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Sick leave and engagement as workforce well-being proxies in hospital departments: a cross-sectional study of routinely collected organisational data in a Dutch academic hospital

Por: Bazuin · T. · Oerbekke · M. S. · Bontjer · S. · Reijmerink · I. M. · Dongelmans · D. A. · Franx · A. · Wietasch · J. K. G. · Hooft · L. · van der Laan · M. J.
Objectives

Well-being of healthcare professionals (HCPs) is vital for care quality, staff retention and overall healthcare system effectiveness. This study aims to identify the organisational and workplace variables associated with sick leave and measures of engagement of HCPs on department level within a single Dutch academic hospital.

Design

Cross-sectional study using routinely collected organisational data.

Setting

A tertiary-care academic hospital in the Netherlands.

Participants

25 clinical departments were included. Department level variables were derived from routinely collected hospital databases. Availability of data varied across variables. Analysis included information on patient population, human resources, care processes, quality of care and employee and patient experiences to assess differences, correlations and predictors for sick leave and engagement.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Primary outcome measures were (1) sick leave (%) and (2) engagement, assessed through two staff-survey items (vitality and connectedness; 0–10 Numeric Rating Scale). Both outcomes were analysed at department level.

Results

Employee population data showed the most consistent patterns across analyses. Departments with higher staffing capacity had higher sick leave and lower engagement in group comparisons (p=0.009, p=0.030, respectively). In multivariable models, higher staffing capacity remained associated with increased sick leave (B=1.38, 95% CI 0.53 to 2.23, p=0.003). Engagement was positively associated with higher inflow (B=0.92, 95% CI 0.06 to 1.77, p=0.037) and negatively associated with outflow (B = –1.36, 95% CI –2.08 to –0.63, p=0.001). No consistent associations were found with patient population and patient experience measures.

Conclusions

Workforce-related factors, particularly staffing capacity and inflow and outflow, are strongly linked to sick leave and engagement. Routinely collected hospital data can be used to identify at-risk departments and inform targeted strategies for improving workforce sustainability. Future studies should explore more granular, team-level data to better support staff well-being and care quality.

The METTL3 inhibitor STM2457 suppresses gastric cancer progression by modulating m<sup>6</sup>A RNA modification

by Hang Sun, Haozhi Xu, Junying Li, Xiaoman Xie, Junmei Zhang, Hongjie Dong, Huanhuan Xie, Qi Wang, Guihua Zhao, Kun Yin, Jingyu Yang, Jianwei Zhou, Ruili Wu, Chao Xu

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common and lethal cancers globally. methyltransferase-like 3 (METTL3)-mediated N6-methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation plays a crucial role in tumor initiation and progression by regulating RNA function. STM2457, a highly efficient METTL3 inhibitor, can inhibit METTL3 activity and may serve as a potential therapeutic strategy in cancers. However, the role of STM2457 for GC cells is still unknown. In this study, we analyzed the expression profile data of GC in TCGA and GEO databases, and further explored the expression involvement of METTL3 in GC cell line, investigated the therapeutic effect of STM2457 targeted inhibition of METTL3 in GC both in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results indicated that STM2457 could suppress GC cell proliferation and migration by inhibiting METTL3, and also promoted cell apoptosis and arrest the cell cycle in S phase. In addition, STM2457 could inhibit tumor growth in subcutaneous xenotransplantation mouse model. Our findings suggested that STM2457 had great potential for the treatment of GC and could serve as a foundation for future clinical applications.

Correlation of psychological resilience with social support and coping style in Parkinson's disease: A cross‐sectional study

Abstract

Aims

To analyse the current status of psychological resilience in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients and its correlation with social support and coping style.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

PD patients hospitalized in a tertiary-level hospital in Shijiazhuang, Hebei Province, from March 2022 to March 2023 were selected for the study using the convenience sampling method. A general information questionnaire, psychological resilience scale, Medical Coping Modes Questionnaire and Perceived Social Support Scale were used to investigate 111 cases of PD. SPSS 25.0 software was used for statistical analysis. The data were analysed using independent samples t-test, one-way ANOVA, multiple linear regression analysis and the Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results

Parkinson's disease patients have a moderate level of psychological resilience. The results of the Pearson correlation analyses showed that the level of psychological resilience was positively correlated with social support and confrontation and was negatively correlated with avoidance and acceptance-resignation. The results of multiple linear regression analysis showed that social support and acceptance-resignation were the influencing factors of psychological resilience in PD patients.

Conclusion

The psychological resilience of PD patients is at a moderate level. Social support and acceptance-resignation are the factors influencing the psychological resilience of PD patients.

Impact Statement

This study analysed the level of psychological resilience in PD patients and its correlation with social support and coping style from the perspective of positive psychology to provide some reference for targeted clinical interventions. Our study found that social support and acceptance-resignation are influential factors in psychological resilience in PD patients. Medical staff should encourage patients to face the disease positively and their social support should be increased in order to improve their level of psychological resilience.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Occupational Burnout in Nurses Is due to Long‐Term Work Stress Rather Than COVID‐19 Pandemic Event

ABSTRACT

Aim

This study aims to explore occupational burnout among Chinese nurses from two perspectives: first, by comparing changes in emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and personal accomplishment before and after the COVID-19 pandemic; and second, by identifying long-term work-related stressors and structural factors contributing to burnout.

Design

A mixed-methods approach was adopted, combining a systematic review with qualitative interviews. The qualitative component involved semi-structured interviews with 53 hospital-employed nurses from various departments and regions across China, focusing on the three core dimensions of occupational burnout.

Methods

The systematic review included both Chinese and English-language studies published between 2016 and 2023 that used the Maslach Burnout Inventory to assess burnout among nurses. A total of 22 studies met the inclusion criteria, selected independently by two researchers using the JBI critical appraisal tool. In parallel, the qualitative interviews explored nurses' subjective experiences and coping strategies related to work stress, emotional fatigue and professional identity.

Results

Bayesian factor analysis indicated no significant differences in emotional exhaustion (BF01 = 2.202), depersonalisation (BF01 = 2.761) or personal accomplishment (BF01 = 2.747) before and after the pandemic. Qualitative findings revealed that burnout was primarily driven by long-standing systemic stressors, including promotion pressure, clinical workload, organisational demands and work–family conflict. Although many nurses relied on self-regulation strategies to maintain psychological stability, they continued to experience ongoing physical and emotional exhaustion. Some reported emotional numbness, but most retained empathy and a strong sense of responsibility. Their sense of personal accomplishment often stemmed from patient recovery and recognition of professional value.

Conclusion

Occupational burnout among Chinese nurses remained largely stable before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Its root causes stem from persistent work-related stressors and systemic issues, rather than the pandemic itself. Effective mitigation requires institutional strategies, including better staffing, clear career pathways and sustained emotional support.

Impact

Short-term crisis responses alone are insufficient to address enduring burnout. Nursing leadership should prioritise systemic reforms—such as optimising shift schedules, defining promotion channels and integrating regular psychological support—to enhance nurse well-being and care quality.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Factors Influencing Patient Satisfaction With a Government‐Funded Free Treatment Programme for Severe Mental Illnesses: A Community‐Based Cross‐Sectional Study in China

ABSTRACT

Background

In China, government-funded free treatment programmes have substantially expanded access to mental healthcare for patients with severe mental illnesses (SMIs). However, the effectiveness and patient satisfaction associated with these programmes can vary significantly. Understanding the factors underlying these variations is crucial for optimising patient adherence and rehabilitation outcomes.

Aim

To identify factors influencing SMI patients' satisfaction with a government-funded free treatment programme in District S, Nanjing, China, and propose targeted measures to enhance the programme's effectiveness and improve patient outcomes.

Design

A cross-sectional study.

Methods

This study was conducted in 23 community healthcare centres in District S, Nanjing, China, from January to July 2022. A total of 924 SMI patients enrolled in the programme were selected using a two-stage random sampling method. Data on patients' individual characteristics, health behaviours and satisfaction with the programme were collected by a self-developed structured questionnaire. Guided by Andersen's Behavioural Model, hierarchical logistic regression analysis was employed to determine factors associated with patient satisfaction.

Results

Among the 924 valid responses, 51.3% of patients with SMIs reported low satisfaction with the programme. Factors associated with patient satisfaction included individual predisposing, enabling, need and health behaviour variables. Specifically, patients who were employed, had schizophrenia, experienced adverse drug reactions, feared program exposure of their condition and received treatment in hospital were more likely to report lower satisfaction.

Conclusion

This study revealed that satisfaction among SMI patients with the programme remains low, with patient satisfaction primarily determined by individual need and health behaviour factors. Policymakers and stakeholders should implement targeted measures to address these factors and improve patient satisfaction.

Impact

The findings offer new insights and scientific bases for policymakers seeking to improve the programme and practical recommendations for stakeholders to develop effective solutions.

Reporting Method

STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Population-based study of pharmacogenetics and pharmacokinetics in Southern African patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (PoPG): a protocol for the Namibian cohort

Por: Boois · L. · Ekandjo · H. · Shavuka · O. · Nepolo · E. · Ndong Sima · C. A. · Oelofse · C. · Uren · C. · Petersen · D. C. · Möller · M. · Wijk · M. · Kellermann · T. · Decloedt · E. · McIlleron · H. · Denti · P. · Claassens · M. M.
Background

Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) is an urgent public health challenge in Namibia, with profound socioeconomic consequences. The high burden of both tuberculosis and HIV complicates treatment and underscores the need for optimised drug therapies. Precision medicine, which leverages patient-specific genetic and molecular information, offers promise for improving MDR-TB outcomes. However, its effective application relies on population-specific data, particularly understanding how individuals metabolise tuberculosis drugs and how genetic diversity drives variability in treatment response. Currently, no pharmacokinetic (PK) or pharmacogenetic (PG) data on TB treatment exist for Namibian populations. This gap is particularly concerning, given the country’s genetic diversity, environmental factors and comorbidities that may uniquely influence drug metabolism. This study aims to generate PK and PG data to inform dose optimisation and support personalised treatment strategies for MDR-TB in Namibia. The findings will contribute to improved patient care and inform health system strengthening based on locally relevant evidence.

Methods

This cross-sectional study will consist of 100 Namibian participants with matched human DNA and PK data of MDR-TB cases receiving isoniazid, clofazimine, bedaquiline and the fluoroquinolones (levofloxacin or moxifloxacin). PK sampling will be divided as follows: 30 individuals will undergo intensive PK sampling, while the remaining (n=70) will undergo sparse PK sampling. DNA will be extracted at Stellenbosch University (SU), and samples will be genotyped using the H3Africa microarray. Sequences will be aligned to the human reference genome, hg38 (GRCh38p13), using the freely available Burrows-Wheeler Aligner. A subset of the samples (n=20–30) will undergo whole genome sequencing (WGS) to verify imputation results and identify novel genetic variants potentially affecting PK in this population.

Data analysis

Quality control and variant call format file generation will be performed using the Genome Analysis Toolkit best practices (V.3.5). Intensive and sparse PK data will be pooled for the development of a population PK (popPK) model using a non-linear mixed-effects modelling approach. The popPK model will characterise the relationship between TB drug dose and exposure, including quantifying covariates, including genetic variation, explaining PK variability, providing a foundation for dose optimisation and personalised treatment strategies.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was obtained from the University of Namibia Human Research Ethics Committee for Health (Ref. SOM18/2024), the Ministry of Health and Social Services (Ref. 22/4/2/3), the SU Health Research Ethics Committee (Ref. N21/11/136) and the University of Cape Town Human Research Ethics Committee (Ref. 500/2022).

Transmission dynamics and control of tuberculosis in high-altitude regions: a modelling study in Xizang, China

Por: Li · M. · Zheng · R. · Guo · L. · Wu · Y. · Dong · J. · Jiang · H. · Song · D. · Cui · Z. · Li · C.
Objectives

To estimate tuberculosis (TB) incidence trends in the high-altitude Xizang, China, and to explore the key intervention strategies on achieving the WHO 2030 TB control target.

Design

We developed a susceptible–exposed–infectious–recovered transmission model using routinely reported TB surveillance data from 2004 to 2022. Scenario-based simulations were conducted to project future TB incidence under alternative intervention strategies. Model assumptions are as follows: (1) a stable population, (2) lifelong vaccine-induced immunity, (3) infectiousness of active TB cases, (4) relapse risk after recovery and (5) homogeneous mixing within the population.

Setting

Seven prefectures of Xizang Autonomous Region on the Tibetan Plateau, China.

Participants

An estimated population of approximately 3 million individuals residing in Xizang.

Interventions

We assessed the epidemiological impact of four interventions implemented independently: increasing vaccine efficacy rate, reducing transmission rates of susceptible individuals, decreasing progression rate from latent TB infection to active disease and reducing relapse rate among successfully treated patients, compared with continuation of current control measures.

Results

The estimated basic reproduction number (R0 ) for TB in Xizang was 0.39 (95% CI 0.21 to 0.71) in the absence of additional interventions, which was the highest among all regions of China. Model simulations indicated that all four evaluated interventions were each likely to reduce TB incidence, but only reducing the latent-to-active TB progression had a substantial effect. A 50% reduction in the progression rate was predicted to lower TB incidence from 66.56 (62.00–70.11) to 40.54 (37.15–43.77) cases per 100 000 population, meeting the WHO 2030 TB control target.

Conclusion

Targeted management of individuals with latent TB infection should be strengthened to substantially reduce TB transmission in high-altitude areas.

Pregnancy outcomes among women with and without HIV infections who underwent excisional treatment for high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia: a retrospective cohort study in low-resource settings

Por: Amubuomombe · P. P. · Itsura · P. · Tonui · P. K. · Orango · E. O. · Odongo · B. E. · Loehrer · P. J. · Cu-Uvin · S.
Objective

The standard treatment for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions is excisional involving the uterine cervix, while surveillance is an acceptable approach for low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions. There is controversy about excisional treatment on pregnancy outcomes. The objective of this study was to determine pregnancy outcomes in women living with and without HIV who underwent excisional treatment for high-grade cervical intraepithelial lesions.

Design

This retrospective cohort study compared the pregnancy outcomes of women with and without HIV who were or were not treated for cervical intraepithelial lesions. A cohort of 488 women with and without HIV infection who did or did not receive excisional treatment for cervical intraepithelial lesions between 2009 and 2022 was enrolled. Adverse pregnancy outcomes (preterm delivery and pregnancy loss) in women with and without HIV, untreated or treated for cervical dysplasia, were recorded and analysed. The significance of the obtained results was judged at the 5% level.

Study settings

The study was conducted at all Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare-Kenya satellite sites, which offer cervical cancer screening and treatment for cervical dysplasia in western Kenya. The Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital was also included.

Participants

A cohort of 488 women aged between 20 years and 49 years, with and without HIV, diagnosed and treated for high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, and those followed up for low-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia between 2009 and 2022, were included.

Outcomes measured

The study was interested in adverse pregnancy outcomes, particularly pregnancy loss and preterm delivery following cervical excision treatment for high-grade cervical intraepithelial lesions.

Results

After adjustment for confounding factors, excisional treatment involving the uterine cervix—particularly cold knife conisation—was associated with higher odds of adverse pregnancy outcomes (OR 13.1; 95% CI 1.1 to 137.1; p=0.032). A prior history of adverse pregnancy outcomes was also strongly associated with subsequent adverse outcomes after treatment (OR 37.7; 95% CI 13.8 to 102.7; p

Conclusion

Adverse pregnancy outcomes after excisional treatment of the uterine cervix for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions are multifactorial and were associated with cold knife conisation and prior adverse pregnancy outcomes, while maternal HIV infection was not independently associated with adverse outcomes.

Trajectory and influencing factors of swallowing function in adults after orotracheal extubation in an intensive care unit in China: a prospective cohort study

Por: Wang · W. · Wang · S. · Dong · T. · Zhou · Y. · Ma · R.
Objectives

To investigate the trajectories of swallowing function recovery and associated influencing factors in adult patients following orotracheal extubation in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Emergency ICU of a tertiary hospital in Shenyang, China.

Participants

A total of 182 adult patients who underwent orotracheal intubation were enrolled between December 2023 and December 2024 using convenience sampling. Among them, 168 patients completed all follow-up assessments, with a loss-to-follow-up rate of 10.1%.

Outcome measures

Swallowing function was assessed using the Standardised Swallowing Assessment (SSA) at 2, 4, 6, 8, 24 and 48 hours after extubation. Latent class growth modelling (LCGM) was used to identify distinct swallowing function trajectories. Unordered multinomial logistic regression was performed to examine factors associated with different trajectory classes.

Results

Among the 168 patients who completed all six assessments, no significant differences in baseline characteristics were observed between patients who completed follow-up and those lost to follow-up (all p>0.05). LCGM identified three distinct swallowing function trajectories: a low-risk group (46.1%), characterised by consistently low SSA scores below the dysfunction threshold (26 points); a rapid recovery group (24.6%), in which SSA scores declined to below 26 points within 24 hours after extubation and a high-risk group (29.3%), characterised by persistently elevated SSA scores above 26 points. Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that age ≤50 years, absence of spinal cord injury or rib fractures, APACHE II score

Conclusions

Distinct trajectories of swallowing function recovery were observed in adult ICU patients after orotracheal extubation. Several clinical factors were associated with more favourable recovery patterns. These findings may help improve the understanding of heterogeneity in postextubation swallowing function and inform future risk stratification and individualised management strategies.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval and consent to participate in the trial were approved by the Institutional Research Ethics Committee of General Hospital of Northern Theatre, Shenyang, Liaoning province, PR China (Project Number: Y (2023)232). Written informed consent was obtained from all participants. All procedures were conducted in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations and the Declaration of Helsinki.

Identification of the Central Symptoms of Multidimensional Frailty Among Older Adults Using the Tilburg Frailty Indicator: A Network Analysis

ABSTRACT

Background

Symptom networks offer a new approach to explore the relationships among various symptoms and provide information for optimising precise symptom management strategies. However, no previous studies have identified the central symptoms of multidimensional frailty.

Design

A cross-sectional study was conducted from December 2023 to March 2024 in China.

Settings and Participants

A total of 933 community-dwelling older adults (aged 60 years or older) in China were recruited via convenience sampling.

Methods

Sociodemographic variables, clinical variables and scores on the Tilburg Frailty Indicator were assessed in all participants. The qgraph package and IsingFit package of R software were applied to construct the symptom network. Three node centrality indices (strength, betweenness and closeness) and the expected influence were calculated to identify the central symptoms of the multidimensional frailty network. All statistical analyses were performed in R.

Results

A total of 933 individuals were surveyed in this study, including 472 (50.6%) females. The median age of all participants was 71.0 years. A total of 408 subjects were assessed as multidimensional frailty. The prevalence of multidimensional frailty was 43.7%. The centrality indices revealed that ‘difficulty in walking’, ‘difficulty in maintaining balance’, and ‘feeling down’ were the symptoms with the largest strength and expected influence values.

Conclusion

This study primarily utilised network analysis to construct a symptom network of multidimensional frailty among community-dwelling older adults. The findings revealed that difficulty in walking, difficulty in maintaining balance, and feeling down were the most central symptoms.

Implications

This study identified the central symptoms of multidimensional frailty in older adults, which may serve as primary intervention targets. Nursing staff could incorporate targeted physical and psychological interventions into person-centred care plans.

Reporting Methods

This study was reported in accordance with the STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution was involved in this study.

Absolute Versus Relative Skin Temperature as Early Warning Indicator for Pressure Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis

ABSTRACT

Aims

Skin temperature, including absolute temperature (at bony prominence areas under long-term compression) and relative temperature (the difference between bony prominence and adjacent control area), may serve as early warning indicators for PI. However, the optimal indicator remains unclear. This meta-analysis therefore synthesises evidence on their association with PI risk to identify the best indicator and evaluate its early-warning accuracy.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

We included prospective cohort studies of adult patients investigating longitudinal associations between skin temperature and subsequent PI development. We pooled standardised mean difference (SMD) and odds ratios, complemented by summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curve analysis. The overall quality of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE method.

Data Sources

We researched PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), Wanfang and CNKI databases from inception to September 25, 2024.

Results

After screening 1354 titles and abstracts, ten studies comprising 1742 participants were included in the final synthesis. No significant difference in absolute temperature (combined SMD) was found between the PI and non-PI groups (seven studies included). In addition, decreased relative temperature (< −0.1°C) was associated with a 16-fold increased likelihood of PI (95% CI 6.38–40.19, I 2 = 79.4%) (three studies included), with the SROC curve analysis showing an AUC of 0.776. According to GRADE, the evidentiary certainty was very low for AT and low for RT.

Conclusions

Relative temperature is significantly related to the risk of PI, supporting its role as a promising early warning indicator. Future studies should establish a standardised measurement protocol to facilitate its clinical application.

Implications for the Profession

Monitoring skin temperature changes holds promise as a non-invasive tool for early warning of PI risk. However, the amount and quality of available evidence limit our confidence in these findings, underscoring the need for further research before a definitive conclusion can be drawn.

Reporting Method

This study followed PRISMA guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO CRD42024550099

Enhancing Paediatric Deterioration Assessment Across Diverse Skin Tones: Insights and Future Directions

ABSTRACT

Background

Skin tone can affect clinical signs and device accuracy in paediatric anaemia and deterioration detection, creating risks of inequity.

Key Issues

Studies show disparities in diagnostic accuracy across different skin tones, supported by community-based evidence.

Recommendations

(1) Build multicenter networks with standardised skin-tone data. (2) Validate devices across varied skin tones. (3) Train clinicians in dark-skin sign recognition. (4) Include equity metrics in paediatric quality indicators.

Conclusion

Reducing skin-tone bias is essential for equitable paediatric care. Collaborative research across diverse regions is needed.

Resveratrol inhibits bladder cancer proliferation by targeting the AURKA/STAT3 axis: From computational analysis to experimental validation

by Chao Feng, Guodong Chen, Yan Shu, Jing Chen, Wenxin Ye, Ligang Ren

Introduction

Given the high recurrence rate of bladder cancer (BCa) and the significant adverse effects associated with conventional treatments, it is urgent to search for new clinical therapeutic targets and safer natural-derived compounds. Resveratrol (Res) has been demonstrated to exhibit cytotoxicity against various tumors. However, the signaling pathways and targets involved in inhibition of BCa cells still need further exploration. This study aims to investigate the mechanism of Res in Bca via suppression of the AURKA/STAT3 axis, providing important theoretical basis for subsequent further researches on Res for treating BCa.

Methods

Differentially expressed genes were identified through bioinformatics methods and the binding sites of resveratrol were also identified. The cell survival rate was detected by the CCK8 method to calculate the concentrations of Res for 30% inhibition and for 50% inhibition. Then, flow cytometry was used to detect the cell cycle and apoptosis after treatment with different concentrations of Res. Immunofluorescence staining was used to detect the effects of Res and MLN8237 on the expression of STAT3. Western blot and qPCR analyses were used to verify the reliability of the effects of Res and MLN8237 on target proteins.

Results

AURKA was identified as the potential target of Res by computational analysis. Further validation through CCK8 assays and flow cytometry demonstrated that Res could inhibit BCa cells and their cell cycle in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Immunofluorescence staining revealed both Res and MLN8237 suppressed STAT3 expression in BCa cells. Additionally, western blot and qPCR analysis confirmed that Res and MLN8237 inhibited the expression of AURKA and known target genes (VEGF, Bcl-2, and Cyclin D1).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that Res may regulate BCa cell expression through the AURKA/STAT3 axis, providing a theoretical foundation for the structural optimization of Res and the development of multi-target drugs for clinical application.

Pore network modeling of water and gas transport characteristics in synthetic porous media

by Li Dong, Changkun Ma, Wanghai Tao, Quanjiu Wang

The flow characteristics of water and gas are closely linked to pore structure of porous media, which is of critical importance across various scientific and industrial fields. In this study, synthetic porous media with varying grain sizes and porosity were generated, and their corresponding pore structures were characterized using pore network modeling. Furthermore, the intrinsic permeability, water retention curve, water-gas relative permeability and relative gas diffusivity of the synthetic porous media were simulated via pore network modeling. The results demonstrate that the pore networks extracted from images can effectively distinguish pore structural characteristics. Specifically, the mean pore diameter, throat diameter, and throat length were larger in coarse-grained media compared to fine-grained media of the same porosity. In contrast, fine-grained media exhibited higher values for pore number, throat number, and coordination number. Additionally, the distributions of pore diameter, throat diameter, throat length and coordination were found to follow a lognormal distribution. Porous media with coarse grains and larger porosity exhibit greater intrinsic permeability and relative gas diffusivity compared to media composed of finer grains or lower porosity. The water-retention curves were fitting by van Genuchten model, revealing an exponential relationship between parameter α and throat diameter (or pore diameter). But the parameter n did not show a clear trend across various synthetic porous media, which is attributed to the relatively narrow range of pore size distribution. Similarly, for water-gas relative permeability, the critical water saturation did not vary significantly across different porous media. A strong correlation was observed among the pore structural parameters, irrespective of grain shape and size. Both intrinsic permeability and relative gas diffusivity exhibited a power-law relation with the porosity as well as with pore or throat radius. Moreover, the relationship between intrinsic permeability and relative gas diffusivity can be expressed as k = 166.51(Dp/D0)0.98, which provides a direct means of estimating relative gas diffusion from intrinsic permeability directly.

Building a functional resonance analysis method (FRAM) in healthcare: a systematic review on how steps are reported, defined and supported by data

Por: Luijcks · N. M. · Bazuin · T. · Adriaensen · A. · Visser · A. · Dongelmans · D. · Groeneweg · J. · van der Laan · M. J. · Marang-van de Mheen · P.
Objectives

The functional resonance analysis method (FRAM) is increasingly used to analyse healthcare processes. FRAM uses four steps to analyse a process and its potential variability. We systematically reviewed studies using FRAM in healthcare on how the four steps in FRAM are reported, defined and supported by data.

Design

Systematic review following the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses 2020 guidelines.

Data sources

Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, PsycINFO, Dimensions and Lens were searched up to December 2025.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

All peer-reviewed studies using FRAM in a healthcare context that presented a FRAM visualisation were included. The papers had to be written in English.

Data extraction and synthesis

Two independent reviewers screened titles and abstracts, and subsequently the full text of selected papers. Data was extracted reporting on the steps of FRAM, how functions were supported by data, and the functions and couplings of the visualisations.

Results

Sixty-eight papers were included, of which 20 (29%) reported at least one aspect of all four steps in FRAM. While most studies (85%) described how functions were supported by data, the methods used varied widely. Terminology was interpreted differently concerning variability, the output of variability and the effect of combined variability.

Conclusion

Most FRAM studies in healthcare do not report all steps of FRAM, and interpretations of key terms differ. FRAM studies should more clearly describe which steps of the method are conducted, and how data is collected and analysed. Refinement of FRAM guidelines, particularly on data use and terminology, would enhance consistency and comparability across studies.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024592858.

Knowledge, attitude and practice towards glaucoma among ophthalmic inpatients: a cross-sectional study in Hunan, China

Por: Zhao · Y. · Wu · P. · Liao · L. · Zhang · J. · Zhou · D. · Sun · W. · Dong · F. · Ye · C. · Duan · X.
Objectives

Glaucoma is an optic neuropathy caused by the gradual degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) towards glaucoma among ophthalmic inpatients.

Design

A web-based questionnaire.

Setting

Local hospital.

Participants

Ophthalmic inpatients (n=1238).

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcome was the patients’ KAP.

Results

Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that rural residence (OR=0.488, 95% CI 0.313 to 0.762, p=0.002), college education or above (OR=4.996, 95% CI 2.942 to 8.483, p

Conclusions

Ophthalmic inpatients might have moderate knowledge and attitude, but a proactive practice towards glaucoma. A history of glaucoma, previous glaucoma surgery, education level, residency and alcohol consumption were potentially associated with knowledge and attitudes towards glaucoma among ophthalmic inpatients.

Protocol for the development of a global core outcome set for the surgical treatment of sacrococcygeal teratoma in children: a systematic review and international Delphi study

Por: Dongen · M. C. · van Rijn · R. · Sharma · S. · Raphael · M. F. · de Vries · R. · Abouzeid · A. A. · Bugiani · M. · Chirdan · L. B. · van Heurn · E. L. W. · Derikx · J. P. M. · Kremer · M. E. B. · Steering Group · S.-C.
Introduction

Outcome reporting in studies on sacrococcygeal teratoma (SCT) is highly heterogeneous, which limits comparability across studies and thus hampers the development of international treatment guidelines.

Variation in treatment and access to facilities contributes to differences in outcome reporting between centres and countries. Establishing a Core Outcome Set (COS) can improve consistency in outcome reporting and facilitate global collaboration and data comparison. We therefore aim to develop a Core Outcome Set for SCT (COS-SCT) using the Delphi method to achieve consensus on key outcomes. This will enhance the standardisation of outcome reporting and improve the quality of research and clinical care for SCT patients globally.

Methods and analysis

The development of the COS-SCT will consist of three phases. First, a systematic review will be performed to identify outcomes reported in studies on the surgical treatment of SCT in children. Second, an international Delphi survey will be conducted among key stakeholders, including clinicians, researchers and patient representatives, to establish consensus on outcome prioritisation. Finally, a consensus meeting with representatives from all stakeholder groups will be held to ratify the final Core Outcome Set. The study will follow methodological guidance from the Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) initiative and will be developed and reported in accordance with the Core Outcome Set Standards for Development (COS-STAD) and Core Outcome Set Standards for Reporting (COS-STAR).

Ethics and dissemination

The medical research ethics committee of the Amsterdam University Medical Centre (Amsterdam UMC) confirmed that the Dutch Medical Research Involving Human Subjects Act (WMO) does not apply to this study, and therefore a full review by the ethics committee is not required. This study is registered in the COMET initiative database. Results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed academic journals and conference presentations.

Trial registration number: COMET registration number 3485

Chinese neuroimmunological disease (NIDBase) cohort study: cohort profile

Por: Zhang · M. · Han · J. · Xia · J. · Lin · M. · Chen · T. · Ruan · S. · Wang · Q. · Men · Y. · Gao · R. · Zheng · H. · Li · J. · Qi · Y. · Chen · S. · Wang · Y. · Tang · Y. · Li · D. · Yang · X. · Qiu · Z. · Liu · Z. · Dong · H. · Zhao · Y. · Hao · J.
Purpose

The Chinese neuroimmunological disease database (NIDBase) cohort was established to explore genetic and environmental risk factors, clinical features, multi-omics data and prognostic biomarkers. The aim is to enhance our understanding of central nervous system (CNS) demyelinating diseases. Additionally, the establishment of this cohort will address the critical issue of the lack of comprehensive genetic data and biological samples for precision diagnosis and treatment research related to neuroimmunological diseases in China.

Participants

56 hospitals in various regions of China were selected to participate in this study. The patients diagnosed with CNS demyelinating diseases were recruited, including clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disease (NMOSD), myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease (MOGAD) and autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein astrocytopathy (GFAP-A).

Finding to date

At the time of patient enrolment, the clinical information is designated as baseline data. The collected baseline data include demographic information, disease history, clinical features of each demyelinating event, treatment records, standardised scales, questionnaire assessments and laboratory test results. Furthermore, biological samples, MRI and high-density electroencephalography (hd-EEG) data will be collected at baseline. All patients will be followed up at 3 months and 6 months and annually thereafter. As of December 2024, 3866 patients with CNS demyelinating diseases have been enrolled, including 84 CIS, 282 MOGAD, 1405 MS and 2095 NMOSD. Our findings indicate that CNS demyelinating diseases, particularly NMOSD, are more prevalent in women in China, with significant age differences observed among NMOSD patients compared with those with CIS, MS and MOGAD.

Future plans

In future, all patients in our cohort will be followed up at 3 months and 6 months and then annually. By the end of December 2024, the database has been locked and is now being processed and analysed, while our data continue to be updated and expanded for further analysis. Both prospective and retrospective observations will be included in this study. Subsequent publications will emerge from this multicentre cohort, encompassing genomics, clinical cohort studies, hd-EEG biomarkers, imaging-based radiomics and electrical stimulation therapies.

Trail registration number

NCT06443333.

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