bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and ultrasound features of fibrous pseudotumor of tunica vaginalis of the testis: eight cases and literature review
Authors: Yang Jiali , Chen Hongyan , Yan Hualin , Zhang Yue , Liu Juxian
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate the clinical and ultrasound features of fibrous pseudotumor of tunica vaginalis of the testis

Methods

The clinical and ultrasound features of fibrous pseudotumor of the tunica vaginalis diagnosed by pathology in West China Hospital of Sichuan University from 2006 to 2023 were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

The study included 8 patients diagnosed with fibrous pseudotumor of the tunica vaginalis. The average age was 51.8 ± 17 years(range:25 to 80 years). Painless nodules or masses were present in 87.5% of cases, while 12.5% presented with painless scrotal enlargement. Ultrasound findings were as follows: Lesions were nodular in 7 cases and diffuse in 1 case (left side 50%, right side 50%). 75% involved the tunica vaginalis wall; 25% involved the epididymis with concurrent epididymitis. The tunica vaginalis wall on the affected side was significantly thicker than the contralateral side (4.58 ± 2.19 mm vs. 2.59 ± 0.48 mm, P=0.012). Hydrocele was present in 62.5% of the affected cases, poor sound transmission was noted in 62.5%, and septation was observed in 12.5%. 62.5% of cases exhibited multiple small solid nodules, with a maximum diameter ranging from 8∼19 mm. Nodules were well-circumscribed, regularly shaped and isoechoic or slightly hyperechoic. In 37.5% of cases, adjacent nodules were fused and 37.5% exhibited posterior attenuation. Punctate calcifications were present in 25% of cases. There is usually less blood flow in the lesion.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that fibrous pseudotumor of the tunica vaginalis is a rare scrotal disease affecting primarily middle-aged and elderly men. It typically presents unilaterally and carries a favorable prognosis following surgical treatment. Ultrasound commonly reveals multiple slightly hyperechoic or isoechoic solid nodules with ipsilateral thickening of the tunica vaginalis wall. In some cases, nodules may involve the epididymis, with associated epididymitis, fusion of adjacent nodules, occasional calcification, and posterior echo attenuation. Most lesions exhibit poor blood flow, and hydrocele is frequently present on the affected side. The distinct clinical and ultrasound features of the disease make non-radiative ultrasound imaging an effective tool for rapid detection, differential diagnosis, and guidance for appropriate clinical treatment.
PGD2/PTGDR2 signaling pathway affects the self-renewal capacity of gastric cancer stem cells by regulating ATG4B ubiquitination
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Tian HengJin , Ge Kunpeng , Wang FeiFan , Gao PeiYao , Chen AMin , Wang Lulu , Zhao YanMing , Lian Chaoqun , Wang FengChao
Published: December 2024

Background

Prostaglandin D2 (PGD2) inhibits the development of different malignant tumors; however, the underlying mechanism of inhibiting tumor development is not yet clear. This study aimed to elucidate how PGD2 inhibits the stemness of gastric cancer stem cells (GCSCs) via autophagy and its underlying molecular mechanism to provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of gastric cancer.

Methods

In this study, GCSCs were enriched in vitro by serum-free incubation. Furthermore, the effects of PGD2 and PGD2 receptor (PTGDR2) on autophagy were detected by Western blotting, immunofluorescence analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. Moreover, the ATG4B ubiquitination levels were assessed via immunoprecipitation and other methods.

Results

The results indicated that PGD2 induced LC3I/LC3II conversion in GCSCs to activate autophagy, while PGD2 promoted the expression of PTGDR2, thereby further activating autophagy. Furthermore, PTGDR2 competes with ATG4B for binding with E3 ligase RNF5 (also known as RMA1) to promote autophagy protein ATG4B expression. Moreover, PTGDR2 knockdown blocked the activation of autophagy by PGD2 and the level of ATG4B ubiquitination in GCSCs.

Conclusions

In summary, it was elucidated that the PGD2/PTGDR2 signaling cascade affects GCSCs stemness by regulating autophagy, suggesting that the PGD2/PTGDR2 signaling pathway could serve as a novel target for cancer therapy.
Hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy combined with lenvatinib and PD-1 inhibitors versus lenvatinib and PD-1 inhibitors for unresectable HCC: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wei Min , Zhang Pengwei , Yang Chaofeng , Li Yang
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of combining hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) with lenvatinib and programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors in the treatment of advanced, unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

A comprehensive search across multiple databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published up to May 2024. This search focused on clinical trials investigating the combination of HAIC with lenvatinib and PD-1 inhibitors for the treatment of advanced HCC. Data from these trials were analyzed using either fixed-effects or random-effects models, with results reported as hazard ratios (HRs) or risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). To evaluate the robustness of the findings, trial sequential analysis was employed.

Results

A total of 8 cohort studies encompassing 1073 patients with unresectable HCC were included. Compared with other treatment regimens, the combined use of HAIC, lenvatinib, and PD-1 inhibitors significantly improved overall survival (OS) (HR=0.53 [95% CI 0.45, 0.63], P<0.00001), progression-free survival (PFS) (HR 0.56 [95% CI 0.46, 0.61], P<0.0001), the objective response rate (ORR) (RR=1.82 [95% CI 1.52, 2.18], P<0.00001), and the disease control rate (DCR) (RR=1.24 [95% CI 1.16, 1.33], P<0.00001). Trial sequential analysis (TSA) results indicated that the existing data were sufficient for making quantitative conclusions about the ORR and DCR.

Conclusion

Combining HAIC with lenvatinib and PD-1 inhibitors enhances the effectiveness of treatment for unresectable HCC. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients who have a high tumor burden or those who are refractory to transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), providing a more effective solution for these challenging cases.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024575853, identifier CRD42024575853.
Case report: Aggressive NSCLC with partial BRG-1 deficiency and KRAS G12C mutation: a case study and treatment challenges
Authors: Jin Chengwei , Ge Hong , Hou Dongsheng , Li Jing , Tan Mingming
Published: December 2024

Background

SMARCA4-deficient (BRG-1 deficient) primary thoracic tumors are rare aggressive malignancies associated with poor prognosis. While complete BRG-1 loss is well-documented, the clinical implications of partial BRG-1 deficiency remain unclear. This case report explores a case of mixed lung cancer with partial BRG-1 deficiency and KRAS G12C mutation, highlighting its clinical relevance, treatment challenges, and the importance of comprehensive molecular profiling.

Methods

We performed immunohistochemistry, next-generation sequencing, and PD-L1 expression analysis to characterize the tumor. Treatment included surgical resection, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.

Case presentation

We present a case of early-stage mixed lung cancer with partial BRG-1 deficiency in a 66-year-old male, treated with surgical resection, chemotherapy, and later, a PD-1 inhibitor. Despite aggressive treatment, rapid progression to brain metastasis was observed, underscoring the need for tailored approaches.

Conclusion

Partial BRG-1 deficiency may lead to aggressive clinical behavior, similar to complete BRG-1 loss. This case emphasizes the importance of comprehensive molecular profiling to guide treatment decisions and suggests further investigation into combined therapeutic strategies, including immunotherapy.
Prediction of prognosis, immunogenicity and efficacy of immunotherapy based on cholesterol metabolism in gastric cancer
Authors: Zhu Chengjun , Yan Mengpei , Zhang Zhijun , Shen Yikai , Wang Wangwen , Chen Zetian , Cai Changsheng , Liu Hongda , Xu Zekuan , Li Zheng
Published: December 2024

Background

Cholesterol metabolism plays a crucial role in tumor progression and immune response modulation. However, the precise connection between cholesterol metabolism-related genes (CMRGs) and their implications for clinical prognosis, the tumor microenvironment (TME), and the outcomes of immunotherapy in gastric cancer remains to be fully elucidated.

Methods

Transcriptome data and related clinical information from 675 gastric cancer patients were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. A total of 50 cholesterol metabolism-related genes (CMRGs) were identified from the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG, hsa04979). Consensus clustering analysis was used to classify patients into distinct molecular subgroups, while principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to develop a prognostic scoring system for predicting survival and immunotherapy response. The scoring system was validated using three independent cohorts of gastric cancer patients.

Results

Based on 49 CMRGs, 675 gastric cancer patients were categorized into three distinct subgroups with varying prognoses, tumor microenvironment features, and clinical characteristics. Further differential gene analysis and consensus clustering identified two additional subgroups. The prognostic scoring system developed through PCA demonstrated that the high-score subgroup had significantly improved survival, higher tumor mutational burden (TMB), and microsatellite instability (MSI), as well as a greater number of mutated genes, indicating greater sensitivity to immunotherapy. This system was validated in a real-world cohort undergoing immunotherapy. Additionally, the correlation between GPC3 expression and cholesterol levels was confirmed, highlighting GPC3’s potential biological role.

Conclusion

This study highlights the importance of CMRGs in gastric cancer, deepens our understanding of the tumor immune microenvironment, and guides individualized immunotherapy.
The role of GOT1 in cancer metabolism
Authors: Peng Huan , Dou Huihong , He Sheng , Xie Yu-an , Zhang Qinle , Zheng Jianqiu
Published: December 2024

GOT1, a cytoplasmic glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, plays a critical role in various metabolic pathways essential for cellular homeostasis and dysregulated metabolism. Recent studies have highlighted the significant plasticity and roles of GOT1 in metabolic reprogramming through participating in both classical and non-classical glutamine metabolism, glycolytic metabolism, and other metabolic pathways. This review summarizes emerging insights on the metabolic roles of GOT1 in cancer cells and emphasizes the response of cancer cells to altered metabolism when the expression of GOT1 is altered. We review how cancer cells repurpose cell intrinsic metabolism and their flexibility when GOT1 is inhibited and delineate the molecular mechanisms of GOT1’s interaction with specific oncogenes and regulators at multiple levels, including transcriptional and epigenetic regulation, which govern cellular growth and metabolism. These insights may provide new directions for cancer metabolism research and novel targets for cancer treatment.
Clinical, laboratory, and orbital imaging features of giant cell arteritis in comparison to non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropath: a single center case series
Authors: Eldaya Rami W. , Yeh Yi-Hsien , Stunkel Leanne , Parsons Matthew S. , Van Stavern Gregory P.
Published: December 2024

Background

Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is the most common vasculitis in patients older than 50 years and is considered a “do not miss” diagnosis. However, it remains a diagnostic challenge given overlapping clinical syndromes such as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) and poorly explored imaging findings.

Materials and methods

In this retrospective study between the time period of January 2013 and December 2021, a total of 13 consecutive patients with a pathological diagnosis of GCA and 8 patients with clinical diagnosis of NAION were isolated. Demographic and clinical data for each patient were collected, including pertinent laboratory data. Pertinent physical exam data was also collected, including fundoscopic exam and visual acuity. Two neuroradiologist assessed the orbital MRI imaging findings of GCA and NAION for the presence and characterization of imaging abnormalities. Assessment for potential relationship between GCA orbital findings, laboratory and visual outcomes was performed. Finally, comparison between GCA and NAION imaging findings was performed.

Results

13 GCA patients were assessed. 9 patients had abnormal orbital findings. Of these 8 patients had bilateral orbital involvement The most common imaging findings was perineuritis of the optic nerve sheath, present in 7 patients. In total, 8 NAION patients were assessed. All patients demonstrate optic nerve involvement. The Snellen test was converted to logmar, and visual acuity was assessed for both NAION and GCA for each eye at diagnosis and at the last follow-up. There was no statistical significance for either eye for both GCA and NAION at initial diagnosis and final follow-up. In the 4 GCA patients with normal MRI findings and 9 GCA patients with abnormal MRI findings, there was no statistical significance between initial presentation and final follow-up visual acuity.

Conclusion

GCA and NAION are potentially overlapping clinical syndromes with different treatment approach and poorly explored imaging findings. Our case series assesses the orbital imaging findings of both syndromes while noting different imaging pattern of both on MRI, which can serve as a potential tool to aid in diagnosis of both.
Reforming early intervention for premature infants: insights into integrated nursing and medical care in Western China
Authors: Zhou Meicen , Lin Xin , Luo Huan , Liu Haiting , Wang Shaopu , Wang Hua , Mu Dezhi
Published: December 2024

Background

Premature births has imposed substantial burdens on medical resources. Consequently, a specialized team was established and a model focused on early intervention, namely the Delivery Room Intensive Care Unit (DICU) emphasizing “care, support, and treatment” was introduced and its impact on the morbidity and mortality outcomes of newborns was assessed. Additionally, we aimed to develop a nomogram model for predicting the risk of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in preterm infants.

Methods

A retrospective study involving 2,788 infants was conducted to compare the characteristics and outcomes of infants admitted following the transition from the previous “neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)-centered” approach to the current early “care, support, and treatment” model. Clinical and laboratory data were recorded from birth until their discharge. The primary outcome was IVH, with additional evaluation of mortality and morbidities related to the neurological, respiratory, circulatory, and digestive systems.

Results

The DICU approach significantly declined the incidence of IVH [OR: 0.16, 95% CrI (0.11,0.23)], hypothermia [OR: 0.33, 95% CrI (0.21,0.50)], apnea [OR: 0.60, 95% CrI (0.47,0.75)], perinatal respiratory diseases [OR: 0.63, 95% CrI (0.52,0.75)] and metabolic acidosis [OR: 0.24, 95% CrI (0.16,0.34)]. Five predictors were selected: DICU exposure, gestational age, birth weight, ventilation mode within seven days, and ibuprofen use (d). The model built by these predictors displayed good prediction ability with the area under the ROC curve of 0.793 in the training set and 0.803 in the validation set.

Conclusions

The standardized DICU model had significantly reduced the incidences of morbidities. The risk nomogram is useful for prediction of IVH risk in eligible infants, with a high accuracy, sensitivity, consistency, and practicability. This study emphasizes the shift in early intervention concepts and team collaboration sets “neonatologists, neonatal nurse practitioners, and respiratory therapists”, which advocates for standardized decision-making for treatment from the delivery room to improve the success rate of resuscitation and enhance the prognosis of these infants.
Baricitinib in pediatric chronic immune thrombocytopenia and associated autoimmune conditions: a case report
Authors: López de Hontanar Torres G. , Zubicaray J. , Sebastián E. , Hernández-Martín A. , Iriondo J. , Sevilla J.
Published: December 2024

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a disease characterized by platelet destruction, presenting substantial challenges in clinical practice. The classic first line therapeutic management includes corticosteroids and intravenous immunoglobulins. Although it is less frequent in children than in adults, there is a significant percentage of patients, up to 47% according to the Pediatric and Adult Registry on Chronic ITP, who require second-line or further treatment, due to non-response to the first line treatment or persistence of disease, among other reasons. Several second line approaches for its treatment are currently in use, including increasing platelet production with thrombopoietin receptor agonists. We report the case of a 16-year-old patient with ITP and alopecia areata successfully treated with baricitinib, a reversible and selective JAK 1/2 inhibitor. Baricitinib is currently in use for the treatment of several autoimmune conditions and has been shown to increase platelet counts in these patients. This phenomenon has been linked to increased TPO signaling and reduced platelet destruction. There are promising preliminary results of adult ITP patients treated with baricitinib. This case report is the first reported use of baricitinib in ITP in the pediatric and adolescent setting, potentially leading to its use in this condition.
Role of salvianolic acid B in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis of animal models
Authors: Wang Jiashan , Su Pingping , Wan Chenyu , Xu Yingqi , Huang Junyue , Niu Jianli , Jin Zhuqing
Published: December 2024

Background

Salvianolic acid B (Sal B) is potentially the most valuable water-soluble active component in Salvia miltiorrhiza. Its chemical formula contains multiple phenolic hydroxyl groups, so it has a strong antioxidant capacity.

Objective

We aim to investigate the efficacy and the potential mechanism of Sal B in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke injury.

Materials and methods

CNKI, VIP, WanFang, SinoMed, PubMed and Web of Science were searched for all the literature related to Sal B in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke before August 2024. The methodological quality was assessed using an inspection scale combining the CAMARADES checklist and the new STAIR criteria. Data were analyzed using RevMan5.4 software.

Results

A total of 14 articles were included. Sal B could effectively reduce infarct size, neurological deficit score, brain edema index, and brain water content in cerebral ischemic animals. Sal B could not only increase the content of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and decrease the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) to achieve anti-oxidative stress, but also reduce the level of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) protein to achieve anti-inflammatory response, and reduce the number of TUNEL cells to reflect its anti-apoptosis effect. In addition, Sal B can improve energy metabolism by increasing the content of energy charge (EC) and phosphocreatine (PCr), and maintaining ion balance via Na+/K+ ATPase activity, resulting in the neuroprotective effects against acute ischemic stroke injury.

Conclusion

This study showed that Sal B could significantly protect against acute ischemic stroke injury, mainly through anti-oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory response, anti-apoptosis, improving energy metabolism, and stabilizing ion balance.
Study on heart rate recovery index to predict maximum oxygen uptake in healthy adults aged 30 to 60 years old
Authors: Miao Guoqing , Yan Qi , Zhu Houyuan , Li Fantai
Published: December 2024

Objective

To explore the feasibility of post-exercise heart rate recovery indicators for predicting maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) in healthy adults aged 30–60 years.

Methods

260 healthy adults who did not perform regular exercise were randomly recruited and divided into a model group (n = 200) and a verification group (n = 60). Measure body fat percentage, weight, height and other indicators, and complete a cardiopulmonary exercise test as required to measure VO2max and heart rate recovery (HRR1, HRR2) in the first and second minutes after exercise. Equations are established through stepwise regression method, and the selected optimal equation is tested for back substitution.

Results

The optimal equation is: Absolute VO2⁡max=−0.528+0.039*weight−3.463*body fat rate+0.042*HRR2−0.180*gender male=1,female=2. Analysis of variance, goodness-of-fit test, VIF test, Shapiro-Wilk test, and Durbin-Watson test indicate that the equation is more reliable; Pearson product-moment correlation analysis, paired t test, and Bland-Altman consistency test indicate that the equation is more valid good.

Conclusion

The regression equation established through heart rate recovery after exercise can be used to predict VO2max in healthy adults aged 30–60 years.
ShinyGS—a graphical toolkit with a serial of genetic and machine learning models for genomic selection: application, benchmarking, and recommendations
Authors: Yu Le , Dai Yifei , Zhu Mingjia , Guo Linjie , Ji Yan , Si Huan , Cheng Lirui , Zhao Tao , Zan Yanjun
Published: December 2024

Genomic prediction is a powerful approach for improving genetic gain and shortening the breeding cycles in animal and crop breeding programs. A series of statistical and machine learning models has been developed to increase the prediction performance continuously. However, the application of these models requires advanced R programming skills and command-line tools to perform quality control, format input files, and install packages and dependencies, posing challenges for breeders. Here, we present ShinyGS, a stand-alone R Shiny application with a user-friendly interface that allows breeders to perform genomic selection through simple point-and-click actions. This toolkit incorporates 16 methods, including linear models from maximum likelihood and Bayesian framework (BA, BB, BC, BL, and BRR), machine learning models, and a data visualization function. In addition, we benchmarked the performance of all 16 models using multiple populations and traits with varying populations and genetic architecture. Recommendations were given for specific breeding applications. Overall, ShinyGS is a platform-independent software that can be run on all operating systems with a Docker container for quick installation. It is freely available to non-commercial users at Docker Hub (https://hub.docker.com/r/yfd2/ags).
Conservation and threatened status of plant species with extremely small populations in the karst region of southeastern Yunnan, China
Authors: Liu Yang , Tan Yu-Lin , Li Yun-Meng , Ping Yan-Mei , He De-Ming , Zhang Gui-Liang , Sun Wei-Bang , Cai Lei
Published: December 2024

The southeastern Yunnan is one of the most typical areas in China with karst landforms. The rich variety of vegetation types and plant diversity means that threatened status are also synchronized. Over the past 20 years, the comprehensive conservation team for plant species with extremely small populations (PSESP) has conducted in-depth field surveys in the region, combining relevant literature and conservation projects to compile a list of PSESP which including conservation and endangered status, conservation actions, and scientific research. Among all 116 PSESP, relatively abundant families include Cycadaceae (12 species), Magnoliaceae (17species) and Orchidaceae (18 species). Hekou and Malipo are the counties with the highest number, with 44 and 43 species respectively. A total of 81 species are included in the List of National Key Protected Wild Plants in China. For threatened status, 24 critically endangered (CR) species and 41 endangered (EN) species represent levels of severe threat. Up to now, 96 species have taken at least one protective measure from in situ conservation, ex situ conservation, breeding or reintroduction/reinforcement. But there are still 20 species that have not taken any protective measures. Additionally, scientific research has been conducted on 86 species, but 30 species have not had any research initiated. The threat of human interference mainly including overcollection and habitat destruction, and the threats of limitations imposed on PSESP itself and natural disasters cannot be ignored. Our findings underscore the importance of integrated conservation strategies, in addition to the in situ conservation, ex situ conservation, breeding or reintroduction/reinforcement, we should also pay attention to the scientific research, germplasm conservation, environmental education and ethnic culture. We also propose to consider establishing a professional karst botanical garden in southeastern Yunnan, and hope this study can offer valuable insights for the conservation of PSESP and biodiversity in southeastern Yunnan.
Comparison of smoking behaviors and associated factors between HIV-infected and uninfected men in Guilin, China: a case–control study
Authors: Yu Yong , Xiao Fuqun , Xia Mengqiu , Huang Liman , Liu Xiaohu , Tang Wenyu , Gong Xue
Published: December 2024

Background

Smoking is highly prevalent among HIV-infected individuals and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Studies on smoking among HIV-infected individuals in China, especially compared to uninfected individuals, are scarce.

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate and compare the prevalence and factors associated with smoking between HIV-infected and uninfected men in Guilin, China.

Methods

A survey was conducted among 1,395 HIV-infected men at Guilin Third People’s Hospital from June to December 2022, with a 1:2 age (±1 year) and education-matched control group of 2,790 HIV-uninfected men, whose data were collected from March to August 2023. Both groups completed an online questionnaire on smoking behaviors and relevant characteristics, with a comparative analysis of associated factors conducted using chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regressions.

Results

The rates of former smokers were comparable between HIV-infected and uninfected men [12.3% (95% CI: 10.7–13.9%) vs. 12.0% (95% CI: 10.9–13.1%)], but the current smoking rate was significantly higher in the infected group than in the uninfected group [37.6% (95% CI: 35.2–40.0%) vs. 27.6% (95% CI: 25.9–29.3%), p < 0.05]. In both groups, the following factors were significantly associated with smoking: higher income, presence of chronic diseases, negative coping styles, lower social support, and having depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Additionally, in HIV-infected men, the following factors were exclusively associated with smoking: heterosexual HIV transmission route, lower CD4+ T cell count, longer duration of antiretroviral therapy (ART), and drug use.

Conclusion

HIV-infected men had higher smoking rates than their uninfected counterparts, indicating that HIV diagnosis may be a critical timing to initiate behavioral changes and deliver smoking cessation interventions. Furthermore, multiple demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors were associated with smoking, indicating the need to develop and implement comprehensive smoking cessation prevention and intervention programs.
Mental health dynamics between mothers and siblings of children with disabilities
Authors: Zahl Erica , Cogo-Moreira Hugo , Fredriksen Trude , Kirchhofer Solveig , Orm Stian , Vatne Torun , Botta Matteo , Fjermestad Krister
Published: December 2024

Introduction

When a child has a disability, their families face significant challenges that also impact parents’ and siblings’ mental health and adjustment. We examined the potential bidirectional relationships between parental mental health and sibling mental health and adjustment in families of children with a disability.

Methods

We utilized baseline and 12-month follow-up data from a randomized controlled trial of a brief intervention designed to enhance parent-sibling communication in families of children with a disability. The sample comprised 214 siblings aged 8–16 years and their parents (N = 203 mothers, N = 124 fathers). We estimated bivariate latent change score models to examine the longitudinal cross-domain associations between changes in parental mental health and changes in sibling mental health, and changes in parental mental health and sibling adjustment.

Results

The results showed that changes in maternal mental health and sibling adjustment over the 12-month period were correlated (r = 0.22). The cross-domain associations between changes in maternal mental health and sibling mental health and adjustment were not statistically significant in any of the two models. However, baseline sibling mental health had nearly doubled impact on changes in maternal mental health (Β = 0.232, p = 0.061) compared to maternal health’s impact on sibling mental health (Β = −0.134, p = 0.289). Models with paternal mental health data unfortunately did not run due to low paternal response rate at 12-months.

Discussion

The findings suggest that whereas maternal mental health and sibling adjustment changes are correlated over time, the relationship between maternal and sibling measures does not necessarily operate bidirectionally. Future studies on family mental health dynamics should include data from fathers that may contribute to a broader understanding of these complex relationships.
Stigma and psychological health in psoriasis patients based on the dual-factor model of mental health: the chain mediating roles of social appearance anxiety and alexithymia
Authors: Huang Lijun , Feng Ziyou , Xu Chengfeng , Liao Yuan , Yan Yu , Yang Chenfan , Li Yu , Li Chun
Published: December 2024

Background

Patients with psoriasis also often experience stigma due to skin lesions, and this stigma further leads to severe psychological problems such as anxiety and depression. However, it is unclear how, and under what conditions, stigma relates to mental health. This study aimed to investigate the current status and interrelationships between stigma, social appearance anxiety, alexithymia, and mental health in patients with psoriasis. It also sought to identify the factors that influenced their mental health and to examine the mediating roles of social appearance anxiety and alexithymia in the relationship between stigma and psychological health.

Method

From June to December 2023, patients with psoriasis were recruited from the outpatient department or ward of the dermatology department of a tertiary hospital in Guangzhou. Patients were assessed using the General Information Questionnaire, the Psoriasis Stigma Scale, the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale, the Toronto Alexithymia Scale, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was conducted using Amos 24.0 to explore the relationships among the variables, and mediation effects were tested using SPSS 26.0.

Results

A total of 317 psoriasis patients were recruited to participate in the survey. The total score of stigma of patients was (82.03 ± 1.52), which was at a moderate level. The total score of social appearance anxiety scale was (49.38 ± 1.00), which was at a high level. The total score of negative mental health of patients was (2.77 ± 0.14), which was at a low level. The total score of positive mental health of patients was (20.14 ± 0.36), which was at a medium level. The findings revealed that social appearance anxiety and alexithymia play significant chain mediating roles between stigma and negative mental health in patients with psoriasis, with an effect size of -0.031. Similarly, these factors also mediate the relationship between stigma and positive mental health, with an effect size of 0.056.

Conclusion

Stigma in patients with psoriasis can directly impact their mental health and can also influence it indirectly through social appearance anxiety and alexithymia. Both social appearance anxiety and alexithymia serve as mediators in the relationship between stigma and mental health in these patients.
Translation of a longitudinal survey of veterans’ well-being into action by a research-practice-policy partnership
Authors: Perkins Daniel F. , McCarthy Kimberly J. , Morgan Nicole R. , Balotti Brandon A. , Davenport Katie E. , Aronson Keith R. , Lockwood William , Andros Megan
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Research-practice-policy partnerships are shifting the academic research paradigm toward collaboration and research-informed action at community and policy levels. In this case study, researchers partnered with philanthropic foundations to actualize data findings from a rigorous, longitudinal study.

Context

In 2016, a survey of post-9/11 military veterans began assessing veterans’ well-being in key domains: health, vocation (education and employment), finances, and social relationships. Data were collected from 9,566 veterans with three study aims: document factors affecting well-being, describe the use of transition-assistance programs and distill them into common components, and identify components associated with positive changes in veterans’ well-being.

Partnership formation and priorities

The study evolved into a partnership among an academic applied research center and philanthropic funders to disseminate survey findings, investigate additional research questions of practical application, and help ensure public and private funds are invested in evidence-informed programs and services that support veterans’ well-being. Four RPP partnership goals were identified.

Mechanisms and actions

Goal 1 included survey expansion to capture data on emerging concerns (e.g., COVID-19 impacts, educational experiences, burn pit exposure, civic engagement, social-media use). This resulted in eight waves of data collection over 6.5 years. Goal 2 involved co-interpretation of data to define successful military-to-civilian transition (MCT) and strategic communications to engage national leaders in policy change for veterans. Goal 3 focused on evaluation support of partners’ organizational portfolios and programs, which resulted in new tools such as an online screener that veteran-serving providers could use to identify veterans’ MCT risks and respond with tailored, research-informed resources and program components. Goal 4 allowed for the application of research findings with an innovative model for using longitudinal study variables within robust comparison analyses to assess partners’ program components; propensity matching demonstrated that effective component use leads to better outcomes for veterans (e.g., higher salaries).

Discussion

Partnerships can equip funders and service organizations with credible data, clear messaging, and tools to advocate for and champion the well-being of populations. This partnership, galvanized by using data for co-learning and collaborative action, has augmented the nation’s understanding of veterans’ reintegration and has led to veterans receiving data-driven support for successful transitions and enhanced well-being.
“You find yourself in a very humiliating situation”: experiences of people living with post-tuberculosis lung disease in Brazil
Authors: Almeida Carlos Podalirio Borges de , Furin Jennifer Joan , Sumiya Alberto , Silva Denise Rossato , Mitnick Carole Diane
Published: December 2024

Background

Brazil remains one of the 30 countries with the highest tuberculosis (TB) and TB-HIV coinfection burden. Post-TB lung disease (PTLD) is a set of sequelae that can occur in people who have been cured of TB.

Aim

To learn about the experiences of people living with PTLD (PLPTLD) and how healthcare workers (HCW) manage PTLD.

Methods

An exploratory qualitative study with a purposive sample of PLPTLD and HCW from two different cities. Open-ended interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide, which were recorded and transcribed. Two researchers analyzed the interviews using an inductive approach and applied a content analysis framework to define categories.

Results

Forty-six participants were interviewed, and four categories emerged: PTLD as a social disease; stigma; the fragility of access; and limitations. The categories encompassed two main aspects like PTLD in activities of daily living and emotions in everyday life, for instance, challenges with preparing meals, getting a job, barriers to set clinical appointments or getting social assistance, and stigma.

Conclusion

This study reveals specific needs from patients and providers such as a lack of knowledge about PTLD, physical limitations, and stigmatization due to PTLD. It is crucial to address these issues in public health policies.
Intestinal parasitic infections among children aged 7–14 years in Mizan-Aman city, Southwest Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Tekalign Eyob , Sebeta Asresash , Nureye Dejen , Duguma Tadesse , Tesfaye Tarkegn
Published: December 2024

Background

Intestinal parasitic infections continue to pose a major threat to human health globally, with a particularly high prevalence in developing countries. Soil-borne helminthiasis and schistosomiasis are notably widespread.

Objective

The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence and contributing factors of intestinal parasites infection among participants aged 7–14 years.

Methods

Community-wide prevalence study was undertaken from 30 August to 30 September 2021 in Mizan Aman Town. Socio-demographic information was collected using questionnaires. Three of the five kebels were randomly chosen. Households with children aged 7–14 were gathered from the chosen kebels and health post to recruit one eligible subject. Allocation of study subjects to each of the chosen kebels was computed proportionally. Two thick smear of Kato Katz technique was applied to examine stool samples. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20. To investigate the association between the dependent and independent variables, a logistic regression analysis was conducted. Statistics were considered significant for p-values under 0.05.

Results

The overall prevalence of intestinal parasites was 64.6% (215/333). Of these, 51.05% (170/333) were infected with STHs, while 13.5% (45/333) had S. mansoni. T. trichiura was the most prevalent helminth. Infection intensity ranged from light to moderate was observed. Prior information about STHs (aORr:2.022 = CI:1.222–3.340), poor knowledge about STHs (aOR:1.677 = CI:1.057–2.660), unaware of deworming as prevention method of S. mansoni (aOR:2.620:CI:1267–5.418), swimming (aOR:0.448:CI:0.176–0.992) and contact with water (aOR:0.402:CI:0.169–0.957) were significantly associated with the S. mansoni infection.

Conclusion and recommendation

The prevalence of intestinal parasite was high. Heavy infection was not recorded. Beyond mass deworming, the report emphasizes the necessity of ongoing public health interventions to address the high prevalence of these intestinal helminths.
Social anxiety in adolescence and the first timing of parental home leaving and living with a partner: a longitudinal population-based Young-HUNT3 study in Norway
Authors: Halidu Malik Dimbei , Moe Cathrine Fredriksen , Behboudi-Gandevani Samira , Haugan Tommy
Published: December 2024

Background

Social anxiety can make significant life transitions from adolescence to young adulthood particularly stressful. Despite the potential impact, few population-based longitudinal studies have examined the relationship between social anxiety and the timing of key markers of the transition to adulthood. This study investigated the association between social anxiety and the timing of two critical life events: first leaving the parental home and first living with a partner.

Methods

Data were drawn from 8,199 adolescents aged 13–19 who participated in the Young-HUNT3 survey (2006–2008) in Norway, linked with event registration data from Statistics Norway through 2020. Social anxiety was assessed via the Short Form of the Social Phobia and Anxiety Inventory for Children, with scores ranging from 1 to 5. Accelerated failure time (AFT) regression analyses with a Weibull distribution were conducted to evaluate the relationship between social anxiety and the timing of first leaving the parental home and first living with a partner.

Results

The final analytic sample size was 8,045. The median age for first leaving the parental home was 21, whereas the median age for first starting to live with a partner was 24. Higher levels of social anxiety were modestly associated with delays in both life transitions. Specifically, a one-unit increase in the social anxiety score was associated with an approximate one-month delay in leaving the parental home (T = 1.005; p < 0.05) and a two-month delay in first living with a partner (T = 1.010; p < 0.001). The predicted mean indicates a difference of 4 months for leaving the parental home and 8 months for first living with a partner, comparing adolescents with the lowest (score of 1) to the highest (score of 5) within the social anxiety spectrum.

Conclusion

This study highlights the association between social anxiety and delays in key life transitions from adolescence to early adulthood. Despite these delays, socially anxious adolescents in Norway appear to reach these milestones—leaving the parental home and living with a partner—in their early twenties, similar to their peers. Although the findings are modest, practically, this information may still hold significant value in informing care providers and policymakers to focus on adolescents as a potential period for implementing evidence-based programs aimed at social anxiety. Future research should explore other stress-inducing life events and examine the long-term socioeconomic and health outcomes of adolescents with social anxiety.
Protocol for evaluating physiological and psychological acclimatization mechanisms in Tibetan plateau environment: a clinical study of doctors from Peking Union Medical College Hospital
Authors: Xu Hemiao , Yang Daiyu , Li Shuai , He Kun , Bian Macuo , Liu Zhijuan , Xu Chengli , Wu Dong
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The transition from low to high altitude environments is associated with a multifaceted series of physiological and psychological alterations that manifest over time. These changes are intricately intertwined, with physiological acclimatization primarily mediated through the regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF), which orchestrates the expression of critical molecules and hormones. This process extends to encompass the epigenome, metabolism, and other regulatory mechanisms. In the realm of psychological acclimatization, chronic hypoxia and changes in atmospheric pressure at high altitudes may contribute to decreased levels of neurotransmitters, with potential implications for mental health, particularly in relation to sleep quality. Despite significant advancements in our understanding of plateau acclimatization mechanisms in recent years, there remain many uncertain factors that necessitate further research.

Methods

This study is a single-center prospective observational study. It aims to utilize a series of physiological and medical instruments in conjunction with internationally recognized physiological and psychological questionnaires to monitor the dynamic shifts in the acclimatization ability of doctors from Peking Union Medical College Hospital. The monitoring will occur at seven distinct time points: pre-departure from Beijing, 1–7 days post-arrival at the Tibetan plateau during the acute phase of plateau hypoxic stress, and during the chronic phase of plateau hypoxic stress at 2 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months of residency in Tibet, and post-return to Beijing. Concurrently, a spectrum of omics analyses will be conducted, including comprehensive genomic, proteomic, and metabolomic assessments of blood leukocytes, fecal, and oral samples.
Reader’s digest version of scientific writing: comparative evaluation of summarization capacity between large language models and medical students in analyzing scientific writing in sleep medicine
Authors: Matalon Jacob , Spurzem August , Ahsan Sana , White Elizabeth , Kothari Ronik , Varma Madhu
Published: December 2024

Introduction

As artificial intelligence systems like large language models (LLM) and natural language processing advance, the need to evaluate their utility within medicine and medical education grows. As medical research publications continue to grow exponentially, AI systems offer valuable opportunities to condense and synthesize information, especially in underrepresented areas such as Sleep Medicine. The present study aims to compare summarization capacity between LLM generated summaries of sleep medicine research article abstracts, to summaries generated by Medical Student (humans) and to evaluate if the research content, and literary readability summarized is retained comparably.

Methods

A collection of three AI-generated and human-generated summaries of sleep medicine research article abstracts were shared with 19 study participants (medical students) attending a sleep medicine conference. Participants were blind as to which summary was human or LLM generated. After reading both human and AI-generated research summaries participants completed a 1–5 Likert scale survey on the readability of the extracted writings. Participants also answered article-specific multiple-choice questions evaluating their comprehension of the summaries, as a representation of the quality of content retained by the AI-generated summaries.

Results

An independent sample t-test between the AI-generated and human-generated summaries comprehension by study participants revealed no significant difference between the Likert readability ratings (p = 0.702). A chi-squared test of proportions revealed no significant association (χ2 = 1.485, p = 0.223), and a McNemar test revealed no significant association between summary type and the proportion of correct responses to the comprehension multiple choice questions (p = 0.289).

Discussion

Some limitations in this study were a small number of participants and user bias. Participants attended at a sleep conference and study summaries were all from sleep medicine journals. Lastly the summaries did not include graphs, numbers, and pictures, and thus were limited in material extraction. While the present analysis did not demonstrate a significant difference among the readability and content quality between the AI and human-generated summaries, limitations in the present study indicate that more research is needed to objectively measure, and further define strengths and weaknesses of AI models in condensing medical literature into efficient and accurate summaries.