 participated in interviews. Rates of collection were the most common for total case number (83%) and patient mortality (65%). Longitudinal outcomes (eg, patient follow-up or time away from work) were less frequently recorded (9% and 4%, respectively). Content analysis revealed barriers related to each domain of the Pettigrew framework.

Conclusions:

This analysis demonstrates low levels of outcome collection on outreach trips and identifies priority areas for improvement. Developing context-specific solutions aimed at addressing barriers (eg, resource/database availability) and promoting facilitators (eg, collaborative relationships) may encourage higher rates of collection, which stands to improve patient safety, quality of care, and accountability when conducting outreach trips to LMICs.
Acute phase reactant proteins in Buerger’s disease: Is it a systemic disease?
Authors: Keramat Shayan , Karahan Oguz , Patel Malay , Fazeli Bahare
Published: January 2022

Aim: The aim of this study was evaluating acute phase reactant (APR) proteins including high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), pentraxin 3 (PTX3), fibrinogen, complement C3, hepcidin, and albumin in patients suffering from Buerger’s disease (BD) compared to controls.

Methods: The APRs were evaluated in 92 cases of BD patients and 90 healthy age and sex matched controls of blood from Iran and Turkey. The diagnosis was done according to Shionoya’s criteria. However, patients with age less than 40 were included, instead of those less than 50. The diagnosis was confirmed by angiography or CT angiography. The patients were categorized into active and quiescent phases of the disease according to clinical manifestation. Patients with rest pain, non-healing ulcer, and gangrene were categorized in the active phase of the disease and the patients with unchanged claudication for more than 6 months without trophic lesions or gangrene were categorized in the quiescent phase of the disease.

Results: The serum level of PTX3, hsCRP, fibrinogen, C3, and hepcidin in BD was significantly higher than controls ( p < 0.004). Also, albumin in the BD group was significantly lower than controls ( p < 0.001). In patients that categorized in the active phase, fibrinogen, C3, and hsCRP were significantly higher and albumin was significantly lower compared to patients in the quiescent phase. No significant difference was found between the level of PTX3 and hepcidin in the patients in active and quiescent phases of the disease.

Conclusion: The pattern of the level of APRs in BD seems more likely systemic inflammatory disorder than atherosclerosis obliterans. More clinical trials for evaluating the efficacy of anti-inflammatory medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), colchicine, and corticosteroids as a part of management of BD are required. Also, according to low level of albumin in TAO, a protein rich diet might be beneficial for BD patients in the active phase of their disease.
Adopting Affective Science in Composition Studies: A Literature Review
Authors: Taylor Jordan C. V.
Published: January 2022

This article reviews literature in composition studies since affective science's emergence in the 1980s. It focuses on composition studies’ history of adopting findings and theories from affective science, and distinguishes trends in how the field applies those elements in theoretical versus pedagogical contexts. While composition studies’ adoption of affective science in its theorizing has helped the field progress toward a “complete psychology of writing,” affective science's influence on classroom practices has not been so clear cut or direct. However, affective science is a fast-growing, liberal, and multidisciplinary field. As it progresses, composition studies continues to embrace its concepts and theories. This review notes the expectations and limitations developing through this dynamic interdisciplinary relationship.
Clinical characteristics, long-term functional outcomes and relapse of anti-LGI1/Caspr2 encephalitis: a prospective cohort study in Western China
Authors: Guo Kundian , Liu Xu , Lin Jingfang , Gong Xue , Li Aiqing , Liu Yue , Zhou Dong , Hong Zhen
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To study the clinical characteristics of anti-leucine-rich glioma-inactivated 1 (LGI1) encephalitis and anti-contactin-associated protein-like 2 (Caspr2) encephalitis and to investigate factors associated with poor long-term neurological functional outcomes and relapse among patients in western China.

Methods:

In this single-center prospective cohort study, we consecutively enrolled patients with anti-LGI1 encephalitis and anti-Caspr2 encephalitis from April 2014 to February 2021. Patient outcomes were assessed using the modified Rankin scale. Predictors of long-term functional outcomes and relapse were analyzed.

Results:

Forty-four anti-LGI1 encephalitis patients [median age: 44 years, range: 18–82 years; females: 25 (56.8%)], 35 anti-Caspr2 encephalitis patients [median age: 43 years, range: 14–80 years; females: 19 (54.3%)], and 5 dual-positive patients [median age: 44 years, range: 36–58 years; females: 5 (100%)] were enrolled. Overall, 86.4% anti-LGI1 encephalitis patients and 80% anti-Caspr2 encephalitis had a favorable neurological functional outcome (mRS 0-2). Tumor occurrence and weight loss were associated with poor long-term functional outcomes in anti-LGI1 encephalitis, whereas in anti-Caspr2 encephalitis, predictors included behavioral disorder at acute phase, abnormalities in brain magnetic resonance imaging, higher modified Rankin scale scores at onset, poor response to the initial immunotherapy at 4 weeks, age at onset<30 years, and relapse ( p<0.05). Overall, 13.6% of anti-LGI1 encephalitis patients and 20% of anti-Caspr2 encephalitis patients had at least one relapse. Sleep disorder at the acute phase was the risk factor of relapse in anti-LGI1 encephalitis, while female, age at onset <30 years, and behavioral disorder at acute phase were the risk factors of relapse in anti-Caspr2 encephalitis (log rank p<0.05).

Conclusion:

The clinical characteristics such as age, gender, and tumor occurrence rates of anti-LGI1 encephalitis and anti-Caspr2 encephalitis in western China are different from those in the Western countries. Most patients in our study had favorable long-term functional outcomes. The relapse rates are still high in both types of encephalitis, which warrants caution.
Pulmonary lymphangioleiomyomatosis with an associated giant renal angiomyolipoma
Authors: John Jeff , Aldera Alessandro Pietro , Louw Dap , Lazarus John , Kesner Ken
Published: January 2022

Pulmonary lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM), a rare, progressive disease predominantly affecting the lungs of women of reproductive age, is often associated with renal angiomyolipoma (AML). We report the case of a 29-year-old female patient who presented to our obstetrics department at 37 weeks’ gestation, complaining of abdominal pain, and constipation. Ultrasound noted a viable singleton with a large left-sided abdominal mass. After undergoing a caesarean section, she was referred to our urology department to assess her flank mass further. Computed tomography demonstrated a large, exophytic left renal mass measuring 22 cm x 16 cm x 13 cm, suggestive of an AML and numerous bilateral pulmonary cysts. A diagnosis of LAM and associated unilateral giant renal AML was made. As soon as she had fully recovered from her caesarean section, we removed the huge AML via a standard left-sided open nephrectomy without incident. We report this rare case of giant AML associated with LAM and review the literature about the association of these two conditions.
Poor health and functioning in patients with axial spondyloarthritis during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown: REUMAVID study (phase 1)
Authors: Benavent Diego , Garrido-Cumbrera Marco , Plasencia-Rodríguez Chamaida , Marzo-Ortega Helena , Christen Laura , Correa-Fernández José , Plazuelo-Ramos Pedro , Webb Dale , Navarro-Compán Victoria
Published: January 2022

Aim:

To evaluate the overall health and functioning in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) and related factors affecting these during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown measures.

Methods:

Data from 587 axSpA patients participating in the first phase (April–July 2020) of the REUMAVID study who completed the ASAS Health Index (ASAS-HI) were analysed. REUMAVID is a cross-sectional study that collects data through an online survey to assess the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases across seven European countries. Poor health was defined as ASAS-HI ⩾ 12. The World Health Organization Five well-being index, self-perceived health status and change in health status during COVID-19 pandemic were evaluated as secondary outcomes. Logistic regression models were used to identify the factors associated with poor health.

Results:

According to the ASAS-HI, 147 (25.0%) patients reported poor health. Pain and moving around were the main affected categories. In addition, 14.0% reported their self-perceived health status as ‘bad’ or ‘very bad’ and 46.8% as worse than before the pandemic. In the multivariate analysis, smoking (OR = 1.98), diabetes (OR = 4.89) and taking painkillers (OR = 2.82) or corticosteroids use (OR = 2.20) were significantly associated with poor health, while engaging in physical activity (OR = 0.54) and being actively employed (OR = 0.48) were inversely associated with this.

Conclusions:

During the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, one in four axSpA patients reported poor health and functioning, while the self-perceived health status of almost half of these patients worsened. Nonsmoking, physical activity and being employed were associated with better outcomes.