bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comprehensive analysis of the prognostic value, expression characteristics and immune correlation of MKI67 in cancers
Authors: Pan Xiaolan , Wei Caibiao , Su Jingyu , Fang Min , Lin Qiumei , Qin Yuling , Gao Jie , Zhao Jie , Zhao Huiliu , Liu Fengfei
Published: February 2025

Background

nuclear-associated antigen Ki67 (Ki67) emerges as a clinically practical biomarker for proliferation assessment among many cancer types. However, the definite prognostic value of Ki67 against a specific cancer type has remained vague. This study aims to perform a comprehensive pan-cancer analysis of the prognosis value of Ki67 across various cancer types.

Methods

This study explored the expression, prognostic value, and tumor-infiltrating immune of MKI67 in the TCGA database by pan-cancer, and then performed immunohistochemical, correlation analysis and prognostic analysis using 10028 patients of the top 10 cancer patients in China we collected. The correlation between MKI67 expression and survival outcome, clinical features, MSI, TMB, and tumor-infiltrating immune cells by TCGA database, xCell, and TIMER algorithms.

Results

MKI67 expression was significantly upregulated across varied cancer types verified by datasets. We found MKI67 expression was significantly associated with poor prognosis in LUADLUSC, LIHC, and BRCA patients, but good prognosis in COADREAD and READ patients via Kaplan-Meier survival analysis using 10028 patients collected. These results of our validation were generally consistent with TCGA database except BRCA, COADREAD and READ. Meanwhile, upregulation of MKI67 elevates the degree of immune infiltration of several immune cell subtypes, such as functional T cells, CD4+ T cells, and CD8+ T cells, as well as, MKI67 was related to Cell cycle, Oocyte meiosis, p53 and other pathways.

Conclusion

Our comprehensive analysis may supply useful guidance on MKI67 applicability across various cancer types. These observed results contribute to the promise of MKI67 in a realistic clinical setting and improve the outcomes of cancer patients.
Tissue-resident memory T cells in urinary tract diseases
Authors: Xu Guofeng , Li Yuying , Lu Guanting , Xie Daoyuan
Published: February 2025

Tissue-resident memory T (TRM) cells are a specialized subset of memory T cells that permanently reside in non-lymphoid tissues, providing localized and long-lasting immune protection. In the urinary tract, TRM cells play critical roles in defending against infections, mediating tumor immunity, and influencing the pathogenesis of chronic inflammatory diseases. Their therapeutic potential is immense, with promising avenues for vaccine development, enhanced cancer immunotherapy, and targeted treatments for chronic inflammation. However, challenges remain in harnessing their protective roles while minimizing their pathological effects, particularly in immunosuppressive or inflammatory microenvironments. This review explores the diverse roles of TRM cells in urinary tract diseases, including infections, cancer, and chronic inflammation, and discusses therapeutic strategies and future directions for leveraging TRM cells to improve clinical outcomes. By advancing our understanding of TRM cell biology, we can develop innovative interventions that balance their immune-protective and regulatory functions.
Case report: Efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors for high tumour mutational burden malignant phyllodes tumours of the breast as revealed by comprehensive genomic profiling
Authors: Katsuya Hiroo , Sano Haruhiko , Sano Haruna , Mihashi Tatsuya , Nakashima Chiho , Kai Keita , Kimura Shinya
Published: February 2025

High tumour mutational burden (TMB-high), identified through comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP), is a biomarker that predicts the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors. CGP testing is recommended for rare cancers with limited effective treatment options. Here, we provide the first report of a malignant phyllodes tumour of the breast demonstrating TMB-high status and effective treatment with pembrolizumab. The patient initially underwent right breast tumour resection and was diagnosed with a malignant phyllodes tumour. Recurrence was observed at the same site with metastases to the pulmonary hilar and right axillary lymph nodes. CGP testing revealed TMB-high status and microsatellite stable. Pembrolizumab was initiated after chemotherapy for the soft tissue sarcoma. After two treatment cycles, imaging revealed a partial response of the pulmonary hilar lymph nodes and necrotic enlargement of the right axillary lymph node. After four cycles, all lymph nodes had reduced in size. Eight months after ten cycles of pembrolizumab treatment, multiple new nodules were observed in both lungs, indicating disease progression. This case highlights the utility of CGP testing in rare cancers, demonstrating the first evidence of TMB-high malignant phyllodes tumours of the breast responding to pembrolizumab and underscoring the value of expanding CGP testing to improve therapeutic strategies for rare cancers.
Influence of gut microbial metabolites on tumor immunotherapy: mechanisms and potential natural products
Authors: Li Dongyang , Lan Xintian , Xu Linyi , Zhou Shuo , Luo Haoming , Zhang Xiaoying , Yu Wenbo , Yang Yonggang , Fang Xiaoxue
Published: February 2025

In recent years, tumor immunotherapy has made significant breakthroughs in the treatment of malignant tumors. However, individual differences in efficacy have been observed in clinical practice. There is increasing evidence that gut microbial metabolites influence the efficacy of distal tumor immunotherapy via the gut-liver axis, the gut-brain axis and the gut-breast axis, a process that may involve modulating the expression of immune cells and cytokines in the tumor microenvironment (TME). In this review, we systematically explore the relationship between gut microbial metabolites and tumor immunotherapy, and examine the corresponding natural products and their mechanisms of action. The in-depth exploration of this research area will provide new ideas and strategies to enhance the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy and mitigate adverse effects.
The changes of NLRs family members in the brain of AD mouse model and AD patients
Authors: Li Zehan , He Yanling , Zhang Jingdan , Yang Jing , Cheng Jinbo , Zhang Xuewu
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a prevalent neurodegenerative disease, is primarily characterized by progressive neuron loss and memory impairment. NOD-like receptors (NLRs) are crucial for immune regulation and maintaining cellular homeostasis. Recently, NLRs have been identified as important contributors to neuroinflammation, thus presenting a potential approach for reducing inflammation and slowing AD progression.

Methods

We use quantitative RT-PCR to detect levels of NLR family members in AD mouse model. Additionally, we use immunofluorescence to detect NLRP3 expressions in microglia surrounding Aβ plaques in AD mouse model and human AD patients.

Results

In this study, we examined the expression of NLR family members in the human AD database, and found increased levels of CIITA, NOD1, NLRC5, NLRP1, NLRP3, NLRP7, NLRP10, NLRP12, and NLRP13 in hippocampus tissue in patients with AD, along with increased levels of NOD1, NLRC5, NLRX1, NLRP3, and NLRP7 levels in frontal cortex tissue. Furthermore, through detecting their levels in AD mouse model, we found that NLRP3 levels were significantly increased. Additionally, we found that NLRP3 expressions were mainly elevated in microglia surrounding Aβ plaques in AD mouse model and human AD patients.

Discussion

These findings highlight the potential important role of NLRP3 in AD pathology, offering new therapeutic targets and interventions.
Knowledge mapping of autophagy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease from 2004 to 2024: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Zhang Yating , Li Anqi , Xu Sumei , Liu Haoge
Published: February 2025

Background

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has become a major global healthcare issue due to its high prevalence and mortality rates. Increasing evidence suggests that autophagy plays a role in the development of COPD, yet there is a lack of bibliometric analyses on literature related to autophagy and COPD. Therefore, this study aims to summarize the current research status, research direction, and research hotspots in the literature related to COPD and autophagy.

Methods

A search was conducted on the Web of Science Core Collection for literature related to COPD and autophagy from October 2004 to October 2024. Subsequently, bibliometric and visualization analyses were performed on the included publications using R software, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer.

Results

A total of 481 published articles across 229 journals related to COPD and autophagy were included. During the study period, there was a trend of continuous growth in both the annual number of publications and citations in this field. The United States had the highest centrality, while China was the most productive country. Major research institutions included Maastricht University, Harvard University, and Jikei University. The American Journal of Physiology-Lung Cellular and Molecular Physiology, International Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and Autophagy are the most influential journals in this field. The author with the most published papers is Araya J, while Choi AMK is the most influential author. Frequently appearing keywords include “oxidative stress,” “obstructive pulmonary disease,” “aging,” “apoptosis,” and “mitophagy.”

Conclusion

This bibliometric study helps researchers quickly understand the research overview of autophagy and COPD, thus providing new insights and directions for future research in this field.
Navigating interstitial lung disease associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA-ILD): from genetics to clinical landscape
Authors: Bernardinello Nicol , Zen Margherita , Castelli Gioele , Cocconcelli Elisabetta , Balestro Elisabetta , Borie Raphaël , Spagnolo Paolo
Published: February 2025

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide and is characterized by persistent inflammation, pain, and joint destruction. In RA, the dysregulation of the immune system is well documented. However, the genetic basis of the disease is not fully understood, especially when extra-articular organs are involved. Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with RA. Notably, RA-ILD shares several risk factors with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), namely male gender, smoking history, usual interstitial pneumonia (UIP) pattern of fibrosis, and association with the MUC5B rs35705950 polymorphism. In addition, other genetic susceptibilities are reported in RA-ILD for some HLA alleles and other less studied polymorphisms. However, the pathobiology of RA-ILD, particularly whether and to what extent genetic and environmental factors interact to determine the disease, remains elusive. In this review, we summarize and critically discuss the most recent literature on the genetics and pathogenesis of RA-ILD. The main clinical aspects of RA-ILD are also discussed.
The effect of Zexie decoction on vestibular and auditory function in DDAVP-induced endolymphatic hydrops of Guinea pigs
Authors: Ji Renlong , Xu Yanchang , Li Kang , Jiang Wen , Li Yuan , Zeng Jianwei , Li Wei , Wang Caiji , Zhao Zeqi , Li Yalan , Konduru Naveena , Liu Wen , Qiao Yuehua , Li Xuanyi
Published: February 2025

Objective

To investigate the effects of Zexie decoction on vestibular and auditory function in guinea pigs with endolymphatic hydrolysis induced by desmopressin. Methods: Sixty guinea pigs were randomly and evenly divided into four groups, each group has 15 guinea pigs: normal control group, DDAVP group, DDAVP modeling combined with Zexie Decoction group, and DDAVP combined with Double Zexie group. At 7 and 14 days, bone-conducted cervical vestibular evoked myogenic potential tests, auditory brainstem responses, and distortion-product otoacoustic emissions were conducted on each group of guinea pigs to evaluate their vestibular and auditory function quantitatively. After functional testing, the outer hair cells were observed by scanning electron microscope. On day 14, one guinea pig was randomly selected from both the normal control group and DDAVP group to verify the successful establishment of the model using gadolinium-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging of the inner ear.

Results

We conducted BC-cVEMP, ABR, and DPOAE tests on guinea pigs, and the results showed that DDAVP did affect vestibular function and hearing in guinea pigs. Analyses were performed from those results that were statistically significant, Zexie Decoction improved DDAVP-induced vestibular dysfunction and hearing loss dose-dependently, though complete reversal was not achieved. About scanning electron microscopy, outer hair cells of the DDAVP group showed significant loss and cilia lodging, however, treatment with Zexie decoction can alleviate the loss of outer hair cells and the lodging of cilia. When the outer hair cells were exposed to DDAVP for a long time, the improvement effect of Zexie decoction was not as obvious as before.

Conclusion

The extent of improvement correlates with the concentration and dosage of Zexie Decoction. Even at double the dosage, Zexie Decoction only partially mitigates the decline in vestibular and auditory function induced by DDAVP, falling short of complete reversal.
Association of ADHD and LD with vision abnormalities among the children and adolescents in US, NHANES 1999–2004
Authors: Lu Jiamin , Zhou Kefan , Liang Yingyu , Li Qishan , Zhong Jiawen , Zeng Xia , Shen Tianran , Sun Chongzhen , Yu Xinping , Lu Jinhua , Yang Wenhan
Published: February 2025

Objective

To examine the association of ADHD and LD with visual impairment, uncorrected refractive error, and refractive error (myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism) among US children and adolescents.

Method

A population-based cross-sectional study included 3,385 participants aged 12–15 years from the large, representative sample of US NHANES. The diagnoses of ADHD and LD in children and adolescents, as reported by parents or adolescents themselves, were analyzed. All participants’ right eyes were used to calculate the spherical equivalent refractive errors (SER) during the investigation. Myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism were classified by SER. Visual acuity was categorized into normal, uncorrected refractive error (URE), and visual impairment (VI) according to objectively assessed for each eye. Logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the associations between ADHD and LD and vision abnormalities.

Results

Among a total of 3,385 children and adolescents aged 12–15 years, 279 were reported to have a diagnosis of ADHD, and 427 were reported to have a diagnosis of LD. Compared with those without ADHD, children and adolescents with ADHD had an increased risk of hyperopia, with odds ratios (ORs) of 1.66 (95% CI, 1.03–2.67). LD was associated with higher risks of hyperopia (OR = 1.85, 95% CI, 1.17–2.90) and astigmatism (OR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.18–2.26). After controlling for confounding variables, the results remained stable. LD also increased the risk of vision impairment (OR = 3.05, 95% CI: 1.05–8.90) after controlling for confounders. Stratified analyses showed that ADHD was a risk factor for hyperopia in boys compared with girls (OR = 1.62, 95%CI = 1.03–2.72), in 12–13-year-old individuals compared with 14–15-year-olds (OR = 1.69, 95%CI = 1.05–3.42). LD was a risk factor for hyperopia and astigmatism in girls compared with boys (OR = 2.81, 95%CI = 1.53–5.14; OR = 2.18, 95%CI = 1.22–3.90), and in 12–13-year-old individuals compared with 14–15-year-olds (OR = 1.99, 95%CI = 1.16–3.42; OR = 1.65, 95%CI = 1.07–2.56).

Conclusion

Children and adolescents diagnosed with ADHD and LD may be at a greater risk of developing hyperopia and astigmatism. To accurately diagnose and treat children affected by ADHD and LD, healthcare practitioners from various medical specialties should take this association into account.
Potential of transcranial ultrasound- and near-infrared spectroscopy-based acute stroke imaging for decision-making on intravenous thrombolysis treatment
Authors: Freitag Erik , Erdur Hebun , Khalil Ahmed A. , Harmel Peter , Kaffes Maximilian , Schmitz Christoph H. , Weber Joachim E. , Audebert Heinrich J.
Published: February 2025

Background

Mobile Stroke Units (MSU) shorten time to intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) and improve functional outcome, but they rely on computed tomography (CT) making them highly specialized and costly. Alternative technologies can potentially identify imaging-based IVT contraindications like intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) or malignancies (IM), e.g., by transcranial color-coded sonography (TCCS) and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS).

Methods

Using a simulation approach, we analyzed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of stroke-suspected patients within 4.5 h of symptom onset to assess TCCS and NIRS for identifying imaging-based IVT contraindications. Our study included both primary and sensitivity analyses, each employing conservative and optimistic scenarios. The primary analysis integrated clinical information from the emergency department, while the sensitivity analysis evaluated overall performance across all patients, regardless of clinical information. The conservative scenario defined TCCS detecting acute deep-brain hemorrhages or tumors >20 mm from scalp surface or > 10 mL in volume or causing >4 mm midline-shift, while NIRS was defined detecting them <20 mm from scalp surface with a volume > 3.5 mL. The optimistic scenario defined TCCS detecting intracranial or subarachnoid acute/subacute hematoma or tumors >20 mm from scalp surface or > 5 mL in volume or causing >2 mm midline-shift, while NIRS was defined detecting them <35 mm from the scalp surface with volume > 3.5 mL.

Results

We assessed 1,089 consecutive patients undergoing acute MRI, identifying 69 with imaging-based IVT contraindications, of which 40 had additional non-imaging contraindications. In the primary analysis, among those 29 patients without non-imaging-based contraindications, TCCS/NIRS would have detected 15 of 25 ICH and 3 of 4 malignant tumors in the conservative scenario. In the optimistic scenario, 18 of 25 ICH and all malignant tumors would have been detected. In the sensitivity analyses, the conservative scenario would have detected 30 of 52 ICH and 8 of 17 malignant tumors, while the optimistic scenario would have identified 37 of 52 ICH and 12 of 17 malignant tumors.

Conclusion

While TCCS and NIRS technologies exhibit potential for identifying IVT contraindications in pre-hospital settings, comprehensive evaluation in real-world scenarios is imperative to ascertain their operational constraints.
Cueing-assisted gamified augmented-reality gait-and-balance rehabilitation at home for people with Parkinson’s disease: protocol of a pragmatic randomized controlled trial implemented in the clinical pathway
Authors: Geerse Daphne J. , Hoogendoorn Eva M. , van Doorn Pieter F. , van Bergem Jara S. , van Dam Annejet T. , Hardeman Lotte E. S. , Roerdink Melvyn
Published: February 2025

Background

Physiotherapy in the clinic is highly recommended for improving gait, balance, and fall risk in people with Parkinson’s disease. In addition, technology may help boost unsupervised exercise hours at home. Strolll is an augmented-reality (AR) neurorehabilitation platform for delivering gait-and-balance exercises onto AR glasses that can be performed under direct supervision of the therapist in the clinic, but also independently at home. Strolll AR also has the option to integrate AR cueing in gait-and-balance exercises to assist people with more severe mobility impairments in performing the exercises. The objective of this pragmatic randomized controlled trial (RCT) on Strolll AR is to examine its clinical feasibility and effectiveness for improving indicators of gait, balance, and falls risk. A secondary objective is to evaluate procedures for tailoring assistive AR cues.

Methods

A total of 100 people with Parkinson’s disease (Hoehn and Yahr stages 1–3) with gait and/or balance impairments will participate in this study. This study is a pragmatic RCT in which all participants follow the same procedure. After a baseline assessment (T0), participants will start with a 6-week usual care control period, followed by a midterm assessment (T1). Subsequently, participants will undergo 2 weeks of in-clinic familiarization with Strolll AR. Then, participants will start with the 6-week Strolll AR intervention at home, followed by a final in-clinic assessment (T2). The primary study parameters are feasibility (i.e., safety, adherence, performance, and user experience) and effectiveness for improving indicators of gait, balance, and falls risk. For the statistical analyses on effectiveness, participants will be allocated to control (using T0-T1 change data) or intervention (using T1-T2 change data) groups using multiple (n = 20) randomizations. Recruitment started in May 2024 and the last T2 assessment is expected in February 2025.

Discussion

The design of this particular pragmatic RCT will demonstrate feasibility and effectiveness in a real-world setting and in a representative population. Strolll AR may facilitate the transition from supervised care in the clinic to independent care at home, providing a platform for delivering individualized treatment, assisted with AR cues when deemed beneficial, for improving gait, balance, and falls risk in people with Parkinson’s disease.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier NCT06590987
Contributing factors to acute malnutrition among children admitted to public health facilities in South West Ethiopia: a matched case–control study
Authors: Tamiru Dessalegn , Girma Shimelis , Gizaw Getu
Published: February 2025

Introduction

In Ethiopia, acute malnutrition is one of the potential challenges to achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals in reducing child mortality. Thus, this study aimed to determine factors associated with acute malnutrition among children aged 6–59 months attending public health facilities in Jimma town, South West Ethiopia, from March to December 2017.

Methods

An institution-based age-matched case–control study design was used. Two hundred and thirty-four children aged 6 to 59 months were randomly selected. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. Variables with a p-value of ≤0.25 in the bivariate analyses were entered into a multivariable regression analysis to determine the independent predictors of acute malnutrition.

Results

This study showed that lack of maternal education (AOR = 4.08, 95% CI, 1.46, 11.40), poor child feeding (AOR = 5.97, 95% CI, 1.83, 19.44), low wealth index (AOR = 3.76, 95% CI, 1.24, 11.38), less hand washing (AOR = 5.57, 95% CI, 1.82, 16.97), exposure to diarrhea (AOR = 3.58, 95% CI, 1.15, 11.07), and bottle-feeding (AOR = 3.98, 95% CI, 1.29, 12.36) were significantly associated with acute malnutrition among children attending public health facilities in Jimma town.

Conclusion

The findings of this study indicated that the sex of the child, family size, household wealth index, bottle-feeding, and maternal knowledge of child feeding were found to be independent predictors of acute malnutrition. Therefore, emphasis should be given to strengthening caregivers’ socioeconomic status and improving the knowledge of mothers regarding childfeeding practices.
Cardiovascular toxicity induced by immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Sabaté-Ortega Josep , Teixidor-Vilà Eduard , Sais Èlia , Hernandez-Martínez Alejandro , Montañés-Ferrer Claudia , Coma Núria , Polonio-Alcalá Emma , Pineda Victor , Bosch-Barrera Joaquim
Published: February 2025

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), an immunotherapy used in cancer treatment, are associated with potential cardiovascular (CV) toxicity. Monitoring CV issues in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients is challenging due to their lower incidence and diversity. Hence, enhancing our understanding of CV toxicities in patients receiving ICIs is required to improve their quality of life and survival. Hence, the main objective of this study is the evaluation of CV side effects in ICI-treated NSCLC patients by assessing the prevalence and hazard of CV events.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted to identify relevant studies, up to November 21st, 2023. A meta-analysis was performed to examine the data extracted from the selected studies. The random-effects model was applied to account for heterogeneity among studies, reporting results as prevalence rates and hazard ratios (HR) alongside their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI). Studies meeting inclusion criteria were selected and outcomes were assessed through qualitative analysis.

Results

Twelve observational studies using Real world Data were included, encompassing 23,621 patients with NSCLC. Our findings indicated that patients treated with ICIs exhibited a 3% prevalence of CV events and a significantly higher hazard (HR = 1.78 (95% CI: 1.46, 2.17); p < 0.00001; I2 = 72%) compared to patients treated with other drugs.

Conclusions

The treatment with ICIs caused a higher rate of CV events compared to non-ICI treatments. Nevertheless, further research is required to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and implications for patient care. This calls for continued research efforts to optimize the cardiovascular health of patients undergoing immunotherapy for lung cancer.
Advances in targeting protein S-palmitoylation in tumor immunity and therapy
Authors: Han Miaomiao , Lv Yuanhao , Chen Yiyang , Li Zhaoyi , Tian Jiaqi , Zhou Hongyan , Wang Yunlong , Su Wei , Zhong Jiateng
Published: February 2025

S-palmitoylation is a reversible and dynamic post-translational modification of proteins. A palmitoyl group is covalently attached to a cysteine residue of the protein by a thioester link. It regulates the transcription and expression of downstream target genes and cell signaling, influencing cellular functions. Research indicates a substantial correlation between S-palmitoylation and tumorigenesis and immunotherapy, where it plays a pivotal role in modulating T cell activation, cytokine signaling, autophagy, phagocytosis, and death. Moreover, palmitoylation contributes to drug resistance and immunological evasion in tumor cells, enabling them to circumvent the effects of chemotherapeutic drugs and immune surveillance. Inhibitors that target S-palmitoylation have demonstrated significant potential in enhancing the efficacy of tumor immunotherapy, offering a novel strategy for cancer treatment. Nonetheless, obstacles such as inhibitor specificity and efficacy persist, requiring more extensive investigations into the exact mechanisms of S-palmitoylation to develop more effective targeted therapeutics. This article summarizes recent developments in S-palmitoylation concerning tumor immunity and treatment. The article examines the regulatory function of S-palmitoylation, its modifying enzymes in tumor cell signaling, and novel tumor immunotherapies that target S-palmitoylation.
Association between serum oxidative stress indicators, inflammatory indicators and suicide attempts in adolescents with major depressive disorder
Authors: Peng Cao , Xu Mengting , Ye Meng , Yang Weiwei , Fang Maosheng
Published: February 2025

Background

Progress in research on the neurobiology of suicide behavior in adolescents has notably lagged compared to that of adults. This study aimed to investigate the associations between serum indicators, including oxidative stress (OS) and inflammatory indicators, and psychological factors with suicide attempts (SA) in adolescents with major depressive disorder (MDD) while also exploring potential markers.

Methods

This study involved the psychological assessment of 106 first-time hospitalized adolescents aged 12 to 18 with MDD and the measurement of serum indicators. Participants were categorized into two groups according to their history of SA within the preceding six months. Screening the best markers for suicide by machine learning algorithms. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the correlation between these indicators and suicide. Secondly, Mendelian randomization (MR) was used to initially explore the causal relationship between these serum indicators and suicide.

Results

In adolescents diagnosed with MDD, those who had attempted suicide exhibited elevated serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, reduced nitric oxide (NO) levels, more severe anxiety and depressive symptoms, worse sleep quality, increased exposure to adverse life events, less effective coping strategies, worse parental attachment, more severe alexithymia, and more impulsivity when compared to their counterparts without a history of SA (all p<0.05). The multivariable analyses showed a significant association between serum SOD activity (OR 1.254, 95% CI 1.043-1.534) and anxiety symptoms (OR 1.056, 95% CI 1.020-1.097) with SA in adolescents diagnosed with MDD. The MR analyses showed a causal association between genetically determined low uric acid (UA) levels and a higher risk of SA (OR 0.942 95%CI 0.896-0.991).

Conclusion

Serum SOD activity, anxiety symptoms, and UA levels may be potential markers of SA and suicide intent in adolescents with MDD.
Healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitudes, and practice of podoconiosis management and associated factors in public hospitals in Ilu Ababor and Buno Bedelle zones, Southwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tamiru Sanbato , Lulu Yohanis , Bidira Kebebe , Amsalu Bonsa , Duguma Abdissa , Nigusu Yared , Gezimu Wubishet
Published: February 2025

Background

Podoconiosis is non-filarial lymphoedema of the lower extremities. It impairs individuals’ overall lives, including their health, economy, psychology, and social interactions. Podoconiosis is a preventable and effectively manageable disease. The insights and skills of healthcare professionals are vital for the prevention and management of podoconiosis. However, healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices of podoconiosis management have been poorly studied in Ethiopia.

Objective

The study aimed to assess the healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward podoconiosis management and associated factors in public hospitals in the Ilu Ababor and Buno Bedelle Zones.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 1, 2022, to January 1, 2023. The data were collected from systematically selected health professionals using a self-administered structured questionnaire. Epi-data and SPSS were used for data entry and analysis, respectively. A binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors influencing the outcome variables. In the multivariable analysis, a p-value of ≤0.05 was used to pronounce statistical significance at a 95% confidence interval.

Results

From the total of 399 participants involved, 262 (65.7%) had poor knowledge, 213 (54.3%) had unfavorable attitudes, and 308 (77.2%) had never practiced podoconiosis management. Years of experience, level of education, type of qualification, podoconiosis training, taking courses in education curricula, and attitudes were identified as factors influencing knowledge. The participants’ attitudes were influenced by age, podoconiosis training, receiving technical support, and knowledge. Their practices were significantly affected by age, education level, podoconiosis training, taking podoconiosis courses in educational curricula, and knowledge.

Conclusion

The current study found poor healthcare professionals’ insights and skills in podoconiosis management in the study area. Therefore, concerned bodies need to set up capacity-building training and guidelines for healthcare professionals in the area to boost their knowledge, attitudes, and practice toward podoconiosis management.
Evaluating the effectiveness and limitations of online health information tools in assessing the quality of medication-related content
Authors: Alhlayl Adel S. , Alzghaibi Haitham A.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The internet has become a primary source of information on medicines, yet the quality of this information is inconsistent. Despite the proliferation of web-based resources, limited research has specifically examined the reliability of online information on medicines. The variability in quality can be attributed to the recent shift toward digital information-seeking and the absence of specialized tools designed to assess the quality of medication-related information online.

Aim

To evaluate the quality of information about Amitriptyline available on websites using three well-established, generic evaluation tools—HONcode, DISCERN, and JAMA—compared against the domain-specific Keystone action plan criteria.

Methods

Adopting an evaluative research design, this study utilized the aforementioned four assessment tools to collect and analyze data. Four independent assessors were recruited to evaluate the quality of the information on selected websites.

Results

A Google search using “Amitriptyline” identified 30 websites for the study sample. Reliability analysis using Cronbach’s alpha, the Inter-Class Correlation coefficient, and Kendall’s rank-order correlation coefficient revealed that the Keystone criteria demonstrated the highest internal consistency and reliability compared to DISCERN, HONcode, and JAMA.

Conclusion

This study indicates that the Keystone action plan criteria may serve as a reliable, domain-specific tool for evaluating medicines information on websites. The results underscore the importance of specialized assessment criteria for online medication information, as they provide more consistent and accurate evaluations compared to generic tools.
Seeking offsite help: a study of online support access for families of adolescents with depression
Authors: Zhang Chen , Zhou Lefan
Published: February 2025

Background

As the smallest social unit, the family is the primary source of social support for adolescent patients to withstand chronic diseases. Several rehabilitation programs have found that involving family members in the treatment process can result in greater success. However, families struggle to provide adequate support for the recovery of adolescent patients when adolescent depression occurs.

Methods

This study examined the WeChat group for parents of adolescent patients in the “DuGuo” community, and used participatory observation, social network analysis, and extensive interviews to investigate the online support received by families with adolescent depression.

Results

It was found that compared with physical diseases, adolescent depression recovery is a systemic problem, requiring all ecological contexts for adolescent growth to provide relative support. Under structural pressure, families with adolescent patients urgently require diversified social support such as medical consultation, emotional comfort, guidelines to return to school, and life planning. Insufficient offline social support leads parents to seek help from the Internet community.

Conclusion

Widespread factors such as communication constraints and hidden alienation in the nuclear family, render the parent–child relationship an important variable in combating depression. WeChat groups indeed provide a platform for parents with depressed children to seek help, but the real challenge for these parents is how online support from “off-site help” can be used in the family context and positively affect adolescent patients.
Significance of the ARIMA epidemiological modeling to predict the rate of HIV and AIDS in the Kumba Health District of Cameroon
Authors: Besong Arrey Emmanuel , Kibu Odette Dzemo , Tanue Elvis Asangbeng , Obinkem Besong Agbor , Kwalar Ginyu Innocentia , Chethkwo Fabrice , Ngum Valentine Ndze , Sandeu Maurice Marcel , Ema Patrick Jolly Ngono , Denis Nkweteyim , Moise Onduo , Gelan Ayana , Kong Jude Dzevela , Nsagha Dickson Shey
Published: February 2025

Background

AIDS is a severe medical condition caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) that primarily attacks the immune system, specifically CD4+ T lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell crucial for immune response), monocyte macrophages, and dendritic cells. This disease has significant health and socio-economic implications and is one of the primary causes of illness and death globally (UNAIDS, 2022). It presents significant challenges for public health and population well-being, both in developed and developing countries. By conducting a time series analysis, this research seeks to identify any significant changes in HIV rates over the next 4 years in the Kumba District Hospital and provide valuable insights to inform evidence-based decision-making and strategies for preventing and controlling HIV within the Kumba Health District.

Materials and methods

A hospital-based retrospective study on HIV/AIDS recorded cases was conducted at the Kumba District Hospital. Using data extraction form, hospital records from 2012 to 2022 were reviewed and data extracted and used to make predictions on the number of future incidence cases. Time series analysis using Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model was done using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 26.

Results

According to the ARIMA parameter (p,d,q), the results for the Partial Autocorrelation Factor (p) was 1, differencing (d) was 0 and Autocorrelation Factor (q) was 0. Putting these values together, we had the ARIMA model (1,0,0) which predicted an overall increase in HIV incidence cases at the Kumba District Hospital for the upcoming Years (2023–2026).

Interpretation

The ARIMA model was found to be independent of errors and a perfect fit, with a high R-squared value of 0.764 and a p-value of 0.410, indicating that the model’s predictions aligned well with the observed data. The model predicted an increase in the number of HIV incidence cases over the coming years (2023–2026), potentially suggesting a worsening situation. However, it is important to interpret these predictions with caution and consider other factors that may influence the incidence of HIV in reality.
Socioeconomic determinants of mental health outcomes among Hawaii adults
Authors: Juarez Ruben , Le Binh , Bond-Smith Daniela , Bonham Carl , Sanchez-Johnsen Lisa , Maunakea Alika K.
Published: February 2025

Background

Socioeconomic factors play a critical role in influencing mental health outcomes, particularly during periods of crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic. In Hawaiʻi, working adults face unique challenges related to employment, food security, and trust in community safety measures, which may exacerbate risks for depression, low self-esteem, and suicidal ideation. Understanding the interplay of these factors is crucial to addressing mental health disparities and informing targeted policy interventions.

Methods

This study analyzed data from 2,270 adults aged 18 to 65 residing in Hawaiʻi, collected in 2022. Using probit regression models and conditional inference decision trees, the study assessed the impact of 15 socioeconomic and demographic factors on mental health outcomes, specifically symptoms of depression, low self-esteem, and suicidal ideation. Key variables of interest included food security status, employment, marital status, pre-existing health conditions, and perceptions of COVID-19-related community safety.

Results

The findings revealed significant mental health challenges among the participants, with 39.6% reporting symptoms of depression, 14.7% experiencing low self-esteem, and 4.2% expressing suicidal ideation. Food insecurity emerged as the most significant predictor of poor mental health, particularly for depression and suicidal ideation. Within the food-insecure group, individuals with pre-existing health conditions faced worsened mental health outcomes, while marital status served as a protective factor. Employment reduced the likelihood of depression by 2.8%, and perceptions of community safety during the COVID-19 pandemic were associated with a 9.9% reduction in depression risk.

Conclusion

Food insecurity, particularly when coupled with pre-existing health vulnerabilities, is a critical risk factor for adverse mental health outcomes among working adults in Hawaiʻi. Employment and positive perceptions of community safety were identified as key protective factors. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve food security and foster community trust and safety.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward halitosis among dental patients at Zewditu memorial hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Degif Rediet , Abaynew Yeshewas
Published: February 2025

Background

Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common oral health problem that can significantly affect a person's social and psychological well-being. Understanding dental patients' knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to halitosis provides valuable insights into the current state of KAP related to halitosis in Addis Ababa and highlights the need for targeted educational interventions within dental health services.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward halitosis among dental patients at Zewditu Memorial Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study design was employed. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 214 study participants. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire that assessed the participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to halitosis. The data were checked, cleaned, and entered into SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the data, and the findings were presented in texts, tables, and graphs.

Results

In terms of knowledge, 71% of the participants had poor knowledge about halitosis. Approximately 68.7% of the participants had an unfavorable attitude toward halitosis. Furthermore, while 40.7% of the participants reported regular oral care and 42.5% used mouthwash, only 26.6% of the participants reported good practices regarding halitosis.

Conclusion

Overall, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding halitosis among dental patients at Zewditu Memorial Hospital were not satisfactory. These results highlight critical gaps in public awareness and effective management strategies for halitosis. This study highlights the need for integrated public health initiatives and clinical practices that focus on improving awareness and management of halitosis to ultimately promote better oral health in the community.
Introducing AI-generated cases (AI-cases) & standardized clients (AI-SCs) in communication training for veterinary students: perceptions and adoption challenges
Authors: Artemiou Elpida , Hooper Sarah , Dascanio Linda , Schmidt Marcelo , Gilbert Guy
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into medical education and healthcare has grown steadily over these past couple of years, though its application in veterinary education and practice remains relatively underexplored. This study is among the first to introduce veterinary students to AI-generated cases (AI-cases) and AI-standardized clients (AI-SCs) for teaching and learning communication skills. The study aimed to evaluate students' beliefs and perceptions surrounding the use of AI in veterinary education, with specific focus on communication skills training.

Methods

Conducted at Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine (TTU SVM) during the Spring 2024 semester, the study included pre-clinical veterinary students (n = 237), who participated in a 90-min communication skills laboratory activity. Each class was introduced to two AI-cases and two AI-SCs, developed using OpenAI's ChatGPT-3.5. The Calgary Cambridge Guide (CCG) served as the framework for practicing communication skills.

Results

Results showed that although students recognized the widespread use of AI in everyday life, their familiarity, comfort and application of AI in veterinary education were limited. Notably, upper-year students were more hesitant to adopt AI-based tools, particularly in communication skills training.

Discussion

The findings suggest that veterinary institutions should prioritize AI-literacy and further explore how AI can enhance and complement communication training, veterinary education and practice.
Prevalence and molecular characterization of cystic echinococcosis in livestock in the Hazara Division, Pakistan
Authors: Arbab Safia , Ullah Hanif , Hassan Inam Ul , Suleman  , Wang Weiwei , Qadeer Abdul , Zhang Jiya
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Echinococcosis is a parasitic zoonotic disease caused by Echinococcus tapeworm larvae, forming cysts in organs like the liver and lungs. It primarily affects livestock and humans, with significant public health and economic implications worldwide. In the Hazara Division, the prevalence and genetic diversity of the Echinococcus is largely unexplored. Therefore, the current study aims to assess the prevalence of Echinococcus granulosis (EG) in livestock.

Materials and methods

From April 2023 to April 2024, a total of 480 livestock animals, including buffaloes, cattle, goats, and sheep, were examined for echinococcosis across various slaughterhouses in the Hazara Division. Cysts of Echinococcus were collected from different organs, and the cyst fluid (CF) was microscopically analyzed before DNA extraction. PCR amplification was performed targeting the Cox1 (317 bp) and Cyto B (309 bp) genes to confirm the presence of E. granulosus.

Results

The overall prevalence of Cystic echinococcosis (CE) was 12.2% (59/480), with rates observed in different species as follows: cattle (13.1%), buffaloes (15.2%), goats (6.3%), and sheep (5.7%), (p-0.658). District-wise, higher prevalence rates were recorded in Haripur and Mansehra districts (17.5% and 16.2%), followed by Abbottabad and Battagram (12.5% and 11.2%). The lowest prevalence of infection was observed in the upper and lower Kohistan districts, with rates ranging from (8.7% and 7.5%), respectively. The infection was more common in male animals than in females, particularly among those older than 4-5 years (p =0.048). Sex-wise prevalence varied across species, with cattle showing rates of 12.4% in males and 14.3% in females. In buffaloes, prevalence was 20% in males and 13.3% in females, followed by sheep at 5% in males and 6.2% in females, and goats at 8% in males. Most animals in the study were older than three years, with the highest number of cysts found in animals over five years of age. Hydatid cysts were most found in the liver (39.1%) and lungs (34.7%), followed by the kidneys (17.3%) and heart (8.6%), (p-0.01).

Conclusion

In conclusion, E.G. is highly prevalent in the livestock population of the Hazara division.
Case report: A study on the pathology of mandibular osteosarcoma with hepatic metastasis in a giant panda
Authors: Xiong Zongliang , Ling Shanshan , Li Caiwu , Deng Linhua , Wei Tingting , He Ming , Wang Chengdong , Luo Qihui , Li Desheng , Cheng Zhengli
Published: February 2025

During routine health examinations, an abnormal growth was detected in the oral cavity of a male giant panda. A malignant tumor, osteosarcoma, was diagnosed through CT (computed tomography) scans and pathological examination of biopsy samples. After two attempts at “tumor reduction surgery” with no improvement, the condition stabilized following particle implantation and arterial infusion interventional therapy. The following year, a CT scan revealed a highly similar mass in the left lumbar muscle, which showed no improvement despite chemotherapy, leading to death 1 month later. Post-mortem examination and tissue pathological diagnosis confirmed osteosarcoma characteristics in the facial, lumbar, and liver masses. The giant panda was diagnosed with osteosarcoma with liver metastasis based on integrated pathological and gross anatomical observations. This case represents the first report of osteosarcoma with liver metastasis in a giant panda, providing valuable data and references for future clinical diagnosis and treatment of tumors in giant pandas.