Tag: pubmed

Diagn Progn Res. 2025 Mar 4;9(1):5. doi: 10.1186/s41512-025-00185-9.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: As populations are aging, the number of older patients with multiple chronic diseases demanding complex care increases. Although clinical guidelines recommend care to be personalized accounting for life expectancy, there are no tools to estimate life expectancy among multimorbid patients. Our objective was therefore to develop and internally validate a life expectancy estimator specifically for older multimorbid adults.

METHODS: We analyzed data from the OPERAM (OPtimising thERapy to prevent avoidable hospital admissions in multimorbid older people) study in Bern, Switzerland. Participants aged 70 years old or more with multimorbidity (3 or more chronic medical conditions) and polypharmacy (use of 5 drugs or more for > 30 days) were included. All-cause mortality was assessed during 3 years of follow-up. We built a 3-year mortality prognostic index and transformed this index into a life expectancy estimator. Mortality risk candidate predictors included demographic variables (age, sex), clinical characteristics (metastatic cancer, number of drugs, body mass index, weight loss), smoking, functional status variables (Barthel-Index, falls, nursing home residence), and hospitalization. We internally validated and optimism corrected the model using bootstrapping techniques. We transformed the mortality prognostic index into a life expectancy estimator using the Gompertz survival function.

RESULTS: Eight hundred five participants were included in the analysis. During 3 years of follow-up, 292 participants (36%) died. Age, metastatic cancer, number of drugs, lower body mass index, weight loss, number of hospitalizations, and lower Barthel-Index (functional impairment) were selected as predictors in the final multivariable model. Our model showed moderate discrimination with an optimism-corrected C statistic of 0.70. The optimism-corrected calibration slope was 0.96. The Gompertz-predicted mean life expectancy in our sample was 5.4 years (standard deviation 3.5 years). Categorization into three life expectancy groups led to visually good separation in Kaplan-Meier curves. We also developed a web application that calculates an individual’s life expectancy estimation.

CONCLUSION: A life expectancy estimator for multimorbid older adults based on an internally validated 3-year mortality risk index was developed. Further validation of the score among various populations of multimorbid patients is needed before its implementation into practice.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02986425. First submitted 21/10/2016. First posted 08/12/2016.

PMID:40033449 | DOI:10.1186/s41512-025-00185-9

Diagn Progn Res. 2025 Mar 4;9(1):5. doi: 10.1186/s41512-025-00185-9.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: As populations are aging, the number of older patients with multiple chronic diseases demanding complex care increases. Although clinical guidelines recommend care to be personalized accounting for life expectancy, there are no tools to estimate life expectancy among multimorbid patients. Our objective was therefore to develop and internally validate a life expectancy estimator specifically for older multimorbid adults.

METHODS: We analyzed data from the OPERAM (OPtimising thERapy to prevent avoidable hospital admissions in multimorbid older people) study in Bern, Switzerland. Participants aged 70 years old or more with multimorbidity (3 or more chronic medical conditions) and polypharmacy (use of 5 drugs or more for > 30 days) were included. All-cause mortality was assessed during 3 years of follow-up. We built a 3-year mortality prognostic index and transformed this index into a life expectancy estimator. Mortality risk candidate predictors included demographic variables (age, sex), clinical characteristics (metastatic cancer, number of drugs, body mass index, weight loss), smoking, functional status variables (Barthel-Index, falls, nursing home residence), and hospitalization. We internally validated and optimism corrected the model using bootstrapping techniques. We transformed the mortality prognostic index into a life expectancy estimator using the Gompertz survival function.

RESULTS: Eight hundred five participants were included in the analysis. During 3 years of follow-up, 292 participants (36%) died. Age, metastatic cancer, number of drugs, lower body mass index, weight loss, number of hospitalizations, and lower Barthel-Index (functional impairment) were selected as predictors in the final multivariable model. Our model showed moderate discrimination with an optimism-corrected C statistic of 0.70. The optimism-corrected calibration slope was 0.96. The Gompertz-predicted mean life expectancy in our sample was 5.4 years (standard deviation 3.5 years). Categorization into three life expectancy groups led to visually good separation in Kaplan-Meier curves. We also developed a web application that calculates an individual’s life expectancy estimation.

CONCLUSION: A life expectancy estimator for multimorbid older adults based on an internally validated 3-year mortality risk index was developed. Further validation of the score among various populations of multimorbid patients is needed before its implementation into practice.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02986425. First submitted 21/10/2016. First posted 08/12/2016.

PMID:40033449 | DOI:10.1186/s41512-025-00185-9

Infect Agent Cancer. 2025 Mar 3;20(1):13. doi: 10.1186/s13027-025-00636-4.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major contributor to sexually transmitted infections, especially common in sexually active populations. Although the majority of HPV infections resolve naturally, certain cases can develop into different types of cancer. This study focused on evaluating the prevalence and distribution of HPV genotypes across males and females of different age groups who visited a laboratory in Urmia, Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Samples from the genital area were obtained from participants in the study. DNA extraction was performed using the Favorgen extraction kit (Favorgen, Taiwan), followed by genotyping through Real-Time PCR. Genotypes were determined using the MehrViru HPV genotyping kit (MehrViru, Iran). Additionally, demographic details, including age, were analyzed in conjunction with the statistical virological data.

RESULTS: Between 2022 and 2023, a total of 447 individuals, including both referred and routine visitors, attended the laboratory, comprising 431 females and 16 males. Of these, 195 tested positive for HPV, resulting in an overall prevalence rate of 43.6%. Among the positive cases, 90 individuals (46.2%) were infected with a single HPV genotype, while 105 cases (53.8%) had multiple genotype infections. The most common genotypes identified were HPV-6 (41.0%), HPV-16 (15.4%), HPV-56 (10.8%), and HPV-90 (10.8%). The least genotype identified was HPV-43, which was detected in 5 cases (2.6%). Additionally, our analysis revealed that women under 30 who tested positive were predominantly infected with the LR genotype, a pattern also seen in the four men in the same age group, all of whom were infected with the LR genotype.

CONCLUSION: Our findings underscore the significant presence of HPV among both females and males visiting the laboratory in Urmia, particularly in individuals under 30 years old. The identification of HPV-6 and HPV-16 as the most prevalent genotypes highlights the importance of age-specific intervention strategies. Although vaccination programs cover HPV-6 and HPV-16, HPV-56 is not included, which underscores the need for comprehensive screening and preventive measures to address the potential long-term impacts of HPV-related diseases.

PMID:40033426 | DOI:10.1186/s13027-025-00636-4

Infect Agent Cancer. 2025 Mar 3;20(1):13. doi: 10.1186/s13027-025-00636-4.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major contributor to sexually transmitted infections, especially common in sexually active populations. Although the majority of HPV infections resolve naturally, certain cases can develop into different types of cancer. This study focused on evaluating the prevalence and distribution of HPV genotypes across males and females of different age groups who visited a laboratory in Urmia, Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Samples from the genital area were obtained from participants in the study. DNA extraction was performed using the Favorgen extraction kit (Favorgen, Taiwan), followed by genotyping through Real-Time PCR. Genotypes were determined using the MehrViru HPV genotyping kit (MehrViru, Iran). Additionally, demographic details, including age, were analyzed in conjunction with the statistical virological data.

RESULTS: Between 2022 and 2023, a total of 447 individuals, including both referred and routine visitors, attended the laboratory, comprising 431 females and 16 males. Of these, 195 tested positive for HPV, resulting in an overall prevalence rate of 43.6%. Among the positive cases, 90 individuals (46.2%) were infected with a single HPV genotype, while 105 cases (53.8%) had multiple genotype infections. The most common genotypes identified were HPV-6 (41.0%), HPV-16 (15.4%), HPV-56 (10.8%), and HPV-90 (10.8%). The least genotype identified was HPV-43, which was detected in 5 cases (2.6%). Additionally, our analysis revealed that women under 30 who tested positive were predominantly infected with the LR genotype, a pattern also seen in the four men in the same age group, all of whom were infected with the LR genotype.

CONCLUSION: Our findings underscore the significant presence of HPV among both females and males visiting the laboratory in Urmia, particularly in individuals under 30 years old. The identification of HPV-6 and HPV-16 as the most prevalent genotypes highlights the importance of age-specific intervention strategies. Although vaccination programs cover HPV-6 and HPV-16, HPV-56 is not included, which underscores the need for comprehensive screening and preventive measures to address the potential long-term impacts of HPV-related diseases.

PMID:40033426 | DOI:10.1186/s13027-025-00636-4

BMC Psychol. 2025 Mar 3;13(1):185. doi: 10.1186/s40359-025-02460-2.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Although much is known about the positive effects of occupational calling on the career development of college students, relatively little is known about the antecedents of their occupational calling. The present aimed to examine how career success criteria predict college students’ occupational calling.

METHODS: This multi-wave study was conducted on 1366 undergraduates. Participants were selected using the convenience sampling technique. The data collection tools included a demographic information form, Career Success Criteria Scale, Spiritual Transcendence Scale, Psychological Needs Satisfaction Scale, and Chinese Calling Scale, all of which were completed online. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS software and path analysis in Mplus software.

RESULTS: Intrinsic fulfillment criteria were positively related to occupational calling (b = 0.21, SE = 0.03, p < 0.001), whereas external compensation criteria were not related to occupational calling (b = -0.04, SE = 0.02, p = 0.08). The positive relationship between intrinsic fulfillment criteria and occupational calling was mediated by spiritual transcendence (b = 0.05, SE = 0.02, 95% CI = [0.02, 0.08]) and psychological needs satisfaction (b = 0.05, SE = 0.01, 95% CI = [0.03, 0.07]).

CONCLUSION: Career success criteria of intrinsic fulfillment criteria have positive effects on college students’ occupational calling. Based on the findings of this study, educators and counselors may leverage these findings to help college students foster their occupational calling that leads to true meaningfulness in work.

PMID:40033420 | DOI:10.1186/s40359-025-02460-2

BMC Psychol. 2025 Mar 3;13(1):185. doi: 10.1186/s40359-025-02460-2.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Although much is known about the positive effects of occupational calling on the career development of college students, relatively little is known about the antecedents of their occupational calling. The present aimed to examine how career success criteria predict college students’ occupational calling.

METHODS: This multi-wave study was conducted on 1366 undergraduates. Participants were selected using the convenience sampling technique. The data collection tools included a demographic information form, Career Success Criteria Scale, Spiritual Transcendence Scale, Psychological Needs Satisfaction Scale, and Chinese Calling Scale, all of which were completed online. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS software and path analysis in Mplus software.

RESULTS: Intrinsic fulfillment criteria were positively related to occupational calling (b = 0.21, SE = 0.03, p < 0.001), whereas external compensation criteria were not related to occupational calling (b = -0.04, SE = 0.02, p = 0.08). The positive relationship between intrinsic fulfillment criteria and occupational calling was mediated by spiritual transcendence (b = 0.05, SE = 0.02, 95% CI = [0.02, 0.08]) and psychological needs satisfaction (b = 0.05, SE = 0.01, 95% CI = [0.03, 0.07]).

CONCLUSION: Career success criteria of intrinsic fulfillment criteria have positive effects on college students’ occupational calling. Based on the findings of this study, educators and counselors may leverage these findings to help college students foster their occupational calling that leads to true meaningfulness in work.

PMID:40033420 | DOI:10.1186/s40359-025-02460-2

Ann Gen Psychiatry. 2025 Mar 3;24(1):11. doi: 10.1186/s12991-025-00551-3.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Patients with schizophrenia (SCZ) experience constipation at significantly higher rates compared with the general population. This relationship suggests a potential genetic overlap between these two conditions.

METHODS: We analyzed genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for both SCZ and constipation using a five-part approach. The first and second parts assessed the overall and local genetic correlations using methods such as linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) and heritability estimation from summary statistics (HESS). The third part investigated the causal association between the two traits using Mendelian randomization (MR). The fourth part employed conditional/conjunctional false discovery rate (cond/conjFDR) to analyze the genetic overlap with different traits based on the statistical theory. Finally, an LDSC-specifically expressed gene (LDSC-SEG) analysis was conducted to explore the tissue-level associations.

RESULTS: Our analyses revealed both overall and specific genetic correlations between SCZ and constipation at the genomic level. The MR analysis suggests a positive causal relationship between SCZ and constipation. The ConjFDR analysis confirms the genetic overlap between the two conditions and identifies two genetic risk loci (rs7583622 and rs842766) and seven mapped genes (GPR75-ASB3, ASB3, CHAC2, ERLEC1, GPR75, PSME4, and ACYP2). Further investigation into the functions of these genes could provide valuable insights. Interestingly, disease-related tissue analysis revealed associations between SCZ and constipation in eight brain regions (substantia nigra, anterior cingulate cortex, hypothalamus, cortex, hippocampus, cortex, amygdala, and spinal cord).

CONCLUSION: This study provides the first genetic evidence for the comorbidity of SCZ and constipation, enhancing our understanding of the pathophysiology of both conditions.

PMID:40033405 | DOI:10.1186/s12991-025-00551-3

Ann Gen Psychiatry. 2025 Mar 3;24(1):11. doi: 10.1186/s12991-025-00551-3.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Patients with schizophrenia (SCZ) experience constipation at significantly higher rates compared with the general population. This relationship suggests a potential genetic overlap between these two conditions.

METHODS: We analyzed genome-wide association study (GWAS) data for both SCZ and constipation using a five-part approach. The first and second parts assessed the overall and local genetic correlations using methods such as linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) and heritability estimation from summary statistics (HESS). The third part investigated the causal association between the two traits using Mendelian randomization (MR). The fourth part employed conditional/conjunctional false discovery rate (cond/conjFDR) to analyze the genetic overlap with different traits based on the statistical theory. Finally, an LDSC-specifically expressed gene (LDSC-SEG) analysis was conducted to explore the tissue-level associations.

RESULTS: Our analyses revealed both overall and specific genetic correlations between SCZ and constipation at the genomic level. The MR analysis suggests a positive causal relationship between SCZ and constipation. The ConjFDR analysis confirms the genetic overlap between the two conditions and identifies two genetic risk loci (rs7583622 and rs842766) and seven mapped genes (GPR75-ASB3, ASB3, CHAC2, ERLEC1, GPR75, PSME4, and ACYP2). Further investigation into the functions of these genes could provide valuable insights. Interestingly, disease-related tissue analysis revealed associations between SCZ and constipation in eight brain regions (substantia nigra, anterior cingulate cortex, hypothalamus, cortex, hippocampus, cortex, amygdala, and spinal cord).

CONCLUSION: This study provides the first genetic evidence for the comorbidity of SCZ and constipation, enhancing our understanding of the pathophysiology of both conditions.

PMID:40033405 | DOI:10.1186/s12991-025-00551-3

BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2025 Mar 3;17(1):35. doi: 10.1186/s13102-025-01096-4.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Individuals with Down syndrome have severe difficulties maintaining proper postural control when standing upright. Therefore, the goal of the present review and meta-analysis was to examine the effects of exercise interventions on improving postural control in individuals with Down syndrome.

METHODS: This systematic review was reported following the PRISMA guidelines; while Cochrane guidelines were adopted for methodological guidance. Reports were searched in PubMed, Science Direct, Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale (PEDro), EMBASE, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus and Google Scholar from 2000 to January 2025. Randomized clinical trials and quasi-experimental studies were assessed in English. Review, meta-analysis, and descriptive studies were excluded from the study. Two researchers screened and evaluated data based on PEO criteria and the quality of studies was assessed using the PEDro scale.

RESULTS: Among between 374 studies, Six articles were included in the present review and meta-analysis. Four studies showed that exercise interventions improve postural control in individuals with Down syndrome. However, the results of 2 studies indicated that exercise interventions do not improve postural control in these individuals. Ultimately, after analyzing the studies, the statistical results showed a significant difference between the intervention group and the control group (p = 0.001), indicating the effectiveness of exercise interventions and subsequent improvement in postural control in individuals with Down syndrome. According to PEDro scale, four studies were low quality, and two were high quality. Also, applying GRADE criteria, there is a “Low” certainty of evidence observed. The mean effect size of the exercises in the 6 included studies in the present review was 0.67, indicating a small effect size.

CONCLUSIONS: The exercise interventions improve postural control in individuals with Down syndrome. In addition, Due to the small sample size and the small number of studies included, to deal with the risk of bias in the studies, a new randomized controlled trial with a stronger methodology and large sample size comparing exercises and other strategies or different types of exercises is recommended.

PMID:40033403 | DOI:10.1186/s13102-025-01096-4

BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2025 Mar 3;17(1):35. doi: 10.1186/s13102-025-01096-4.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Individuals with Down syndrome have severe difficulties maintaining proper postural control when standing upright. Therefore, the goal of the present review and meta-analysis was to examine the effects of exercise interventions on improving postural control in individuals with Down syndrome.

METHODS: This systematic review was reported following the PRISMA guidelines; while Cochrane guidelines were adopted for methodological guidance. Reports were searched in PubMed, Science Direct, Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale (PEDro), EMBASE, Web of Science (WOS), Scopus and Google Scholar from 2000 to January 2025. Randomized clinical trials and quasi-experimental studies were assessed in English. Review, meta-analysis, and descriptive studies were excluded from the study. Two researchers screened and evaluated data based on PEO criteria and the quality of studies was assessed using the PEDro scale.

RESULTS: Among between 374 studies, Six articles were included in the present review and meta-analysis. Four studies showed that exercise interventions improve postural control in individuals with Down syndrome. However, the results of 2 studies indicated that exercise interventions do not improve postural control in these individuals. Ultimately, after analyzing the studies, the statistical results showed a significant difference between the intervention group and the control group (p = 0.001), indicating the effectiveness of exercise interventions and subsequent improvement in postural control in individuals with Down syndrome. According to PEDro scale, four studies were low quality, and two were high quality. Also, applying GRADE criteria, there is a “Low” certainty of evidence observed. The mean effect size of the exercises in the 6 included studies in the present review was 0.67, indicating a small effect size.

CONCLUSIONS: The exercise interventions improve postural control in individuals with Down syndrome. In addition, Due to the small sample size and the small number of studies included, to deal with the risk of bias in the studies, a new randomized controlled trial with a stronger methodology and large sample size comparing exercises and other strategies or different types of exercises is recommended.

PMID:40033403 | DOI:10.1186/s13102-025-01096-4