bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Changes in perception of prognosis in the last year of life of patients with advanced cancer and its associated factors: Longitudinal results of the eQuiPe study
Authors: Versluis M.A.J. , van de Poll-Franse L.V. , Zijlstra M. , van Laarhoven H.W.M. , Vreugdenhil G. , Henselmans I. , Brom L. , Kuip E.J.M , van der Linden Y.M. , Raijmakers N.H.J. 
Published: December 2024

Background: Many patients with advanced cancer are unaware of their limited prognosis, however little is known about the change in awareness during the last year of their lives. Aim: To investigate changes in the perception of prognosis in the last year of life of patients with advanced cancer and its associated factors. Design: Prospective, longitudinal, multicentre, observational study in patients with advanced cancer (eQuiPe). Patients completed 3-monthly follow-up questionnaires until death. Setting/participants: Adult patients diagnosed with advanced cancer were recruited by their treating physician or self-enrolled in one of the forty Dutch hospitals. Only deceased patients with available prognostic data were included for analysis ( n = 801). Results: Perception of prognosis changes in the last year of life with an increase in the percentage of patients who are aware of their limited prognosis (from 15% to 40%). Especially in the last 6 months of life, most of the changes were towards a more realistic perception of prognosis. Patients who did not want to know their prognosis remained relatively stable in their wish not to know (range: 14%–18%). Time to death was associated with having a perception of prognosis of < 1 year, >1 year or not knowing the prognosis, but was not associated with not wanting to know the prognosis. Conclusion: Becoming aware of their limited prognosis may make patients with advanced cancer more receptive to start end-of-life discussions. Although some patients prefer not to know their prognosis, it remains important to respectfully explore their preferences and wishes for end-of-life care.
What is important to young people in care during adolescence? A qualitatively driven photo-elicitation study
Authors: Matthews Tom , Hugh-Jones Siobhan 
Published: December 2024

A feature of being a young person in care is that your life is overseen by a range of professionals, who make decisions that affect you. There is a lack of research into the experiences of young people in care to inform these decisions from the perspective of the young people. A need for research that allows young people in care to contribute to the literature about what is important to them during adolescence was established. This exploratory study used a participant-led, photo-elicitation methodology with six young people (13–15 years) who lived in foster care. A photo-elicitation interview was conducted in which participants brought photographs of what was important to them which they then discussed. Data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.  Participants described their experiences as being embedded in the place they lived, with their development being shaped by the possibilities this provided. Participants described what was important to them as: being seen and heard; a part of their place and being with others; finding space to escape to; relationships with their pets; and getting to know themselves. Discussion of how this relates to existing knowledge, and relevant clinical implications and future research directions, are discussed based on this analysis.
Complex Multimorbidity and Trajectories of Functional Disabilities in the Last Three Years of Life: A Prospective Cohort Study of Older Adults in Japan
Authors: Kato Daisuke , Kawachi Ichiro , Saito Junko , Kondo Naoki 
Published: December 2024

We sought to understand the impact of multimorbidity (MM) on the trajectories of functional decline in the last three years of life among older people in Japan. We used nationwide longitudinal cohort data with 6-year follow-up and analyzed 3731 functionally independent residents aged 65 years and older. The primary outcome was the five trajectory groups of functional disability in the last three years of life, defined by group-based trajectory modeling (GBTM). The explanatory variable was two alternative definitions of MM: basic MM (BMM; two or more comorbid diseases) versus complex MM (CMM; three or more body system disorders due to disease). A multinomial logistic regression analysis showed both MMs were associated with earlier trajectories of functional decline (maximum odds ratio: BMM 1.12 [0.99–1.27]; CMM 1.29 [1.16–1.44]). Preventing MMs, especially CMM, by providing appropriate care and support could contribute to healthy longevity by delaying the onset of functional disability.
Early-Life Parental Affection, Social Relationships in Adulthood, and Later-Life Cognitive Function
Authors: Thomas Patricia A. , Teas Elizabeth , Friedman Elliot , Barnes Lisa L. , Sauerteig-Rolston Madison R. , Ferraro Kenneth F. 
Published: December 2024

Objective Although research has demonstrated the long-term health consequences of childhood adversities, less is known about the long-term impact of positive childhood experiences, such as parental affection. Method Using longitudinal data (1995–2014) from the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study, we analyze structural equation models estimating direct and indirect pathways from early-life parental affection to changes in later-life cognitive function through relationship quality in adulthood among Black and White older adults ( N = 1983). Results Analyses revealed significant indirect effects of parental affection on better cognitive function through higher levels of social support (both average social support and family social support) in adulthood in the full sample and among Black respondents. Indirect pathways through relationship strain and through friend support were not significant. Discussion This work elevates the importance of promoting positive parental relationships during childhood, with implications for better social relationships in adulthood and cognitive function in later life.
Predicting prognosis, immune landscape, and drug targets with a novel signature for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Qiu Xinqi , Huang Wentao , Liang Jun , Chen Hao , Sha Weihong , Lyu Yanlin , Chen Kequan , Yang Hongwei , Zhang Qingfang 
Published: December 2024

Background Despite advances in therapeutics, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains one of the most malignant types of digestive tract cancers with a poor prognosis. Pyroptosis is a form of programmed cell death induced by inflammatory caspases. Recent studies have identified pyroptosis, a form of programmed cell death induced by inflammatory caspases, as playing a role in tumorigenesis and cancer progression. However, the functions and mechanisms of pyroptosis in HCC are barely explored. Methods Gene expression and clinical data were derived from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. A prognostic signature and nomogram were constructed by on differentially expressed genes and clinical data. Pathway enrichment and immune cell infiltration were further analyzed. Potential drugs to modulate the pathways were explored. Results In this study, a pyroptosis-related gene signature was developed and identified to be significantly correlated with the survival of HCC patients. Additionally, a nomogram on the basis of pyroptosis-related genes was constructed with distinct prognostic values. Furthermore, the pyroptosis-related gene signature might correlate with immune-related pathways and the regulation of the immune microenvironment, and several compounds (KIN001-220, TPCA-1, LY-303511, physostigmine, vemurafenib, etc.) could potentially reverse the pathogenic gene-expression patterns. Conclusions Our study provides evidence that pyroptosis is involved in HCC development, progression and immune microenvironment, which is promising in predicting the prognosis and developing targeted therapy.
Admission diagnoses and outcomes among hospitalized people living with HIV during pre-COVID-19, COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 pandemic periods
Authors: Panutat Pattarapoom , Khawcharoenporn Thana 
Published: December 2024

Background Data on the impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on hospitalization and outcomes among people living with HIV (PLHIV) are limited. Methods A retrospective cohort study was conducted among PLHIV hospitalized during the pre-COVID-19, COVID-19, and post-COVID-19 periods. Results Of the 310 PLHIV included, 117, 125 and 68 were admitted during the three periods, respectively and 115 (37%) were newly diagnosed with HIV. Median CD4 cell counts and proportions of those with antiretroviral therapy (ART) adherence rates ≥95% at admission were different between the three periods [(206, 97 and 138 cells/mm3 ( p = .02) and 97%, 89% and 100% ( p = .06), respectively]. Of the 310 PLHIV, admission diagnoses were non-AIDS-related (62%) and AIDS-related (38%). Most of the non-AIDS-related diagnoses were infections other than opportunistic infections (OIs) (40%) while OIs were the most common for AIDS-related diagnoses (88%). The types of admission diagnoses were comparable between the three periods. Hospital mortality rates were 10%, 13% and 16% during pre-COVID-19, COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 periods, respectively ( p = .80). By multivariable analysis, intensive care unit admission, underlying malignancy, monthly income less than $USD 400, and admission CD4 less than 50 cells/mm3 were independently associated with hospital mortality. Conclusions Although admission during COVID-19 pandemic period was not associated with increased mortality, we observed the impact of the pandemic on the lower CD4 cell count and ART adherence at admission among hospitalized PLHIV. Interventions to improve early care engagement, ART adherence, and close monitoring for those with identified mortality risks are needed for better HIV care, especially during pandemics.
Analgesic Efficacy of Ultrasound-guided Bilateral Transversus Abdominis Plane Block and Ultrasound-guided Bilateral Quadratus Lumborum Block for Postoperative Pain in Robotic Prostatectomy: A Randomised Comparative Study
Authors: Vinitha B  , Ganesan Arunnya , Chirravur Pradeep 
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims: After robotic procedures, one of the most important things that helps patients recover quickly is postoperative pain control. When administered as a truncal block for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing robotic prostatectomy, the quadratus lumborum block (QLB) can be quite successful. Our study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of bilateral ultrasound-guided transversus abdominis plane block and bilateral ultrasound-guided QLB for postoperative pain relief following robotic prostatectomy. Methods: In this prospective randomised double-blinded study, 50 eligible patients were randomly divided into the QL group (n = 25) and transversus abdominis plane (TAP) group (n = 25). At the end of the surgery, for the QL group, an ultrasound-guided lateral QL block was performed with 20 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine on either side and for group TAP, an ultrasound-guided TAP block was performed with 20 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine on either side. The postoperative visual analogue scale (VAS) score at rest and movement over 12 hours at different intervals and the time to initiate the first rescue analgesia were the primary and secondary objectives, respectively. Result: The group that received an ultrasound-guided QL block had a better VAS score both at rest and movement over 12 hours post-surgery. Additionally, the mean duration required to take the first rescue analgesic was 6.1 ± 0.7 hours in the TAP block, while in the QL block group, it was 10.6 ± 0.9 hours, which was statistically significant. Conclusion: According to our research, patients who received QL block experienced more effective pain management. Furthermore, the initial rescue analgesia time needed was delayed. Thus, QL block is a useful technique for relieving pain in patients having robotic prostatectomy.
‘It depends entirely on the nature of those supports’: Community perceptions of the appropriateness of early support services for autistic children
Authors: Sulek Rhylee , Edwards Chris , Monk Ruth , Patrick Lee , Pillar Sarah , Whitehouse Andrew JO , Waddington Hannah 
Published: December 2024

Autistic advocates emphasise the need for neurodiversity-affirming and strengths-based approaches to support services; however, little is known about broader community perspectives regarding the appropriateness of offering early support services to autistic children. This co-designed mixed-methods study employed surveys to gather insights from 253 participants in Australia and New Zealand, including autistic adults, parents, and professionals. Participants shared views on the appropriateness of early support services for autistic children. About half of participants indicated that it was appropriate to provide early support services, while the other half indicated that it depended on the nature of those support services. Reflexive thematic analysis resulted in three overarching themes which explain these views. ‘They are children first, after all’ emphasises the importance of preserving childhood experiences and involving children in decision-making. ‘We shouldn’t be aiming to fix the child’ underscores the need for support services to align with neurodiversity-affirming approaches. Finally, ‘Supports are beneficial’ highlights the perceived positive impact that early, individualised support services can provide for autistic children. These findings predominantly signal a shift away from medicalised models towards a neurodiversity-affirming approach across participant groups. Lay abstract We do not know much about what support services people think are okay for young autistic children. This study was a survey of 253 people. We asked autistic adults, parents, and professionals from Australia and New Zealand whether they thought it was okay to provide support services to autistic children. About half the people who shared their thoughts said it was okay to provide support services to autistic children and the other half said it depended on what the support service was like. They had three main ideas about whether support services were okay or not. The first one is that we should remember that these autistic children are children first, so we need to keep their childhood experiences in mind and let them have a say in decisions. The second is that we should not try to ‘fix’ the child, but instead, use supports that respect and understand the unique ways the child thinks. The final idea is that early, personalised help is good for autistic children and can make a positive difference in their lives. This study suggests that we should focus on what each child needs, think about how children can join in, and provide help in ways that respect autistic children.
Peripheral Arterial Disease Management: Insights From the SerbVasc Registry
Authors: Tanaskovic Slobodan , Ilijevski Nenad , Davidovic Lazar , Petrovic Jovan , Zekic Petar , Milacic Aleksandra , Vujcic Aleksandra , Roganovic Andrija , Martinovic David , Popovic Miroslava , Crnokrak Bogdan , Jokovic Vuk , Damnjanovic Zoran , Vukasinovic Ivan , Tomic Aleksandar , Zoranovic Radivoje , Koncar Igor 
Published: December 2024

Background: This report contributes to VASCUNET data on treating peripheral artery disease (PAD) in Serbia, addressing sex differences, revascularization types, procedure characteristics, and morbidity and mortality. Methods: SerbVasc, part of the VASCUNET collaboration, includes vascular procedures from 27 Serbian hospitals. Data from 1681 PAD patients were analyzed, focusing on sex disparities, diabetes prevalence, previous procedures, infection and tissue loss, and morbidity and mortality rates. Results: Males formed the majority, comprising 1169 (69.5%) of the patients. Men were significantly more often treated open surgically compared to women (77.6% vs 68.0%; p=0.000). Diabetes stood at 40.2% prevalence. Smoking history was noted in 61.9% of patients, predominantly males. Complication rates stood at 7.5%, with diabetic patients more prone to reinterventions and graft restenosis. The in-hospital mortality rate was 1.6%, with significant predictors of mortality including urgent procedures and recent myocardial infarction. The severity of the infection was correlated with diabetes (r=0.250, p=0.000) and previous amputations (r=0.186, p=0.000). Patients undergoing revascularization followed by minor amputations had a significantly lower incidence of major amputation (0.1% vs 2.9%, p=0.000). Conclusions: SerbVasc data provides a comprehensive overview of PAD management, highlighting the significant impact of diabetes and smoking on disease progression and outcomes. Clinical Impact This study highlights critical aspects of PAD management in developing countries, emphasizing sex differences, risk factors, and outcomes. Males predominated and are more likely to undergo open surgery. Diabetes and smoking significantly influenc disease progression, with diabetic patients experiencing higher rates of graft restenosis and reinterventions. Urgent procedures and recent myocardial infarctions are key predictors of in-hospital mortality. Combining revascularization with minor amputations reduced major amputation rates. These findings provide valuable data for tailoring treatment strategies, optimizing resource allocation, and improving outcomes for PAD patients, with implications extending beyond Serbia to similar healthcare systems.
What contributes to older Korean American immigrants becoming frail? A qualitative study
Authors: Sagong Hae , Chon Myoung-Gi , Tsai Pao-Feng , Jang Ah Ram 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Frailty is prevalent in older adults and represents a dynamic condition that can improve with early detection and interventions focused on influencing factors. Older immigrant populations, marked by diverse cultural backgrounds, distinct health beliefs and behaviors, language barriers, and low health literacy, require a focused exploration of factors influencing frailty. This study examines the perceived factors affecting frailty among older Korean American immigrants (OKAIs).

Methods
A focus group interview was conducted with nine OKAIs (five frail/prefrail and four robust) in Alabama, supplemented by demographic and health-related surveys. Semi-structured questions addressed health literacy, physical activity, nutrition, and mental health. Data analysis included both descriptive and content analysis methods.

Results
Participants displayed notable differences in health literacy scores between Korean and English assessments. Content analysis highlighted that social activities, health behaviors, and healthcare utilization for OKAIs were shaped by distinct environmental and healthcare contexts compared to those in Korea. Limited English proficiency and access to healthcare resources further influenced their experiences. Participants expressed a preference for Korean healthcare providers, interpreters, and traditional food options to maintain well-being.

Conclusion
Interventions aimed at preventing and managing frailty among OKAIs should consider their unique characteristics and challenges to improve effectiveness.
Using co-design to understand consumer’s health information-seeking behaviours and design preferences for a new digital clinical dashboard in aged care
Authors: Nguyen Amy D , Dodds Laura , Ludlow Kristiana , Baysari Melissa , Comi Rosa , Zheng Wu Yi , Westbrook Johanna I 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Little is known about the information needs of older people and their family caregivers, particularly around medication management. This is largely because this population are infrequently consulted in research. Health technologies such as digital dashboards can present comprehensive and timely data summaries to improve knowledge and guide decision-making.

Objectives
The aim of this study was to understand current information seeking-behaviours of aged care service users and their families, and their preferences for the presentation of these types of information to support the co-design of a digital aged care dashboard.

Methods
Aged care clients (community and residential aged care) and their family members were invited to participate in semi-structured, one-on-one interviews conducted over the telephone. The interviews explored how participants sought health information, how this information supported their clinical decision-making, and how they would want this information to be presented via a digital dashboard. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and independently analysed using an inductive content approach by three reviewers to identify prominent categories.

Results
Aged care clients and family members sought health information from healthcare providers, aged care facilities and the Internet. Information regarding medications, medical conditions and an overview for family members were of particular importance to participants. Participants saw the usefulness of a digital dashboard displaying relevant information, and provided suggestions regarding presentation of this information. This included the use of large text, representative colours, symbols and graphs. Participants recommended being able to tailor the dashboard to individual end-users.

Conclusions
By engaging aged care clients and their families in research, it was found that they had positive views about a digital dashboard that presented clinical information and was readily accessible. Such a dashboard could complement their current practices of information-seeking. However, for the dashboard to be effective for this population, several suggestions for its design were raised. Understanding the information-seeking behaviours of aged care clients and their families, together with knowledge of the information that is important to them, and then subsequent incorporation of this information into a digital dashboard that reflects their design preferences, could lead to more informed decision-making in this population.