bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of HIV self-testing uptake among sexual and gender minorities: pre and during COVID-19
Authors: Magno Laio , Ferraz Dulce , Zucchi Eliana Miura , Junior Jony Arrais Pinto , Soares Fabiane , Grangeiro Alexandre , Greco Dirceu , Dourado Ines
Published: February 2025

OBJECTIVE: To identify the factors associated with HIV self-testing (HIVST) uptake among adolescent men who have sex with men (AMSM) and adolescent transgender women (ATGW) before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional HIVST uptake study was conducted among AMSM and ATGW. Peer educators and health professionals began providing HIVST in February 2019. The outcome was the HIVST uptake before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The association between each predictor and outcome in each period was analyzed using simple and multiple logistic regressions, estimating odds ratios, and their respective 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: The uptake was 229/510 (44.9%) and 382/1,075 (35.5%) before and during the pandemic. During the pre-pandemic period, HIVST uptake was higher in participants who reported receptive anal sex. During the pandemic, uptake was lower in participants with a steady sexual partner and higher in those with frequent oral sex with a steady partner in the previous three months. Before and during the pandemic, HIVST uptake was lower in ATGW and higher in those aged 18–19 years and in participants who lived alone. CONCLUSIONS: Uptake decreased during the pandemic. Sexual behavioral factors associated with HIVST uptake changed during the COVID-19 pandemic, showing the fluid dynamics of sexuality in AMSM and ATGW during this period. HIV programs can optimize the implementation of HIVST among adolescents and young people by incorporating effective and differentiated service delivery models to increase HIV testing uptake and to reach undiagnosed individuals effectively.
East and South Asian-Specific Blood Pressure Trajectories and Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Cho So Mi J. , Urbut Sarah , Ruan Yunfeng , Bhatnagar Aarushi , Ganesh Shriienidhie , Hornsby Whitney E. , Bhattacharya Romit , Honigberg Michael C. , Juraschek Stephen P. , Yang Eugene , Shimbo Daichi , Natarajan Pradeep
Published: February 2025

BACKGROUND:

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk differs across Asian subgroups, possibly due to differences in hypertension burden. We characterized lifetime blood pressure (BP) trajectories for East and South Asian individuals and compared their associations with CVD risk.

METHODS:

Among 148 872 UK Biobank participants with primary care utilization data, life course BP trajectories were fitted as a function of age by sex according to self-identified ethnicity. We determined associations of time-averaged young adulthood (18–39 years), middle age (40–64 years), and later life (≥65 years) systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP with incident atherosclerotic CVD risk.

RESULTS:

The predicted SBP/diastolic BP (95% CI) at age 30 years was 108 (103–114)/68 (65–71) mm Hg for East Asian and 114 (110–118)/72 (71–73) mm Hg for South Asian individuals. By age 40, South Asian individuals were projected to reach an SBP of 130.0 mm Hg, whereas East Asian individuals reached the equivalent SBP by age 49 years. Among South Asian individuals, each SD increase in young adulthood SBP was associated with a higher atherosclerotic CVD risk with an odds ratio (95% CI) of 1.41 (1.12–1.75), but not among East Asians (
P
interaction
=0.01). Midlife SBP was associated with peripheral artery disease among South Asian individuals (odds ratio, 2.08 [95% CI, 1.51–2.88]) and with ischemic stroke among East Asian individuals (odds ratio, 3.84 [95% CI, 1.08–5.07]). Later-life SBP was associated with myocardial infarction risk by 1.52 (1.15–1.92)-fold among South Asians and ischemic stroke by 2.50 (1.06–3.80)-fold among East Asian individuals.

CONCLUSIONS:

East and South Asian individuals exhibit distinct BP trajectories that age-differentially associate with incident CVD. Disaggregating Asian subgroups may inform tailored hypertension screening and management.
A Taxonomic Note on Albizia arunachalensis (Fabaceae): An Endemic Species of North East India
Authors: NAITHANI HARSH BARDHAN , KISHWAN SHIVAM
Published: February 2025

Albizia arunachalensis K.C. Sahni & H.B. Naithani is a lesser-known endemic species from Kameng District in Arunachal Pradesh. However, a few authors have synonymized it with A. julibrissin Durazz. var. julibrissin. In the present article, A. arunachalensis has been compared to A. julibrissin, with resurrection of the taxon. Photographs and illustration of A. arunachalensis, and a key to species of Albizia in the Northeast India are presented here for the first time along with its detailed description.
Assessment of a Wake Vortex Retrieval Method Using Large Eddy Simulations and a Lidar Simulator
Authors: Wartha Niklas , Stephan Anton , Holzäpfel Frank
Published: February 2025

Wake vortex studies using Light Detection and Ranging (lidar) measurements constitute a decisive element for determining appropriate and efficient aircraft separations. Algorithms for characterizing the position and strength of wake vortices within lidar scans are available, for example the Radial Velocity (RV) method. However, due to the lack of a ground-truth from field measurements, no reliable accuracy bound for these algorithms could be given so far. Thus, we perform virtual lidar measurements via Large-Eddy-Simulation (LES) Lidar Simulators (LLS’s) employing high-fidelity LES’s of landing aircraft, where the position and strength of vortices is fully known. Lidar measurements are simulated to realistic detail by including spatial averaging along a Line of Sight and flow field distortions caused by the measurement geometry. Previous studies either focused on the wake vortex simulation or the lidar simulation, but never both aspects in full detail. Through simulations under various atmospheric conditions, the accuracy of the RV method can be defined as a 4% strength overestimation and 6% dislocation for vortices within an altitude range of below 2.5 initial vortex separations. Within a highly turbulent atmosphere the RV method performs worse. The main driver of RV method inaccuracy is revealed as the lack of modeling mirror vortices i.e. imaginary vortices caused by walls. This work enables rating the accuracy of studies employing the RV method realistically. Furthermore, the LLS’s allow generating a labeled dataset for evaluating further algorithms and developing new ones which may increase the data accuracy and thus reduce the effort of costly field measurements.
The Effect of Light on Lipid Peroxidation in SMOFlipid Mixtures During Storage, Transportation and Administration
Authors: Phon-in Neeracha , Doungngern Thitima , Suknuntha Krit
Published: February 2025

Intravenous lipid mixtures were a component of 2-in-1 parenteral nutrition (PN) and were administered separately from the dextrose and amino acids mixture. SMOFlipid, the most recent composite intravenous lipid emulsion, has seen frequent use in the past decade. The SMOFlipid mixtures were prepared by mixing SMOFlipid with water-soluble and lipid-soluble vitamins. The lipid peroxidation products have been associated with serious comorbidities in premature infants. The light-exposed SMOFlipid mixtures promoted lipid peroxidation, especially administered under phototherapy, thus, the SMOFlipid mixtures were recommended to protected from light during storage, transportation, and administration. The malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration level in SMOFlipid mixtures, as a marker for lipid peroxidation, was measured up to 24 hours during storage, transport, and administration with and without light protection in simulated conditions. The MDA in SMOFlipid mixtures was chemically derivatized and analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography. The intact SMOFlipid was used as a control. The MDA level at 24 hours in all samples exposed to ambient light was higher, up to 3.9-fold than the MDA level at initial baselines. Whereas, all samples protected from light for 24 hours showed the MDA level slightly increased up to 2.4-fold. The MDA level observed in intact SMOFlipid was higher than SMOFlipid mixtures. The aluminum foil and fabric textiles, used as light protection materials, were comparable for light protection during 24-hour administration. However, using aluminum foil as light protection material during phototherapy for 24 hours, the MDA level was slightly higher than fabric textiles. Our findings indicated that SMOFlipid and SMOFlipid mixture for 2-in-1 PN should be completely protected from light during storage, transportation and administration. The fabric textile covering was introduced and considered due to its re-usable and light protective properties for PN in transport and administration under ambient light and phototherapy.
E pluribus unum? Investigating the Acculturation Strategies and Testing the Integration Hypothesis and a Support and Discrimination Model in the Three Largest Minority Groups in Israel
Authors: Tartakovsky Eugene
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the acculturation strategies and tested the integration hypothesis and a support and discrimination (SAD) model, which was suggested as an alternative to the rejection-disidentification and rejection-identification models, in the three largest minority groups in Israel. The study used stratified samples of immigrants from the former Soviet Union ( n = 848), Palestinian Israelis ( n = 631), and ultra-Orthodox Jews ( n = 940). The connections between and relative strengths of ethnic and national identifications differed across the three groups. Minority group identification and social support from the minority group positively affected the psychological well-being of all groups. In addition, a positive effect of social support from the minority and the majority groups on identification with these groups was found in all groups. However, the effect of discrimination on minority and national identifications and the effect of majority support and national identification on well-being varied across the three groups.
Safer Supply: Program Discontinuation and re-engagement
Authors: Haines Marlene , Hill Emily , O’Byrne Patrick
Published: February 2025

Since 2016, nearly 50,000 people who use drugs have died as a result of the toxic unregulated drug supply. Safer supply programs provide people who use drugs with daily access to pharmaceutical-grade prescription medication as an alternative to the toxic unregulated drug supply. We conducted a qualitative study with safer supply participants to better understand program discontinuation, re-engagement, and barriers to care from their perspective. Semi-structured interviews and surveys were completed with participants. Overall, 30 individuals participated in this study. Three major themes were brought up by research participants, which include: (1) safer supply program entry, (2) safer supply program experiences, and (3) the program restart process. Discussions with participants highlighted the importance of recognizing that times of crisis are inevitable and may potentially threaten participant program retention. Having clear program processes in place, increased wrap-around services, and flexibility when provisioning care are essential components of safer supply programs.
Is a Central Protection Act the best way to protect medical professionals from violent attacks in India?
Authors: Barman Samarendra , Bairagi Kaustav K
Published: February 2025

India's doctors are demanding effective protection against escalating levels of violence against healthcare workers. There are Acts in several states aimed at the prevention of violence against healthcare workers and health establishments but conviction rates are very low. Following the recent rape and murder of a trainee doctor in a government hospital, the demand for a central law to protect healthcare workers has intensified. But would this be effective?
Reimagining reading with Chinese political ontology
Authors: Jing Qi
Published: February 2025

This article explores two predominant conceptions of reading – the Aristotelian framework from the Western traditions and the holistic dynamic approach rooted in Chinese philosophies. The Aristotelian conception emphasizes truth-seeking, knowledge acquisition, and self-fulfilment through a linear, teleological process. In contrast, the holistic dynamic conception, informed primarily by Confucian and Daoist texts, views reading as an ongoing, cyclical process of transformation, moral cultivation, and alignment with the broader milieu. Rather than treating these frameworks as oppositional, I propose a synthetic conception of reading that integrates both perspectives. This synthesis combines the pursuit of stable truths with the adaptability and moral cultivation central to the holistic dynamic approach. This article argues that such a combined framework offers a richer, more comprehensive understanding of reading as a practice that shapes individuals and societies alike. This approach holds significant implications for contemporary political theory, fostering more resilient and engaged political agents through transformative reading practices.
The impact of the introduction of monitored anaesthesia care in the cardiac catheterisation laboratory on Clinical Review, Rapid Response, and Blue Code rates, and mortality
Authors: Meyerson Sophie A , Olesnicky Ben , Lee Gene , Santoro Andrea S , Bhindi Ravinay
Published: February 2025

Most procedures in cardiac catheterisation laboratories (CCLs) have traditionally been performed under conscious sedation under the supervision of the treating proceduralist. With growing demand for more complex procedures to be performed, in emergencies and in patients with limited cardiorespiratory reserve, a reconsideration of the level of supervision provided is required. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all patients who had CCL procedures and required an overnight stay at Royal North Shore Hospital during a 12-month period prior to introducing monitored anaesthesia care (MAC), compared with a 12-month period following introduction of MAC on selected weekdays. Primary outcomes were the difference in rates of Code Blue calls (triggering the cardiac arrest team), Clinical Reviews and Rapid Responses (defined as per the NSW Health ‘Between the Flags’ Deteriorating Patient Safety Net System) in the 24 h post-procedure between patients who did and did not have MAC. The secondary outcome was a difference in mortality (within 24 h of a procedure and in-hospital) between patients who did and did not have MAC. One thousand nine hundred and eight patients were analysed (926 pre-intervention, 982 post-intervention). We found no statistically significant difference in any of the primary or secondary outcomes between the pre-intervention and post-intervention patients overall. However, we found a statistically significant lower rate of Code Blue calls in patients who had MAC ( n = 3, 0.6%) compared with no MAC ( n = 31, 2.3%). We also found a significantly lower 24-h mortality in patients who had MAC ( n = 1, 0.2%) compared with no MAC ( n = 22, 1.6%), but no difference in overall in-hospital mortality.
Unrecognised drug error and subsequent airway management utilising ultrasound-guided cricothyroidotomy and Rapid-O2® oxygen insufflation
Authors: Wong Patrick , Foster Emma E , White Julian B
Published: February 2025

Tubeless microlaryngoscopy optimises surgical access but typically relies on total intravenous anaesthesia, commonly using propofol and remifentanil infusions. We present a difficult airway case where an unrecognised drug error during programming of an infusion pump resulted in unexpected apnoea. Open airway surgery proceeded with the use of a prophylactic cannula cricothyroidotomy using a Rapid-O2® insufflation device to provide rescue oxygenation. Furthermore, cricothyroid membrane identification failed with digital palpation but was successful with ultrasonography. While the latter is currently not considered the standard of care for preparing for front-of-neck access in a time-critical ‘can’t intubate, can’t oxygenate’ scenario, in our case it proved helpful.
Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments 2024 Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of Perinatal Mood, Anxiety, and Related Disorders: Guide de pratique 2024 du Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments pour le traitement des troubles de l'humeur, des troubles anxieux et des troubles connexes périnatals
Authors: Vigod Simone N. , Frey Benicio N. , Clark Crystal T. , Grigoriadis Sophie , Barker Lucy C. , Brown Hilary K. , Charlebois Jaime , Dennis Cindy-Lee , Fairbrother Nichole , Green Sheryl M. , Letourneau Nicole L. , Oberlander Tim F. , Sharma Verinder , Singla Daisy R. , Stewart Donna E. , Tomasi Patricia , Ellington Brittany D. , Fleury Cathleen , Tarasoff Lesley A. , Tomfohr-Madsen Lianne M. , Da Costa Deborah , Beaulieu Serge , Brietzke Elisa , Kennedy Sidney H. , Lam Raymond W. , Milev Roumen V. , Parikh Sagar V. , Ravindran Arun V. , Samaan Zainab , Schaffer Ayal , Taylor Valerie H. , Tourjman Smadar V. , Van Michael , Yatham Lakshmi N. , Van Lieshout Ryan J.
Published: February 2025

Background

The Canadian Network for Mood and Anxiety Treatments (CANMAT) publishes clinical practice guidelines for mood and anxiety disorders. This CANMAT guideline aims to provide comprehensive clinical guidance for the pregnancy and postpartum (perinatal) management of mood, anxiety and related disorders.

Methods

CANMAT convened a core editorial group of interdisciplinary academic clinicians and persons with lived experience (PWLE), and 3 advisory panels of PWLE and perinatal health and perinatal mental health clinicians. We searched for systematic reviews of prevention and treatment interventions for perinatal depressive, bipolar, anxiety, obsessive–compulsive and post-traumatic stress disorders (January 2013–October 2023). We prioritized evidence from reviews of randomized controlled trials (RCTs), except for the perinatal safety of medications where reviews of large high-quality observational studies were prioritized due to the absence of RCT data. Targeted searches for individual studies were conducted when systematic reviews were limited or absent. Recommendations were organized by lines of treatment based on CANMAT-defined levels of evidence quality, supplemented by editorial group consensus to balance efficacy, safety, tolerability and feasibility considerations.

Results

The guideline covers 10 clinical sections in a question-and-answer format that maps onto the patient care journey: case identification; organization and delivery of care; non-pharmacological (lifestyle, psychosocial, psychological), pharmacological, neuromodulation and complementary and alternative medicine interventions; high-risk clinical situations; and mental health of the father or co-parent. Equity, diversity and inclusion considerations are provided.

Conclusions

This guideline's detailed evidence-based recommendations provide clinicians with key information to promote the delivery of effective and safe perinatal mental healthcare. It is hoped that the guideline will serve as a valuable tool for clinicians in Canada and around the world to help optimize clinical outcomes in the area of perinatal mental health.
Recent swarm intelligence techniques for optimal spur gear design
Authors: Abderazek Hammoudi , Laouissi Aissa , Nouioua Mourad , Atanasovska Ivana
Published: February 2025

The gear tooth profile significantly influences the key operating parameters of gear pairs. By appropriately modifying the tooth profile, the vibration and noise of the gear system can be greatly reduced. In this study, four advanced optimization techniques are applied to determine the optimal geometric parameters of a cylindrical spur gear. The optimization problem is formulated with three mixed design variables: the profile shift coefficients and the normal pressure angle. The three objectives include minimizing the maximum specific sliding, sliding velocity, and nominal stresses at the pinion tooth root. Kinematic and geometric constraints, such as contact ratio, tooth thickness, and interference, are also considered to ensure an optimal spur gear design. The simulation results demonstrate that the algorithms employed are highly competitive for precision gear design optimization.
Optimizing bone screw insertion: The impact of pre-drilling diameter, bone quality, and spindle speed on mechanical stability and thermal dynamics in synthetic models
Authors: Zhao Jing , Zhang Ziyang , Wu Xiaojie , Zhang Zhijun , Li Zhongwen , Liu Sinan
Published: February 2025

In orthopedic surgery, proper bone screw fixation is paramount to ensure patient recovery. However, complications like screw loosening, bone fracture, or poor fixation can arise from inappropriate insertion protocols. This study aims to determine the optimal pre-drilling diameter for secure screw fixation while minimizing thermal damage and mechanical failure in orthopedic procedures. Through comprehensive experimentation on synthetic bone coupons simulating normal and osteoporotic bones, we investigated the influence of pre-drilling diameter, bone density, and insertion velocity on bone screw fixation. A study measured temperature at the insertion site, insertion torque, and pull-out strength. Our study found that the pre-drilling diameter is pivotally important to the thermal dynamics and mechanical stability of screw insertion. Smaller diameters in synthetic bone coupons generate higher temperatures due to increased friction and diminished heat dissipation, exacerbated by higher spindle speeds. Bone screw insertion torque displays a predictable three-phase behavior, reaching peak levels at cortical engagement and reducing in cancellous bone. Additionally, smaller hole diameters necessitate increased torque during insertion. Pull-out tests demonstrated that screws placed in smaller pre-drilled holes bear more robust fixation. However, smaller diameters also resulted in potential synthetic bone surface damage during extraction. This study emphasizes the critical nature of optimizing pre-drilling diameter to achieve a successful balance between secure screw fixation and low insertion torque. Accommodating the variable bone qualities and operational conditions are essential to minimize the risk of thermal damage and mechanical failure. Future clinical guidelines derived from these findings could lead to enhanced patient outcomes after orthopedic procedures requiring bone screws.
Jointly assessing multiple endpoints in pilot and feasibility studies
Authors: Montgomery Robert N , Bodde Amy E , Vidoni Eric D
Published: February 2025

Pilot and feasibility studies are routinely used to determine whether a definitive trial should be pursued; however, the methodologies used to assess feasibility endpoints are often basic and are rarely informed by the requirements of the planned future trial. We propose a new method for analyzing feasibility outcomes which can incorporate relationships between endpoints, utilize a preliminary study design for a future trial and allow for multiple types of feasibility endpoints. The approach specifies a Joint Feasibility Space (JFS) which is the combination of feasibility outcomes that would render a future trial feasible. We estimate the probability of being in the JFS using Bayesian methods and use simulation to create a decision rule based on frequentist operating characteristics. We compare our approach to other general-purpose methods in the literature with simulation and show that our approach has approximately the same performance when analyzing a single feasibility endpoint but is more efficient with more than one endpoint. Feasibility endpoints should be the focus of pilot and feasibility studies. The analyses of these endpoints deserve more attention than they are given, and we have provided a new, effective method their assessment.
Voice Matters for Viksit Bharat: Dr. Ambedkar’s Visions Realized Through NEP 2020
Authors: Behera Deepak Kumar , Paul Satyaki
Published: February 2025

Babasaheb Dr. Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar was a true educationist which is evident through his eruditeness and pursuit of higher education in the early twentieth century. This was a time when receiving an array of degrees from abroad was unheard of by most people. His scholastic endeavors initiated from an early age to build a character and take up Sankalp (resolve) to devote himself to the service of the nation by aiding the poorest of the poor and to socially uplift themselves through education as a means. His contribution to the growth and development of social sciences is often overlooked by scholars and researchers in Indian academia. Nonetheless, his indomitable visions and thoughts seem to influence policymaking even to date which is evident in the drafting of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the following of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. These policies were created in the recent past but in essence, these policies intricately follow the values and ideals laid down by Dr. Ambedkar. His vision was not simply constrained to education as a development of personality but education as a means of future livelihood, more specifically as a development multiplier. Education, for Dr. Ambedkar, was a means to break free from the fetters of analphabetism, obliviousness, and the fallacies of so-called elite castes, which would empower and emancipate them to fight various degrees of social discrimination and eventually annihilate them. The present article seeks to delve into the NEP 2020 policy as a pivotal instrument echoing Dr. Ambedkar’s value for fostering an egalitarian society as our nation strives toward being Vishwaguru and becoming Viksit Bharat by 2047, highlighting that, indeed, every voice matters.
A Perspective on Interventional Practices and Engagement of Adolescents for Their Overall Development and Well-Being
Authors: Mahapatro Meerambika , Roy Sudeshna , Nayar Poonam , Garikai Mantiziba Edmund
Published: February 2025

Background:

Adolescence is marked by rapid neurodevelopmental changes, including a significant shift in self-perception and worldview. Factors such as rapid urbanization, technological advancements, excessive social networking, media influences, and unfiltered information overload contribute to acute confusion among adolescents. This is exacerbated by peer pressure, a lack of essential life skills, and an urge to move away from traditional family values, resulting in mental health challenges.

Objective:

The article aims to describe intervention practices, policies, and engagement of adolescents for development and well-being.

Methodology:

The study adopts a narrative review approach, focusing on the adolescent population (aged 10–19 years) with specific emphasis on India. Literature published from 2015 onward is reviewed, and thematic analysis is conducted using electronic database searches with keywords aligned to Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). The findings are categorized into three thematic areas: family level, school level, and state level.

Findings:

Adolescent mental health is recognized, yet there remains a gap in addressing the full spectrum of mental health issues and overcoming barriers to implementing interventions across all levels. Effective family communication has been shown to significantly impact adolescents’ psychological well-being. Integrating life skills education, including yoga, into school curricula can further support preventive efforts through awareness campaigns, workshops, and peer-led programs. These integrated approaches can enhance understanding of how family and school environments influence adolescent mental health.

Conclusion:

Sustainable preventive intervention practices targeting social capital and social cohesion development for adolescent development and mental well-being are imperative and needed to be effectively delivered.
Challenges of Aging: Contextual Factors in Therapy With Older Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Clients
Authors: Chang Kai-Tang , Khanpour Sahar , Campbell Amy , Despain Abigail
Published: February 2025

Older lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) adults face a unique set of challenges that intersect with both their sexual identities and the aging process. While society has made significant progress toward accepting diverse sexual orientations, older LGB individuals often remain marginalized and underserved. This narrative review explores the contextual factors that contribute to these challenges, including ageism, discrimination in health care, financial insecurity, mental health concerns, social isolation, intimacy, sexual health, and bereavement. The article highlights how these issues can be compounded by the historical stigmatization of LGB identities, creating barriers to receiving appropriate care. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of culturally competent therapeutic approaches that address the specific needs of this population. The goal is to provide clinicians with strategies for offering affirming, compassionate care to older LGB adults, ensuring that their mental, physical, and emotional health needs are adequately met.
“Griefworks”: Integrating Emotional Processing and Meaning-Making into Grief Therapy
Authors: Ungureanu Ileana , Hall Cadmona
Published: February 2025

In recent years, we experienced a global pandemic, which forced us to face grief in myriad ways. To stress the magnitude of our collective experience in the past years, the scientific community decided it is time to introduce another diagnosis for grief (prolonged grief disorder) in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR), specifically to address what is expected to be a common occurrence for years to come as a result of the loss, grief, and trauma we experienced during the COVID-19 years. With this ever-growing need in mind, we want to present a model of working with grief addressing two aspects of processing loss that we found paramount for successful outcomes in therapy: emotional processing and cognitive/meaning-making. To exemplify the two components of grief work, we created a composite case with aspects from different real cases we have worked with over the years.
Impact of Fentanyl Test Strips as Harm Reduction for Drug-Related Mortality
Authors: Bhai Moiz , McMichael Benjamin J. , Mitchell David T.
Published: February 2025

This study examines the impact of legalizing fentanyl test strips (FTSs) on drug-related mortality in the United States from 2018 to 2022. Using a difference-in-differences approach with state-level data, we find that FTS legalization is associated with a significant reduction in drug-overdose deaths. Across the population, FTS legalization corresponds to a 7% decrease in overdose mortality, with an even more pronounced 13.5% reduction among Black individuals. Our analysis employs two-way fixed effects models and triple differences specifications to isolate the effect of FTS legalization from other factors. The results suggest that FTS legalization is particularly effective in reducing unintentional drug-overdose deaths. These findings underscore the potential of FTS as a critical harm reduction tool in addressing the opioid crisis, especially in mitigating racial disparities in overdose mortality. The study provides evidence to support expanding access to FTS as part of comprehensive public health strategies.
Arteriovenous fistula patency and self-care behaviors in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Bulbul Elif , Dedeoglu Demir Burcu , Kavala Arzu
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to determine the factors affecting arteriovenous fistula (AVF) patency and the relationship between AVF self-care behaviors in hemodialysis (HD) patients. This was a descriptive and correlational study. The data were collected from 195 HD patients between August and December 2023. The mean score of the AVF Assessment Scale (AVF-AS) was significantly higher in diabetic patients and patients with the elbow AVF site. A significant positive correlation was found between the AVF-AS and the total number of AVF operations. AVF-AS was found to be lower in patients with very high levels of AVF self-care behaviors compared to high-level and moderate levels. A statistically significant negative correlation was found between the AVF-AS and the pump speed, Kt/V, URR, and AVF self-care behaviors. This study found that patient-related factors and self-care behaviors effectively maintain AVF patency.
Midline catheter insertion as a strategic component of intravenous infusion: A single-centre retrospective analysis
Authors: Cichowlas Grzegorz , Fornal Izabela , Latos Maciej , Kosson Dariusz
Published: February 2025

Background:

Intravenous infusion is a key aspect of therapy in hospitalised patients. Choosing the right vascular catheter is important to minimise damage to the patient’s tissues, improve the quality of medical care and reduce costs associated with treatment complications. The purpose of this study was to review the effectiveness of midline catheters as a strategic component of intravenous infusions in a Polish hospital.

Material and methods:

The study material consists of medical records of patients with midline catheters at Czerniakowski Hospital in Warsaw over the period from 5th October 2021 to 19th May 2023. An analysis of 341 infusion observation charts was performed, excluding illegible and incomplete data. In this article, all of the catheters we used were inserted under ultrasound guidance.

Results:

The type of vein chosen has no significant effect on the catheter dwell time ( p = 0.984). Catheter length correlates with catheter dwell time ( r = 0.133; p = 0.016). Catheters with a length of 15 cm have the longest dwell time, while those with a length of 20 cm have the shortest. Completion of therapy or patient death was the most common reason for catheter removal (46.9%). Catheter size had an impact on catheter dwell time ( p = 0.034). The text presents observations regarding the relationship between catheter diameter and total aspiration time, based on all days during which blood was aspirated through the catheter. The statistical test results ( H = 118.268; p < 0.001) indicate a significant impact of catheter diameter size on total aspiration time.

Conclusions:

Midline catheters are an effective solution for patients with difficult vascular access, increase the possibility of intravenous therapy. Moreover, they improve patient comfort and reduce the number of multiple cannulations. Developing vascular access teams can better control infusion management and care.
Loss Experiment of Silicon Steel Sheet and Engineering Simulation Research on Loss Characteristic Model with Variable Parameters
Authors: Ning Yinhang , Lv Benqing , Huang Zhihao , Xu Shuai
Published: February 2025

The magnetization and loss characteristics of the silicon steel sheet (20WTG1500) are experimentally measured using the Epstein frame method, based on which simulation study of the loss characteristics is carried out. First, the measured loss data at different frequencies are fitted based on the classical Steinmetz model. When working, a trust-region algorithm incorporating a reflective mechanism is used to precisely solve the unknown parameter values within the classical Steinmetz loss model. Aiming at the problems of the classical Steinmetz model, a kind of variable parameter, closely related to the frequency, is reconstructed by the parameter values in the classical loss model. Then, the improved Steinmetz loss model with the variable parameter is investigated. The improved Steinmetz model is applied to various working conditions, and its effectiveness is verified by comparing the simulation results of the improved model with the measured data.
The Effect of Random Vibration on Performance of High-Speed Permanent Magnet Generator for Hydrogen Fueled Vehicle Turbocharged Drive Recovery
Authors: Liu Wenhui , Liu Ji , Ai Mengmeng , Xu Yongming
Published: February 2025

Electromagnetic performance of the high-speed permanent magnet generator (HSPMG) used a hydrogen fueled vehicle turbocharged drive recovery with random vibration excitation is researched thoroughly in this paper. Random vibration excitation of unevenness of road surface is acquired by random vibration model constructed by comprehensive consideration of road condition. The natural frequencies and mode of vibration needed in random vibration analysis are extracted by modal analysis of the rotor of generator. The radial deformation of the rotor of HSPMG under extreme driving conditions is obtained by random vibration analysis and the maximum value of eccentric displacement in the air gap is 0.0075 mm. But the radial deformation of the rotor of HSPMG under normal driving conditions can be ignored. The electromagnetic performance of HSPMG with uneven air gap length caused by rotor eccentric displacement, such as flux density distribution of air gap, cogging torque, no-load torque and the no-load voltage are further studied, which the performance of HSPMG is optimized.
Calculation parameter correction of steel truss nodal plate based on machine learning theory
Authors: Hu Zhe , Rao Rui , Chen Hao , Li Qinhe , Wang Ronghui
Published: February 2025

To improve the accuracy of deformation calculations in the finite element modeling of steel trusses, a method is proposed to modify the rigid arm by accounting for the stiffness of the nodal plate. A digital twin is established for each control parameter of the nodal plate, and the rigid arm lengths are adjusted to achieve displacement matching with a high-precision plate element model. A Bayesian decision tree and an artificial neural network (ANN) are then used to map the relationship between the twin parameters and the rigid arm length coefficients, respectively, to correct for stiffness. The reliability of these two machine learning methods was confirmed through mutual validation, with results showing that the ANN produced more accurate rigid arm length coefficients, while the Bayesian decision tree performed slightly less well. Both methods, however, successfully overcome the limitations of traditional beam elements, which do not account for nodal plate stiffness. Finally, large-scale bridge engineering examples using steel trusses demonstrate that correcting the rigid arm length significantly improves the calculation accuracy of commonly used beam elements. This approach also reduces the complexity of beam-plate coupling, making the modeling process more convenient, faster, and efficient.
Enacting Artful Knowing Through Collective Poetic Inquiry: “Space, Movement, Entanglement, Ambiguity, and Flow”
Authors: Pithouse-Morgan Kathleen , Pillay Daisy , Naicker Inbanathan
Published: February 2025

The article traces the authors’ polyvocal work at the interface of poetry, social cohesion, and in/justice in higher education, asking, “How is our poetic knowing artful inquiry?”, “How do we enact poetic artful inquiry?”, “What does poetic artful inquiry produce?”, and “Why does poetic artful inquiry matter?” Eight collective poetic artful inquiries were explored using a multilayered analysis design characterized by a progression of ever-more-concise poetic forms. The study was founded on the reflexive ubuntu principle of connectivity, caring for, and growing with others. Composing and interpreting three layers of poetry—pantoum poetry clusters, tanka poems, and a lantern poem—we identified the interconnected concepts of space, movement, entanglement, ambiguity, and flow, showing why and how collective poetic inquiry contributes to artful knowing in higher education. We offer this poetic conceptualization as a contribution to understanding enactments of artful inquiry, and encourage others to take it in new directions.
Artificial intelligence and personalization of insurance: Failure or delayed ignition?
Authors: Charpentier Arthur , Vamparys Xavier
Published: February 2025

In insurance, there is still a significant gap between the anticipated disruption, due to big data and machine learning algorithms, and the actual implementation of behaviour-based personalization, as described by Meyers (2018). Here, we identify eight key factors that serve as fundamental obstacles to the radical transformation of insurance guarantees, aiming to closely align them with the risk profile of each policyholder. These obstacles include the collective nature of insurance, the entrenched beliefs of some insurance companies, challenges related to data collection and use for personalized pricing, limited interest from insurers in adopting new models as well as policyholders’ reluctance towards embracing connected devices. Additionally, the hurdles of explainability, insurer inertia and ethical or societal considerations further complicate the path toward achieving highly individualized insurance pricing.
Straight Outta 4chan: Exploring the Album Art of the White Supremacist “Moon Man” Music Project
Authors: Peeler Grant , Pieri Zacharias P. , Grosholz Jessica M. , McCullough Martha
Published: February 2025

While there has been research on the cultural products of white power groups, this project qualitatively examines one piece of the contemporary far right ecosystem—white power music album covers. More specifically, we examine 99 album covers featuring “Moon Man,” an imaginary character developed by anonymous music artists to better understand the symbols and ideas of this movement. The study finds that Moon Man was present on 84.8% of record covers, along with depictions of firearms, Nazi symbolism, and pro-Confederate images as well as anti-Semitic and anti-Black imagery and examples of political violence. The album art of the Moon Man project serves as a potent tool for intimidation, as it actively advocates for white supremacy and racially motivated violence. Further research is needed to evaluate the content and musical elements of the album's lyrics, analyze consumer engagement, and develop effective approaches to counteract the increasing incidents of hate crimes.
Work–Family Enrichment Among School Counselors: The Roles of Coping and Transformational Leadership
Authors: Liu Yanhong , Hilts Derron , Tian Xihe , Gao Si
Published: February 2025

Work–family enrichment is defined as an individual’s experiences in one role being enhanced by their experiences in another role. Despite its theoretical and empirical significance in various fields, work–family enrichment has gained little attention in the school counseling literature. In contrast, interest has burgeoned in understanding burnout related to the school counselor role and in implementing comprehensive school counseling programs. This study aimed to provide a balanced perspective by investigating the roles of coping strategies and transformational leadership in facilitating school counselors’ work–family enrichment. Based on a national sample of 475 practicing school counselors, we tested a hierarchical regression model for the unique contribution of different coping strategies and transformational leadership to facilitating work–family enrichment, while controlling for race and sex. Our results supported a significant model that accounted for 15% of variance in school counselors’ work–family enrichment. Within the model, problem-focused coping and transformational leadership each uniquely contributed to school counselors’ work–family enrichment. We discuss implications to practice and potential future research directions.
Predicting handball matches with machine learning and statistically estimated team strengths
Authors: Felice Florian , Ley Christophe
Published: February 2025

We propose a Machine Learning model to predict handball games and derive insightful information for sport coaches. Our model, augmented with statistical features, outperforms state-of-the-art models with an accuracy beyond 80%. In this work, we show how we construct the data set to train Machine Learning models on past female club matches. We compare different models, evaluate them to assess their predictive capabilities and show that our statistical variables, estimating the strengths of the teams, appear as the most important features to the selected model. Finally, explainability methods allow us to change the scope of our tool from a purely predictive solution to a highly insightful analytical tool. This can become a valuable asset for handball teams’ coaches by providing statistical and predictive insights to prepare future competitions.
Validity of Mid-upper Arm Circumference for Identify Undernutrition and Overweight-obesity Among Reproductive Women of Flood-affected Region in Assam, Northeast India
Authors: Bharali Nitamoni , Singh Kh. Narendra , Mondal Nitish
Published: February 2025

Mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) has been recommended as an alternative indicator in the assessment of nutrition. The objective of the present study is to validate the feasibility of MUAC to determine both undernutrition and overweight obesity among reproductive women in Assam, Northeast India. The present cross-sectional study was undertaken among Mishing reproductively active women ( n = 1,056) from flood-affected regions of Assam. The study participants were drawn using the stratified-random sampling method. Anthropometric measurements of weight, height and MUAC were collected, and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. The Asia-Pacific population BMI cut-offs were utilised to determine undernutrition and overweight obesity. The linear regression analysis showed significant variation between BMI and MUAC ( R2 = 0.389; p < 0.01). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and Area Under Curve (AUC) showed that MUAC had significant predictive accuracy for undernutrition (AUC: 0.78), overweight (AUC: 0.77) and obesity (AUC: 0.88). The determination of severe undernutrition (AUC: 0.85) and moderate undernutrition (AUC: 0.81) strongly utilised for ROC-AUC analysis ( p< 0.001). The derived cut-offs of MUAC were found to be ≤22.8 cm, >23.4 cm and >24.8 cm for undernutrition, overweight and obesity, respectively. The result indicates a strong predictive accuracy of MUAC as an alternate measure against BMI to determine both undernutrition and overweight-obesity. Further, the validations are necessary to check the suitability of the proposed MUAC cut-offs for health outcomes and community-specific nutritional status among vulnerable segments.
‘Buyer Beware’: A Case Study of How to Assess the Reliability of Policy Advice
Authors: Fforde Adam
Published: February 2025

This article supports the assessment of policy advice prompted by the ‘servicisation’ issue. Advice to developing countries has long advocated industrialisation. However, structural change since the end of the Cold War has been servicisation, not industrialisation. This, and the lack of work on servicisation with many studies supporting industrialisation, show confirmation bias and problems managing anomalies. Shifts towards policies stressing services exist but are rare. Those using policy advice therefore need ways to manage such issues. This article shows how policy assessment can be done, partly by monitoring gaps between experienced realities and advocated policies, and partly through examination vulnerability to confirmation bias. Here, the latter stems from the standard analytical framework’s use of production functions that relies empirically upon the assumption that constant price sectoral GDP measures ‘output’, but it does not. Assessment of policy can also search for lack of attention by researchers to confirmation bias.