bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on fault diagnosis of electromagnetic active suspension based on double observer intelligent switching
Authors: Wu Liping , Zhou Ran , Yang Guang , Xu Fangchao , Jin Junjie , Zhao Chuan , Oka Koichi , Sun Feng
Published: February 2024

Electromagnetic active suspension can adjust stiffness and damping and is widely used in suspension. When the electromagnetic active suspension fails, the observer can be used for fault detection. In order to realize suspension fault detection under all road conditions, a double observer switching strategy is designed and simulated using MATLAB. Firstly, the switching strategies of the Kalman observer, unknown input observer (UIO) and double observer are designed, respectively. Then, for random roads, the Kalman observer is used for fault detection, while for bump road surfaces, the UIO is used for fault detection. The residoubles of the dynamic deflection of the suspension are used as switching conditions. Finally, a simulation analysis is carried out with MATLAB, and the conclusion shows that the switching strategy of double observers is better than that of the Kalman observer and UIO in full road conditions.
Nailbed HPV-related Bowen’s disease in a man living with HIV
Authors: Kohli Manik , Kravvas Georgios , Wong Arthur , Zargaran David , Ellery Peter , Bunker Christopher B
Published: February 2024

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common sexually transmitted infection with wide-ranging clinical manifestations. High-risk anogenital HPV genotypes have also been reported to cause extragenital disease. We describe the case of a 69-year-old male patient living with HIV who was diagnosed with HPV-16 associated Bowen’s Disease (BD) of the right middle finger nailbed, despite good virologic control and immune reconstitution. The lesion was managed surgically with adjunctive post-exposure HPV vaccination. This case adds to the growing body of evidence of extra-genital HPV disease attributable to anogenital genotypes in people living with HIV.
Investigations on magnesium ion conducting gellan gum-based biopolymer blend electrolytes for energy storage applications
Authors: C Naveen , Muthiah Muthuvinayagam
Published: February 2024

The economical and ecological polymer electrolytes are essential for energy storage devices. The key problem we are trying to resolve is how to improve ionic conductivity and safety in polymer electrolytes, which are essential for energy storage devices to operate effectively. We have prepared biopolymer blend electrolytes with different concentrations of magnesium chloride (MgCl2) by solution casting technique and the prepared electrolytes are investigated. Increase of amorphous nature of the polymer membranes is confirmed by X-ray diffraction analysis. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy used to define complex formation between salt and polymers. Thermal properties of the electrolytes are confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry technique. The higher ionic conductivity of 1.04  ×  10−5 S/cm has been achieved for 8 wt.% MgCl2 mixed gellan gum: polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) polymer blend at the room temperature. The present work highlights the preparation and characterization of gellan gum: PVA: MgCl2 polymer blend electrolytes with enhanced ionic conductivity and safety. The optimized polymer electrolyte is applied for energy storage devices.
Disturbance rejection based on discrete-time adaptive preview control for unmanned aerial vehicle shipboard landing under structure damage
Authors: Xue Yixuan , Chen Yikun , Tao Chenggang , Zou Yuchun , Zhen Ziyang
Published: February 2024

This article studies the shipboard landing control problem for unmanned aerial vehicle with external disturbance and structure damage. A novel discrete-time adaptive preview architecture is presented, where the model reference adaptive control is improved by introducing the preview control method, so that both the uncertainties (caused by the airwake and structure damage) and the control lag could be well compensated simultaneously. The proposed scheme guarantees a more rapid, accurate, and robust performance. For application, the reference input signal is generated by fusing the deck motion prediction information and glide path command. The effectiveness of the algorithm is validated by a longitudinal landing simulation.
Piecewise non-linear model predictive control with bounded disturbance
Authors: Shokrollahi Ali , Shamaghdari Saeed
Published: February 2024

This work addresses the problem of robust [Formula: see text] model predictive control for constrained piecewise non-linear systems corrupted by norm-bounded disturbances for the first time. In this approach, the system can have different operating points with different subregions. In each subregion, the system is made up of an affine model disturbed by an additive non-linear term that is locally Lipschitz. The employment of the piecewise non-linear model leads to a non-convex optimization problem, which is far more difficult to solve. It is also much more challenging to develop the [Formula: see text] model predictive control for piecewise non-linear systems. The proposed method introduces a control strategy in the form of a convex optimization problem subject to linear matrix inequality constraints, with the ability to minimize the L2 gain between the disturbance input and the controlled output. The proposed controller guarantees system stability with a prescribed [Formula: see text] disturbance attenuation level under switching between subregions. Simulations on a highly non-linear chemical process are conducted to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed approach.
Extension of a clustering identification approach to multivariable piecewise affine systems: Application to an industrial dryer
Authors: Zeineb Lassoued , Kamel Abderrahim
Published: February 2024

The main objective of this paper is the extension of the clustering-based identification approach to Multi-Input Multi-Output (MIMO) PieceWise Affine systems (PWA). This approach is performed by three main steps which are data clustering, parameters matrices estimation and regions computing. Data clustering is the most important step because the performances depend on the results given by the used clustering algorithm. In the case of MIMO PWA systems, we should cluster matrices of parameters which are considered high dimensional data. However, most of the conventional clustering algorithms are not efficient since the similarity assessment which is based on the distances between objects is fruitless in high dimension space. Therefore, we propose an extension of the DBSCAN (Density Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise) clustering technique to identify MIMO PWA systems. The simulation results presented in this paper illustrate the performance of the proposed method. An application to an industrial dryer of Di-Calcium Phosphate (DCP) is also presented in order to strengthen the simulation results.
Late-Holocene stability and recent changes in small mammal communities in north-central Andean forests of Patagonia
Authors: Andrade Analia , Teta Pablo , Fernández Mercedes Grisel , Fernández Pablo Marcelo
Published: February 2024

Past and current climatic and environmental changes have contributed to configure actual species distributions and abundances. Knowing their evolution over time allows discrimination between natural and anthropogenic causes in current composition of faunal communities. We evaluate the changes in small mammal assemblages from the north-central Patagonian Andean forests since the Late-Holocene to recent times and their relationship with the environmental modifications driven by human activities. A bone sequence from Población Anticura archaeological site (lower Manso river valley, Río Negro province, Argentina) was studied, which encompasses a time span from the early Late-Holocene (3350 ± 100–2270 ±80 years BP) to final Late-Holocene (1420 ± 70–530 ±50 years BP) and Historical times (480 ± 70–280 ±40 years BP). The species composition indicates that forest environment established in the area from at least the Late-Holocene (dominance of Loxodontomys micropus, with subordinate frequencies of Abrothrix olivacea, A. hirta, Geoxus valdivianus, Irenomys tarsalis, and Paynomys macronyx), with patches of (or near to) open environments (presence of Reithrodon auritus and cavids). It is remarkable the presence of cavids, which increased their abundance in the sequence towards Historical times but disappeared nowadays. The low frequencies (<10%) of the rodent Oligoryzomys longicaudatus along the entire sequence is also relevant, since this rodent is the reservoir of the Andes strain of the Hantavirus (ANDV), which causes pulmonary syndrome. This mouse dominates the small mammal assemblages from forests and ecotonal shrublands of northwestern Patagonia (abundances exceed 50% in owl pellets recently collected from the study area). Current configuration of forest and ecotonal assemblages, particularly the high abundance of O. longicaudatus, should be mainly linked to anthropogenic causes, including the introduction of cattle, land clearing, and the advance of introduced plant species such as the sweet briar ( Rosa eglanteria). Particularly, this exotic shrub offers shelter and additional food for O. longicaudatus, turning their shrublands into spaces of high epidemiological risk.
Historical ecology of pinnipeds of the northern coast of the San Jorge Gulf (central Patagonia, Argentina) since the Late-Holocene
Authors: Svoboda Ariadna , Vales Damián G
Published: February 2024

The northern coast of the San Jorge Gulf, Atlantic Patagonia, is recognised as a marine biodiversity hot spot and is designated as a priority conservation area. Among marine mammals, three species of pinnipeds inhabit the region. While South American sea lions ( Otaria flavescens) have a higher abundance and a larger number of colonies than South American fur seals ( Arctocephalus australis), a few individuals of the Southern elephant seal ( Mirounga leonina) reside in the region. Nevertheless, little is known about the abundance and distribution of these pinnipeds before the 18th century, when various extractive activities became widespread, including the unregulated exploitation of furs and oil. This study aims to examine whether the distribution and relative abundance of ancient pinnipeds differ from present-day populations. To achieve this, we conducted inter-specific identification of pinniped bone remains coming from archaeological assemblages dated from 6000 to 600 14C years BP and reviewed historical sources to contrast these retrospective data with modern ecological literature. The results suggest changes over time in the relative abundances of species within the pinniped community. The relative abundance of fur seals was greater than or equal to that of sea lions in most Late-Holocene pinniped assemblages. Additionally, fur seals have been recorded in historical and Late-Holocene periods in places where they are currently very rare. These findings are consistent with the higher relative abundance of fur seals recorded in other archaeological sites along the Patagonian coast, suggesting that modern distribution and abundance have been heavily affected by commercial hunting. This study contributes to a better understanding of the nature and magnitude of the anthropic impact on the marine ecosystem of the northern coast of the San Jorge Gulf. It also provides historical baseline information to strengthen conservation policies and restoration efforts.
A reconstruction of the marine mammal harvest by the Real Compañía Marítima through the analysis of historical sources (AD 1790–1804)
Authors: Vales Damián G
Published: February 2024

Humans have altered marine ecosystems over very long-time scales and historical data is often needed to understand the true magnitude of human impacts. The Southwest Atlantic Ocean has a long history of large-scale removal of marine vertebrates due to whaling, sealing, and fishing in the past three centuries. Historical catch records are crucial in assessing the conservation status of these historically over-exploited populations and setting suitable recovery goals. However, several gaps in the history of exploitation of many populations limit our ability to judge recoveries success. This study examines the history of the Spanish fishing company, the Real Compañía Marítima (Royal Maritime Company), and reconstructs its catches of marine mammals in Patagonia and on the north coast of the Río de la Plata. The analysis of a wide range of historical sources reveals that, between the years 1790 and 1804, the Company extracted less than 100 southern right whales Eubalaena australis, some 200,000 South American fur seals Arctocephalus australis and South American sea lions Otaria flavescens, and a few southern elephant seals Mirounga leonina. Although the Company’s whale catch is negligible compared to that of other nations in the same whaling grounds, the amount of fur seals and sea lions removed from the ecosystem deserves attention. This historical survey provides us with the first estimate of the catches made by the Real Compañía Marítima. However, these figures only represent a small part of the extractive activities that took place in the region and further research is encouraged to assess the true dimension of human impacts on Southwest Atlantic ecosystems. The incorporation of retrospective data into ecological studies can be laborious and may have inherent biases, but it also provides valuable information for comprehending modern ecosystems and formulating appropriate conservation plans.
Long-term interactions between avifauna and humans in the southern Andean Puna during the Late-Holocene
Authors: Velardez-Fresia MB , Urquiza SV
Published: February 2024

By comparing the present and past avifauna, we investigate the human practices that involved the knowledge and interaction with birds during the Late-Holocene in Puna Austral Argentina. Ethnoarchaeological methodology was used, which included the analysis of feathers recovered from archeological excavations and interviews with local people. Interviews and bird observations were carried out in the spring/summer months, and in some cases the interviewees accompanied us to make the sightings. The results show a correspondence between current and past bird populations for some species of Passeriformes, Strigiformes, Rheiformes, and Anseriformes. Continuity was observed in the interaction of people with certain birds. This is linked to their farming and livestock lifestyle. Currently this situation is changing due to the increasing expansion of mining activities. This research establishes a baseline to compare the consequences of mining on avifauna and the local population.
Strix chacoensis (Aves: Strigiformes) as an accumulator of vertebrate material in an endangered world: Exploring new taphonomic and ecological perspectives
Authors: Mignino Julián , López José Manuel , Costa Thiago , Giardina Miguel
Published: February 2024

The objective of this study is to characterize the taphonomic signature of Strix chacoensis in bone and tooth remains of microvertebrates (birds and micromammals). The chaco owl is a bird of prey whose diet and bone modification patterns are little known. In a sample of 41 pellets, an unusual proportion of bird remains over mammal remains was observed. We evaluate the ecological implications of this phenomenon, which could designate Strix chacoensis as a bioindicator of well-preserved forest and shrubland environments when combined with the specific ecological requirements of the prey species. Furthermore, taphonomic patterns vary across taxonomic groups: bird remains exhibited lower modifications due to breakage and digestion compared to micromammal remains. Therefore, this raptor can be characterized as having a minimal impact on bird remains and an intermediate impact on mammal remains.
How Fintechs are Aiding the Strategic Renewal of Banking and Financial Services When Climate and Corporate Governance are Centre Stage?
Authors: Talwar Gaurav , Sinha Sabyasachi
Published: February 2024

Banks and financial institutions have been experiencing slow growth after the financial crisis due to loss of trust, regulations, changing customers and digital disruption unleashed by fintechs. While the emergence of fintech is a global phenomenon, we are starting to see some standout banks collaborating efficiently with them to help self-renew themselves and, in turn, win back customers, improving margins, bolstering growth aided by data insights, simplifying operations and acting with speed to customer requirements. Enhancing scope and scale at speed supported by fintech collaboration is helping these banks to manage better uncertainty, front load benefits to end consumers, orchestrate capabilities, manage change and navigate the complexity associated with climate and corporate governance actions.
For Better or Worse: Understanding Smartphones and Social Media Use Among a New Generation of Young Adults and the Impact of Their Usage on Well-being
Authors: Coyne Paige , Woodruff Sarah J.
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to explore current-day young adults’ experiences with their smartphones and social media and the impacts of their usage on well-being. Twenty semi-structured interviews were conducted and analysed via inferential statistics and content analysis. Results suggest that young adults’ perceptions of their smartphone and social media use may be inaccurate. Awareness of this discrepancy may prompt a desire to change current usage habits. Additionally, participants confirmed (and dismayed) previous uses, gratifications and drawbacks of smartphones and social media while identifying new ones. Participants also offered nuanced explanations and interpretations of when and how smartphones and/or social media interfere with daily life. They clarified the activities performed that positively and negatively contribute to well-being. This study highlights how smartphone and social media use has changed over time and provides evidence for the need to continually re-examine understandings of smartphones and social media usage among young adults as time passes.
Fragile Democracy: Media Freedom and Radical Polarisation in Ethiopia
Authors: Muyiwa Mufutau
Published: February 2024

Fragile states are conditioned by the politics of interests, which oscillates between social, ethnic, factional, political and economic agitations. The politics of interest impairs shared identity and creates a tense coexistence between already fragmented communities. Ethiopia presents an example of the erosion of democratic norms despite the constitutionally imposed politics of ethnically and regionally based societies. Fragile states defy theoretical wisdom, as the media and elections might, in certain circumstances, produce negative results by creating a fractured society rather than resolving the legitimacy crisis. This article analysed academic literature and reflected on theories of the media in democracy to deconstruct the role of the legacy and new media in radical polarisation and nation-building in Ethiopia. Furthermore, illustrations were drawn from incidents and developments to clarify conditions that can help the mass media refrain from actions that deliberately or inadvertently impede socio-economic growth and worsen political conditions in fragile democracies. This article asserts that without context adaptation, the liberal norms of media autonomy and political inclusion might be incompatible with other forms of democracy beyond affluent democracies. It concludes by proposing theoretical visions of a ‘democratic mirror’, ‘vigilantism and fraternisation’ and the ‘therapeutic’ function of the media in fragile democracies.
The Curvilinear Relationship Between Empowering Leadership and Team Performance: A Self-Regulatory Perspective
Authors: Chen Ning , Chen Lu , Kang Yu , Zhou Yutong
Published: February 2024

Although previous research demonstrated that empowering leadership has both positive and negative impacts on team consequences, our current knowledge of the processes by which and the conditions under which empowering leadership promotes or hinders team performance remains limited. Drawing on the too-much-of-a-good-thing (TMGT) effect and the team self-regulatory perspective, our findings, backed with a time-lagged and multi-source survey, suggested that empowering leadership has a curvilinear impact (i.e., inverted U-shaped) on team performance through team reflexivity, and this impact is contingent on team performance-approach goal orientation. We discuss the implications of our findings from both theoretical and practical perspectives.
Randomized Controlled Trial of Counseling Approach for Long-Term Welfare Recipients in Switzerland
Authors: Kessler Dorian , Steger Simon , Keller Pascale
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study examines the impact of “Change in Direction,” a counseling approach for long-term social assistance recipients in Switzerland.

Method

The results of the study are based on a randomized controlled trial ( n intervention group = 31/32, n comparison group = 50/48). Outcome measures were obtained from a two-wave survey and administrative data.

Results

The intervention increased clients’ mastery (= experience of competence, β = .46, p = .038) and vitality (= one aspect of well-being, β = .61, p = .008), reducing the gap with the general Swiss working age population by 35% and 54%, respectively. However, the intervention did not increase clients’ general life satisfaction or earnings, nor did it reduce health expenditures or cash transfer receipt.

Discussion

Findings show that goal-oriented counseling can improve feelings of competence and well-being among long-term welfare recipients but that it cannot improve labor market outcomes and financial self-sufficiency.
Eye Drop Quality Issues: Can the FDA See This One Through?
Authors: White Lyla R. , White C. Michael
Published: February 2024

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has long suffered from a lack of resources limiting their inspection capacity. They have fallen behind on proactive surveillance inspections of foreign manufacturing sites, relying instead on for-cause inspections after a problem has been discovered. Over-the-counter (OTC) products are especially vulnerable because the FDA considers them lower priority. This issue recently made big news after improperly manufactured OTC eye drops harmed users across the country, in some cases causing blindness. To prevent future harm to Americans, it is imperative that the FDA receives enough resources to keep up with their routine inspections.
Development and Validation of Technology-Facilitated Sexual Violence Perpetration and Victimization Scales Among Adults
Authors: Martínez-Bacaicoa Jone , Sorrel Miguel A. , Gámez-Guadix Manuel
Published: February 2024

Technology-facilitated sexual violence (TFSV) includes different forms of digital violence, such as online gender-based violence, online gender- and sexuality-based violence, digital sexual harassment, online sexual coercion, and nonconsensual pornography. The aim of this study was to design and validate a measure to assess the perpetration and victimization of each dimension of TFSV. The relationships between the different dimensions and differences by gender and sexual orientation were also analyzed. The participants were a sample of 2,486 adults (69% women) from Spain, aged between 16 and 79 ( M = 25.95; DT = 9.809) years. The Technology-Facilitated Sexual Violence Scales were found to be valid and reliable instruments, supporting our recommendation for the use of these scales. Network analysis and solution-based exploratory factor analyses showed that the dimensions of online sexual coercion and nonconsensual pornography clustered together. All the perpetration variables were related to sexism. Finally, cis women and nonheterosexual people reported higher victimization scores overall compared to cis men and heterosexuals, respectively, while cis men reported higher perpetration scores overall than cis women.
Telehealth Delivery of the Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention is Associated With Reduced Posttraumatic Stress in Children and Caregivers
Authors: Goslin Megan C. , Epstein Carrie
Published: February 2024

This study evaluated whether telehealth delivery of the Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI) was associated with posttraumatic stress symptom reduction for children exposed to potentially traumatic events and their caregivers. The Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention is a brief (5–8 session), evidence-based, trauma-focused mental health treatment developed for implementation with children and caregivers in the early phase of the trauma response. Within traditional in-person outpatient settings, CFTSI has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing posttraumatic stress symptoms and reducing or interrupting Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in trauma-exposed youth and their caregivers, including those with extensive trauma histories. For the present study, 9 agencies that provided CFTSI via telehealth in 2020 and 2021 provided data for analysis. The sample included 129 racially and ethnically diverse caregiver-child dyads who completed CFTSI via telehealth. Paired samples t-tests revealed significant reductions in child and caregiver posttraumatic stress symptoms from pre-to post-CFTSI. Effect sizes were large and consistent with or stronger than prior studies of CFTSI implemented in person. Preliminary findings also indicated high levels of caregiver satisfaction. Current findings are particularly noteworthy given the chronic trauma exposure in the sample. The Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention delivered via telehealth is a viable treatment option which can increase flexibility for clinicians, families, and organizations.
Altered Intrinsic Brain Spontaneous Activities in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder Comorbid ADHD
Authors: Tang Xinzhou , Ma Zenghui , SiuChing Kat , Xu Lingzi , Liu Qinyi , Yang Li , Wang Yufeng , Cao Qingjiu , Li Xue , Liu Jing
Published: February 2024

Objective:

The study involved 17 children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), 21 with ADHD, 30 with both (ASD + ADHD), and 28 typically developing children (TD).

Methods:

The amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations (ALFF) was measured as a regional brain function index. Intrinsic functional connectivity (iFC) was also analyzed using the region of interest (ROI) identified in ALFF analysis. Statistical analysis was done via one-way ANCOVA, Gaussian random field (GRF) theory, and post-hoc pair-wise comparisons.

Results:

The ASD + ADHD group showed increased ALFF in the left middle frontal gyrus (MFG.L) compared to the TD group. In terms of global brain function, the ASD group displayed underconnectivity in specific regions compared to the ASD + ADHD and TD groups.

Conclusion:

The findings contribute to understanding the neural mechanisms underlying ASD + ADHD.
The Effect of Online Engagement on New Product Performance: Why Fit and Brand Longevity Matter
Authors: Perron-Brault Alexis , Legoux Renaud , Dantas Danilo C. , Nepomuceno Marcelo Vinhal
Published: February 2024

Recently, customer engagement in social media has received great attention in the literature, with the aim of understanding its impact on brands and product performance. However, little attention has been given to the potential dark side of engagement, especially in the context of new product launches. This article thus examines the relationships among customer engagement in social media, new product fit, brand longevity, and new product performance. Using the music industry as a context, this research shows that the small but positive effect of prerelease social media engagement on record sales becomes strong when the level of fit is high; for newer artists, engagement can even have a negative effect when fit is very low. This study uses a sample of 181 albums launched by 158 artists in the Canadian market between 2016 and 2017 and a data set that combines weekly record sales, social media activity, and Spotify's audio features analysis. A regression discontinuity–inspired model that accounts for endogeneity concerns is applied to test the hypotheses. This study contributes to the literature by providing robust empirical evidence of a possible negative side of engagement. Although engagement can help artists succeed, it might interfere with their artistic freedom.
Effect of tamsulosin on urethral tone in healthy male cats
Authors: Wang Zhe , Diaz Amanda , Isdale Rachael , Kofron Kristine , Carr Susan V , Lappin Michael
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Alpha-adrenergic antagonists are commonly used to prevent recurrent urethral obstruction in cats with mixed reports of efficacy. No published data on tamsulosin use in cats are available. The objective of this study was to measure changes in urodynamic parameters and blood pressure in five healthy male cats before and after administration of tamsulosin orally for 4 and 10 days.

Methods

Five young healthy adult male cats from a research colony were administered tamsulosin at 0.1 mg/cat PO q24h for 10 days. Urethral pressure profile and blood pressure measurements were performed before treatment and approximately 6 h after treatment on days 4 and 10. Maximum urethral closure pressure (MUCP) for the prostatic and penile urethra, functional urethral length (FPL), functional area (FA) and systolic blood pressures were recorded and compared between the time points.

Results

Significant changes in blood pressure on day 4 (121.1 mmHg ± 20.2 mmHg) and on day 10 (112.6 mmHg ± 14.9 mmHg) compared with day 0 (141.1 mmHg± 33.4 mmHg) were not detected ( P = 0.18) in anesthetized cats. No significant difference in MUCP, FA or FPL measurements were detected among baseline, day 4 and day 10 of treatment. Hematuria and transient pollakiuria were induced in two cats with 3.5 Fr urethral catheters.

Conclusions and relevance

Tamsulosin at 0.1 mg/cat PO q24h did not induce hypotension in healthy cats. Urodynamic testing performed 6 h after the tamsulosin pill was administered did not detect consistent decreases in urodynamic functions induced by tamsulosin. Repeated catheterization of tom cats with 3.5 Fr catheters may induce significant urethral trauma.
Ciclosporin oral solution in cats: a retrospective survey of compliance with treatment and adverse effects
Authors: Deleporte Sébastien , Briand Amaury , Prélaud Pascal
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess long-term ciclosporin oral solution compliance in cats treated for feline atopic skin syndrome (FASS).

Methods

A survey was sent by email to 114 owners who had administered ciclosporin oral solution to their cats for FASS.

Results

In total, 42 owners completed the survey. The population was composed of 30 domestic shorthair cats and 12 pure breeds. There were 20 males and 22 females, and the median age was 5.5 years. Ciclosporin oral solution was administered directly into the mouth in 32/42 (76%) and with food/other in 10/42 (24%) cats. The administration was considered easy in 18/42 (43%) cats, difficult in 23/42 (55%) and impossible in 1/42 (2%). Treatment was stopped in 25/42 (60%) cats. The causes were as follows: administration difficulty (nine cats, 21%); complete resolution (four cats, 10%); treatment failure (four cats, 10%); price (two cats, 4%); and other causes (two deaths, two neoplasia, one adverse effect and one lack of compliance). Adverse effects involving clinical signs were reported in 25 (60%) cats: ptyalism (8/42); dysorexia/anorexia (6/42); vomiting (4/42); diarrhoea (4/42); gingival hyperplasia (1/42); and a combination of vomiting, diarrhoea and ptyalism (2/42). In addition, altered behaviour was reported in 27/42 (64%) cats: hiding in seven cats; scared of owner in 10 cats; modification of sleeping or playing activity in six cats; inappropriate urination/defecation in two cats; aggression in one cat; and all of the above in one cat.

Conclusions and relevance

In total, 24 (57%) cats had adverse effects involving both clinical signs and altered behaviour, and only six cats had either adverse clinical signs or behavioural changes. This survey showed that behavioural changes appear to be underestimated in the cats treated with ciclosporin oral solution and this could cause treatment failure due to lack of compliance. Larger-scale studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results.
Typology of reasons why a person kills in a war context: The case of rebel/nationalist army combatants in the Spanish Civil War
Authors: Leira-Castiñeira Francisco J , Martín-Ríos Raquel
Published: February 2024

European historiography on wars has embarked on a study of a matter of crucial significance: the involvement of ordinary individuals as perpetrators of mass casualties. This article aims to provide insights and hypotheses concerning the underlying motives behind such actions, focusing on the unique context of the Spanish Civil War. The data utilized for this study are drawn from a sample of 112 oral interviews conducted with former combatants of the Spanish Civil War, all born between 1905 and 1920. During these interviews, 112 men participated a semi structured discussion. Individual perceptions and variables of interest relevant to acts of violence were subjected to qualitative analysis. Our analysis suggests that instances of aggression often arise because of emotional triggers, alignment with fascist ideological convictions, societal pressures and a sense of duty-driven obedience. Our results refute the notion that ideological factors alone suffice as explanations.
Neoclassical Realism, Global International Relations, and the unheard echoes of Realist practices from the South
Authors: Cerioli Luíza
Published: February 2024

Neoclassical Realism popularised by including context into a structuralised worldview. However, far from a novelty, Global South scholars have been promoting similar Realist course corrections, reducing parsimony, and increasing explanation. This article compares Ayoob’s Subaltern Realism, Escudé’s Peripheral Realism, and Yan’s Moral Realism, showcasing how originality is displayed via hybridisation, mimicry, and denationalisation of ideas. There are two complementary goals: first, stress similarities and differences between these strands and Neoclassical Realism and, second, challenge the ongoing project of subsuming Realism to the Global International Relations agenda through Neoclassical Realism, as it has yet failed to incorporate these Global South ideas. I argue that acknowledging that these theories can promote core–periphery dialogue and instigate progress within the canon is essential for any Global North scholar interested in a ‘globalized Realism’. Finally, socioeconomic asymmetries and interdisciplinarity are central to building a Global International Relations Realism as well as recognising the persistent inequalities within International Relations knowledge production.
Effect of trauma type and trauma burden on self-efficacy for physical exercise in military veterans
Authors: Davis Kaley E , Bennett Meghan M , Hillard Cecilia J , Whittle Jeffrey , Franco Zeno , Bollaert Rachel E , Fitzgerald Jacklynn M
Published: February 2024

Introduction

United States (U.S.) military veterans experience significant physical health problems. Lifestyle modifications, such as increasing daily physical activity, are often considered the first course of action in treatment for the general public. However, veterans report low levels of physical activity, often due to perceived barriers to engaging in exercise. Trauma exposure type and cumulative trauma burden may be differentially associated with exercise attitudes and behaviors.

Methods

We surveyed U.S. military veterans on perceived self-efficacy to overcome barriers to engaging in exercise and physical activity levels. Additionally, we explored the relationship between the type of traumatic event exposure and cumulative trauma on these constructs.

Results

Veterans exposed to sexually aggressive traumatic events (vs. did not) reported significantly lower physical activity levels; no difference in perceived self-efficacy to overcome barriers to exercise existed between groups. Greater cumulative trauma was associated with lower physical activity and self-efficacy to engage in exercise.

Conclusion

These novel results indicate that both trauma type and cumulative trauma burden should be considered when designing exercise interventions for military veterans.
Try, Try Again: Success Rates After Continued Treatment Attempts in Refractory Status Epilepticus
Authors: Terman Samuel W.
Published: February 2024

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Embracing a Perspective with the Dark Side: Using Second Wave Positive Psychology to Navigate Emotions Throughout Transformative Learning
Authors: McClain Adam L.
Published: February 2024

While transformative learning often leads to positive experiences, it can also be a complex, emotionally turbulent process. The process for some can represent a messy and emotionally chaotic journey, where learners may find themselves in conflict with their emotional comfort zones as they question belief systems, who they are, how they see the world, interpret what happens to them, and consider multiple points of view to verify one’s truth and reality. This autoethnographic study focuses on a doctoral student’s interactions with varied cognitive, sociocultural, and emotional challenges throughout their educational and personal experiences. This study integrates Transformative Learning Theory with Ivtzan et al.’s (2016) second wave dark side positive psychology, introducing a dark side perspective to transformative learning. This approach aims to deepen the understanding of the entire emotional experience and offers guidance for navigating the transformative learning process.
Identity, Belonging and Agency: A Transformative Development Framework for Global Africans/Black Peoples
Authors: Gilpin-Jackson Yabome
Published: February 2024

1. Who am I?

2. Where do I belong?

3. What am I called to?

These three questions represent the narrative shifts that are the outcomes of the Identity/Belonging/Agency (IBA) transformative development framework. The IBA framework emerged from the author’s critical reflections on fiction reading and dialogues in 12+ community conversations to explore everyday global African/Black experiences. It responds to the self-inquiry: How do global Africans/Black peoples experience developmental transformation in the context of social marginality? It conceptualizes that the key developmental tasks of global Africans/Black peoples lies in claiming identity through differentiation from dominant narratives of marginality, belonging through locating self-in-society and community, and agency through a focus on self-in-transcendence. The IBA framework is proposed as core to understanding how global Africans/Black peoples, and perhaps other socially constructed racialized groups, can choose to move from marginality to personal as well as social transformation through their agency.
Dancing the Crisis and Its Transformative Potential: A Cooperative and Performative Research With an Italian Disability Service System During the Coronavirus Pandemic
Authors: Cuppari Antonella
Published: February 2024

This study draws on research that investigated transformative learning with reference to complexity theories. It describes the use of dance-informed performative autoethnography employed to analyze and interpret participants’ experience of crisis in research conducted within a disability service system in Italy during COVID-19 pandemic. Firstly, the use of this method of inquiry after the initial data collection was useful in deepening the crisis experience. Secondly, the representation of the data through dance performance fostered new interpretations of the crisis situation that further validated the presentation of the data and had the secondary advantage of reinterpreting the entire experience.
The Limited Utility of Routine Pathologic Examination of Ganglion Cyst Excision From the Hand and Digits
Authors: Fernandes Carlton J. , Yee Heather K. , Fishman Felicity G.
Published: February 2024

Background:

It is routine practice at many institutions to send surgically excised ganglion cysts for pathologic analysis. This adds significant cost to the procedure with questionable benefit. The purpose of this study was to determine the necessity of routine pathologic examination of ganglion cysts excised from the hand.

Methods:

We conducted a retrospective review of 443 patients who underwent ganglion excision from the hand with routine pathologic examination between 2012 and 2022. The final pathologic diagnosis was compared with the treating surgeon’s clinical diagnosis, and the rates of concordant, discrepant, and discordant diagnoses were identified. Discrepant diagnoses were defined as differing clinical and pathologic diagnoses that did not change clinical management. Discordant diagnoses were defined as differing clinical and pathologic diagnoses that altered the treatment plan.

Results:

The prevalence of a concordant diagnosis was 96.2% (426 of 443; 95% confidence interval, 94.4%-98.0%). The prevalence of a discrepant diagnosis was 3.8% (17 of 443; 95% confidence interval, 2.1%-5.6%), and the prevalence of a discordant diagnosis was 0. The odds ratio was 0.04 for a discrepant diagnosis and 0 for a discordant diagnosis.

Conclusions:

Our study suggests abandoning routine pathologic analysis in patients undergoing ganglion cyst excision from the hand will not compromise quality of care when the surgeon is able to make a confident diagnosis. Discrepant diagnoses were rare and discordant diagnoses that did not occur. We recommend pathologic evaluation only when there is uncertainty in the clinical diagnosis.
A note on estimating absolute cytosolic Ca2+ concentration in sensory neurons using a single wavelength Ca2+ indicator
Authors: Higham James P , Smith Ewan St John , Bulmer David C
Published: February 2024

Ca2+ imaging is frequently used in the investigation of sensory neuronal function and nociception. In vitro imaging of acutely dissociated sensory neurons using membrane-permeant fluorescent Ca2+ indicators remains the most common approach to study Ca2+ signalling in sensory neurons. Fluo4 is a popular choice of single-wavelength indicator due to its brightness, high affinity for Ca2+ and ease of use. However, unlike ratiometric indicators, the emission intensity from single-wavelength indicators can be affected by indicator concentration, optical path length, excitation intensity and detector efficiency. As such, without careful calibration, it can be difficult to draw inferences from differences in the magnitude of Ca2+ transients recorded using Fluo4. Here, we show that a method scarcely used in sensory neurophysiology – first proposed by Maravall and colleagues (2000) – can provide reliable estimates of absolute cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) in acutely dissociated sensory neurons using Fluo4. This method is straightforward to implement; is applicable to any high-affinity single-wavelength Ca2+ indicator with a large dynamic range; and provides estimates of [Ca2+]cyt in line with other methods, including ratiometric imaging. Use of this method will improve the granularity of sensory neuron Ca2+ imaging data obtained with Fluo4.
Identifying research priorities for infection prevention and control. A mixed methods study with a convergent design
Authors: Smiddy MP , Burton E , Kingston L , Poovelikunnel T Thomas , Moyo M , Flores A
Published: February 2024

Background

Meaningful research creates evidence for Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) practice.

Aim

To establish Infection Prevention Society (IPS) members’ research priorities to support future research projects.

Methods

A mixed methods convergent parallel design incorporating a cross-sectional survey of IPS members (2022–2023), and focus group findings from the IPS Consultative Committee, (October 2022). Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were transcribed verbatim, entered into NVivo 12, and analysed using a thematic analysis approach.

Findings/Results

132 IPS members responded to the survey, including 120 (90.9%) nurses. The three most prevalent priorities were: Quality Improvement and Patient Safety ( n = 84, 16.1%); IPC Training and Education ( n = 77, 14.8%); and IPC Evidence-based Guidelines ( n = 76, 14.6%). Analysis of the focus group transcripts identified six emergent themes ‘Patient Centred Care’, ‘Training and Education’, ‘IPC Role and Identity’, ‘IPC Leadership’, ‘IPC is Everyone’s Responsibility’, and ‘Research Activity’. Triangulation of findings demonstrated concordance between quantitative and qualitative findings with Quality Improvement and Patient Safety (QIPS) and Training and Education identified as priority research areas.

Discussion

This study highlights the necessity of developing support systems and incorporating research priorities in QIPS, as well as Training and Education. The findings of this study align with the recommended core competencies and components for effective infection prevention and control programs, making them relevant to QIPS initiatives. The outcomes of the study will serve as a valuable resource to guide the IPS Research and Development Committee in delivering practical support to IPS members.
Factors influencing midwives’ conversations about smoking and referral to specialist support: a qualitative study informed by the Theoretical Domains Framework
Authors: Knowles Nicky , Elliott Megan , Cline Alice , Poole Helen
Published: February 2024

Aims:

The aim of this study was to identify factors influencing midwives’ conversations about smoking, and referral to specialist smoking cessation services, using an evidence-based theoretical framework.

Methods:

Semi-structured, qualitative interviews were undertaken with community midwives employed within one health board region of Wales. Deductive framework analysis was employed by coding data to the domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) and then identifying themes within domains and across participants.

Results:

Seven midwives took part in the study. 13, out of a possible 14 domains, were mapped from the TDF. Key enablers to conversations and referrals include knowledge of the risks of smoking in pregnancy, congruence with the professional identity of a midwife, and the use of carbon monoxide monitors in initiating conversations and referrals. Limited knowledge of the specialist service, confusion about the opt-out pathway, varied skills in communicating and engaging with women, low confidence in ability to influence women’s decisions, limited appointment times, and competing priorities were identified as barriers.

Conclusion:

Midwives recognise the importance of their role within the provision of smoking cessation advice and referral to specialist services. While there are continued time pressures and competing priorities for midwives, enhancing skills and confidence in collaborative, empowering approaches to addressing smoking would further support in optimising the uptake of maternity smoking cessation support. This could also enhance conversations about other public health issues such diet, physical activity, and alcohol use.