bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxytocin ameliorates lipopolysaccharide-induced acute orchitis model: interplay of oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways
Authors: El-Sherbiny Mohamed , Elkattawy Hany A. , Hadhoud Shimaa , Nasr Ahmed N. , Ibrahim Ateya M. , Ameer Omar Z. , Alsaleebi Noorhan , Asfari Joud , Zakari Madaniah O. , Mojaddidi Moaz A. , Ali Ehab K. , Almohaimeed Hailah M. , Abdeen Ahmed , Ali Sahar K. , Eldesoqui Mamdouh
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a constituent of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, is a powerful inducer of systemic inflammation and has been extensively utilized in experimental models to simulate inflammatory responses and septic disorders. Recent research indicates that oxytocin (OXY), a neuropeptide typically linked to social bonding and reproductive functions, may influence inflammatory processes. This work examines the impact of OXY on LPS-induced testicular damage, aiming to elucidate its therapeutic potential in addressing inflammatory disorders and broadening the comprehension of its functions beyond conventional neuroendocrine roles.

Methods

Eighteen male albino rats were divided into three groups; the control group received no treatment; the LPS group received 0.5 mL of saline solution containing 5 mg/kg LPS intraperitoneally (orchitis model); and the LPS + OXY group received LPS and OXY (0.1 mg/kg) intraperitoneally every 12 h for 72 h.

Results and discussion

Animals subjected to LPS were found to have severe orchitis, as evidenced by increased oxidative stress and surging inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), with declined IL-10 levels. Besides, LPS increased the malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased the glutathione (GSH) levels, inducing an oxidative stress cascade. In addition, there are dramatic increases in the TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB, and PK2/PKR1 protein expression levels. All these events could alter the sperm count, morphology, and testicular architecture.

Conclusion

Interestingly, OXY could mitigate LPS-induced oxidative damage and inflammation in testicular tissue alongside restoring the disrupted sperm count, motility, and morphology. This therapeutic potential of OXY might be accounted for by its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic activities.
Analysis of drug pricing drivers under South Korea’s pharmaco-economic evaluation exemption policy (2015–2022)
Authors: Yu Seung Rae , Lee Jong Hyuk
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study analysed the characteristics of new drugs listed under the pharmaco-economic evaluation exemption (PEE) system from 2015 to 2022 in South Korea and examined the factors influencing the pricing decisions under this system.

Methods

A mixed-methods statistical approach was used to comprehensively evaluate the factors influencing drug pricing under PEE system. Descriptive statistics provide an overview of the dataset, while inferential statistics, including t-tests and Pearson’s correlation analyses, are used to explore variable associations. Multiple and hierarchical regression models identify and quantify the key determinants of drug prices, controlling for multicollinearity among the variables.

Results

From 2015 to 2022, 30 new drugs were listed under the PEE system. The average annual number of new drugs was four, but this figure significantly increased to eight in 2022. The “KOR/A7 lowest” variable exhibited a strong negative correlation with the budget impact variable (coefficient: 0.838, P < 0.001), indicating that drugs with higher budget impact tend to have lower prices compared to the A7 countrie’s lowest price.

Conclusion

Since the introduction of the PEE system in South Korea, patient access to new drugs has significantly improved. However, the rising expenditure on pharmaceuticals has made budget impact a significant consideration in pricing decisions, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring of drug expenditure by payers. As the system evolves, enhanced oversight and policy adjustments will be crucial for balancing cost containment with equitable patient access. Developing tiered RSA models based on drug classification or therapeutic impact could be a viable approach to achieving this balance.
Analysis of factors influencing the awareness of inpatients regarding hospital clinical pharmacy services and willingness to pay: a multicenter survey in Hebei Province, China
Authors: Yang Ruixia , Wang Xin , Wu Huizhen , Sun Qian , Zhang Sijie , Dong Qian , Li Mengjiao , Xu Xiaoli , Bai Jing , Liang Ping , Hou Juan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Pharmacists are increasingly adopting patient-centered roles, improving healthcare outcomes by reducing medication errors and costs. In China, recent healthcare reforms recognize and compensate for pharmacy services. However, patient awareness of these services and their willingness to pay (WTP) remain underexplored. Therefore, this study aims to examine inpatient understanding of pharmacy services, their WTP in Hebei Province, and the factors affecting it.

Methods

Between July and August 2024, a questionnaire was used to survey inpatients from 22 medical institutions across 11 prefecture-level cities in Hebei Province regarding their awareness of WTP for pharmacy services. Further investigation targeted inpatients unwilling to pay. The survey results were analyzed descriptively, with frequencies and percentages (%) used for categorical data and continuous data were presented as mean ± standard deviation (X ± SD). The chi-square test was used to determine statistically significant influences, and logistic regression analysis was performed to identify significant factors affecting inpatient WTP for pharmacy services. A column-line graph was validated using receiver operating characteristic curves and calibration graph analysis.

Results

In total, 464 questionnaires were distributed, with 432 valid responses, yielding a 93.10% effective response rate. Most inpatients (89.58%) viewed hospital pharmacists as primarily responsible for dispensing medication, while only 5.79% were aware of broader pharmacy services. Despite this, 72.69% of the inpatients were willing to receive pharmacy services, and 95.38% of those who had received such services found them beneficial. Half of the inpatients (216, or 50.00%) indicated WTP for pharmacy services. Among those initially unwilling to pay (216 inpatients), 102 indicated they would consider payment if a doctor recommended clinical pharmacist guidance. Of the 318 inpatients who were WTP, 315 (99.06%) chose health insurance reimbursement as a payment method. Key factors influencing inpatient WTP included literacy level, preferred source of medication counseling, prior pharmacy service experience, understanding of pharmacy service policies, and readiness to recommend these services (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Most inpatients lacked knowledge and trust in clinical pharmacists, with limited awareness of the value of pharmacy services. However, they demonstrated high acceptance and WTP for these services, with nearly all inpatients preferring health insurance reimbursement. Integrating pharmacy service fees into health insurance is crucial for promoting these services.
Kinetic-pharmacodynamic model to predict post-rituximab B-cell repletion as a predictor of relapse in pediatric idiopathic nephrotic syndrome
Authors: Li Ziwei , Shen Qian , Xu Hong , Li Zhiping
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Rituximab has proven efficacy in children with idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (INS). However, vast majority of children inevitably experience relapse with B-cell repletion, necessitating repeat course of rituximab, which may increase the risk of adverse effects. The timing of additional dosing and optional dosing regimen of rituximab in pediatric patients with INS have yet to be determined. This study aimed to identify factors that influence disease relapse and B-cell repletion to provide tailored treatment.

Methods

LASSO and random survival forest were performed on 143 children to screen covariates which were then included in Cox regression model to determine the biomarkers of relapse and establish a nomogram. A kinetic-pharmacodynamic (K-PD) model was developed in 59 children to characterize the time course of CD19+ B-cell after rituximab treatment. Monte Carlo simulation was conducted to explore a mini-dose regimen with larger intervals.

Results

Nomogram contained 7 predictors of relapse including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, duration of B-cell depletion, duration of disease, urine immunoglobulin G to creatinine ratio, urine transferrin, duration of maintenance immunosuppressant and hemoglobin. As a direct PD indicator, each 1-month increase of duration of B-cell depletion decreased risk of relapse by 21.4% (HR = 0.786; 95% CI: 0.635–0.972; p = 0.026). The K-PD model predicted t1/2 (CV%) of rituximab and CD19+ B-cell to be 11.6 days (17%) and 173.3 days (22%), respectively. Immunoglobulin A is an important covariate of ED50. Simulation of a mini-dose regimen with larger intervals (three 150 mg every 2 monthly) indicted longer B-cell depletion time (>7 months) compared to standard regimen.

Conclusion

The nomogram indicated optimal infusion timing before relapse and the K-PD model provided tailored rituximab regimens for children with INS to reduce safety risks and financial burden.
Analysis of quantitative trait loci and candidate gene exploration associated with cold tolerance in rice (Oryza sativa L.) during the seedling stage
Authors: Jo Sumin , Jang Seong-Gyu , Lee Sais-Beul , Lee Ji-Yoon , Cho Jun-Hyeon , Kang Ju-Won , Kwon Yeongho , Lee So-Myeong , Park Dong-Soo , Kwon Soon-Wook , Lee Jong-Hee
Published: January 2025

Cold stress during the seedling stage significantly threatens rice (Oryza sativa L.) production, specifically in temperate climates. This study aimed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with cold tolerance at the seedling stage. QTL analysis was conducted on a doubled haploid (DH) population derived from a cross between the cold-sensitive indica cultivar 93-11 and the cold-tolerant japonica cultivar Milyang352. Phenotypic analysis was conducted over 2 years (2022–2023) under cold water treatment (13°C) at the Chuncheon Substation, South Korea. Cold tolerance scores were used to classify the DH populations and parental lines. In 2022, three QTLs were identified on chromosomes 3, 10, and 11; in 2023, a single QTL was identified on chromosome 10. The QTL qCTS1022/23 on chromosome 10 was consistently observed across both years, explaining up to 16.06% and 40.55% of the phenotypic variance, respectively. Fine-mapping of qCTS1022/23 narrowed the candidate region to a 300-kb interval containing 44 polymorphic single-nucleotide polymorphisms. Among the candidate genes, Os10g0409400 was significantly expressed in the cold-tolerant japonica parent Milyang352 under cold stress, indicating its role in conferring cold tolerance. These findings offer valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms of cold tolerance and highlight qCTS1022/23 as a potential target for marker-assisted selection in rice breeding programs to enhance cold tolerance.
Comparative transcriptome and metabolome analysis of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) tuber development
Authors: Lin Yanhui , Li Yapeng , Zhu Honglin , Tang Liqiong , Xu Jing
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Sweet potato is an important food, feed and industrial raw material, and its tubers are rich in starch, carotenoids and anthocyanins.

Methods

To elucidate the gene expression regulation and metabolic characteristics during the development of sweet potato tubers, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were performed on the tubers of three different sweet potato varieties at three developmental stages (70, 100, and 130 days (d)).

Results

RNA-seq analysis revealed that 16,303 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were divided into 12 clusters according to their expression patterns, and the pathways of each cluster were annotated. A total of 9118 DEGs were divided into three categories during the same developmental period. A total of 1566 metabolites were detected, which were mainly divided into 12 categories. DEGs and differentially regulated metabolites (DRMs) were significantly enriched in the starch and sucrose metabolism and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways. The DEGs associated with the flavonoid pathway showed greater expression with the development of tubers, with the highest expression occurring at 130 d; chalcone isomerase (CHI) was a key gene associated with 11 flavonoid compounds. The DEGs associated with the starch pathway presented relatively low expression during the development of tubers, with the highest expression occurring at 70 d; UDP-glucose pyrophosphorylase 2 (UPG2) and glycogen synthase (glgA) were able to regulate the key genes of 8 metabolites related to the starch biosynthesis pathway. The anthocyanin content is directly related to changes in the content of peonidin-3-O-(6”-O-feruloyl)sophoroside-5-O-glucoside, which is regulated by the IbCHI gene. The abundance of this starch is directly related to changes in the content of D-glucose 6-phosphate and is regulated by the IbUGP2 and IbglgA genes. A total of 14 candidate genes related to starch, carotenoids and anthocyanins in sweet potato tubers, including the IbCHI, IbUGP2 and IbglgA genes, were identified via weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA).

Conclusion

This research provides fresh insights into the levels of anthocyanins, starch, and carotenoids throughout the growth of sweet potato tubers and sheds light on the potential regulatory pathways and candidate genes involved in this developmental progression.
The neurosociological paradigm of the metaverse
Authors: Maslova Olga , Shusharina Natalia , Pyatin Vasiliy
Published: January 2025

Metaverse integrates people into the virtual world, and challenges depend on advances in human, technological, and procedural dimensions. Until now, solutions to these challenges have not involved extensive neurosociological research. The study explores the pioneering neurosociological paradigm in metaverse, emphasizing its potential to revolutionize our understanding of social interactions through advanced methodologies such as hyperscanning and interbrain synchrony. This convergence presents unprecedented opportunities for neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals due to technology personalization. Traditional face-to-face, interbrain coupling, and metaverse interactions are empirically substantiated. Biomarkers of social interaction as feedback between social brain networks and metaverse is presented. The innovative contribution of findings to the broader literature on metaverse and neurosociology is substantiated. This article also discusses the ethical aspects of integrating the neurosociological paradigm into the metaverse.
Task-irrelevant emotional expressions are not mimicked, but may modulate the mimicry of task-relevant emotional expressions
Authors: Mauersberger Heidi , Blaison Christophe , Hess Ursula
Published: January 2025

Emotional mimicry—the imitation of others’ emotions—is an empathic response that helps to navigate social interactions. Mimicry is absent when participants’ task does not involve engaging with the expressers’ emotions. This may be because task-irrelevant faces (i.e., faces that participants were instructed to ignore) are not processed. To assess whether processed task-irrelevant faces are also not mimicked, we conducted three studies [Study 1: N = 74 participants (27 men; Mage = 26.9 years); Study 2: N = 53 participants (20 men; Mage = 25.8 years); Study 3: N = 51 participants (7 men; Mage = 26.8 years)] using an affective priming paradigm in which one face was task-relevant and one was to be ignored, as a framework to explore the impact of disregarded yet still perceptually processed faces on mimicry. We found that even though both faces were processed, only task-relevant faces were mimicked. Hence, our studies suggest that emotional mimicry depends not only on emotional processing as such but also on the way participants prioritize one piece of information over another. Further, task-irrelevant faces interfered with the mimicry of task-relevant faces. This suggests that even though incongruent task-irrelevant faces do not elicit an empathic (mimicry) response, they still may provide a context that can change the meaning of task-relevant faces and thus impact on the mimicry response.
The effect of reward and voluntary choice on the motor learning of serial reaction time task
Authors: Quan Yanghui , Wang Jiayue , Wang Yandong , Kang Guanlan
Published: January 2025

Objective

Reward and voluntary choice facilitate motor skill learning through motivation. However, it remains unclear how their combination influences motor skill learning. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the effects of reward and voluntary choice on motor skill learning in a serial reaction time task (SRTT).

Methods

Participants completed six parts of SRTT, including pre-test, training phase, immediate post-test, a random session, delayed post-test, and retention test on the following day. During the training phase, participants were divided into four groups (reward_choice, reward_no-choice, no-reward_choice, no-reward_no-choice). In the reward condition, participants received reward for correct and faster (than a baseline) responses while those in the no-reward groups did not. For the choice manipulation, participants in the voluntary choice groups chose the color of the target, whereas in the forced choice groups, the same color was assigned by the computer.

Results

The results showed that the four groups did not exhibit any significant differences in reaction time and error rate in the pre-test phase. Importantly, both reward and voluntary choice significantly enhanced sequence-specific learning effects, while no interaction was found. No significant effects of reward and voluntary choice were observed in the retention test.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that reward and voluntary choice enhance motor skill performance and training independently, potentially at the action-selection level, which implies different mechanisms underlying the influences of reward and voluntary choice.
Investigation of the relationship between mental health and physical activity among university students
Authors: Ahsan Mohammad , Abualait Turki
Published: January 2025

Background

Physical activity refers to all bodily movement performed by an individual from morning to night. Physical activity benefits not only physical health but also mental health. Physical activity benefits university students in many ways.

Aims

This study aimed to determine the effects of physical activity on university students’ mental health.

Methods

A cross-sectional study design was conducted with two hundred sixty-five university students. Physical activity level was determined by the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, and mental health among university students was determined using the mental health inventory. Data was collected by online mode. For statistical analysis, the Pearson correlation coefficient test was used, while analysis of variance was used to determine the difference between participants as per their physical activity levels classification. Statistically significant was observed at 0.05 level.

Results

The results showed that a statistically positive significant relationship existed between physical activity and mental health (r = 0.343, p = <0.001) and its parameters: anxiety (r = 0.542, p = <0.001), depression (r = 0.691, p = <0.001), positive effects (r = 0.476, p = <0.001), behavioral control (r = 0.174, p = 0.004). While comparing the difference between participants as par physical activity level classification, significant differences existed for anxiety (F = 2.96, p = 0.052), depression (F = 4.23, p = 0.041), positive effects (F = 3.22, p = 0.048), behavioral control (F = 3.14, p = 0.058), and mental health (F = 4.65, p = 0.044).

Conclusion

The findings suggest that interventions promoting physical activity can serve as effective strategies for mental health promotion in academic settings. Universities should consider integrating structured physical activity programs into their curricula and campus life to leverage these mental health benefits.
Demographic influences on Lithuanian physicians’ attitudes toward medical assistance in dying: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Bachmetjev Benedikt , Airapetian Artur , Jakubauskienė Marija , Zablockis Rolandas , Čekanauskaitė Asta
Published: January 2025

Background

The topic of end-of-life decisions is important due to aging populations and the rising number of terminal illnesses like cancer. As more people experience suffering, the ethical, medical, and legal debates of these decisions become significant to healthcare policy. Understanding medical professionals’ attitudes is critical for shaping responsible practices and legislation surrounding end-of-life care.

Methods

This cross-sectional study explores the attitudes of Lithuanian physicians toward medical assistance in dying (MAID), including euthanasia and assisted suicide (E/PAS), as well as other end-of-life decisions such as Do-Not-Resuscitate (DNR) orders and Living Wills, including decisions involving patients diagnosed with mental illnesses. A survey of 361 physicians in Lithuanian hospitals was conducted between October 2022 and July 2024, using hospital intranets and on-site distribution to guarantee representative sample. The survey included demographic factors such as age, gender, religious beliefs, and professional experience. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0 and R software. Chi-square tests, Fisher’s exact tests, and logistic regression models were made to determine relationships, with significance set at p < 0.05.

Results

The analysis showed that 61.2% of physicians supported assisted suicide for terminally ill patients, while only 19.1% supported it for patients with drug-resistant mental illness. Similarly, 61.5% supported euthanasia for terminal illness. Age, religious beliefs, and professional experience were significant determinants of support, with younger and non-religious physicians more likely to endorse E/PAS. Additionally, 92.2% of respondents supported DNR orders with patient consent, though this dropped to 63.1% without patient consent.

Conclusions

Lithuanian physicians’ attitudes toward E/PAS and other end-of-life decisions are strongly influenced by ethical, religious, and professional considerations. Significantly lower acceptance for psychiatric patients indicates higher sensitivity regarding mental competency and the ethics of E/PAS in such cases. These findings provide important insights for policymakers and healthcare providers in crafting informed and ethical E/PAS guidelines.
Association between gynecological disorders and insomnia and depression trajectories: a longitudinal study of middle-aged women
Authors: Zhong Huiyong , Zeng Fuling
Published: January 2025

Background

Insomnia and depression often receive inadequate attention regarding their association with common menopausal gynecological disorders (GDs), and there is a lack of longitudinal epidemiological evidence. Furthermore, the specific disorders that exhibit the strongest correlation with depression, as well as the potential mediating role of insomnia, remain poorly understood.

Methods

Using data from the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) spanning 1996 to 2008, this study analyzed a sample of 2217 racially diverse premenopausal women (aged 42 to 53 at baseline). Longitudinal trajectory analysis, employing latent class mixture models (LCMM), was used to identify optimal patterns for insomnia and depression. Logistic regression explored associations between pelvic pain, pelvic prolapse or relaxation, abnormal bleeding, and insomnia/depression trajectories. A causal mediation model investigated whether insomnia mediated the link between gynecological disorders and depression.

Results

The analysis included 2217 participants for insomnia trajectories and 1767 for depression trajectories. Insomnia and depression showed similar patterns, with a single high and low trajectory and minimal fluctuations. Logistic regression revealed a significant positive correlation between pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, number of GDs, and an increased risk of high insomnia and depression trajectories. Insomnia trajectories mediated 23.6%, 14.3%, and 11.9% of the association between pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, and number of GDs, respectively, with depression trajectories.

Conclusions

This study found the significant associations between pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, and comorbidity with an elevated risk of insomnia and depression during the menopausal transition.
Multimodal machine learning for analysing multifactorial causes of disease—The case of childhood overweight and obesity in Mexico
Authors: Silva Sepulveda Rosario , Boman Magnus
Published: January 2025

Background

Mexico has one of the highest global incidences of paediatric overweight and obesity. Public health interventions have shown only moderate success, possibly from relying on knowledge extracted using limited types of statistical data analysis methods.

Purpose

To explore if multimodal machine learning can enhance identifying predictive features from obesogenic environments and investigating complex disease or social patterns, using the Mexican National Health and Nutrition Survey.

Methods

We grouped features into five data modalities corresponding to paediatric population exogenous factors, in two multimodal machine learning pipelines, against a unimodal early fusion baseline. The supervised pipeline employed four methods: Linear classifier with Elastic Net regularisation, k-Nearest Neighbour, Decision Tree, and Random Forest. The unsupervised pipeline used traditional methods with k-Means and hierarchical clustering, with the optimal number of clusters calculated to be k = 2.

Results

The decision tree classifier in the supervised early fusion approach produced the best quantitative results. The top five most important features for classifying child or adolescent health were measures of an adult in the household, selected at random: BMI, obesity diagnosis, being single, seeking care at private healthcare, and having paid TV in the home. Unsupervised learning approaches varied in the optimal number of clusters but agreed on the importance of home environment features when analysing inter-cluster patterns. Main findings from this study differed from previous studies using only traditional statistical methods on the same database. Notably, the BMI of a randomised adult within the household emerged as the most important feature, rather than maternal BMI, as reported in previous literature where unwanted cultural bias went undetected.

Conclusion

Our general conclusion is that multimodal machine learning is a promising approach for comprehensively analysing obesogenic environments. The modalities allowed for a multimodal approach designed to critically analyse data signal strength and reveal sources of unwanted bias. In particular, it may aid in developing more effective public health policies to address the ongoing paediatric obesity epidemic in Mexico.
Association between workplace violence from patients and the mental health status of healthcare workers in Zhuhai China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zheng Ying , Li Xuping , Sun Yajun , Mao Chun , Huang Jiaju , Li Jingya , Zhang Guangchuan , Wei Ning , Wang Xiaohui , Teng Yongyong
Published: January 2025

Objective

Workplace violence (WPV) poses a serious occupational risk. This study aims to explore the association between WPV from patients and the occurrence of insomnia, depression, and anxiety among healthcare workers.

Methods

Information about the WPV from patients was collected by a self-designed questionnaire. Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and Insomnia Severity Index (ISI) were used for the assessment of mental health. Logistic regression was used to explore the association between WPV from patients and insomnia, depression, and anxiety. Mediation analysis was used to evaluate the mediation effect of depression and anxiety on the relationships between WPV from patients and insomnia.

Results

Of 10,413 included healthcare workers, 40.05% experienced verbal violence, 6.44% experienced physical violence from patients in the past year. There is a significant association between verbal violence and insomnia (OR = 1.780, 95% CI: 1.591–1.990), depression (OR = 1.823, 95% CI: 1.640–2.026), and anxiety (OR = 1.831, 95% CI: 1.606–2.087), as well as physical violence (insomnia: OR = 1.220, 95% CI: 1.002–1.481; depression: OR = 1.274, 95% CI: 1.052–1.540; anxiety: OR = 1.316, 95% CI: 1.058–1.630). Moreover, depression and anxiety mediated the relationship between WPV and insomnia, the mediated proportion was 62.21% in the association between verbal violence and insomnia, and 60.22% in the association between physical violence and insomnia.

Conclusions

The association between WPV from patients and heightened risks of mental health issues emphasizes the necessity of supportive work environments. Recognizing the mediating role of depression and anxiety stresses the significance of tailored mental health training for healthcare staff.
Does social support improve self-management among rural hypertensive patients? An empirical analysis based on generalized propensity score matching
Authors: Li Jiantao , Zhang Jingru , Wang Yuxiao , Zhang Hanwen , Ma Yangyang
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to examine the causal effect between perceived social support and self-management in rural patients with hypertension and to provide a basis for improving self-management.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 1,091 rural hypertensive patients in Shanxi Province was conducted from March through June 2022 to analyze the factors influencing social support as well as the causal effects of social support and self-management using generalized propensity score matching.

Results

Rural hypertensive patients had a low level of social support (social support score = 0.632 ± 0.178). Social support had a significant and inverted U-shaped relationship with self-management; with increasing social support levels, the levels of self-management first rose and then declined, with an inflexion point of 0.774. Social support had significant negative correlations with sex, age, number of child, living status (i.e., living alone or living with others), disease duration, family economic status, and decision-making power, and positive correlations with having a spouse and having medical insurance.

Conclusion

Greater emphasis should be placed on the older adult, individuals living alone, those without spouses, only children, economically disadvantaged populations, and uninsured individuals to enhance the social support they received and ultimately improve their self-management of hypertension. Furthermore, establishing social support systems that are congruent with rural relational networks is crucial for promoting effective hypertension self-management.
Mental health and psychological resilience amid the spread of the Omicron variant: a comparison between China and Korea
Authors: Qin Chenyuan , Lee Minjung , Deng Jie , Lee Yubin , You Myoungsoon , Liu Jue
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Besides physical health risks, large public health events also exert negative impacts on people's mental health. We aimed to explore the prevalence and correlates of mental distress and its association with psychological resilience among countries amid the Omicron wave.

Methods

We conducted cross-sectional surveys simultaneously in China and South Korea from March 15 to 30, 2023. Brief Resilience Scale (BRS), Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (GAD-7) scale, and Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) scale were used to measured psychological resilience and mental distress.

Results

Self-reported rates of anxiety and depressive symptoms in 3,000 Chinese participants were 24.5% and 30.5%, while the above-mentioned rates were 17.2%and 34.4% in 1,000 Korean participants. Chinese participants had a marginally higher BRS score. Psychological resilience was inversely associated with the prevalence of anxiety symptoms and depressive symptoms. Similar results can be observed in Korea. Results remained robust in all models.

Conclusion

Chinese and Korean populations reported a high prevalence of mental distress with variations in different characteristics, indicating practical implications for developing tailored mental health policies and services in the context of large public health events.
Perinatal outcomes and predictors of placental abruption: a retrospective study in an Ethiopian tertiary care center
Authors: Tadese Mesfin , Getachew Gebresenbet , Kebede Tirusew Nigussie , Yesuf Toyba Ebrahim , Tessema Saba Desta , Damesa Wogene Asefa , Solomon Gebeyehu Shumet
Published: January 2025

Background

Placental abruption is a critical obstetric condition characterized by the premature separation of the placenta from the uterus, leading to severe maternal and fetal complications. In Ethiopia, the maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality rates are alarmingly high, and placental abruption significantly contributes to these adverse outcomes. Despite its severity, there is a lack of comprehensive data on the burden, risk factors, and outcomes associated with placental abruption in the Ethiopian context. Thus, the study aimed to investigate the adverse perinatal outcomes of placental abruption and the factors associated with these outcomes among pregnant women admitted to the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital in Ethiopia.

Method

An institution-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 367 pregnant women who were admitted and managed for placental abruption from January 1, 2021, to January 1, 2023, at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. A simple random sample method was employed to choose the medical records. Data was collected using a checklist prepared with the KOBO collect tool and then exported to SPSS version 25.0. Variables having a p-value of less than 0.05 were deemed significant in the multivariable logistic regression analysis that was done. The adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was reported.

Result

The prevalence of adverse perinatal outcome of placental abruption was 39.2, 95% CI: 34.3–44.1. The most common adverse outcomes were prematurity (25.6%), low birth weight (25.6%), and NICU admission (13.9%). Severe placental abruption [AOR (CI) = 8.82 (4.48–17.31)] and abruption at preterm gestation [AOR (CI) = 18.71 (9.59–36.42)] were significant predictors of adverse perinatal outcomes.

Conclusion

The adverse perinatal outcomes of pregnancies complicated by placental abruption in this study were higher compared to other studies in Ethiopia. The degree of placental abruption and gestational age at diagnosis were significant associates of adverse perinatal outcomes. The study highlights the critical need for patient-centered counseling on antenatal bleeding to encourage early healthcare-seeking behavior, close follow up for those undergoing expectant management and the early detection and management of placental abruption to improve perinatal outcomes.
Higher triglyceride-glucose index and triglyceride glucose-body mass index protect against sarcopenia in Chinese middle-aged and older non-diabetic women: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Li Min , Liu Ying , Gao Lei , Zheng Yongli , Chen Luyao , Wang Yan , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Sarcopenia, an age-related complication, constitutes a major public health problem given the aging of the population. However, it is frequently overlooked and undertreated in mainstream practice. The study aimed to investigate the correlations between triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and TyG-body mass index (BMI) and sarcopenia in non-diabetic middle-aged and older women and whether they would be helpful indicators of sarcopenia.

Patients and methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Endocrinology, Hebei Medical University Third Hospital. This study prospectively enrolled 460 non-diabetic postmenopausal women aged ≥50 years.

Results

As TyG and TyG-BMI increased, the prevalence of sarcopenia decreased. In multivariate analysis, the TyG index and TyG-BMI index were inversely associated with sarcopenia (OR: 0.492; 95% CI: 0.256–0.944 and OR: 0.948; 95% CI: 0.934–0.962). Women in the fourth TyG-BMI quartiles showed decreased OR of 0.009 (95% CI: 0.001–0.072) for sarcopenia with respect to first quartiles after adjusting confounding factors. The area under the curve (AUC) for TyG index in the diagnosis of sarcopenia was 0.598 (95% CI: 0.529–0.666), while the AUC for TyG-BMI index was 0.858 (95% CI: 0.816–0.899).

Conclusion

Higher TyG index and TyG-BMI index protected against sarcopenia in non-diabetic middle-aged and older females. Moreover, the TyG-BMI index was a reliable and cost-efficient biomarker to predict sarcopenia.
Factors influencing health-related quality of life in children with asthma: insights from Addis Ababa public hospitals
Authors: Kasse Tsehaynew , Zenebe Selemaye , Agegnehu Yalemzer , Lonsako Arega Abebe
Published: January 2025

Background

Bronchial asthma is a global health problem in particular a respiratory condition characterized by broncho spasms that negatively affect the quality of life (QOL) of children. However, there is a paucity of data regarding the health-related quality of life of asthma in children in Ethiopia, and the study area.

Objective

The objective of this study was to assess the health-related quality of life among asthmatic children aged 7–17 in selected hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

An institutional-based analytical cross-sectional study involving 136 asthmatic children aged 7–17 years was conducted in the selected hospital in Addis Ababa, from February to April 2024. Respondents were chosen using a systematic random sampling method. Structured, interviewer-administered, and pretested questionnaires, were used to collect data. The data were coded and entered into Epi-Data 3.1 before being exported to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Logistic regression was employed to identify factors influencing health-related quality of life Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05 with a 95% confidence interval.

Results

The study found that 46% [95% CI: 37.6–54.4%] of the study participants had a poor quality of life. Factors associated with an increased likelihood of poor quality of life included caregivers’ lack of formal education (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]: 1.39 [1.80–10.69]), a family history of asthma (AOR: 2.51 [1.46–4.299]), longer asthma duration (AOR: 3.47 [1.89–6.39]), uncontrolled asthma (AOR: 3.47 [1.89–6.39]), moderate persistent asthma (AOR: 2.4 [1.40–4.20]), and comorbidities (AOR: 2.4 [1.40–4.20]).

Conclusion

The study highlights almost half of asthmatic children had a poor quality of life in Addis Ababa. Factors such as caregivers’ lack of formal education, a family history of asthma, longer duration and increased severity of asthma, uncontrolled asthma, and comorbidities were significantly associated with poor quality of life. Therefore, implementing targeted education programs, encouraging family history assessments, and strengthening comorbidity screening and management for children and their families in Addis Ababa are recommended.
A narrative review of exercise intervention mechanisms for post-traumatic stress disorder in veterans
Authors: Zhao Fang , Liu Chuchen , Lin Zhiyi
Published: January 2025

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) severely disrupts the daily lives of veterans and active duty personnel and may influence their suicidal behaviour. This study provides insight into existing research on PTSD in veterans through a narrative review. Exercise was found to reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans at both psychological and physiological levels, which in turn inhibits their suicidal tendencies. At the psychological level, exercise improved veterans’ Subjective Well-Being and Psychological Well-Being, and at the physiological level, it improved veterans’ brain structure, neuroendocrine system, and immune system. By combing these mechanisms in detail, we hope to provide theoretical support for the implementation of exercise interventions in the treatment of veterans with PTSD. However, it is important to note that the specifics of the exercise program, such as the optimal type, dosage, and duration to alleviate PTSD symptoms, remain unclear and require further research and exploration.
Global burden and trends of norovirus-associated diseases from 1990 to 2021 an observational trend study
Authors: Zhu MengLan , Huang ZiLing , Liu TongTong , Wu ChenNan , Shang ZhiHan , Zhang LuLu
Published: January 2025

Background

Norovirus remains a significant viral cause of waterborne and foodborne gastroenteritis outbreaks and epidemics worldwide. The burden of norovirus extends across different income settings.

Methods

Leveraging secondary data from the 2021 Global Burden of Diseases Study, our analysis spanned the period from 1990 to 2021 to assess the burden of norovirus-associated diseases (NADs). We utilized descriptive statistics to examine global mortality rates and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). For trend analysis, we employed annual percentage change (EAPC) through linear regression and applied Joinpoint analysis to identify significant changes over time. A comprehensive age-period-cohort model evaluated the key mortality risk factors. Furthermore, a Bayesian age-period-cohort analysis was conducted to forecast trends up to 2035, providing valuable insights for policy formulation and resource allocation.

Results

In 2021, the global age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) for NADs was 1.62 per 100,000 population (95% UI: 0.35 to 2.91), while the age-standardized DALY rates (ASDR) was 79.02 years per 100,000 population (95% UI: 26.61 to 132.26). A downward trend was observed in most regions and countries, with EAPC of −4.29% (95% UI: −4.53 to −4.05) for ASMR and −4.40% (95% UI: −4.62 to −4.19) for ASDR from 1990 to 2021. Notably, children under 5 years old had considerably higher ASDR: 475.52 years (95% UI: 160.73 to 893.72) per 100,000 for males and 335.44 years (95% UI: 112.29 to 623.48) per 100,000 for females. Mortality risk from NADs escalated with age, with a peak of 69.27 (95% CI: 64.04 to 74.92) per 100,000 for the under-five age group, and 11.38 (95% CI: 10.59 to 12.22) per 100,000 for individuals over 95 years. Bayesian Age-Period Cohort projections indicate a continued decline in ASMR and ASDR through 2035.

Discussion

Between 1990 and 2021, ASMR and ASDR for NADs significantly declined due to public health interventions, vaccination, and improved sanitation. However, norovirus remains highly contagious, especially among children and the older adult. Projections suggest a continued decrease in the burden of such diseases by 2035. To further reduce this burden, preventive measures like vaccination and infection control strategies are essential for high-risk populations, alongside ongoing research into norovirus epidemiology and transmission dynamics.
Health-related physical fitness in children among five Mediterranean countries: a cross-cultural study from the DELICIOUS project
Authors: Aly Mohamed , El-Gyar Noha , Shalaby Amira M. , Abdelkarim Osama
Published: January 2025

Background

Health-related fitness (HRF) components are essential for supporting healthy growth and reducing long-term health risks in children. This study explored cross-cultural variations in HRF among children from five Mediterranean countries—Egypt, Italy, Lebanon, Portugal, and Spain—within the framework of the DELICIOUS project.

Methods

A total of 860 children participated in the study, including 204 from Egypt (n = 204, 11.72 ± 1.46 years), 150 from Italy (9.66 ± 1.10 years), 200 from Lebanon (10.73 ± 1.90 years), 181 from Portugal (11.04 ± 1.83 years), and 125 from Spain (12.33 ± 2.27 years). Participants completed the International Physical Performance Test Profile (IPPTP), which assesses sprint speed (20 m dash), coordination (jumping sideways), upper body strength (push-ups), abdominal strength (sit-ups), lower body power (standing long jump), and cardiovascular endurance (6-min run). Children were categorized into two age groups: 8–10 and 11–14 years. ANCOVA, adjusting for BMI, was performed to analyze differences across countries and age groups.

Results

Analysis revealed significant differences in HRF across countries and age groups (p < 0.05). Spanish boys and girls consistently demonstrated superior sprint performance (20 m dash) and cardiovascular endurance (6-min run) compared to peers from other countries. Lebanese and Spanish girls exhibited stronger abdominal performance (sit-ups) than Egyptian girls, while Spanish girls also excelled in lower-body power (standing long jump). These findings underscore cross-cultural variations in HRF outcomes among Mediterranean children.

Conclusion

Cross-cultural differences in physical education programs and sports participation appear to influence HRF in children across the Mediterranean region. These findings underscore the need for culturally tailored physical education strategies and public health initiatives to ensure balanced fitness development in diverse cultural populations.
Challenges faced by community health volunteers in offering sexual and reproductive health care services to young women during the COVID-19 pandemic in Khwisero and Nairobi in Kenya
Authors: Yusuf Mariam F. , Onyango-Ouma Washington , Muinde Jacinta Victoria S. , Wangamati Cynthia Khamala
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Community health volunteers (CHVs) are fundamental in many health systems across the globe. In Kenya, CHVs were essential in providing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study highlights challenges experienced by community health volunteers in Kenya while providing SRH services during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method

The study utilized a qualitative research design to explore challenges experienced by CHVs in offering SRH services in Dagoretti North and South sub-counties in Nairobi and Khwisero sub-county in western Kenya during the COVID-19 pandemic period. We conducted 17 in-depth interviews, 7 focus group discussions, and 1 group discussion with CHVs. The data was collected in different periods: in Khwisero, November 2022–August 2023, and in Nairobi, February–April 2023.

Results

The study's findings show that CHVs experienced several challenges while providing SRH services. The challenges included distrust by the community as a result of the interaction between anti-COVID-19 measures and other past and present health interventions such as vaccines for other diseases, insufficient personal protective gear and equipment (PPEs), limited human and financial resources to address community needs, limited and poor training on response to misinformation that led to vaccine hesitancy, and mental strain from stigma and burnout.

Conclusion

During pandemics, governments should provide adequate personal protective gear and financial and human resources for CHVs' work as they deliver SRH services to the community under risky conditions. In addition, CHVs must be trained to address misinformation about relevant medical interventions during epidemics and pandemics and provided with psychosocial support to mitigate the impact of psychological distress.