Online self-compassion-based interventions on patient outcomes in patients with cancer: a systematic review

Mindfulness-Based Compassionate Living (MBCL) is an intervention developed to teach individuals to cope with physical, mental, emotional or relational stress in a healthy way. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of a short-term online version of the MBCL intervention on level of self-criticism and self-compassion in a non-clinical convenience sample. The participants were randomly divided into an experimental group and a control group. After the intervention and the follow-up, the experimental group consisted of 26 participants who were sent daily emails instructing them to complete the MBCL tasks for 15 consecutive days. At that time, the control group consisted of the remaining 24 participants who did not perform any of the tasks. Data collection was conducted through an online battery of questionnaires measuring level of self-criticism and self-compassion, which we administered three times – before the intervention, after the intervention and as a follow-up two months later. The data were analysed using the repeated measures ANOVA and paired samples t-test. In case of non- normal distribution, the Friedman test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used. The results showed a significant decrease in level of self-criticism and a significant increase in level of self-compassion after completion of the MBCL intervention, and the results persisted in the follow-up. The main limitations of our research are the small sample and high attrition rate. To conclude, the MBCL could also be administered in online format and have a lasting impact on self-criticism and self-compassion.

Purpose This study conducts a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to map the global research landscape on posttraumatic growth (PTG) in the context of cancer. While PTG has gained increasing scholarly attention as a positive psychological adaptation to trauma, no systematic evaluation has yet examined its research trajectory, key contributors, thematic evolution and knowledge gaps in the spectrum of cancer. This study aims to address this gap by identifying research trends, influential contributors, research hotspots and gaps, offering valuable insights to guide future investigations in the field. Design/methodology/approach A bibliometric approach was used using the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database. A total of 1,387 articles published between 1996 and 2023 were retrieved through a targeted search strategy. The statistical analysis was performed using the Bibliometrix open-source package of the R language environment. Findings The findings reveal a substantial growth in research related to PTG and cancer, with an annual growth rate of 11.49% over the past 28 years. The United States of America (USA) leads in research output, followed by China, Canada and Australia. Prominent contributors to the field include Richard G. Tedeschi, Crystal L. Park and Lawrence G. Calhoun. Psycho-Oncology stands out as the leading journal for disseminating research on PTG in the context of cancer. Keyword analysis further highlights key research hotspots, emerging trends and potential gaps in the evolving research landscape of PTG in cancer. Research limitations/implications The findings highlight the growing recognition of PTG as an essential aspect of cancer survivorship and psychosocial oncology. By identifying influential studies and under researched areas, this study offers a roadmap for researchers, policymakers and health-care practitioners to advance patient-centred care. Future research should prioritise interdisciplinary approaches and under-represented areas to deepen the understanding of PTG and its implications for cancer patients’ psychological well-being. Originality/value This study presents the first bibliometric analysis dedicated to mapping the global research landscape of PTG in cancer, offering a novel synthesis of its intellectual structure and developmental trajectory.

Microbiome and microbial dysbiosis have been proven to be involved in the carcinogenesis and treatment of gynecologic malignancies. However, there is a noticeable gap in the literature, as no comprehensive papers have covered general information, research status, and research frontiers in this field. This study addressed this gap by exploring the relationship between the gut and female reproductive tract (FRT) microbiome and gynecological cancers from a bibliometric perspective. Using VOSviewer 1.6.18, CiteSpace 6.1.R6, and HistCite Pro 2.1 software, we analyzed data retrieved from the Web of Science (WOS) Core Collection (WoSCC) database. Our dataset, consisting of 204 articles published from 2012 to 2022, revealed a consistent and upward publication trend. The United States and the United Kingdom were the primary driving forces, attributed to their prolificacy, high-quality output, and extensive cooperation. The University of Arizona Cancer Center, which is affiliated with the United States, ranked first among the top ten most prolific institutions. Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology emerged as the leading publisher. Herbst-Kralovetz MM led as the most productive author. Mitra A was the most influential author. Cervical cancer is notably associated with the microbiome, while endometrial and ovarian cancers are receiving increased attention in the last year. Intersections between the gut microbiome and estrogen are of growing importance. Current research focuses on identifying specific microbial species for etiological diagnosis, while frontiers mainly focus on the anticancer potential of microorganisms, such as regulating the effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors. In conclusion, this study sheds light on a novel and burgeoning direction of research, providing a one-stop overview of the microbiome in gynecologic malignancies. Its findings aim to help young researchers to identify research directions and future trends for ongoing investigations.

Background/Aim. Vojnosanitetski pregled (VSP) is the official scientific and professional journal of the University of Defence in Belgrade, Serbia. VSP is a peer-reviewed journal that publishes a wide range of scientific and professional articles. The aim of the study was to perform a bibliometric analysis of the 200 most cited articles published in VSP, and to assess the impact, significance, and scientific contribution of the journal. Methods. Using the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection (WoSCC) database, 2,664 articles published from 2008 to December 31, 2022, were analyzed, focusing on citation counts, author productivity, and collaboration networks. Results. The analysis revealed that the majority of the most cited articles came from Serbian institutions, with the University of Belgrade being the most prolific contributor. The top five most cited authors as well as the most cited article were identified, and a trend of increasing significance of research on bioactive compounds was noticed. The study also observed a shift in key word usage over time, reflecting changes in research trends within the journal. The collaboration network analysis showed a strong clustering among the leading authors, indicating a collaborative culture that contributes to the journal?s influence. Conclusion. Emphasizing the importance of targeted collaborations makes it evident that maintaining and expanding the journal?s impact on the scientific community is the key to improving medical research. Despite limitations such as reliance on a single database, the findings provide valuable insights into the journal?s role in advancing medical research and highlight the importance of targeted collaboration.

BackgroundPapillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common thyroid malignancy, and its distant metastasis (PTCDM), although uncommon, seriously affects the survival rate and quality of life of patients. With the rapid development of science and technology, research in the field of PTCDM has accumulated rapidly, presenting a complex knowledge structure and development trend.MethodsIn this study, bibliometric analysis was used to collect 479 PTCDM-related papers published between 2004 and 2023 through the Web of Science (WoS) Core Collection (WoSCC) database. Keyword clustering analysis was performed using VOSviewer and citespace, as well as dual-map overlay analysis, to explore knowledge flows and interconnections between different disciplines.ResultsThe analysis indicated that China, the United States, and South Korea were the most active countries in conducting research activities. Italy’s research was notable due to its higher average citation count. Keyword analysis revealed that “cancer,” “papillary thyroid carcinoma,” and “metastasis” were the most frequently used terms in these studies. The journal co-citation analysis underscored the dominant roles of molecular biology, immunology, and clinical medicine, as well as the growing importance of computer science in research.ConclusionThis study identified the main trends and scientific structure of PTCDM research, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and the crucial role of top academic journals in promoting high-quality research. The findings not only provide valuable information for basic and clinical research on thyroid cancer but also offer guidance for future research directions.

The rapid spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has attracted worldwide attention. There were also reported gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with COVID-19. This work aims to analyze the global research trends in COVID-19 and digestive disease. The related papers on COVID-19 and digestive disease were identified with Pubmed and web of science core collection on September 3, 2021. Bibliometric visualization was conducted through VOSviewer and CiteSpace. The analytic research was based on original articles and reviews. There were 997 articles found, with citations ranging from 0 to 878. These articles were distributed among 86 countries and 355 journals. The USA mainly contributed (288 articles), where 3 of the top 10 institutions were located. Followed by China (215 articles) and Italy (160 articles). The highest level of scientific collaboration has been formed between the USA to China. The World Journal of Gastroenterology (39 papers) published the most significant number of articles. Concerning the research topic, the colon/small bowel had the largest number of articles, followed by the liver and pancreaticobiliary. "Liver injury," "inflammatory bowel disease," "management," and "endoscopy" were the hotspot keywords. The largest cluster of liver transplantation had offered hints regarding research frontiers. The analytic results showed that the liver, especially liver transplantation, and inflammatory bowel disease were the 2 most influential research topics in COVID-19 and digestive disease.

The aim of this study is to make a bibliometric analysis of the articles on higher order thinking skills in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. Since the research topic has a universal dimension, it is considered important to describe the current situation as it will add a broader perspective to future studies on higher order thinking skills. Bibliometric analysis method was used to examine the articles on higher order thinking skills in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database in terms of various variables. In this study, for bibliometric mapping analysis, the Web of Science Categories database was extensively searched on 17.09.2024, including the years 1970/2024 and under the subject headings "Metacognitive thinking skills" (Topic) or "Reflective thinking skills" (Topic) or "Creative thinking skills" (Topic) or "Critical thinking skills" in the search query. In the process of data analysis, descriptive characteristics of the studies on thinking skills were determined and the most effective journals on high-level thinking skills were identified. In addition, in the process of data analysis, the sources were categorized according to Bradford's law and the most cited articles worldwide were determined. On the other hand, the most influential authors on higher order thinking skills and the most frequently used keywords related to the subject together with the influential countries according to scientific production and citations were determined, and current research topics related to higher order thinking skills were identified.

Hypertension poses a significant public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa due to various risk factors. Community-based intervention for prevention and control of hypertension is an effective strategy to minimize the negative health outcomes. However, comprehensive systematic review evidence to inform effective community-based interventions for prevention and control of hypertension in low resource settings is lacking. This study aimed to synthesize the effectiveness of community-based interventions on prevention and control of hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa. A comprehensive search for studies was carried out on PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science Core Collection, Embase, Scopus, and Google scholar databases. The result of the review was reported according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies published in English language were included. Two independent reviewers conducted critical appraisal of included studies and extracted the data using predefined excel sheet. Experimental, quasi experimental, cohort and analytical cross-sectional studies conducted on adults who have received community-based interventions for prevention and controls of hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa were included. In this systematic review, a total of eight studies were included, comprising of two interventional studies, two quasi-experimental studies, three cohort studies, and one comparative cross-sectional study. The interventions included health education, health promotion, home-based screening and diagnosis, as well as referral and treatment of hypertensive patients. The sample sizes ranged from 236 to 13,412 in the intervention group and 346 to 6,398 in the control group. This systematic review shows the effect of community-based interventions on reduction of systolic and diastolic blood pressure. However, the existing evidence is inconsistence and not strong enough to synthesize the effect of community-based interventions for the prevention and control of hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa. Hence, further primary studies need on the effect of community-based interventions for the prevention and control of hypertension in sub-Saharan Africa. Systematic review registration number: PROSPERO CRD42022342823.

To consider the approaches within Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) databases for limiting geographically. To compare the limits to an adaptation of NICE's UK MEDLINE filter for use on WoSCC databases. We tested and appraised the inbuilt functions and search field options that support identification by countries/regions and affiliations. We compared these with an adapted filter to identify healthcare research on or about the UK. We calculated the recall of the inbuilt limits and filter using 177 studies and investigated why records were missed. We also calculated the percentage reduction of the overall number-needed-to-screen (ONNS). Inbuilt limits within WoSCC enable identification of research from specific countries/regions or affiliations if there is data in the address field. Refining by affiliations allows retrieval of research where affiliations are in the 200 or 500 most frequent for a set of results. An adaptation of the UK MEDLINE filter achieved an average of 97% recall. ONNS was significantly reduced using the filter. However, studies where the countries or regions are only mentioned within the full text or other non-searchable fields will be missed. Information specialists should consider how inbuilt geographic limits operate on WoSCC and whether these are suitable for their research. The adapted filter can sensitively limit to the UK and could be useful for systematic reviews due to its high recall and ability to significantly reduce ONNS. Geographic filters can be feasible to adapt for use on WoSCC databases (where similar search fields are used between platforms).

Тренинг по развитию сострадания (ССТ) – это метод обучения, направленный на развитие сострадания, включающий различные медитативные практики и упражнения, улучшающие психическое и эмоциональное благополучие, сочувствие и доброту по отношению к другим и к себе. Цель исследования состояла в том, чтобы проанализировать влияние сокращенного онлайн-обучения «Тренинг по развитию сострадания» на уровень самокритики и сострадания к себе в доступной неклинической выборке из 117 участников. Данные были собраны до обучения, сразу после и через два месяца после завершения тренинга по развитию сострадания. Все участники были случайным образом распределены в экспериментальную или контрольную группу. При финальном измерении 24 участника были в экспериментальной группе и 30 участников в группе бесконтактного контроля. Анкета участников состояла из двух шкал: шкалы форм самокритики/атаки и самоуспокоения и шкалы самосострадания. Результаты исследования подтвердили эффективность онлайн-обучения, поскольку у участников экспериментальной группы было достигнуто достоверное повышение уровня сострадания к себе и снижение уровня самокритики. Исследование предлагает многообещающие результаты в том смысле, что сокращенная онлайн-версия тренинга продолжительностью 14 дней также эффективна не только для развития сострадания, но и для снижения самокритики. The Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) is an intervention aimed at compassion cultivation involving a variety of meditation practices and exercises enhancing mental and emotional well-being, empathy, and kindness towards others and oneself. The goal of the study was to analyze the effect of the shortened online intervention, The Compassion Cultivation Training, on the level of self-criticism and self-compassion in an available non-clinical sample of 117 participants. Data were collected before intervention, immediately after intervention, and two months after completion of the CCT. All participants were randomly assigned to the experimental or the control group. At the final measurement, 24 participants were in the intervention and 30 participants in the no-contact control group. The battery of administrated questionnaires consisted of two scales: The Forms of Self-Criticism/Attacking and Self-Reassuring Scale and the Self-Compassion Scale. The results of the research confirmed the effectiveness of online CCT intervention since the participants from the experimental group achieved a significant increase in the level of self-compassion and a decrease in the level of self-criticism. The study offers promising results in that the shortened online version of CCT lasting 14 days is also effective not just in cultivating compassion but also in decreasing self-criticism.

Rhein is an anthraquinone compound with a variety of biological activities. It has inhibitory effects on liver cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, oral cancer, gastric cancer, and other cancers. However, a comprehensive bibliometric review of this field has not yet been published. This study aims to investigate and evaluate the current research trends and directions about the antitumor properties of rhein using bibliometric analysis. The literature related to rhein in cancer treatment from 2003 to 2023 was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database, and the annual number of publications, main authors, major institutions, keyword clustering, and keyword bursts were visually analyzed using CiteSpace 6.3.R1 software. This study aims to discuss the status quo, hotspots, and development trends of rhein research over the past 20 years. A total of 220 articles were retrieved from the core collection database, and the number of articles related to treating tumors with rhein increased annually. Among them, Chung, Jing Gung has the highest number of articles in this field, but most researchers lack cooperation with each other. The institutions with the highest number of articles were the Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine (13 articles) and China Medical University (Taiwan) (13 articles). Research hotspots include the promotion of apoptosis, endoplasmic reticulum stress, inhibition of proliferation, drug resistance, and nanoparticles. Rhein exerts antitumor effects by inducing cell apoptosis, controlling metastasis, and inhibiting proliferation. However, owing to its poor water solubility, in recent years, functional modification of its functional groups or production of rhein nanoparticles to enhance its bioavailability and antitumor effects has become a hot research direction in the future.

Aim: With the increasing prevalence of knee diseases affecting human health and quality of life, it is essential to explore more advanced surgical assistive technologies to improve the precision, safety, and success rate of unilateral knee replacement surgery. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of robotic-assisted unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (r-UKA) to understand its current status, trends, and future directions. Methods: Retrieve articles about r-UKA in the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) database. Data from 128 selected articles, including author information, publication details, citations, and evidence level, were analyzed. Statistical analyses and data visualizations explored publication and citation trends, research interests, core author groups, and cooperative networks. Results: Interest in r-UKA research has grown, particularly after 2013, which is evident from increased publications and citations. The United States is the largest contributor, followed by the United Kingdom, both of which have prominent medical research institutions and universities actively involved in r-UKA research. Frequent keywords such as “alignment”, “accuracy”, “revision”, and “survivorship” highlight the focus on surgical precision, implant longevity, and patient outcomes. Conclusion: Robotic-assisted unicompartmental knee arthroplasty has gained significant attention, promising improved surgical precision and patient outcomes. Collaboration between researchers and medical institutions globally has driven progress in this field. However, long-term outcomes and clinical efficacy compared to traditional techniques require further investigation. As robotic technology evolves, its application in knee replacement surgery holds potential for better therapeutic effects and advancements toward more accurate, safe, and efficient procedures, benefiting patients and advancing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA).

BackgroundLung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with a poor prognosis despite advancements in diagnosis and treatment. Metabolic reprogramming, a key feature of cancer, allows tumor cells to survive and grow under harsh conditions, making it a crucial area of study. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of global trends, influential studies, and key developments in this field.MethodsWe conducted a bibliometric analysis using the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database from 2004 to 2024. Publications related to metabolic reprogramming and lung cancer were retrieved and analyzed using VOSviewer and CiteSpace to examine publication trends, research collaborations, keyword co-occurrence, and citation networks.ResultsA total of 1078 publications were analyzed, with research output increasing significantly after 2015. China and the United States were the leading contributors, engaging in extensive international collaborations. Pioneering studies by researchers such as Ralph J. DeBerardinis and Otto Warburg underscored the importance of altered metabolism in lung cancer. Key emerging topics included the role of cancer stem cells, changes in tumor metabolism, and new treatment approaches targeting metabolic pathways. The integration of laboratory research with clinical applications, including novel drugs and immunotherapies, demonstrated promising directions for future treatments.ConclusionsThis bibliometric analysis maps the research landscape of metabolic reprogramming in lung cancer, identifying influential contributors and emerging research themes. Future studies should explore advanced technologies like single-cell analysis and investigate how metabolic changes are regulated at the molecular level. A deeper understanding of these processes could lead to innovative treatment strategies and better patient outcomes.

The application of digital technology in jaw reconstruction is clinically significant as it enhances surgical precision and patient outcomes. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to explore global research trends, hotspots, and future directions in the application of digital technology for jaw reconstruction. This study employs a bibliometric analysis design, utilizing a retrospective approach. The data were sourced from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database, focusing on publications related to digital technology in jaw reconstruction from 1995 to 2024. The final sample includes 1069 articles authored by 4781 authors from 3081 institutions. Data analyses were conducted using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and the R package "Bibliometrix." The analysis revealed a total of 1069 articles, with publication trends showing a peak in 2022. China produced the most articles, while the United States led in citations. The most productive institutions were based in Italy, Germany, and China, and key contributing authors included Marchetti Claudio and Ciocca Leonardo. Journal of Cranio-Maxillofacial Surgery had the highest H-index among journals. Keyword co-occurrence revealed hotspots like "implants" and "computer-aided design," while burst terms such as "virtual surgical planning" and "3D printing" signaled emerging frontiers. This bibliometric analysis examined the global research landscape on digital technology in jaw reconstruction, identifying key developments such as rapid prototyping, virtual surgical planning, and 3D printing. Future research should focus on integrating these technologies into clinical workflows, reducing costs, improving training, and addressing regulatory challenges.

Background: Emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases (EIDs and Re-EIDs) cause significant economic crises and public health problems worldwide. Epidemics appear to be more frequent, complex, and harder to prevent. Early warning systems can significantly reduce outbreak response times, contributing to better patient outcomes. Improving early warning systems and methods might be one of the most effective responses. This study employs a bibliometric analysis to dissect the global research hotspots and evolutionary trends in the field of infectious disease early warning, with the aim of providing guidance for optimizing public health emergency management strategies. Methods: Publications related to the role of early warning systems in detecting and responding to infectious disease outbreaks from 1999 to 2024 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database. CiteSpace software was used to analyze the datasets and generate knowledge visualization maps. Results: A total of 798 relevant publications are included. The number of annual publications has sharply increased since 2000. The USA produced the highest number of publications and established the most extensive cooperation relationships. The Chinese Center for Disease Control & Prevention was the most productive institution. Drake, John M was the most prolific author, while the World Health Organization and AHMED W were the most cited authors. The top two cited references mainly focused on wastewater surveillance of SARS-CoV-2. The most common keywords were "infectious disease", "outbreak", "transmission", "virus", and "climate change". The basic keyword "climate" ranked the first and long duration with the strongest citation burst. "SARS-CoV-2", "One Health", "early warning system", "artificial intelligence (AI)", and "wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE)" were emerging research foci. Conclusions: Over the past two decades, research on early warning of infectious diseases has focused on climate change, influenza, SARS, virus, machine learning, warning signals and systems, artificial intelligence, and so on. Current research hotspots include wastewater-based epidemiology, sewage, One Health, and artificial intelligence, as well as the early warning and monitoring of COVID-19. Research foci in this area have evolved from focusing on climate-disease interactions to pathogen monitoring systems, and ultimately to the "One Health" integrated framework. Our research findings underscore the imperative for public health policymakers to prioritize investments in real-time surveillance infrastructure, particularly wastewater-based epidemiology and AI-driven predictive models, and strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration frameworks under the One Health paradigm. Developing an integrated human-animal-environment monitoring system will serve as a critical development direction for early warning systems for epidemics.