bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychometric assessment of the Persian adaptation of the attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help scale-short form
Authors: Nazari Abouzar , Garmaroudi Gholamreza , Foroushani Abbas Rahimi , Askari Azadeh
Published: January 2024

Background and purpose

Mental health disorders are a growing concern worldwide, with a significant impact on public health. Understanding attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help is essential in addressing these issues. In the Iranian context, there is a need for a reliable tool to measure these attitudes. This study aims to assess the validity and reliability of the Persian Adaptation of the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale-Short Form (ATSPPH-SF).

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2023, utilizing a convenience sampling method with 1050 participants aged 10 to 65 years in Iran.The ATSPPH-SF questionnaire, consisting of 10 items and 2 subscales, was employed. The questionnaire underwent translation and cultural adaptation, and its validity was assessed through qualitative face and content validities. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to evaluate construct validity. Reliability was assessed using McDonald’s omega coefficient and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. Data collection was conducted through an online survey.

Results

The CFA results indicated a two-factor structure for the ATSPPH-SF, with one factor representing openness to seeking treatment for emotional problems and the other factor reflecting the value and need for seeking treatment. The model demonstrated acceptable fit indices. Both McDonald’s omega coefficient and Cronbach’s alpha coefficient suggested good internal consistency for the scale. The mean total score for the ATSPPH-SF was 21.37 (SD = 5.52), indicating the reliability and validity of the scale for the Iranian population.

Conclusion

This study confirms the suitability of the short-form ATSPPH-SF with 10 items and 2 subscales as a valid and reliable tool for assessing attitudes toward seeking professional psychological help in the Iranian population. With no prior appropriate instrument available, this scale fills a crucial gap. It can be employed to measure attitudes among various demographic groups, aiding in the design of targeted interventions to enhance mental health literacy and reduce the stigma associated with seeking professional psychological help in Iran.
Social support, family resilience and psychological resilience among maintenance hemodialysis patients: a longitudinal study
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Qiu Yuan , Ren Liya , Jiang Hao , Chen Meijia , Dong Chaoqun
Published: January 2024

Background

Psychological distress is common in maintenance hemodialysis patients, and high psychological resilience can promote psychological well-being. The current research focuses on psychological resilience protective factors such as family resilience and social support. However, the trajectories of psychological resilience, family resilience, and social support over time and their longitudinal relationships in maintenance hemodialysis patients have not been fully explored yet. Therefore, this study aims to explore the longitudinal relationship between these factors.

Methods

Patients who received regular hemodialysis treatment for more than three months at dialysis centers of three tertiary hospitals in Zhejiang, China, were recruited from September to December 2020. A total of 252 patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria completed three follow-up surveys, including social support, family resilience, and psychological resilience assessments. A repeated measures ANOVA was used to explore differences in their respective scores at different time points. The cross-lagged analysis was performed in AMOS using the maximum likelihood method to examine the the reciprocal predictive relationships between these factors.

Results

Social support and psychological resilience remained relatively stable over time, whereas family resilience indicated a little increasing trend. According to the cross-lagged analysis, higher T1 social support predicted higher family resilience at T2 [β = 0.123, 95% CI (0.026–0.244)]. Further, the effects of T2 social support to T3 family resilience [β = 0.194, 95%CI (0.039–0.335)] and psychological resilience [β = 0.205, 95%CI (0.049–0.354)] were significant. Finally, the effects of T2 family resilience to T3 social support [β = 0.122, 95%CI (0.010–0.225)] and psychological resilience [β = 0.244, 95%CI (0.119–0.359)] were also significant.

Conclusions

The study showed that the directionality of the relationship appears to be from social support or family resilience to patients’ psychological resilience but not vice versa. This finding reminds healthcare professionals to emphasize the vital role of social and family resources in providing appropriate support and interventions for maintenance hemodialysis patients to promote psychological resilience and mental health development.
Bidirectional and cross-lag relationship between social media use and psychological wellbeing: evidence from an Indian adolescent cohort study
Authors: Maurya Chanda , Dhillon Preeti , Sharma Himani , Kumar Pradeep
Published: January 2024

Introduction

In an online era like today, the relationship between social media and depression among adolescents and young adults is erratic and still continues to be a debatable subject. The study aims to examine the association and bi-directional relationship between social media usage and depressive symptoms among the adolescent boys and girls in India.

Methods

The study uses data from two waves of Understanding the Lives of Adolescents and Young Adults (UDAYA) project survey conducted in two Indian states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Depression was measured by a Patient Health Questionnaire. Logistic regression has been used for analyzing the data comprising the same time period, whereas the bidirectional relationship between two time periods has been evaluated by Cross-Lagged Path Model.

Result

Findings suggest that the percentage of moderate depressive symptoms increased from 1.7% to 3.0% from Wave 1 to Wave 2. Depression among adolescent girls increased slightly from wave 1 to wave 2 whereas a slight decrement was noticed in the moderate form of depressive symptom among adolescent girls using social media for the two waves. Socioeconomic factors like education, age, gender played an important role in affecting depression among adolescents in both the Wave of the survey. The path relationship reveals that social media users in Wave 1 [β=0.22, p<0.001] were positively associated with social media users in Wave 2. Similar patterns were observed for depressive symptoms at both the waves of the survey. However, cross lagged relations between social media use and depression could not be established between the survey periods.

Conclusion

A significant degree of association was found between social media use and depression among adolescent boys and girls in the study. The present study concludes that factors like age, gender and education showed significant relationships with social media use and depression.
Recurrent acromegaly: a systematic review on therapeutic approaches
Authors: Maroufi Seyed Farzad , Sabahi Mohammadmahdi , Aarabi Seyed Sahab , Samadian Mohammad , Dabecco Rocco , Adada Badih , Arce Karla M. , Borghei-Razavi Hamid
Published: January 2024

Background and objective

Management of recurrent acromegaly is challenging for both neurosurgeons and endocrinologists. Several treatment options including repeat surgery, medical therapy, and radiation are offered for such patients. The efficacy of these modalities for the treatment of recurrence has not been studied previously in the literature. In this study, we aim to systematically review the existing cases of recurrence and come to a conclusion regarding the appropriate treatment in such cases.

Method

A systematic review was performed through PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane database to identify studies reporting the treatment outcome of recurrent acromegaly patients. Using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, the included studies were reviewed for primary and secondary treatment, complications, and outcomes of the secondary treatment.

Results

The systematic review retrieved 23 records with 95 cases of recurrent acromegaly. The mean time of recurrence was 4.16 years after the initial treatment. The most common primary treatment was surgery followed by radiotherapy. The remission rate was significantly higher in medical and radiotherapy compared to surgical treatment.

Conclusion

In cases of recurrent acromegaly, the patient may benefit more from radiotherapy and medical therapy compared to surgery. As the quality of evidence is low on this matter feature studies specifically designed for recurrent patients are needed.
Combined glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide in the treatment of Graves’ ophthalmopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xiang Qilang , Yang Mengling , Luo Wenxuan , Cao Yuzi , Shuai Shiquan , Wei Xin , Xiong Anji
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined glucocorticoids (GCs) and cyclophosphamide (CYC) treatment in Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO).

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and four Chinese databases (Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), China Science and Technology Journal Database (VIP), WanFang, and SinoMed) for any published randomized controlled trials (RCTs) produced from inception to December 1, 2023. Articles obtained using appropriate keywords were selected independently by two reviewers according to the established inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Findings

We retrieved 1120 records which were eventually reduced to 13 RCTs which were then included in this evaluation. Pooled results indicated that the experimental group (CYC/GCs) showed a higher response rate than control group (GCs or negative control) (RR 1.27; 95% confidence interval 1.19 to 1.37). The subgroup analysis showed that the difference in response rates among treatment protocols (CYC/P, CYC/MPS, CYC/DEX) was not statistically significant (p = 0.23).

Implications

The combination of GCs and CYC could be recommended as a therapeutic option for GO, especially in patients who experience recurrence after a withdrawal GCs, have a poor response to GCs, or cannot obtain monoclonal antibody agents for various reasons.
Using cultural historical activity theory to understand how post-graduate residents perform discharge planning at a medical center in Taiwan
Authors: Liaw Fang- Yih , Chang Yaw-Wen , Tsai Po-Fang
Published: January 2024

Background

Despite the importance of discharge planning in physicians’ education, currently in most countries, no identical training is provided. Difficulties in promoting physician discharge planning education in Taiwan are still noted. This study aims to find the physicians’ role of discharge planning training in educating post graduate year residents (PGY) in Taiwan.

Materials and methods

We took advantage of government and hospital policies that promote the discharge planning program to teach and implement it, beginning with PGY residents by incorporating it into their training program. We recruited 30 PGY residents who were attending their three-month general internal medicine training from 2018 to 2019. They were interviewed at the end of the program using cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT). Qualitative research methods were used to further understand how discharge planning and care was implemented.

Results

Trainees initially believed that they did not have any role in discharge planning. Using the cycle of expansive learning, we found that the role of physicians in discharge planning was unclear. There were still some inconsistencies in the teaching and implementation of the discharge planning program for PGY residents that needed to be resolved, but this study also let participants learn through practice to improve their identification of discharge planning.

Conclusions

This study analyzed the impact of a discharge planning program for PGY physicians in Taiwan. It showed that the program affected physicians’ practice and medical education, although some contradictions remain.
Effect of a supportive-educational program, based on COPE model, on quality of life and caregiver burden of family caregivers of heart failure patients: a randomized clinical trial study
Authors: Alaei Atefeh , Babaei Sima , Farzi Sedigheh , hadian Zahra
Published: January 2024

Background

Heart failure (HF) is one of the most common and spreading diseases worldwide. As HF symptoms progress, it is affected the quality of life and the caregiver burden of the family. The present study aimed to determine the effectiveness of the supportive-educational program, based on the COPE (creativity, optimism, planning and expert advice) care model, on the quality of life and caregiver burden of family caregivers of HF patients.

Method

This clinical trial was conducted on 90 caregivers of HF patients admitted to Isfahan in 2021. The samples were divided into experimental (n = 45 people) and control (n = 45 people) groups based on random allocation (card method). The experimental group received problem-solving skills based on the four components of the COPE model in six sessions during one month. to collect data, the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) and the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) were used in two groups before, after and three months after the intervention.

Results

There was a significant difference between the experimental and control groups regarding gender, but This confounding factor had no significant effect on the two components of quality of life and caregiver burden. There was a significant difference between the two groups in terms of the mean score of quality of life immediately(75.99),and three months after the intervention (78.78) (P < 0.05) and the mean score of care burden, immediately (16.60) and three months after the intervention (12.73) (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

One of the important duties of nurses is to implement educational-supportive programs for patients after the discharge of patients, These programs are family-oriented remotely for their caregivers.

Trial registration

This study was registered by the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials with decree code: IRCT20211128053202N1on 2022–02-20.
Triglyceride-glucose index is a risk factor for breast cancer in China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhang Jinghua , Yin Binbin , Xi Ya , Bai Yongying
Published: January 2024

Background

This research delved into the association between the risk of the Chinese population suffering from breast cancer (BC) and the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index.

Methods

A total of 2,111 sufferers with benign breast disease (BBD) and 477 sufferers with BC were enrolled, and their TyG index was measured. Participants with varying TyG index values were categorized into quartiles. Logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the relationship between the TyG index and BC risk. The diagnostic performance of the TyG index for different stages of BC was measured using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

The TyG index of BC sufferers exceeded that of BBD (P < 0.001). A continuous increase in the risk of BC was found to be positively correlated with an ever-increasing TyG index. In the unadjusted model, the risk of getting BC mounted with quartiles of the TyG index growing (P < 0.001). In a logistic regression analysis that included all confounders, the highest quartile of the TyG index was strongly linked to BC risk [1.43 (1.01, 2.02), P < 0.05]. Moreover, with the adjustment of potential confounders, a high TyG index was found to result in a 2.53-fold higher risk of being diagnosed with advanced BC.

Conclusions

The risen TyG index was positively correlated to the heightening risk of BC and had the potential to serve as a promising biomarker for BC. Individuals with a high TyG index ought to be mindful of the heightened risk of BC onset and progression.
14–3-3ε: a protein with complex physiology function but promising therapeutic potential in cancer
Authors: Zhang Yue , Yan Man , Yu Yongjun , Wang Jiangping , Jiao Yuqi , Zheng Minying , Zhang Shiwu
Published: January 2024

Over the past decade, the role of the 14–3-3 protein has received increasing interest. Seven subtypes of 14–3-3 proteins exhibit high homology; however, each subtype maintains its specificity. The 14–3-3ε protein is involved in various physiological processes, including signal transduction, cell proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, cell cycle regulation, repolarization of cardiac action, cardiac development, intracellular electrolyte homeostasis, neurodevelopment, and innate immunity. It also plays a significant role in the development and progression of various diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. These immense and various involvements of 14–3-3ε in diverse processes makes it a promising target for drug development. Although extensive research has been conducted on 14–3-3 dimers, studies on 14–3-3 monomers are limited. This review aimed to provide an overview of recent reports on the molecular mechanisms involved in the regulation of binding partners by 14–3-3ε, focusing on issues that could help advance the frontiers of this field.
Efficacy and safety of a novel pain management device, AT-04, for endometriosis-related pain: study protocol for a phase III randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ishikawa Hiroshi , Yoshino Osamu , Taniguchi Fuminori , Harada Tasuku , Momoeda Mikio , Osuga Yutaka , Hikake Tamiki , Hattori Youko , Hanawa Michiko , Inaba Yosuke , Hanaoka Hideki , Koga Kaori
Published: January 2024

Background

Endometriosis-related pain encompassing dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, and chronic pelvic pain, reduces the quality of life in premenopausal women. Although treatment options for endometriosis alleviate this pain, approximately one-third of women still experience pain even after receiving treatment, indicating the need for novel approaches to pain relief in those women. The Angel Touch device (AT-04) is a portable magnetic fields irradiation device that incorporates a combination of mixed alternative magnetic fields at 2 kHz and 83.3 MHz. A phase III trial confirmed the efficacy and safety of AT-02, a prototype of AT-04, for pain relief in patients with fibromyalgia.

Methods

This is a phase III, multicenter, prospective, randomized, sham device-controlled, double-blind, parallel study. The participants will be premenopausal women aged > 18 years who have endometriosis-related pain with at least moderate severity. Considering dropouts, 50 participants have been deemed appropriate. Eligible women will be centrally registered, and the data center will randomly allocate them in a 1:1 ratio to the intervention and control groups. Women in the intervention group will receive electromagnetic wave irradiation generated by AT-04 and those who in the control group will wear a sham device for 16 weeks, and both groups will wear AT-04 for another 4 weeks. The primary outcome measure is the change in the Numeric Rating Scale score at 16 weeks compared with the baseline. Secondary outcome measures are efficacy for pelvic pain including dysmenorrhea and non-menstrual pain, and chronic pelvic pain not related to menstruation, dysmenorrhea, and dyspareunia, and improvement of quality of life during the study period. Safety will be evaluated by device defects and the frequency of adverse events. The study protocol has been approved by the Clinical Study Review Board of Chiba University Hospital, Chiba, Japan, and will be conducted in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki and the Japanese Clinical Trials Act and relevant notifications.

Discussion

This study aims to develop a novel method of managing endometriosis-related pain. The AT-04 is an ultralow-invasive device that can be used without inhibiting ovulation, suggesting potential benefits to women of reproductive-age.

Trial registration number Japan Registry of Clinical Trials (jRCTs032230278).
Process analysis of the anaerobe Phocaeicola vulgatus in a shake flasks and fermenter reveals pH and product inhibition
Authors: Keitel Laura , Miebach Katharina , Rummel Lea , Yordanov Stanislav , Büchs Jochen
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The anaerobic gut bacterium Phocaeicola vulgatus (formerly Bacteroides vulgatus) has a significant role in the human gut microbiome. It can produce bioactive compounds with antimicrobial properties and industrially relevant organic acids like succinate. However, there is a knowledge gap in understanding the metabolism of P. vulgatus, as cultivation of anaerobic gut bacteria is challenging and usually conducted with enriched microbiota cultures. We aim to close this gap by characterizing this anaerobe bacterium in different cultivation conditions and scales.

Methods

In this work, axenic cultures were studied in a shake flask and 2 L fermenter scale to characterize the influence of initial pH, buffer concentration, osmolality, and product inhibition on growth and organic acid production by P. vulgatus. Both cultivation systems had online gas measurements for total gas and CO2 production. HPLC analysis generated closed carbon balances, accounting for all produced acids.

Results

Total gas transfer rates and CO2 transfer rates revealed that 65% of produced gas was attributed to H2, while just 35% was connected to CO2 production. A minimum buffer concentration of 50 mM MOPS and an initial pH of 7.3 were identified to mitigate pH inhibition in P. vulgatus cultivations with a defined minimal medium and glucose as substrate. The initial addition of lactate showed an inhibitory effect, starting at a concentration of 1 g L−1. On the contrary, initial acetate addition was beneficial for organic acid production. A comparison of a pH-buffered and a pH-controlled 2 L fermentation demonstrated a switch in acid production toward succinate under pH control.

Conclusion

The study provides insight into improved cultivation conditions for the gut bacterium P. vulgatus and demonstrates a successful scale-up from the shake flask to the 2 L bioreactor. By applying pH control in the bioreactor, growth was increased, and the organic acid production was switched from lactate to succinate. Even though P. vulgatus could serve as a production organism for interesting bioactive compounds and organic acids, further characterization and improvement are necessary to improve titers.
Burnout among family medicine residents: a cross-sectional nationwide study
Authors: Treister-Goltzman Yulia , Samson Tali , Rosenberg Reena , Granek-Catarivas Martine , Gaver Anat , Alperin Mordechai , Biderman Aya
Published: January 2024

Background

In addition to pressures typical of other medical professions, family physicians face additional challenges such as building long-term relationships with patients, dealing with patients' social problems, and working at a high level of uncertainty. We aimed to assess the rate of burnout and factors associated with it among family medicine residents throughout Israel.

Methods

A cross sectional study based on a self-administered questionnaire.

Results

Ninety family medicine residents throughout Israel completed the questionnaire. The rate of clinically significant burnout, assessed by the composite Shirom-Melamed Burnout Questionnaire score, was 14.4%. In univariate analyses several personal and professional characteristics, as well as all tested psychological characteristics, showed significant associations with burnout. However, in the multivariable logistic regression only psychological work-related characteristics (work engagement, psychological flexibility (reverse scoring), and perceived work-related stress) were significantly associated with burnout at OR (95% CI) = 0.23 (0.06–0.60), 1.31 (1.10–1.71), and 1.16 (1.05–3.749), respectively.

Conclusion

The integration of burnout prevention programs into academic courses during residency could explain the relatively low prevalence of burnout among family medicine residents in this study. Given the strong association of burnout with psychological characteristics, further investment in burnout prevention through targeted structured courses for residents should be encouraged.
Contraceptive dynamics among women with disabilities of reproductive age in Ethiopia: systematic review
Authors: Anshebo Abebe Alemu , Markos Yilma , Behera Sujit , Gopalan Natarajan
Published: January 2024

Background

In low-income countries, women with disabilities have limited access to essential sexual and reproductive health services and are disadvantaged socioeconomically. Even though some studies have been conducted previously, there are scanty findings on contraceptive use and associated factors among women with disabilities. Thus, this systematic review aimed to assess contraceptive use and associated factors among women with disabilities of reproductive age in Ethiopia.

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses [PRISMA] guidance is used to conduct this systematic review. Data were searched from electronic databases: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Google Scholar, and other relevant sources. Studies screening was done using Rayyan software. The findings were narratively synthesized using a socio-ecological framework for health promotion.

Result

Ten cross-sectional studies and 4436 women with disabilities of reproductive age were included in this review. According to this review, women with disabilities are less likely to use contraceptives, with a prevalence of 21.7% in Gondor City and 44.4% in Addis Ababa. The associated factors were identified and themed at individual, interpersonal, community, and institutional levels.

Conclusion

Overall, the review findings revealed that women with disabilities continue to encounter challenges ranging from individual level to disability-unfriendly health facility infrastructure or institutional level. Therefore, health professionals and other relevant stakeholders should draw attention to creating awareness towards contraceptive use at individual and interpersonal levels, ensuring accessible contraceptive services and disability-friendly health facilities.
Diet and monensin influence the temporal dynamics of the rumen microbiome in stocker and finishing cattle
Authors: Chai Jianmin , Weiss Caleb P. , Beck Paul A. , Zhao Wei , Li Ying , Zhao Jiangchao
Published: January 2024

Background

Stocker cattle diet and management influence beef cattle performance during the finishing stage, but knowledge of the dynamics of the rumen microbiome associated with the host are lacking. A longitudinal study was conducted to determine how the feeding strategy from the stocker to the finishing stages of production affects the temporal dynamics of rumen microbiota. During the stocker phase, either dry hay or wheat pasture were provided, and three levels of monensin were administrated. All calves were then transported to a feedlot and received similar finishing diets with or without monensin. Rumen microbial samples were collected on d 0, 28, 85 during the stocker stage (S0, S28 and S85) and d 0, 14, 28, 56, 30 d before slaughter and the end of the trial during the finishing stage (F0, F14, F28, F56, Pre-Ba, and Final). The V4 region of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene of 263 rumen samples was sequenced.

Results

Higher alpha diversity, including the number of observed bacterial features and the Shannon index, was observed in the stocker phase compared to the finishing phase. The bacterial amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) differentiating different sampling time points were identified. Dietary treatments during the stocker stage temporally impact the dynamics of rumen microbiota. For example, shared bacteria, including Bacteroidales (ASV19) and Streptococcus infantarius (ASV94), were significantly higher in hay rumen on S28, S85, and F0, while Bacteroidaceae (ASV11) and Limivicinus (ASV15) were more abundant in wheat. Monensin affected rumen microbial composition at a specific time. Transportation to feedlot significantly influenced microbiome structure and diversity in hay-fed calves. Bacterial taxa associated with body weight were classified, and core microbiotas interacted with each other during the trial.

Conclusions

In summary, the temporal dynamics of the rumen microbiome in cattle at the stocker and finishing stage are influenced by multiple factors of the feeding strategy. Diet at the stocker phase may temporarily affect the microbial composition during this stage. Modulating the rumen microbiome in the steers at the stocker stage affects the microbial interactions and performance in the finishing stage.
Autotrophic biofilms sustained by deeply sourced groundwater host diverse bacteria implicated in sulfur and hydrogen metabolism
Authors: Valentin-Alvarado Luis E. , Fakra Sirine C. , Probst Alexander J. , Giska Jonathan R. , Jaffe Alexander L. , Oltrogge Luke M. , West-Roberts Jacob , Rowland Joel , Manga Michael , Savage David F. , Greening Chris , Baker Brett J. , Banfield Jillian F.
Published: January 2024

Background

Biofilms in sulfide-rich springs present intricate microbial communities that play pivotal roles in biogeochemical cycling. We studied chemoautotrophically based biofilms that host diverse CPR bacteria and grow in sulfide-rich springs to investigate microbial controls on biogeochemical cycling.

Results

Sulfide springs biofilms were investigated using bulk geochemical analysis, genome-resolved metagenomics, and scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) at room temperature and 87 K. Chemolithotrophic sulfur-oxidizing bacteria, including Thiothrix and Beggiatoa, dominate the biofilms, which also contain CPR Gracilibacteria, Absconditabacteria, Saccharibacteria, Peregrinibacteria, Berkelbacteria, Microgenomates, and Parcubacteria. STXM imaging revealed ultra-small cells near the surfaces of filamentous bacteria that may be CPR bacterial episymbionts. STXM and NEXAFS spectroscopy at carbon K and sulfur L2,3 edges show that filamentous bacteria contain protein-encapsulated spherical elemental sulfur granules, indicating that they are sulfur oxidizers, likely Thiothrix. Berkelbacteria and Moranbacteria in the same biofilm sample are predicted to have a novel electron bifurcating group 3b [NiFe]-hydrogenase, putatively a sulfhydrogenase, potentially linked to sulfur metabolism via redox cofactors. This complex could potentially contribute to symbioses, for example, with sulfur-oxidizing bacteria such as Thiothrix that is based on cryptic sulfur cycling. One Doudnabacteria genome encodes adjacent sulfur dioxygenase and rhodanese genes that may convert thiosulfate to sulfite. We find similar conserved genomic architecture associated with CPR bacteria from other sulfur-rich subsurface ecosystems.

Conclusions

Our combined metagenomic, geochemical, spectromicroscopic, and structural bioinformatics analyses of biofilms growing in sulfide-rich springs revealed consortia that contain CPR bacteria and sulfur-oxidizing Proteobacteria, including Thiothrix, and bacteria from a new family within Beggiatoales. We infer roles for CPR bacteria in sulfur and hydrogen cycling.
Chest CT findings in severe acute respiratory distress syndrome requiring V-V ECMO: J-CARVE registry
Authors: Nishikimi Mitsuaki , Ohshimo Shinichiro , Fukumoto Wataru , Hamaguchi Jun , Matsumura Kazuki , Fujizuka Kenji , Hagiwara Yoshihiro , Nakayama Ryuichi , Bunya Naofumi , Maruyama Junichi , Abe Toshikazu , Anzai Tatsuhiko , Ogata Yoshitaka , Naito Hiromichi , Amemiya Yu , Ikeda Tokuji , Yagi Masayuki , Furukawa Yutaro , Taniguchi Hayato , Yagi Tsukasa , Katsuta Ken , Konno Daisuke , Suzuki Ginga , Kawasaki Yuki , Hattori Noriyuki , Nakamura Tomoyuki , Kondo Natsuki , Kikuchi Hitoshi , Kai Shinichi , Ichiyama Saaya , Awai Kazuo , Takahashi Kunihiko , Shime Nobuaki ,   J-CARVE registry group, Ishii Junki , Ogura Takayuki , Nakamura Mitsunobu , Shimizu Keiki , Shimatani Tatsutoshi , Masuda Mamoru
Published: January 2024

Background

Chest computed tomography findings are helpful for understanding the pathophysiology of severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, there is no large, multicenter, chest computed tomography registry for patients requiring veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V-V ECMO). The aim of this study was to describe chest computed tomography findings at V-V ECMO initiation and to evaluate the association between the findings and outcomes in severe ARDS.

Methods

This multicenter, retrospective cohort study enrolled patients with severe ARDS on V-V ECMO, who were admitted to the intensive care units of 24 hospitals in Japan between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2022.

Results

The primary outcome was 90-day in-hospital mortality. The secondary outcomes were the successful liberation from V-V ECMO and the values of static lung compliance. Among the 697 registry patients, of the 582 patients who underwent chest computed tomography at V-V ECMO initiation, 394 survived and 188 died. Multivariate Cox regression showed that traction bronchiectasis and subcutaneous emphysema increased the risk of 90-day in-hospital mortality (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval] 1.77 [1.19–2.63], p = 0.005 and 1.97 [1.02–3.79], p = 0.044, respectively). The presence of traction bronchiectasis was also associated with decreased successful liberation from V-V ECMO (odds ratio: 0.27 [0.14–0.52], p < 0.001). Lower static lung compliance was associated with some chest computed tomography findings related to changes outside of pulmonary opacity, but not with the findings related to pulmonary opacity.

Conclusions

Traction bronchiectasis and subcutaneous emphysema increased the risk of 90-day in-hospital mortality in patients with severe ARDS who required V-V ECMO.
Portal vein wedge resection and patch venoplasty with autologous vein grafts for hepatobiliary–pancreatic cancer
Authors: Asaoka Tadafumi , Furukawa Kenta , Mikamori Manabu , Hyuga Satoshi , Ohashi Tomofumi , Kazuya Iwamoto , Nakahara Yujiro , Naito Atsushi , Takahashi Hidekazu , Moon Jeongho , Imasato Mitsunobu , Matsuda Chu , Nishikawa Kazuhiro , Mizushima Tsunekazu
Published: January 2024

Background

Advanced hepatobiliary–pancreatic cancer often invades critical blood vessels, including the portal vein (PV) and hepatic artery. Resection with tumor-free resection margins is crucial to achieving a favorable prognosis in these patients. Herein, we present our cases and surgical techniques for PV wedge resection with patch venoplasty using autologous vein grafts during surgery for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and perihilar cholangiocarcinoma (PhCC).

Case presentation

Case 1: 73-year-old female patient with PDAC; underwent subtotal stomach-preserving pancreatoduodenectomy, with superior mesenteric vein wedge resection and venoplasty with the right gonadal vein. Case 2: 67-year-old male patient with PDAC; underwent distal pancreatectomy and celiac axis resection, with PV wedge resection and venoplasty with the middle colic vein. Case 3: 51-year-old female patient with type IV PhCC; underwent left hepatectomy with caudate lobectomy and bile duct resection, with hilar PV wedge resection and venoplasty with the inferior mesenteric vein (IMV). Case 4: 69-year-old male patient with type IIIA PhCC; underwent right hepatopancreatoduodenectomy, with hilar PV resection and patch venoplasty with the IMV. All patients survived for over 12 months after the surgery, without local recurrence.

Conclusions

PV wedge resection and patch venoplasty is a useful technique for obtaining tumor-free margins in surgeries for hepatobiliary–pancreatic cancer.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Wildfire risk exploration: leveraging SHAP and TabNet for precise factor analysis
Authors: Qayyum Faiza , Jamil Harun , Alsboui Tariq , Hijjawi Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Background

Understanding the intricacies of wildfire impact across diverse geographical landscapes necessitates a nuanced comprehension of fire dynamics and areas of vulnerability, particularly in regions prone to high wildfire risks. Machine learning (ML) stands as a formidable ally in addressing the complexities associated with predicting and mapping these risks, offering advanced analytical capabilities. Nevertheless, the reliability of such ML approaches is heavily contingent on the integrity of data and the robustness of training protocols. The scientific community has raised concerns about the transparency and interpretability of ML models in the context of wildfire management, recognizing the need for these models to be both accurate and understandable. The often-opaque nature of complex ML algorithms can obscure the rationale behind their outputs, making it imperative to prioritize clarity and interpretability to ensure that model predictions are not only precise but also actionable. Furthermore, a thorough evaluation of model performance must account for multiple critical factors to ensure the utility and dependability of the results in practical wildfire suppression and management strategies.

Results

This study unveils a sophisticated spatial deep learning framework grounded in TabNet technology, tailored specifically for delineating areas susceptible to wildfires. To elucidate the predictive interplay between the model’s outputs and the contributing variables across a spectrum of inputs, we embark on an exhaustive analysis using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). This approach affords a granular understanding of how individual features sway the model’s predictions. Furthermore, the robustness of the predictive model is rigorously validated through 5-fold cross-validation techniques, ensuring the dependability of the findings. The research meticulously investigates the spatial heterogeneity of wildfire susceptibility within the designated study locale, unearthing pivotal insights into the nuanced fabric of fire risk that is distinctly local in nature.

Conclusion

Utilizing SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) visualizations, this research meticulously identifies key variables, quantifies their importance, and demystifies the decision-making mechanics of the model. Critical factors, including temperature, elevation, the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), aspect, and wind speed, are discerned to have significant sway over the predictions of wildfire susceptibility. The findings of this study accentuate the criticality of transparency in modeling, which facilitates a deeper understanding of wildfire risk factors. By shedding light on the significant predictors within the models, this work enhances our ability to interpret complex predictive models and drives forward the field of wildfire risk management, ultimately contributing to the development of more effective prevention and mitigation strategies.
Effect of combining social rhythm therapy to treatment of bipolar disorder versus treatment as usual: a comparative study on a sample of Egyptian patients
Authors: Darwish Esraa , Mubarak Ahmed , Eissa Mai , Amer Reham
Published: January 2024

Background

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a common mental illness that is usually associated with significant morbidity causing critical impairment in socio-occupational functioning and even mortality. Social rhythm therapy (SRT) has been suggested as an adjunctive psychotherapy in BD treatment protocols, with its proposed benefits of accelerating recovery from bipolar episodes, delaying relapses, and upgrading patients’ functioning. This study aimed to investigate the outcomes of combining SRT with pharmacological treatment, as compared to pharmacotherapy alone, in a sample of Egyptian BD patients. Sixty eligible bipolar patients were enrolled in this comparative study by convenience sampling and randomly divided into two groups for comparison; group I included 30 BD-I patients treated as usual (TAU) with pharmacological treatment only, while group II included 30 BD patients treated with social rhythm therapy in addition to the traditional psychotropic medications. Manic and depressive symptoms as well as socio-occupational functioning were assessed at baseline and after 3 months of treatment using the Mood Disorder Questionnaire (MDQ), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and Socio-occupational Functioning Assessment Scale (SOFAS).

Results

Patients treated with SRT therapy showed significant improvement in their manic and depressive symptoms as well as socio-occupational functioning after 3 months of treatment by 65.76%, 55.87%, and 52.5%, respectively. Linear regression analysis showed that the gender and age of the patient could significantly predict improvement of MDQ% in group II, while none of the studied variables could significantly predict the percentage of change in HDRS or SOFAS.

Conclusion

SRT could be a promising adjunctive therapy promoting early recovery of BD patients compared to standalone pharmacological treatment.
Advancing subsurface analysis: Integrating computer vision and deep learning for the near real-time interpretation of borehole image logs in the Illinois Basin-Decatur Project
Authors: Faiq Adenan Mohammad , Fathi Ebrahim , Carr Timothy R. , Panetta Brian
Published: January 2024

The accurate quantification and mapping of subsurface natural fracture systems using borehole imaging logs are critical for the success of CO2 sequestration in geologic formations, optimization of engineered geothermal systems, and hydrocarbon production enhancement. However, traditional interpretation processes suffer from time-consuming procedures and human bias. To address these challenges and expedite fracture analysis, we investigated the application of integrated computer vision and DL workflows to automate image log analysis. Specifically, the design of our workflow was crafted to swiftly detect fractures and baffles by using actual electrical resistivity of borehole wall from microresistivity imaging device alongside their binary representation. This novel approach significantly reduces computational time while providing invaluable insights. By incorporating conventional logging and microseismic data, we present a regional subsurface natural fracture mapping technique. Through the minimization of human bias in image log analysis, our automated workflow achieves reduced fracture interpretation time and costs while ensuring robust and reproducible results. We demonstrated the efficacy of our approach by applying the workflow to the Illinois Basin-Decatur Project site. The automated workflow successfully identified major fractured zones, multiple baffles, and an interbedded layer with a high resolution of 0.01 ft or 0.12 in. (0.3 cm) and can be upscaled to any desired resolution. Validation through microseismic and image log interpretations allows for accurate and near-real-time mapping of fractures and baffles, significantly enhancing CO2 pressure forecasting and postinjection site care. Our approach stands out due to its robustness, consistency, and reduced computational cost compared with alternative feature extraction technologies. It presents exciting possibilities for advancing CO2 sequestration and engineered geothermal efforts by offering comprehensive and efficient fracture mapping solutions. This technology can contribute significantly to the optimization of CO2 sequestration projects, facilitating sustainable environmental practices, and combating climate change.
Psychosis as a potential mental health consequence of racism
Authors: Lazaridou F. B. , Heinz A.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Evidence shows that racism can have a negative effect on mental health in the lived
experiences of Black people and People of Colour. In critical theory discourse including
postcolonial and decolonial approaches, racism is suggested to be an everyday phenomenon.
Additionally, racism specifically targets the perceived cultural and phenotypic foreignness
of Black migrants and migrants Of Colour, as well as the ascribed migrant status attributed
to the perceived foreignness of racialized persons who do not actually have any direct
migration experiences.

Objectives

The stigma associated with severe mental disorders such as psychosis has historically
been applied to Black people and People of Colour who have been engaged in anti-racist
activism as a form of punishment and social control. Higher incidence rates of psychosis in
racialized communities have frequently been conceptualized as cultural differences in family
composition and levels of expressed emotion in families. The objective of this study is to
sensitively investigate psychosis as a potential mental health consequence of
racism.

Methods

The incidence rates of psychosis - positive symptoms, negative symptoms, non-affective
psychosis disorders and first episode psychosis - among migrants by country of migration were
compiled in an umbrella review, which offers a summary of meta-analyses. Quantitative
research has the limitation of enabling the observation of patterns but not allowing an
understanding of the reasons behind them to be theorized through the data. Therefore,
qualitative methods complement the quantitative data. Twenty people of diverse genders who
self-identified as Black people or People of Colour in Berlin were interviewed about their
experiences of racism and sexism and about how those experiences affected their mental
health.

Results

The umbrella review found an association between migration and psychosis, with
migration from the Caribbean and African countries showing the strongest correlation. A
constant comparative analysis of the qualitative data suggests that racism contributes to the
emergence of a subclinical psychosis symptomatology profile that consists of a sense of
differentness, negative self-awareness, paranoid ideation regarding general persecution, and
self-questioning with self-esteem instability.

Conclusions

The findings are interpreted as a situational diagnosis, as coined by the psychiatrist
and political philosopher Frantz Fanon in the seminal book ‘Black Skin, White Masks’ (1975).
The findings are also contextualized within a critique of institutional racism, both
historically and currently, and within an intersectional discussion of the need for
structural competency and the provision of safety for racialized groups in clinical
settings.

Disclosure of Interest

None Declared
Βιβλιοκρισία:V. FOSKOLOU and S. KALOPISSI-VERTI (επιστ. επιμ.), Intercultural Encounters in Medieval Greece after 1204. The Evidence of Art and Material Culture (Byzantioς. Studies in Byzantine History and Civilization 19), Turnhout: Brepols 2022
Authors: ΓΕΡΜΑΝΙΔΟΥ Σοφία
Published: January 2024

Βιβλιοκρισία: V. Foskolou and S. Kalopissi-Verti (επιστ. επιμ.), Intercultural Encounters in Medieval Greece after 1204. The Evidence of Art and Material Culture (Byzantioς. Studies in Byzantine History  and  Civilization 19), Turnhout: Brepols 2022
Ανέκδοτος κανόνας στον Άγιο Νικόλαο επίσκοπο Μύρων της Λυκίας από τον πατριάρχη Κωνσταντινουπόλεως Γερμανό Α΄ τον ομολογητή (ca 650-740)
Authors: ΣΟΥΡΜΠΑ ΜΑΡΙΑ
Published: January 2024

The present study presents the first critical edition of an unedited canon onSt Nicholas of Myra in Lycia composed most likely by Germanos I, Patriarchof Constantinople. The text is transmitted by three codices (Sinait. gr. 583, Sinait. gr. 590, and Athous, Lavrae Η 94), and the editio princeps of theabove-mentioned canon is accompanied by a detailed study of various aspects of the text, including its manuscript tradition, structure, contentand metre.
Βιβλιοκρισία: Jack ROSKILLY, De très savants pasteurs : Conceptions et pratiques de l’autorité des évêques dans la société byzantine des XΙe – XIIe siècles, Byzantina Sorbonensia 32, Éditions de la Sorbonne, Paris 2022
Authors: ΛΟΥΚΑΚΗ Μαρίνα
Published: January 2024

Βιβλιοκρισία: Jack ROSKILLY, De très savants pasteurs : Conceptions et pratiques de l’autorité des évêques dans la société byzantine des XΙe – XIIe siècles,  Byzantina Sorbonensia 32, Éditions de la Sorbonne, Paris 2022
Book Review: Mark EDWARDS, Dimitrios PALLIS and Georgios STEIRIS (eds.), The Oxford Handbook of Dionysius the Areopagite, Oxford University Press, Oxford 2022
Authors: ΒΙΓΚΛΑΣ Κατελής
Published: January 2024

Book Review: Mark EDWARDS, Dimitrios PALLIS and Georgios STEIRIS (eds.), The Oxford Handbook of Dionysius the Areopagite, Oxford University Press, Oxford 2022