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This study examines the integration of AI chatbots into social work, with a focus on democratising AI for use in Narrative Therapy (NT). As AI becomes more accessible, social work encounters new opportunities to utilise these tools in practice, but also faces significant challenges. The study explores the feasibility of using customisable GPT platforms to develop an AI chatbot for NT sessions and assesses its performance. An autoethnographic case study was conducted using a chatbot configured with the OpenAI Assistant API to perform NT on WhatsApp. Findings suggest that while practitioners can configure the chatbot to guide users through NT stages and adapt to interactions, there are still limitations, such as the need for basic coding and technical knowledge for deployment and enhancement. The study highlights both the potential and the challenges of AI in social work, advocating for enhanced training, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the cautious development of AI-assisted practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Many individuals perceive Anorexia Nervosa (AN) as a part of their personal identity. Externalisation of the problem is a practice that is often taken up within NICE recommended treatments for AN. Dominant understandings of externalisation are that this practice involves making the "problem" a separate entity, external to the individual. It is an attitude taken by the client and family, stimulated by the therapist to build engagement with treatment and supportive relationships around the individual. However, there is a paucity of research exploring the therapeutic effects of this approach. This research aims to address this gap by exploring the role of externalisation in treatment for AN to elicit an understanding of how this practice is experienced including how it can help and hinder recovery. Methods: Thirteen adults with a current and/or past diagnosis of AN participated in semi-structured interviews. This qualitative study used a reflexive thematic analysis. Analysis: Participants described their experience of externalisation as a journey which is depicted by four main themes. 'Separating the AN from the self' reflects the tensions inherent in learning to distinguish between one's perceived sense of "self" and "the AN". 'Making sense of the AN' describes the experience of language forms used to separate the AN from the individual's identity. 'Feeling seen, or unseen as a person beyond the AN' illustrates the helpful and harmful effects of externalising practices on relationships. 'Navigating a complex relationship with the AN' depicts the effects of one-, versus two-way externalisation on the individual's relationship to AN. Conclusions: The notion of separating one's internal dialogue from one's concept of self may initially be rejected by the individual experiencing AN. However, as the individual develops trust in the therapist and becomes socialised to common forms of externalising language, they may begin to realise two sides within them, a perceived "healthy self" and "the anorexia voice". However, social-cultural discourses around eating contribute to ambiguity during the differentiation between these two voices, thus elucidating the effects of an absence of problem deconstruction alongside externalisation within ED-focussed treatments. Externalising practices were most helpful when led by the individual using their own experience-near language and least helpful when they did not permit the individual to feel seen as a person beyond the AN. Therapists, treatment teams and family members should be cognisant of the emotional effects of language used to externalise AN. Importantly, they should ensure that externalisation is practiced within the spirit of narrative therapy from which it originates. Plain English Summary: This research explores the experiences of individuals with current and/ or past experience of anorexia nervosa (AN) who received NICE approved psychological therapies in which their eating disorder (ED) was separated from their identity through externalisation. Within these therapies, externalisation is a therapeutic practice that involves viewing AN as an external entity or illness that is separate from the identity of the individual who is experiencing AN. Participants described how it was initially difficult to accept that their thoughts, feelings and behaviours were influenced by something external to them. However, over time, the individual experiencing AN began to trust in this idea which was proposed to them throughout treatment. This perception of their experiences had both positive and negative effects on their recovery. This research suggests that individuals experiencing AN, their therapists, treatment teams and family members should be curious about the emotional effects of the language forms used to separate AN from the person's identity. Language which empowered individuals in relation to their eating difficulties and which permitted individuals to feel seen, heard, and validated as a person beyond AN supported their recovery. The findings underpin the importance of individual-led externalisation and thus, practicing externalisation with adherence to the core narrative therapy principles which underlie this therapeutic practice. In doing so, externalisation may be used most helpfully to support recovery from AN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While there are negative stereotypes against children who have been through divorce, research indicates that there are a wide range of potential outcomes children can experience after their parents' divorce. Research indicates that there are at least four protective factors that lead to positive mental health and social outcomes for children of divorce: (a) external social support, (b) self-reliance and grit, (c) positive relationships with parents, and (d) resilience and self-compassion. These protective factors are then illustrated through a narrative therapy framework, which focuses on multiple possible realities, meaning making, perception of the client as the expert of their own experience, and the role of dominant discourses in the client's life and clinical intervention. A clinical vignette is then presented, depicting a teenage girl whose parents have divorced after an especially turbulent marriage. Narrative therapy's strength is that it helps the client develop cognitive distance between their sense of self and the problems they are experiencing. However, some limitations to this presentation are that it is highly theoretical and requires further quantitative research to explore the effects of narrative therapy on clients whose parents are divorced. Further research is required to explore the wide spectrum of outcomes children can experience after divorce and how clinicians can help children reach more positive outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chordomas are rare sarcomas arising from notochordal tissue and occur most commonly in the spine. The standard of care for chordomas without evidence of metastatic disease generally consists of en bloc resection followed by adjuvant radiotherapy. However, long-term (20-year) survival rates are approximately 30%. Chordomas are generally considered as chemo resistant. Therefore, systemic therapies have rarely been employed. Novel immunotherapies, including antibody therapy and tumor vaccines, have shown promise in early trials, leading to extended progression-free survival and symptom relief. However, the outcomes of larger trials using these vectors are heterogeneous. The aim of this review is to summarize novel chordoma treatments in immune-targeted therapies. The current merits, trial outcomes, and toxicities of these novel immune and targeted therapies, including those targeting vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) targets and the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), will be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PRACTICE IMPACT STATEMENTThis study examines the autobiographical memories of 84 individuals convicted of sexual offences. Our results indicate that despite their adverse childhoods, chaotic families, and compromised social competence, justice-involved clients can engage meaningfully in longform narrative interviews that contain probing personal and reflective questions about their early lives. In fact, many participants expressed gratitude that they were invited to engage and share their experiences in this way. This pioneering interdisciplinary study has important practical implications for providers of psychotherapeutic treatment who work with custodial and community samples of people convicted of sexual offences. We conclude by emphasising the value of narrative therapy and present directions for future research.Most therapeutic approaches offered in correctional settings emphasise a cognitive behavioural approach intended to dismantle cognitive distortions. Our results suggest that the willingness and ability of justice-involved individuals to participate in narrative therapy has been likely underestimated. Accordingly, this study will help clients and clinicians alike to make the treatment experience more personalised and meaningful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim of the present study was to compare the effectiveness of Transactional Analysis Therapy and Narrative Therapy on the fear of intimacy in women affected by marital infidelity. Methods and Materials: The research method was quasi-experimental with a pre-test, post-test design and a control group with a follow-up period. The statistical population of this study included all women affected by their spouses' infidelity who referred to counseling centers in District 4 of Tehran in 2022. A total of 45 participants were selected through purposive sampling and randomly assigned to two experimental groups and one control group. The instrument used in this research was Pollard's Fear of Intimacy Scale (IFS) (1998). The intervention included Eric Berne's Transactional Analysis (1950) and White's Narrative Therapy protocol (2017), conducted in 8 group sessions of 120 minutes each, twice a week, for the first and second experimental groups. Data were analyzed using mixed ANOVA. Findings: The results of the analysis showed a significant difference in the fear of intimacy between the groups in the post-test and follow-up (P<0.05). The results indicated that Transactional Analysis Therapy was significantly more effective than Narrative Therapy in reducing the fear of intimacy in women affected by their spouses' infidelity, with a significant difference observed between the two therapies (P<0.05). Conclusion: It can be concluded that there is a significant difference between Transactional Analysis Therapy and Narrative Therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertebral artery dissection is one of the causes of stroke and transient ischemic attack in young adults, with an incidence rate of 1.0–1.1 per 100,000 people. Vertebral artery dissection occurs due to a tear in the vertebral artery wall, which results in blood flow entering the blood vessel wall. The etiology of vertebral artery dissection is very diverse, which can be classified as intrinsic (such as anatomical abnormalities of the blood vessels) or extrinsic (such as trauma), and there are several rarer causes. The most frequent clinical manifestations include stroke, transient ischemic attack, neck pain, headaches, and vertigo. Management in this case comprises treatment according to symptoms in the form of intravenous thrombolysis, administering antithrombotic drugs, and endovascular therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The overall survival (OS) of patients with prostate cancer (PCa) who receive locally definitive therapy is generally better than that of patients who do not receive definitive therapy. There is no difference in the incidence of local recurrence or distant metastasis between treatment modalities. Because the prognosis of PCa is relatively good, many studies have focused on quality of life after treatment as an endpoint. However, a limited number of patients develop biochemical recurrence after definitive treatment for PCa and subsequently develop distant metastasis or die from PCa. Therefore, we believe that preventing local recurrence and distant metastasis and prolonging the OS should be emphasized when selecting a treatment modality for PCa. In this review, the significance and usefulness of radical prostatectomy and radiation therapy as the main modalities of definitive therapies for local PCa and locally advanced PCa were evaluated, as well as the outcomes of OS and PCa-specific mortality and the treatment options after biochemical recurrence to improve the oncological outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Care in the intensive care unit (ICU) often introduces symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (post-ICU PTSD) in individuals with prior adverse experiences. General practitioners play an important role in follow-up care. Case report: A 58-year-old woman developed post-ICU PTSD symptoms after she experienced sepsis. She received brief narrative exposure therapy (NET) from her general practitioner and experienced significant improvement of symptoms. Conclusion: A brief version of NET might be appropriate for the treatment of patients with mild to moderate post-ICU PTSD symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eating disorders continue to impact youth at staggering rates, with 13.2% of adolescents meeting DSM-5 criteria for an eating disorder by age 20. Integrating narrative therapy expressive art interventions with the healing power of group can meet the layered developmental needs of adolescents battling anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, or nonspecific eating disorders. This conceptual manuscript pulls from literature on expressive arts, adolescent eating disorders, group counseling, and residential treatment considerations using a narrative therapy theoretical approach. Expressive art interventions appropriate for serving adolescents with eating disorders in a residential treatment setting are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The world population is ageing, and China is no exception. The Chinese government attaches great importance to older adults' mental health in the increasingly ageing society. This study adopts a qualitative research approach to investigate how Narrative Therapy is applied from three dimensions in geriatric social work in the Chinese Mainland. There follows a discussion of the relationship between the three dimensions. It concludes with a recommendation on how to improve indigenization and specialization and build an evaluation tool combining qualitative and quantitative modes to promote better application in geriatric social work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This autoethnographic study, "Crossroads of Care: A Black Social Worker's Insights into the Lives of Black Men from Adolescence to Adulthood," explores the intersections of race, education, and mental health throughout the life course of Black men. Drawing on varied professional and personal experiences – from providing telehealth services for college students to being a resource within a predominantly Black high school – the research illuminates systemic barriers and profound effects of marginalization and isolation. Emphasizing evidence-based social work interventions and culturally relevant care, the study underscores the importance of narrative therapy and self-disclosure in addressing Black men's multifaceted needs. The findings contribute to discussions on racial equity in mental health and education, offering actionable recommendations for practitioners, policymakers, and educators to strengthen support systems. Advocating for a comprehensive care model, this research endeavors to empower Black men across various life milestones, enhancing well-being by addressing the complexities of race, education, and mental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Injury of the spinal cord causes motor and sensory dysfunction as well as pathological reflexes, leading to paraplegia or tetraplegia. The sequelae of traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) are a significant burden and impact on healthcare systems. Despite constant progress in medicine, traumatic SCI still remains irreversible. To date, no satisfying treatment that can enable neuronal regeneration and recovery of function at the damaged level has been found. Hundreds of experiments have been conducted on various possibilities of influencing spinal regeneration; some of them have yielded promising results, but unfortunately, the successes obtained in experimental animals have not translated into humans. Methods: This narrative review article presents the application of extracorporeal shock wave therapy (eSWT) in patients with SCI. The article has been divided into parts: 1) use of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for regeneration of the spinal cord after traumatic spinal cord injury; 2) application of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in spasticity after spinal cord injury. In both cases, the hypotheses of possible mechanisms of action will be described. Results and conclusions: A small number of clinical trials have demonstrated the potential of eSWT to influence the regeneration of the spine, as an innovative, safe, and cost-effective treatment option for patients with SCI. Some reports have shown that eSWT can improve spasticity, walking ability, urological function, quality of life, and independence in daily life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extended hospitalization for infection management increases inpatient care costs and the risk of healthcare-associated adverse events, including infections. The growing global demand for healthcare, the diminishing availability of hospital beds and an increasing patient preference for care within their own home have been the primary drivers of the expansion of hospital-in-the-home programmes. Such programmes include the use of IV antimicrobials in outpatient settings, known as outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT). However, OPAT practices vary globally. This review article aims to describe the current OPAT practices and challenges worldwide. OPAT practice begins with patient evaluation and selection using eligibility criteria, which requires collaboration between the interdisciplinary OPAT team, patients and caregivers. Depending on care requirements, eligible patients may be enrolled to various models of care, receiving medication by healthcare professionals at outpatient infusion centres, hospital clinics, home visits or through self-administration. OPAT can be used for the management of many infections where an effective oral treatment option is lacking. Various classes of parenteral antimicrobials, including β-lactams, aminoglycosides, glycopeptides, fluoroquinolones and antifungals such as echinocandins, are used globally in OPAT practice. Despite its benefits, OPAT has numerous challenges, including complications from medication administration devices, antimicrobial side effects, monitoring requirements, antimicrobial instability, patient non-adherence, patient OPAT rejection, and challenges related to OPAT team structure and administration, all of which impact its outcome. A negative outcome could include unplanned hospital readmission. Future research should focus on mitigating these challenges to enable optimization of the OPAT service and thereby maximize the documented benefits for the healthcare system, patients and healthcare providers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Hubei Open Vocational College is the property of Journal of Hubei Open Vocational College Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Research suggests that comics are effective at conveying narratives, promoting literacy, empowerment, and as a therapeutic intervention. However, there is a gap in research on the use of comics in art therapy. Aims: This study explored the potential of comics within an art therapy and narrative therapy framework. The primary research question explored the effectiveness of comics compared to single images in evoking narratives from past problems. The secondary research question examined differences in the representation of an event between the two formats. To address these questions, the process of depicting a past problem as a single image was compared to depicting the same problem as a comic. Methods: This study recruited 15 adult participants through convenience sampling. This was a non-clinical population consisting of individuals with no known psychological difficulties or history of psychological disorders. Participants evaluated the formats through a survey and verbal interview. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed to determine the formats' effectiveness. Participants' artwork was analysed for unique characteristics the comic evoked. Results: Data analysis indicated participants responded positively to the comic, which seemed especially effective at facilitating the narrative therapy technique of deconstructing. Artwork analysis indicated the comic evoked increased word inclusion, and unique representations of time and movement. Conclusions: These results support the hypothesis that comics are at least as effective than single images in eliciting narratives from past problems, and evoke unique characteristics. Implications: This study suggests the potential of comics in art therapy, encouraging further research and application. Plain-language summary: Research has suggested the effectiveness of comic creation as a means of communication and empowerment. However, there is a gap in research on the use of comic creation as an art therapy intervention. This study explored the potential of comics as an art therapy tool by comparing the process of depicting a past problem as a single image to the process of depicting the same problem as a comic. This was done in order to determine the effectiveness of creating a comic compared to creating a single image in depicting a past problem, particularly in eliciting a narrative from the problem. This study also explored how the representation of an event might differ in a comic versus a single image format. This study worked with 15 adult participants who had no prior history of psychological disorders. Participants first depicted a past problem as a comic and a single image and then completed a survey and a verbal interview comparing these two formats. Results indicated that participants responded positively to the comic format and that it appeared especially effective in helping participants break down the origins, impacts and actions involved in the problem. Examining participants' artwork also suggested that the comic format brought about unique representations of time and movement. The findings of this study suggest that comic or sequential art have potential for use in an art therapy setting. This study hopes to spark further research and encourage the use of comics in therapeutic settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVES: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression are common mental health disorders among refugees, and all require immediate mental health support to prevent short- and long-term detrimental health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of narrative exposure therapy (NET) in reducing symptoms of PTSD, depression, and anxiety among Syrian refugees residing in Jordan. METHODS: A two-arm randomized control trial was utilized. A total of 40 Syrian refugees aged 18 to 64 diagnosed with PTSD were randomly allocated to either the NET intervention group (n = 20) or the waitlist control group (n = 20) using a computer-generated allocation list with 1:1 allocation. PTSD symptoms were evaluated using the Arabic rendition of the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire, while depression and anxiety symptoms were appraised using the Arabic adaptation of the Hopkins Symptoms Checklist-25. Descriptive statistics were employed to characterize the sample and survey data. Independent t-tests were conducted to assess mean score differences in PTSD, anxiety, and depression between the intervention and control groups. RESULTS: Post NET intervention, significant reductions in PTSD (t = -10.00, P

Systemic models of couple and family therapy (CFT) are often categorized into two transtheoretical paradigms: modernism and postmodernism. Traditionally, these paradigms have been positioned in opposition to one another and are critiqued for their respective epistemologies and stances on the definitions of truth and reality. The binarizing of systemic models has created theoretical divisions in the field of CFT that restricts many clinicians from addressing the limitations and harnessing the benefits of each transtheoretical paradigm. Metamodernism, a philosophical paradigm that emphasizes theoretical pluralism, reflexivity, and dialectical processes, has arisen as a potential solution for addressing the philosophical tensions between modernism and postmodernism; however, there currently exists no approach to systemic therapy that aligns with the tenets of this paradigm. This article delineates the application of metamodernism in the field of systemic therapy through the presentation of Dynamic Narrative Therapy, an innovative approach to systemic therapy drawn from the integration of two foundational theoretical models (i.e., strategic family therapy and narrative family therapy). This integration synergizes the strategic concepts of circular causality and feedback loops as well as the narrative use of deconstruction, externalization, and narrative metaphor to illustrate a more comprehensive approach to the therapeutic change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grief and bereavement impact nearly every individual at some point of their lives, often having short or long-term physical and psychosocial impacts. Yet, these issues are rarely the focus of discussion, intensive therapy programs, or policy initiatives (Corr, 2002; Doka, 2002). This research explores the impacts of a closed group art and narrative therapy program in Ontario for individuals experiencing a grief or bereavement process following the loss of a loved one. It explores the grief experiences of art therapy participants during their time in the program, the nature, extent, and impacts of social and community connections that were made, how the program influenced grief over time, and the overall effectiveness of the program. This study suggests that art and narrative therapy hold great therapeutic potential as a tool to help individuals going through a grief or bereavement process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports a systematic narrative synthesis review conducted on the educational effectiveness of genre theory/systemic functional linguistics pedagogies for improving reading and writing outcomes in K-10 education within mainstream classrooms in Australia, the UK, the USA, New Zealand, and Canada. This framework has significant influence on reading and writing curriculum, teacher training, and literacy practices. However, its evidence base has never been systematically reviewed. An exhaustive database search sourced 7846 potentially relevant studies, which were screened according to guidelines for evaluating evidence through systematic narrative synthesis reviews and standardly applied criteria for educational evidence (e.g., The Centre for Education Statistics and Evaluation, What Works Clearinghouse). Very few peer-reviewed intervention studies with control groups and quantitatively measured outcomes were found. A surprising result. Those studies showing positive effects had flaws in research design and quality that preclude their use as educational evidence. This systematic review indicates that there is insufficient rigorous evidence of the benefits, or lack thereof, of genre theory/systemic functional linguistics–based approaches to teaching reading and writing within K-10 education, at least in terms of measurable outcomes for students. More high-quality research needs to be undertaken as the current research record is not sufficient to prove or disprove the value of this approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Art therapy fosters emotional healing and growth. This process can offer healthcare professionals (HCPs) novel insights into patients' medication experiences. We developed a Metaverse Art Gallery of Image Chronicles (MAGIC), which depicted patients' medication experiences symbolically as hero–villain portrayals. This gallery aimed to enhance healthcare students' learning through relatable insights into patients' medication therapies. A character sheet was used to craft patients' personifications of their medication experiences through an art-based narrative therapy approach. ChatGPT, NightCafe, Canva, HeyGen, and Camtasia were used to generate hero–villain portraits based on the character traits and mounted in MAGIC, which consisted of three virtual realms, each with a unique theme. Alpha-testing among sixteen Generation Z healthcare learners indicated that the content in MAGIC enabled them to understand the concepts of medication adherence (93.7%), art therapy (87.5%), and how patients related to their medications (81.3%). Perceived playfulness (rs = 0.925, p < 0.001), perceived compatibility (rs = 0.890, p < 0.001), and social norm (rs = 0.862, p < 0.001) were strongly associated with their behavioral intention to adopt MAGIC as an educational platform. The learners enjoyed their experience (6.31 ± 0.70), felt that MAGIC was interactive and engaging (6.25 ± 0.78), and had the potential to be more effective than traditional learning methods (5.94 ± 0.93). Furthermore, they would recommend it to others for their education (5.94 ± 0.85). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 2019, Hong Kong has been experiencing a social and mental health crisis caused by social unrest and the COVID-19 Pandemic. As a result, there have been reports of increasing family conflicts among secondary students. With the understanding that family support and positive relationships are crucial for maintaining the mental well-being of young people, narrative therapy is a practical approach for helping families shift from problem-focused perspectives to empowering strategies for rebuilding positive relationships. The study aims to report on the effectiveness of a pilot group parent narrative therapy workshop for family relationship harmonisation and enhancing parenting competency using quantitative and qualitative methods. The study participants included 34 parents from five local schools. The results indicated a significantly increased sense of parental competency, general self-efficacy, adult hope, and decreased parental stress. Qualitative reports and participants’ narratives also demonstrated the positive effect of the narrative therapy workshop on their parent–adolescent relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a global health concern with significant systemic implications, including a range of oral manifestations. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the oral and dental pathologies related to HCV, the etiopathogenetic mechanisms linking such conditions to HCV and the impact of direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy. Common oral manifestations of HCV include oral lichen planus (OLP), periodontal disease, and xerostomia. The pathogenesis of these conditions involves both direct viral effects on oral tissues and indirect effects related to the immune response to HCV. Our literature analysis, using PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, suggests that both the HCV infection and the immune response to HCV contribute to the increased prevalence of these oral diseases. The introduction of DAA therapy represents a significant advancement in HCV treatment, but its effects on oral manifestations, particularly OLP, are still under evaluation. Although a possible mechanism linking HCV to OSCC is yet to be determined, existing evidence encourages further investigation in this sense. Our findings highlight the need for established protocols for managing the oral health of patients with HCV, aiming to improve outcomes and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims at investigating the effectiveness of therapeutic storytelling in reducing body dysmorphic disorder symptoms among a sample of female adolescents in Irbid, Jordan. The study sample comprises 28 female adolescents who are randomly distributed into two equal groups, namely the experimental group and the control group. The experimental group (N = 14) participated in the therapeutic storytelling program while the control group (N = 14) did not participate in any intervention program. However, to achieve the objectives of the study, a scale of body dysmorphic disorder is used to collect the study data in the pre- and post-tests of the two groups while the follow-up test is applied to the experimental group only. After analyzing the collected data, the results of one-way analysis of variance and t -test showed statistically significant differences between the experimental and control groups. The scores average of the post-test on the body dysmorphic disorder scale was in favor of the experimental group, which indicates the value of the therapeutic storytelling program used. The results of post- and follow-up comparisons among the experimental group members indicate the absence of statistically significant differences between the post- and follow-up averages on the body dysmorphic disorder scale, which reflects the reliability of the program's impact. Plain language summary: This study investigates the usefulness of storytelling in reducing body dysmorphic disorder symptoms among female adolescents represented by a sample of 28 females from Irbid, Jordan. Using statistical analysis, the study concludes that the absence of statistically significant differences between the post- and follow-up averages on the body dysmorphic disorder scale reflects the reliability of the program's impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cryptococcus is an opportunistic fungal pathogen that can cause disseminated infection with predominant central nervous system involvement in patients with compromised immunity. Biologics are increasingly used in the treatment of neoplasms and autoimmune/inflammatory conditions and the prevention of transplant rejection, which may affect human defense mechanisms against cryptococcosis. In this review, we comprehensively investigate the association between cryptococcosis and various biologics, highlighting their risks of infection, clinical manifestations, and clinical outcomes. Clinicians should remain vigilant for the risk of cryptococcosis in patients receiving biologics that affect the Th1/macrophage activation pathways, such as tumor necrosis factor α antagonists, Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors, fingolimod, JAK/STAT inhibitors (Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription), and monoclonal antibody against CD52. Other risk factors—such as age, underlying condition, and concurrent immunosuppressants, especially corticosteroids—should also be taken into account during risk stratification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tree of Life Groups (a narrative therapy technique) have been used successfully in a number of paediatric populations. The group intervention aims to give children a space to express their difficulties whilst also holding in mind their strengths and hopes, thereby creating a preferred identity incorporating their physical health condition. No studies were identified which described this approach in a paediatric epilepsy population or involving siblings, families and the multidisciplinary team. Methods: The current paper describes a pilot intervention to facilitate a one-day psychoeducational Tree of Life group for children with epilepsy, their siblings and parents. Separate parent and sibling groups were facilitated concurrently. The groups were co-facilitated by Paediatric Psychology and Paediatric Epilepsy team members. Quantitative feedback was completed by the patient group. Patients, siblings, and parents provided qualitative feedback. Results: A total of 6 patients, 14 siblings and 15 parents attended the group. Quantitative feedback indicated some improvement in patients' confidence and knowledge of managing epilepsy, as well as some improvements in psychological adjustment and thoughts about epilepsy. 87.5% of patients and siblings detailed that they would recommend the group to others. Qualitative feedback from patients, siblings and parents indicated the helpfulness of relating to others and safely expressing difficulties. Conclusions: The results indicated that this pilot group intervention was well received by children with epilepsy and their families. Future studies incorporating a larger sample are warranted to explore this further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines Knut Hamsun's reactions to the new uses of proper names at the end of the nineteenth century, including the commercial use of celebrity names and trademarks. The topic is studied on three interrelated levels: Hamsun's hostile reaction to the modern advertising industry; his attempts to create a famous name for himself; and finally, his literary representation of these themes in his early work. The advertised name points to a threatening distance between private individual and public persona that raises questions about the possibility to express or communicate authentic identity. This tension is studied in "På turné," which revolves around the launching of the author's name "Hamsun," and in Mysterier , where the meaning of names as well as the novel's modernist narrative form are intimately linked to Hamsun's experiences of the emerging practices of advertising and branding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article argues that biblical narratives cannot be reduced to a set of propositions. Biblical texts can have a healing effect through an interplay of their content and form. The grasp of the content of a Biblical narrative which is stated in a set of propositions does not have the same effect as telling a story in which the same content is brought into an order or structure. Based on the findings of narrative trauma therapy and illustrated by the example of the Emmaus story, it is explained why this is the case. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most theories used to explore existential realities of clients were developed and informed by White Eurocentric philosophers, who overlooked the impact of race and racism on identity. At a time when Black men continue to experience threats to their survival, such as through the epidemics of racial violence and health disparities of COVID‐19, it is critical for professional counselors to appropriately incorporate racial and gendered perspectives into existential conceptualizations of client experience. In this paper, we identify four theoretical frameworks for clinicians to adopt in working with Black men's existential realities: Black existentialism, Black liberation narrative therapy, critical race theory, and radical healing psychotherapy. We locate these theories within the context of impacts from the dual pandemics of racial trauma and COVID‐19, applying mini‐vignettes to demonstrate how each theory can be responsive to the existential needs of Black men. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• We developed a structured narrative therapy-combined-with-a solution focus (NTCSF) program for nursing home residents. • Implementing psychological interventions is essential for well-being of older adults who moving into nursing homes. • Positive outcomes were reported in terms of psychological adjustment, depression, self-efficacy. The transition from the family home to a nursing home can be an emotionally stressful experience for older adults. This study aimed to examine the feasibility and effects of a narrative therapy combined with a solution focus (NTCSF) program on the psychological adjustment, depression, and self-efficacy of nursing home residents. A non-random concurrent controlled trial was conducted in Fujian, China that involved 81 participants (intervention = 41, comparison = 40) from four separate nursing homes. The control group received routine institutional care, while the intervention group underwent a three-week NTCSF program in addition to receiving routine care. In the variance analyses, significant differences were found in "psychological adjustment" (T = 4.007, P < 0.001) and "self-efficacy" (T = 3.204, P = 0.002), compared to the control group. There was no significant difference in "depression" (t = -1.550, P = 0.125) between the groups at the baseline, but the experimental group showed a significant decrease in depression (t = -2.204, P = 0.033) after the intervention. The NTCSF program was found to be effective in improving the psychological adjustment of nursing home residents. Trial registration This study was registered on the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (Registration No: ChiCTR-2100042767). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients suffering from acromegaly and Cushing's Disease (CD) face the risk of several clinical complications. The onset of diabetes mellitus (DM) is among the most important: exposure to elevated growth hormone or cortisol levels is associated with insulin resistance (IR). DM contributes to increasing cardiovascular risk for these subjects, which is higher compared to healthy individuals. Hyperglycemia may also be caused by pasireotide, a second-generation somatostatin receptor ligand (SRLs), currently used for the treatment of these diseases. Accordingly, with 2014 medical expert recommendations, the management of hyperglycemia in patients with CD and treated with pasireotide is based on lifestyle changes, metformin, DPP-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i) and, subsequently, GLP-1 Receptor Agonists (GLP-1 RAs). There is no position for SGLT2-inhibitors (SGLT2-i). However, a very recent experts' consensus regarding the management of pasireotide-induced hyperglycemia in patients with acromegaly suggests the use of GLP-1 RAs as first line treatment (in suitable patients) and the use of SGLT2-i as second line treatment in patients with high cardiovascular risk or renal disease. As a matter of fact, beyond the hypoglycemic effect of GLP1-RAs and SGLT2-i, there is increasing evidence regarding their role in the reduction of cardiovascular risk, commonly very high in acromegaly and CD and often tough to improve despite biochemical remission. So, an increasing use of GLP1-RAs and SGLT2-i to control hyperglycemia is desirable in these diseases. Obviously, all of that must be done with due attention in order to minimize the occurrence of adverse events. For this reason, large studies are needed to analyze the presence of potential limitations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Western Anatolia Journal of Educational Sciences (WAJES) / Batı Anadolu Eğitim Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Dokuz Eylul University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background/Objectives: Implant treatment in patients who require teeth extraction due to periodontitis presents a significant challenge. The consideration of peri-implantitis is crucial when planning the placement of dental implants. The predictability of implant treatment relies on the suitability of both hard and soft tissue quality. The aim of this article is to present a case report demonstrating a secure treatment protocol for implant procedures in patients with periodontitis requiring the extraction of all teeth, soft tissue management targeted at increasing the keratinized mucosa zone, and the provision of a reliable prosthetic solution. The secondary objective is to review the relevant literature regarding the significance of keratinized mucosa surrounding dental implants and its association with the occurrence of peri-implantitis. Case presentation: A 65-year-old female with generalized periodontitis, stage IV grade C and very poor oral hygiene came for treatment and rehabilitation of the lower jaw. CBCT revealed periodontal lesions and labio-lingual ridge dimensions in the region of teeth 34–44 from 8.0 to 10.2 mm. The first surgery included teeth extraction and periodontal lesions enucleation with simultaneous placement of four implants in the positions of teeth 32, 34, 42, 44. The second-stage surgery involved increasing the keratinized mucosa using two free gingival grafts. Conclusions: The present case report described the treatment process of the patient with periodontitis, including immediate implantation in the infected region, soft tissue augmentation using free gingival grafts and the ultimate placement of a bar-retained overdenture for final restoration. After two years of observation, despite questionable hygiene, no symptoms of gingival inflammation were detected. Furthermore, there is limited information in the literature regarding the correlation between inadequate keratinized gingiva and the occurrence of peri-implantitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While researchers have highlighted the emotional distress of migrant domestic workers who experience abuse by employers, less is known about long-term effects of the psychological abuse that they experience. Drawing from a broader ethnographic study of Filipino and Indonesian migration to Chile, we analyze three Filipina domestic workers' migration narratives to examine how they narrate and manage the long-term effects of psychological abuse in the domestic workplace that they experienced more than ten years earlier. Building on insights from medical anthropology and using narrative analysis, we contribute to discussions on migrants' mental health and psychosocial wellbeing by showing how these migrants seek to make meaningful sense of their previous experiences to deal with the enduring effects. We show that they construct alternative narratives that foreground their experiences as linked to structural factors and suggest that their psychosocial wellbeing is linked to their ability to subvert or derive meaning from earlier experiences of structural violence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: This narrative review assesses the literature on the effectiveness of erythritol/glycine powder air polishing (EPAP/GPAP) in non-surgical periodontal treatment (NSPT) in terms of improving the clinical and microbiological parameters of periodontium status after airpolishing debridement. Methods: A detailed search of the literature was conducted in the following electronic databases: Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. The inclusion criteria encompassed systematic reviews with meta-analyses that were published throughout the timeframe of 2014 to 2022, and human, peer-reviewed clinical studies examining the efficacy of usage of air-polishing devices in the treatment of periodontitis that were published between 2008 to 2022. Results: The search yielded 4 systematic reviews and 6 original research papers, encompassing a total of 8 clinical investigations. Conclusion: The selected literature lacked data that included a long-term evaluation of more than 12 months on the effect of air polishing powder in non-surgical periodontal treatment. Regardless of that, powder air polishing showed a comparable outcome compared with scaling root planning (SRP) with the superiority of powder air polishing in terms of antimicrobial effectiveness and exhibits better patient experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of college students’ depression, narrative therapy is beneficial to explore and challenge negative self-perceptions and beliefs contributing to their depressive symptoms. Narrative therapy was conducted through telecounseling using a video-conference platform with nine sessions for a female university student in her mid-20s with depressive mood, low energy, and suicidal thoughts, resulting in delays in her academic task fulfillment. She hardly finished her fieldwork reports and had not started her thesis after receiving a study period extension when majority of her classmates had graduated. The intervention was aimed to change client’s depression narrative to more empowered preferred stories shaping her new identity so she could graduate from her program. During the intervention process, the participant can finish her academic obligations and graduate before the due date. Discussion about the case is provided for practitioners interested in the narrative approach, supported by the worksheets and therapy stages explanation [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-ischemic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) represents a significant cause of heart failure, defined as the presence of left ventricular (LV) dilatation and systolic dysfunction unexplained solely by abnormal loading conditions or coronary artery disease. Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) has emerged as a cornerstone in the management of heart failure, particularly in patients with DCM. However, identifying patients who will benefit the most from CRT remains challenging. Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) has garnered attention as a non-invasive imaging modality that allows for the quantitative assessment of myocardial mechanics, offering insights into LV function beyond traditional echocardiographic parameters. This comprehensive review explores the role of STE in guiding patient selection and optimizing outcomes in CRT for DCM. By assessing parameters such as LV strain, strain rate, and dyssynchrony, STE enables a more precise evaluation of myocardial function and mechanical dyssynchrony, aiding in the identification of patients who are most likely to benefit from CRT. Furthermore, STE provides valuable prognostic information and facilitates post-CRT optimization by guiding lead placement and assessing response to therapy. Through an integration of STE with CRT, clinicians can enhance patient selection, improve procedural success rates, and ultimately, optimize clinical outcomes in patients with DCM. This review underscores the pivotal role of STE in advancing personalized management strategies for DCM patients undergoing CRT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]