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An inflammatory microenvironment has been shown to increase risk for malignant melanoma, suggesting that melanoma may be related to a pro-inflammatory state. Though Hashimoto's thyroiditis is one of the most common autoimmune diseases, there are no investigations of its relationship with melanoma. We aim to determine if Hashimoto's increases risk of developing melanoma. A retrospective, validated cohort of patients with a diagnosis of Hashimoto's between 2005 and 2020 were identified using the Olmsted County database. Patients were age and sex matched to controls without a Hashimoto's diagnosis. The primary outcomes were development of melanoma and time to first melanoma diagnosis. 4805 patients were included in the study, with 1726 (36%) having a diagnosis of Hashimoto's. Hashimoto's patients had no significant difference in risk of melanoma (relative risk 0.96, 95% CI 0.78–1.17) or nonmelanoma skin cancer (relative risk 0.95, 95% CI 0.86–1.06) compared with matched controls. This suggests that the local proinflammatory environment present in Hashimoto's does not contribute significantly to melanoma risk. Larger studies may be needed to further characterize the relationship between these diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 extends far beyond the immediate burden on healthcare systems caused by hospitalisation of patients with the disease itself. Objective: To investigate the impact of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on the referral rate of patients to the suspected head and neck cancer two-week-wait clinic. Methods: A multicentre retrospective study was performed investigating data collected for all patients attending the suspected head and neck cancer two-week-wait clinic in ENT departments in the West Midlands. Results: A total of 509 fast-track referrals were received from February to April in 2019, compared to 399 referrals in 2020. April 2020 saw a 62.4 per cent reduction in referral rate compared to April 2019. Conclusion: The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has resulted in changes to health-seeking behaviours, and healthcare provision and delivery. Urgent policy interventions may be required to compensate for the hidden impact that the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has had on those with cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crystalline TiO2 films of anatase, brookite, and rutile are reproducibly made from amorphous precursors deposited by RF magnetron sputtering, producing large-area, single phase films of uniform thickness. Sputtered amorphous TiO2 precursor thin films follow the general behavior observed for amorphous precursor thin films generated by pulsed laser deposition, namely, that oxygen deficiency is necessary for the formation of brookite and rutile. We quantify the oxygen deficiency and correlate it with the long wavelength optical absorption. We find that the precursor deposition rate is also a contributing factor to phase selection and that brookite and rutile form from films deposited more rapidly and anatase from films deposited more slowly. Sputtered and pulsed laser deposited amorphous precursor films prepared with similar oxygen deficiency and similar thickness result in the same final state after annealing, but the rate for sputtered precursors is slower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of GaAs1-xSbx epilayers (0.511-xSbx grown on (111)A-type substrate offcuts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A model capable of predicting pore characteristics and rendering representative images of porous materials is described. A long-term goal is to discriminate between open and closed porosities. Aerogels are modeled by intersecting excursion sets of two independent Gaussian random fields. The parameters of these fields are obtained by matching small-angle neutron scattering data with the scattering function for the model. The chord-length probability density functions are then computed for the model, which contain partial clustering information for the aerogels. Visualizations of this model are performed and compared to electron microscopy images and gas adsorption pore size distributions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

B Introduction: b Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is an aggressive B-cell lymphoma with hallmark somatic I IG i :: I MYC i chromosomal translocations. Additional analyses were performed using genomic, epigenomic and expression data from the BL and ICGC MMML-Seq genome sequencing projects to provide insight into the potential mechanisms by which the novel loci may influence BL risk in African children. GENOME-WIDE ASSOCIATION STUDY OF CHILDHOOD BURKITT LYMPHOMA IN EAST AFRICA IDENTIFIES A NOVEL GERMLINE SUSCEPTIBILITY LOCUS ON CHROMOSOME 21. [Extracted from the article]

We have optically characterized a series of GaAs[sub 1 - x]Sb[sub x] epilayers (0.19 < x < 0.71) grown by molecular bean epitaxy on semi-insulating GaAs substrates, with surface orientations of (001), (001) 8° toward (111)B, (001) 8° toward (111)A, and (l15)B. For each of these samples, we have investigated the absorption as a function of temperature (4 K< T < 300 K) using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy techniques. The band gap at each temperature was determined from the photon energy dependence of the absorption coefficient and compared with theoretical predictions. From our results we have obtained the Varshni coefficients, α = (4.2±0.1) × 10[sup -4[ eV/K and β = (189±9) K, which describe well not only the temperature dependence of the band gap for the entire alloy range of our samples, but also for the past experimental work of others. These values differ significantly from what we believe are the only other reported values by K. G. Merkel et at. [K. G. Merkel et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 65, 2442 (1994)]. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationships between Mg composition, band gap, and lattice characteristics are investigated for CdMgTe barrier layers using a combination of cathodoluminescence, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, variable angle spectral ellipsometry, and atom probe tomography. The use of a simplified, yet accurate, variable angle spectral ellipsometry analysis is shown to be appropriate for fast determination of composition in thin CdMgTe layers. The validity of using high-resolution x-ray diffraction for CdTe/CdMgTe double heterostructures is discussed. The stability of CdTe/CdMgTe heterostructures are investigated with respect to thermal processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There have been a number of studies on the fabrication of Sn-doped gallium oxide (Ga2O3:Sn) films with both conductive and transparent properties using a variety of deposition methods. However, often, synthesis results in films that are not transparent. In this paper, we examine the mechanisms underlying these results in Ga2O3:Sn thin films prepared at various growth temperatures, Sn concentrations, and oxygen partial pressures. With X-ray absorption spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy, we find that when films are grown under the oxygen deficient conditions there are Ga sub-oxide and SnOx phases in the Ga2O3:Sn thin film. These Ga sub-oxide phases are only found in non-transparent films, and so we infer that the Ga sub-oxide is responsible for the non-transparency. These observations suggest that to obtain transparent Ga2O3:Sn, films deposition or subsequent annealing must be carefully controlled in both temperature and oxygen partial pressure to avoid the formation of Ga sub-oxide [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Gastroparesis is characterized by delayed gastric emptying without mechanical obstruction, but remains difficult to diagnose and distinguish from other gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Gastroparesis affects the gastric slow wave, but non-invasive assessment has been limited to the electrogastrogram ( EGG), which reliably characterizes temporal dynamics but does not provide spatial information. Methods We measured gastric slow wave parameters from the EGG and magnetogastrogram ( MGG) in patients with gastroparesis and in healthy controls. In addition to dominant frequency ( DF) and percentage power distribution ( PPD), we measured the propagation velocity from MGG spatiotemporal patterns and the percentage of slow wave coupling (% SWC) from EGG. Key Results No significant difference in DF was found between patients and controls. Gastroparesis patients had lower percentages of normogastric frequencies (60 ± 6% vs 78 ± 4%, p < 0.05), and higher brady (9 ± 2% vs 2 ± 1%, p < 0.05) and tachygastric (31 ± 2% vs 19 ± 1%, p < 0.05) frequency content postprandial, indicative of uncoupling. Propagation patterns were substantially different in patients and longitudinal propagation velocity was retrograde at 4.3 ± 2.9 mm/s vs anterograde at 7.4 ± 1.0 mm/s for controls ( p < 0.01). No difference was found in % SWC from EGG. Conclusions & Inferences Gastric slow wave parameters obtained from MGG recordings distinguish gastroparesis patients from controls. Assessment of slow wave propagation may prove critical to characterization of underlying disease processes. Future studies should determine pathologic indicators from MGG associated with other functional gastric disorders, and whether multichannel EGG with appropriate signal processing also reveals pathology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rational-emotive behavior theory (REBT) is one of the most widespread and influential theories in psychology and psychotherapies. This theory explains how the individual evaluates the things that happen to him or her through the system of beliefs (rational and irrational). Rational beliefs are characterized by: logical consistencies, flexibility and correspond with reality, while irrational beliefs are characterized by: logical inconsistencies, absolutism and do not correspond with reality. People in their early adulthood have a number of challenges that they face in everyday life, and they assess the satisfaction of their life by their personal criteria that they have been already set. The need for fairness was also included as a variable. The aim of the study was to find whether there is a correlation between life satisfaction, irrational beliefs and need for fairness. Beside this, one hypothesis states for difference between men and women in the terms of degree in presence of irrational beliefs. The survey included people aged 30 to 40 (N=100), of whom 50 male and 50 female. The following measuring instruments were used: Life Satisfaction Scale (Diener, Emmons, Larsen, & Griffin, 1985) and General Attitude and Beliefs Scale (Di Giuseppe, R., Leaf, R., Gorman, B. & Robin, W. M., 1988). From the obtained results, we can see the following: life satisfaction is in a negative significant correlation with irrational beliefs (p < .05). Although, life satisfaction is in a negative significant correlation with the need for fairness (p < .05). There was no significant differences between men and women in the terms of degree in presence of irrational beliefs (p > .05). This study gives significant results that supports the essentials of REBT and other researches that have been conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing silicon nanoparticle (SiNP) synthesis techniques that allow for straightforward control of nanoparticle size and associated optical properties is critical to potential applications of these materials. In addition, it is, in general, hard to probe the absorption threshold in these materials due to silicon's low absorption coefficient. In this study, size is controlled through direct introduction of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) into the dilute silane precursor of plasma synthesized SiNPs. Size reduction by nearly a factor of two with high crystallinity independent of size is demonstrated. The optical absorption spectra of the SiNPs in the vicinity of the bandgap are measured using photothermal deflection spectroscopy. Bandgap as a function of size is extracted taking into account the polydispersity of the samples. A systematic blue shift in absorption edge due to quantum confinement in the SiNPs is observed with increasing flow of SF6. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra show a similar blue shift with size. However, a ~300 meV difference in energy between emission and absorption for all sizes suggests that PL emission involves a defect related process. This shows that, while PL may allow size-induced shifts in the bandgap of SiNPs to be monitored, it cannot be relied on to give an accurate value for the bandgap as a function of size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genome of Nugget virus, a serotype of the Kemerovo group of orbiviruses, consists of 10 segments of double-stranded RNA. The properties of the virus are consistent with its classification as an orbivirus, but the unusual patterns of separation of viral RNA and polypeptides compared with that reported for most other orbiviruses suggests the possibility of heterogeneity within the genus Orbivirus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laser-assisted atom probe tomography (L-APT) was performed on GaN nanowires (NWs) and axial GaN/InGaN nanowire heterostructures. All samples were grown by MBE on Si(111) substrates. The laser pulse energy (PE) at 355 nm used in L-APT analysis of GaN NWs was restricted to the range of 2-50 fJ in order to recover the correct GaN stoichiometry within experimental uncertainty. Higher PE at 355 nm generally returns an apparent (but unphysical) deficit in N composition for GaN. Axial GaN/InGaN NW heterostructures were also grown by MBE. In these experiments a GaN NW segment was first grown at 820 °C followed by GaN-capped InGaN marker layers grown variously at 585 and 615 °C. The capped InGaN markers were separated by GaN spacer layers. L-APT revealed that under certain growth conditions, In diffused throughout the quantum well region. These observations were corroborated by HRTEM. Moreover, L-APT performed on the GaN/InGaN NWs with PE = 2 fJ revealed that regions with dispersed In showed an (unphysical) N deficit but regions where the InGaN marker layers remained localized showed the approximately correct stoichiometry. Interestingly, even when the In markers remain localized, background In is still found in the GaN spacers between the markers. (© 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Devitrification in a Ni60Nb35Sn5 bulk metallic glass alloy is investigated below the glass transition temperature using cross-correlative TEM and atom probe tomography. As cast and post-anneal (500°C for 2 h) specimens were analysed in both the TEM and the atom probe to determine the extent and nature of any phase separation in the as cast material or devitrification in the annealed material. Furthermore, it was of interest to determine the accuracy of the atom probe reconstructions of both types of material. No significant compositional partitioning was observed in the as cast state, suggesting an amorphous material, and the atom probe reconstructions of these specimens were found to be consistent with the TEM data. The annealed specimens contained Nb and Nb oxide rich regions, Ni3Sn nanocrystals, and a significant build-up of oxygen at the boundaries between these nanocrystals and the remaining amorphous matrix regions. These oxygen enriched regions are shown to result in anomalous atom probe reconstructions that are inconsistent with the TEM analyses. It is theorised that the initial crystallisation of Nb and Nb oxide rich regions results in NiSn rich regions, thereby resulting in the formation of Ni and Ni3Sn crystalline precipitates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details of the molecular beam epitaxial growth of osmium silicide (OsSi2 and Os2Si3) thin films are presented. The study has been motivated by reports that OsSi2 has a band gap between 1.4–1.8 eV [L. Schellenberg et al., J. Less-Common Met. 144, 341 (1988); K. Mason and G. Muller-Vogt, J. Cryst. Growth 63, 34 (1983)], and Os2Si3 has a band gap of 0.95 eV [A. B. Filonov et al., Phys. Rev. B 60, 16494 (1999)] or 2.3 eV [L. Schellenberget al., J. Less-Common Met. 144, 341 (1988)]. Of particular note is that the Os2Si3 band gap is predicted to be direct, and thus has significant potential optoelectronic applications. The resulting films have been analyzed using reflection high-energy electron diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray reflectivity measurements, and out-of-plane x-ray diffraction. For low Si/Os flux ratios (∼1.5), both OsSi2 and Os2Si3 phases are observed. However, with a larger Si/Os flux ratio (∼4) the crystalline quality is greatly increased and only a single phase Os2Si3 is observed. We present our results and discuss our observations in relation to thermodynamic considerations and growth parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transmission spectra of liquid-phase epitaxy (LPE) Hg1-xCdxTe with Cd mole fractions in the range of 0.23 < x < 0.30 have been obtained as a function of temperature and thickness. The results are described using a model consisting of exponential (Urbach) absorption in the band tail region and band-to-band absorption, predicted by a Kane k · p model, for the above band gap region. Modifications to the Urbach and transmission expressions are found to be necessary to properly describe the shape, temperature, and thickness dependence of the spectra. A known composition gradient was found to be sufficient to describe the spectra obtained for thin (<20-µm) samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterization of thin film solid oxide fuel-cell materials can be difficult due to the range of porosities in electrodes and electrolytes as well as the nano-sized pores and particles. In this study, optical characterization techniques such as ultraviolet-visible transmission and reflection spectrophotometry are illustrated as methods for achieving information about the film density from the film refractive index as well as the film thickness. These techniques were used to investigate the sintering process of colloidal CeO2 on sapphire substrates and polymeric precursor-derived ZrO2:16%Y (YSZ) thin films on silicon over the temperature range 400-1000 °C, and the results were compared with traditional characterization techniques such as electron microscopy, profilometry, ellipsometry, and x-ray diffraction line broadening analyses. Most of the techniques were in good agreement with the CeO2 grain size changing from 5-65 nm and the film thickness changing from 0.8-0.5 µm. Comparisons of transmission and reflection spectrophotometry with ellipsometry illustrated that scattering effects from the porous CeO2 films caused an overestimation of the refractive index from ellipsometry, but allowed for accurate grain size measurements from transmission and reflection data. Both techniques were in good agreement during the sintering of the YSZ thin films, with the density changing from 90-100% theoretical after heating between 400 and 800 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) remains a challenge in the TB program of Taiwan, where 0.5% of new cases and 2.1% of previously treated cases were resistant to at least rifampin (RIF) and isoniazid (INH). Since >80% of our MDR-TB are new cases, genotyping of MDR Mycobacterium tuberculosis is implemented to facilitate contact investigation, cluster identification, and outbreak delineation. Methods: This is a population-based retrospective cohort study analyzing MDR-TB cases from 2019 to 2022. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) was performed using the Illumina MiSeq and analyzed using the TB Profiler. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) threshold of =12 and phylogenetic methods were used to identify putative transmission clusters. An outbreak was confirmed using genomic data and epidemiologic links. Results: Of the 297 MDR-TB cases, 246 (82.8%), 45 (15.2%), and 6 (2.0%) were simple MDR, extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (pre-XDR-TB) and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (XDR-TB), respectively. The sublineage 2.2 modern Beijing was the predominant (48.8%) MDR-TB strain in Taiwan. Phylogenetic analysis identified 25.3% isolates in 20 clusters, with cluster sizes ranging from 2 to 13 isolates. Nevertheless, only 2 clusters, one household and one community, were confirmed as outbreaks. In this study, we found that males had a higher risk of MDR-TB transmission compared to females, and those infected with the sublineage 2.1-proto-Beijing genotype isolates were at a higher risk of transmission. Furthermore, 161 (54.2%) isolates harbored compensatory mutations in the rpoC and non-rifampicin resistant determinant region (non-RRDR) of the rpoB gene. MDR-TB strains containing rpoB S450L and other compensatory mutations concurrently were significantly associated with clusters, especially the proto-Beijing genotype strains with the compensatory mutation rpoC E750D or the modern Beijing genotype strains with rpoC D485Y/rpoC E1140D. Discussion: Routine and continuous surveillance using WGS-based analysis is recommended to warn of risks and delineate transmission clusters of MDR-TB. We proposed the use of compensatory mutations as epidemiological markers of M. tuberculosis to interrupt putative MDR-TB transmission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Social media platforms have been used by various actors to bypass traditional media gatekeepers to share messages, draw attention, and accumulate influence. We study how actors from peripheral groups gain influence on social media and how their social media behaviors evolve over time. Integrating online strategic performance and hybrid media literature, we hypothesize that peripheral groups perform group identities to spur social media audience reaction and news media amplification, to which they further adapt their performance. By analyzing 242 QAnon Twitter accounts using topic modeling and time series modeling, we find that their in-group solidarity and out-group animosity tweets boost retweets, but not followers; increased retweets and followers drive news media amplification largely undertaken by right-wing outlets and motivate future performance of group identity, particularly of out-group animosity. The implications of social media and news media for the growth of peripheral actors and ideologies are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies have identified a clinical association between gut microbiota and Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), but the potential causal relationship between the two has not been determined. Therefore, we aim to utilize Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the potential causal effects of gut microbiota on OSA and the impact of OSA on altering the composition of gut microbiota. Methods: Bi-directional MR and replicated validation were utilized. Summarylevel genetic data of gut microbiota were derived from the MiBioGen consortium and the Dutch Microbiome Project (DMP). Summary statistics of OSA were drawn from FinnGen Consortium and Million Veteran Program (MVP). Inverse-variance-weighted (IVW), weighted median, MR-Egger, Simple Mode, and Weighted Mode methods were used to evaluate the potential causal link between gut microbiota and OSA. Results: We identified potential causal associations between 23 gut microbiota and OSA. Among them, genus Eubacterium xylanophilum group (OR = 0.86; p = 0.00013), Bifidobacterium longum (OR = 0.90; p = 0.0090), Parabacteroides merdae (OR = 0.85; p = 0.00016) retained a strong negative association with OSA after the Bonferroni correction. Reverse MR analyses indicated that OSA was associated with 20 gut microbiota, among them, a strong inverse association between OSA and genus Anaerostipes (beta = -0.35; p = 0.00032) was identified after Bonferroni correction. Conclusion: Our study implicates the potential bi-directional causal effects of the gut microbiota on OSA, potentially providing new insights into the prevention and treatment of OSA through specific gut microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than 75 arboviruses are indigenous to Australia, of which at least 13 are known to cause disease in humans. Alphaviruses are the most common arboviruses, notably including Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses, which contribute a significant public health and economic burden in Australia. Both can cause febrile illness with arthritic symptoms. Each circulates nationally across diverse climates and environments, and has multi-host, multi-vector dynamics. Several medically important flaviviruses also circulate in Australia. Infection with Murray Valley encephalitis or Kunjin viruses is less common but is associated with brain inflammation. Key research priorities for Australian arboviruses aim to understand clinical manifestations, develop timely diagnostics, and identify transmission cycles that permit the maintenance of arboviruses. While these can now be answered for a handful of notifiable alpha- and flaviviruses there are others for which non-human vertebrate hosts and competent arthropod invertebrate vectors are still to be identified and/or whose role in transmission is not well understood. One or more of these 'neglected' arboviruses may be the causative agent of a proportion of the many thousands of fever-related illnesses reported annually in Australia that at present remain undiagnosed. Here, what is known about enzootic cycling of viruses between arthropod vectors and mammalian and avian reservoir hosts is summarised. How and to what extent these interactions influence the epidemiology of arbovirus transmission and infection is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industrial development and population growth have increased the need for higher-capacity power transmission lines. Aluminum conductor steel-supported (ACSS) conductors, a type of high-temperature low-sag (HTLS) conductor, are now widely used in new designs and reconductoring applications. ACSS conductors are preferred over traditional aluminum conductor steel-reinforced (ACSR) conductors due to their high strength, low sag, and excellent thermal stability. These attributes have garnered significant interest from researchers, engineers, and manufacturers. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the structure, properties, testing methods, and environmental behavior of ACSS conductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the physical properties of a structure, such as stiffness, can be determined using some statical tests, the identification of damping parameters requires a dynamic test. In general, both theoretical prediction and experimental identification of damping are quite difficult. There are many different techniques available for damping identification, and each method gives a different damping parameter. The dynamic indentation method, rheometry, atomic force microscopy, and resonant vibration tests are commonly used to identify the damping of materials, including soft materials. While the viscous damping ratio, loss factor, complex modulus, and viscosity are quite common to describe the damping of materials, there are also other parameters, such as the specific damping capacity, loss angle, half-power bandwidth, and logarithmic decrement, to describe the damping of various materials. Often, one of these parameters is measured, and the measured parameter needs to be converted into another damping parameter for comparison purposes. In this review, the theoretical derivations of different parameters for the description and quantification of damping and their relationships are presented. The expressions for both high damping and low damping are included and evaluated. This study is considered as the first comprehensive review article presenting the theoretical derivations of a large number of damping parameters and the relationships among many damping parameters, with a quantitative evaluation of accurate and approximate formulas. This paper could be a primary resource for damping research and teaching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effectiveness of palliative gastrectomy for advanced GC remains a topic of debate. This study sought to establish whether palliative gastrectomy has an impact on prolonging survival. Methods: We carried out systematic searches in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and the EMBASE databases from database inception to July 2023 to gather studies that examined the connection between palliative gastrectomy and the prognosis of advanced GC. The study employed overall survival as the primary outcome, with the hazard ratio serving as the selected parameter to gauge the association. Subgroup analyses were performed to delve into potential differences within the included studies, categorizing them by study region and sample size in order to examine possible sources of heterogeneity. The stability of individual studies was assessed through sensitivity analysis. The analysis included 20 articles, encompassing a total of 23,061 patients. Results: According to the meta-analysis results, patients who underwent palliative gastrectomy exhibited a noteworthy enhancement in overall survival (HR: 1.49; 95% CI: 1.12–1.99; P = 0.006) in comparison to those who did not receive this procedure. There was no association between the type of surgery and the length of hospital stay, as revealed by the analysis (HR = -0.02; 95% CI: -0.84–0.81; P = 0.970). Conclusions: Based on this meta-analysis, patients with advanced gastric cancer who underwent palliative gastrectomy may experience an extended survival duration without a significant prolongation of their hospitalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to test the validity of the psychological health model of Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) in promoting mental well-being, with a particular focus on understanding the positive and adaptive emotional consequences of rational beliefs. A total of 542 participants (67.9% females), from diverse occupational backgrounds in Turkey, aged between 18 and 59 years completed questionnaires about rational beliefs and mental well-being. The findings indicate a positive relationship between rational beliefs and mental well-being. Specifically, non-awfulizing and unconditional self-acceptance beliefs mediate the relationship between preference beliefs and mental well-being. This study provides empirical evidence supporting the model of psychological health proposed by REBT, emphasizing the important role of specific rational beliefs in promoting mental well-being. The current findings provide important implications for practitioners who wish to integrate clinical psychology with positive psychology by emphasizing the importance of understanding the role of rational beliefs in the promotion of mental well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low frustration tolerance is one of the key concepts in rational emotional behavior therapy (REBT). The purpose of this study is to explore the factorial structure, reliability, and validity of the Romanian version of the Frustration Discomfort Scale (FDS), developed by Harrington (Clin Psychol Psychother 12(5):374–387, 2005b. https://doi.org/10.1002/cpp.465), within a non-clinical sample (N = 308) of Romanian teachers. For validation purposes, participants also completed several measures such as the Unconditional Self-Acceptance Questionnaire (USAQ) (Chamberlain and Haaga in J Ration Emot Cogn Behav Ther 19(3):163–176, 2001. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1011189416600), Attitudes and Belief Scale 2 (ABS2) (DiGiuseppe et al. J Ration Emot Cogn Behav Ther 36(1):47–79, 2018. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10942-017-0273-3), Teacher Irrational Belief Scale (TIBS) (Bernard Teacher irrationality and teacher stress, 24th international congress of psychology, Sydney, Australia, 1988), and Pupil Control Ideology Scale (PCI) (Willower et al. The school and pupil control, The Pennsylvania State University, 1967). Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) suggests that the initial four-factor solution from the scale development study received similar support to the one-factor solution found in some previous studies. Patterns of correlations linking the FDS total sum score versus the FDS 4-factor scale scores with other variables provide some support for the one-factor solution, mainly because it is a more parsimonious solution. Differentiating between several subcomponents of FDS does not bring discriminant validity in our non-clinical sample. Based on current preliminary validation, the FDS is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing frustration discomfort in a Romanian-speaking population as a single-factor construct. Our results do not exclude the possibility that future discriminant validity endeavors could support the utility of treating low frustration tolerance as a multidimensional construct since using a non-clinical sample is likely to impact the factorial structure of the FDS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Indigenous intimate partner violence (IPV) advocates are essential for Indigenous women experiencing IPV who seek support amidst personal and historic trauma. IPV advocates work with and on behalf of clients to identify resources and promote resiliency. Indigenous advocates share their personal IPV experience. They provide individual ways they halted intergenerational trauma, moved toward becoming healthy, and made changes in their personal lives which affect services provided to their clients. This study fills a literature gap as it examines the intersection of Indigenous IPV advocates' personal journey of ending intergenerational trauma as a path to promoting resiliency among their clients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dry eye disease is a multifactorial condition characterised by tear film instability, hyperosmolarity and ocular surface inflammation. Understanding the epidemiology of dry eye disease and recognising both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors can assist eye care practitioners in assessing, treating, and managing patients with the condition. This review considers current knowledge surrounding its incidence and prevalence, as well as associated demographic, systemic, ocular, and iatrogenic, and lifestyle-related modifiable risk factors. Population-based prevalence estimates vary according to the diagnostic criteria used to define dry eye disease, as well as severity and demographic characteristics of the population. Considering recent data and variable population demographics, conservative prevalence estimates suggest that 10–20% of the population over 40 years of age report moderate to severe symptoms and/or seek treatment for dry eye disease. Individuals with specific non-modifiable demographic risk factors may be at increased risk of developing dry eye disease. Advanced age, female sex and East Asian ethnicity have been identified as key non-modifiable demographic features predisposing individuals to dry eye disease. Systemic conditions that have been associated with an increased risk of dry eye disease include migraine, Sjögren syndrome, connective tissue disorders, mental health disorders, diabetes mellitus and androgen deficiency. Medications that may contribute to this risk include antidepressants, antihistamines, and hormone replacement therapy. Ocular and iatrogenic risk factors of dry eye disease include blepharitis, Demodex infestation, ocular surgery, blink completeness, contact lens wear, and topical ophthalmic medications. A range of modifiable lifestyle factors that can increase the risk of dry eye disease have also been identified, including low humidity environments, digital screen use, quality of sleep, diet, and eye cosmetic wear. Dry eye is a common disease affecting millions globally. Increasing knowledge regarding its associated risk factors can better prepare the eye care practitioner to successfully manage patients with this ocular surface disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Accessory minerals like zircon, rutile and monazite are routinely studied to inform about the timing and nature of geological processes. These studies are underpinned by our understanding of the transfer processes of trace elements and the assumption that the isotopic systems remain undisturbed. However, the presence of microstructures or Pb-bearing phases in minerals can lead to the alteration of the Pb isotopic composition. To gain insight into the relationship between Pb isotopic alterations from inclusions and microstructures, this study focused on inclusions from an ultra-high-temperature metamorphic rutile. The studied inclusions are submicrometer monazites, a common mineral rich in Pb but normally not present in rutile. The sample is sourced from Mt. Hardy, Napier Complex, East Antarctica, an ultra-high-temperature (UHT) metamorphic terrane. By applying correlative analytical techniques, including electron backscatter diffraction mapping, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and atom probe tomography, it is shown that monazite inclusions are often in contact with low-angle boundaries and yield no preferred orientation. TEM analysis shows the monazite core has a mottled texture due to the presence of radiation damage and nanoclusters associated with the radiation damage defects that are rich in U, Pb, and Ca. Some monazites exhibit a core-rim structure. The rim yields clusters composed of Ca- and Li-phosphate that enclose Pb nanoclusters that are only present in small amounts compared to the core, with Pb likely diffused into the rutile-monazite interface. These textures are the result of two stages of Pb mobility. Initial Pb segregation was driven by volume diffusion during UHT metamorphism (2500 Ma). The second stage is a stress-induced recrystallization during exhumation, leading to recrystallization of the monazite rim and trace element transport. The isotopic signature of Pb trapped within the rutile-monazite interface constrains the timing of Pb mobility to ca. 550 Ma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although tourist-to-tourist interaction (TTI) has been identified as an essential element in tourist experiences, the effect of TTI quality on tourist loyalty, and the mechanism underlying this effect is scarcely discussed in the literature. Based on the self-determination theory, this study aims to examine whether and how TTI quality influences tourist loyalty, representing a significant means to achieve destination sustainability. More specifically, this study tested a moderated mediation model in which basic psychological needs satisfaction mediated the relationship between TTI quality and tourist loyalty, while sociability moderated the link between TTI quality and basic psychological needs satisfaction. A survey research approach was used, and 746 complete, usable responses were collected in multiple cities in China. The results revealed that the direct impact of TTI quality on tourist loyalty is mediated by basic psychological needs satisfaction. Furthermore, sociability positively moderates the influence of TTI quality on tourist loyalty. This study extends the TTI literature by demonstrating the mechanism of basic psychological needs satisfaction and tourists' sociability in the relationship between TTI quality and tourist loyalty. Managerial suggestions are provided for industry practitioners to improve tourist relationship management and the sustainability of destinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Duodeno-duodenostomy (DD) has been proposed as a more physiological alternative to conventional duodeno-jejunostomy (DJ) for pancreas transplantation. Accessibility of percutaneous biopsies in these grafts has not yet been assessed. We conducted a retrospective study including all pancreatic percutaneous graft biopsies requested between November 2009 and July 2021. Whenever possible, biopsies were performed under ultrasound (US) guidance or computed tomography (CT) guidance when the US approach failed. Patients were classified into two groups according to surgical technique (DJ and DD). Accessibility, success for histological diagnosis and complications were compared. Biopsy was performed in 93/136 (68.4%) patients in the DJ group and 116/132 (87.9%) of the DD group (p = 0.0001). The graft was not accessible for biopsy mainly due to intestinal loop interposition (n = 29 DJ, n = 10 DD). Adequate sample for histological diagnosis was obtained in 86/93 (92.5%) of the DJ group and 102/116 (87.9%) of the DD group (p = 0.2777). One minor complication was noted in the DD group. The retrocolic position of the DD pancreatic graft does not limit access to percutaneous biopsy. This is a safe technique with a high histological diagnostic success rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: In our study, we aimed to adapt the Suicide Crisis Inventory (SCI), which can be used specifically to assess the acute phase of suicide, to the Turkish population by examining its Turkish validity and reliability in a non-clinical sample. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, a total of 300 university students aged 18-24 years were evaluated online using the Socio-demographic and Clinical Data Form, the SCI, and the Suicide Behavior Questionnaire (SBQ). Criterion validity, discriminative validity, and factor analyses (exploratory and confirmatory) were conducted for the validity of the SCI, and internal consistency and item-total correlations were examined for reliability analyses. Additionally, a linear regression model was constructed to assess the predictive validity of the SCI. The predictive validity of past SCI scores was evaluated using a simple regression model. Results: When the linear regression model was tested with SCI scores as the independent variable and SBQ scores as the dependent variable [F(1-298)=203.625; P=.000], it was found that the independent variable explained 41% of the variance in the dependent variable (r =0.637; r² =0.406). SCI scores significantly predicted SBQ scores (t = 14.270; B=0.047; Bsth=0.003; β=0.647; P=.000). In the validity analysis, the items removed from the scale could be evaluated for the total score, as they did not belong to any factor as originally specified. When items were removed, the total item reliability was Cronbach’s alpha=0.981. Conclusion: We believe that the SCI will be a useful tool in assessing short-term suicide risk in a Turkish sample and in conducting scientific research. The SCI was found to be sufficient for use in a Turkish sample for the evaluation of short-term suicide risk, considering some limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pulmonary fibrosis is a fatal lung disease affecting approximately 5 million people worldwide, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 50%. Currently, the only available treatments are palliative care and lung transplantation, as there is no curative drug for this condition. The disease involves the excessive synthesis of the extracellular matrix (ECM) due to alveolar epithelial cell damage, leading to scarring and stiffening of the lung tissue and ultimately causing respiratory failure. Although multiple factors contribute to the disease, the exact causes remain unclear. The mechanical properties of lung tissue, including elasticity, viscoelasticity, and surface tension, are not only affected by fibrosis but also contribute to its progression. This paper reviews the alteration in these mechanical properties as pulmonary fibrosis progresses and how cells in the lung, including alveolar epithelial cells, fibroblasts, and macrophages, respond to these changes, contributing to disease exacerbation. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of developing advanced in vitro models, based on hydrogels and 3D bioprinting, which can accurately replicate the mechanical and structural properties of fibrotic lungs and are conducive to studying the effects of mechanical stimuli on cellular responses. This review aims to summarize the current understanding of the interaction between the progression of pulmonary fibrosis and the alterations in mechanical properties, which could aid in the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is characterized by high mortality and morbidity rates. Vav guanine nucleotide exchange factors (VAVs), crucial for signal transduction between cell membrane receptors and intracellular mediators, have been implicated in carcinogenesis. However, their potential prognostic value in RCC remains unclear. The impact of 150 common VAV polymorphisms on RCC risk and survival was investigated in a cohort of 630 individuals. Publicly available gene expression datasets were utilized to analyze VAV gene expression in relation to patient outcomes. The VAV3 rs17019888 polymorphism was significantly associated with RCC risk and overall survival after adjusting for false discovery rates. Expression quantitative trait loci analysis revealed that the risk allele of rs17019888 is linked to reduced VAV3 expression. Analysis of 19 kidney cancer gene expression datasets revealed lower VAV3 expression in RCC tissues compared to normal tissues, with higher expression correlating with better prognosis. Gene set enrichment analysis demonstrated that VAV3 negatively regulates the ubiquitin–proteasome system, extracellular matrix and membrane receptors, inflammatory responses, matrix metalloproteinases, and cell cycle pathways. Furthermore, elevated VAV3 expression was associated with increased infiltration of B cells, macrophages, and neutrophils into the RCC tumor microenvironment. Our findings suggest that VAV3 gene variants influence RCC risk and survival, contributing to a favorable prognosis in RCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]