Given the globalization of the nursing workforce, psychological empowerment represents a critical intrinsic determinant of nurses' mobility intentions, specifically regarding cross-border work. To ide Show more
Given the globalization of the nursing workforce, psychological empowerment represents a critical intrinsic determinant of nurses' mobility intentions, specifically regarding cross-border work. To identify latent profiles of nurses' psychological empowerment, examine associated factors, and explore the relationship between these profiles and cross-border working intention. A cross-sectional multicenter study was conducted from March to September 2023. Using convenience sampling, clinical nurses were recruited through liaisons from nursing societies in nine cities of Guangdong Province. Data were collected through questionnaires covering sociodemographic questionnaire, psychological empowerment, and cross-border working intention, with analyses including chi-square tests, logistic regression, and latent profile analysis (LPA) performed using SPSS 23.0 and Mplus 8.3. A total of 3671 valid questionnaires were collected, and 39.5% of the respondents reported cross-border intentions. LPA identified three psychological empowerment profiles among nurses, ranked from high to low: the core-driven empowerment profile (16.94%), the adaptive empowerment profile (70.42%), and the constrained empowerment profile (12.64%). The nurses with lower salary, intermediate title, and without specialist nurse qualification were more likely to fall into the constrained empowerment profile. Psychological empowerment was positively correlated with nurses' cross-border work intention. The core-driven profile showed the highest cross-border work intention (50.6%), followed by the adaptive (38.2%) and constrained profiles (31.7%). For cross-border work, the constrained profile prioritized salary (87.1%) as the key concern, while the core-driven profile focused more on good promotion opportunities (70.3%). Psychological empowerment exerts a positive impact on clinical nurses' cross-border work intention, with the three identified empowerment profiles exhibiting divergent motivational priorities and decision logics. These findings highlight the need for subgroup-specific strategies to balance nursing workforce mobility and stability. The findings support a differentiated human resource strategy based on nurses' psychological empowerment profiles. For core-driven nurses, institutions should provide international career development channels to strengthen their domestic job embeddedness. For adaptive nurses, tailored skill training and decision-making autonomy should be offered to guide their mobility aspirations. For constrained nurses, competitive compensation and family support services should be prioritized to address their stability needs and rebuild professional confidence. These targeted measures balance talent mobility and domestic workforce stability. Show less
Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is a cardiovascular disease closely associated with aging. The role of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has attracted considerable attention in recent years. However, limite Show more
Calcific aortic valve disease (CAVD) is a cardiovascular disease closely associated with aging. The role of lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] has attracted considerable attention in recent years. However, limited research has simultaneously explored the relationships between Lp(a), age, and CAVD. This study sought to assess the relationship linking Lp(a), time-weighted Lp(a), and CAVD. A total of 5,156 inpatients with comprehensive clinical data were recruited for this study. The associations of Lp(a) and time-weighted Lp(a) with CAVD were examined via multivariate logistic regression analysis, alongside the application of restricted cubic spline analysis. The diagnostic utility of Lp(a) and time-weighted Lp(a) for CAVD was assessed by constructing receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. CAVD prevalence rose with age, whereas the rate of increase diminished with advancing age. The average Lp(a) level in the young populations with CAVD was more than twice that in the No-CAVD group, particularly among those aged 55 years or younger. The prevalence of CAVD in non-elderly populations was markedly 2–4 fold greater in the higher Lp(a) group (> 30 mg/dL) than in the lower Lp(a) group (≤ 30 mg/dL). Multivariate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for CAVD increased with advancing Lp(a) or age. Time-weighted Lp(a), which takes into account both age and Lp(a), was more strongly linked to elevated CAVD risk than Lp(a) alone. Time-weighted Lp(a) enhanced the diagnostic value of CAVD, improving both sensitivity and specificity. The risk of CAVD is strongly associated with both age and elevated Lp(a) levels. Time-weighted Lp(a), which integrates these factors, serves as a superior indicator that better captures cumulative long-term Lp(a) variation and yields stronger CAVD risk stratification. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12944-026-02884-8. Show less
Adolescence is a critical period for rapid emotional and cognitive development. Depression and cognitive impairment frequently co-occur in this population, yet their comorbidity patterns and symptom-l Show more
Adolescence is a critical period for rapid emotional and cognitive development. Depression and cognitive impairment frequently co-occur in this population, yet their comorbidity patterns and symptom-level interactions remain insufficiently explored. A total of 2,244 students (mean age = 16.8 ± 0.84 years; 1,218 males, 1,026 females) from a high school in Heilongjiang Province, China, were recruited. Depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and the Perceived Deficits Questionnaire–Depression (PDQ-D). Latent profile analysis (LPA) was applied to identify subgroups, followed by network analysis to examine central symptoms (expected influence, EI), bridge symptoms (bridge expected influence, BEI), and network differences (NCT). The optimal LPA model identified three comorbidity subgroups: low, moderate, and high. NCT revealed significant differences in network structure and global strength between the low–moderate (S = 1.514, Adolescent Depression and Cognitive Impairment can be classified into low, moderate, and high comorbidity subgroups. Somatic symptoms emerged as the central symptom, while prospective memory impairment and interpersonal problems were identified as key bridge symptoms, suggesting potential intervention targets for early screening and stratified treatment. Not applicable. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12888-026-07946-w. Show less
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is an enveloped, double-stranded DNA virus that selectively infects primates. Periodontitis, a common inflammatory disease characterized by alveolar bone destruction, affects Show more
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is an enveloped, double-stranded DNA virus that selectively infects primates. Periodontitis, a common inflammatory disease characterized by alveolar bone destruction, affects more than half of the global adult population. While EBV has been linked to periodontitis due to its pro-inflammatory effects and presence in the human periodontium, its effects on bone metabolism, particularly alveolar bone resorption, remain unclear. This study demonstrated that EBV infection in humanized mice induced osteoclast differentiation and alveolar bone resorption, resulting in sparse trabecular bone patterns and increased lacunae resorption. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) from EBV-infected cells contained M-CSF, essential for osteoclast differentiation, and increased CTSK and RANKL expression in osteoclast precursor cells after uptake. EBV infection increased the expression of group IIA-secreted phospholipase A Show less
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] represents one of cardiovascular medicine's most profound implementation gaps: a genetically determined risk factor affecting 1.5 billion people worldwide, yet historically unde Show more
Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] represents one of cardiovascular medicine's most profound implementation gaps: a genetically determined risk factor affecting 1.5 billion people worldwide, yet historically underutilized in clinical practice despite overwhelming evidence of its importance. This review examines the transformation of Lp(a) from an untreatable genetic burden to a promising therapeutic target through four interconnected perspectives. First, we document the implementation gap, where, despite affecting 20% of the global population, screening remains below 1%. The evolution from selective screening (2018 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA)) to universal measurement (2024 National Lipid Association (NLA) Class I recommendation) reflects growing recognition, yet persistent barriers, including reimbursement challenges, provider knowledge gaps, and laboratory standardization issues, perpetuate underutilization. Second, we synthesize evidence establishing Lp(a)'s dual nature as both a biomarker and a causal factor. Observational studies demonstrate markedly increased cardiovascular risk with elevated Lp(a), while Mendelian randomization confirms causal relationships with coronary heart disease, large-artery stroke, peripheral artery disease, and aortic stenosis, with differential effects on stroke subtypes and non-atherosclerotic outcomes. Third, we examine the transformation from genetic determinism to pharmacological tractability. Despite 70-90% heritability, novel RNA-targeted therapies achieve unprecedented 80-95% reductions, with phase 3 cardiovascular outcome trials (completing 2026-2029) poised to determine whether dramatic Lp(a) lowering translates to clinical benefit. Finally, we provide a practical management algorithm bridging current evidence-based risk stratification with emerging therapies, stratifying patients by Lp(a) levels with corresponding interventions. The Lp(a) story exemplifies how genetic insights and technological innovation can transform immutable disease aspects into treatable conditions, offering a paradigm for precision cardiovascular medicine while highlighting the urgent need to close the gap between scientific knowledge and clinical implementation. Show less
Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is increasingly recognized as a significant contributor to the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). We report the case of a 53-year-old woman who presented wi Show more
Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) is increasingly recognized as a significant contributor to the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). We report the case of a 53-year-old woman who presented with chest pain and has notable family history of premature cardiovascular events. Investigation revealed a markedly elevated Lp(a) level of 492 nmol/L, alongside the presence of coronary artery disease necessitating stenting. Despite adherence to high-intensity statin therapy, her low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels remained suboptimal. Consequently, we initiated treatment with a PCSK9 inhibitor to achieve further reductions in LDL cholesterol. This case underscores the importance of routinely measuring Lp(a), as recommended by European guidelines, which advocate for its assessment at least once during adulthood for effective risk stratification. While lifestyle interventions play a critical role in cardiovascular health, targeted therapies such as PCSK9 inhibitors and emerging nucleic acid-based treatments, including Zerlasiran, offer promising options for significantly lowering Lp(a) levels. Recognizing and addressing elevated Lp(a) is vital for identifying patients at high cardiovascular risk and for informing tailored management strategies aimed at improving patient outcomes. Show less
To identify latent profiles and influencing factors of toxic leadership behaviors of nurse managers experienced by staff nurses. Cross-sectional study. A total of 12 public hospitals in Guiyang and Zu Show more
To identify latent profiles and influencing factors of toxic leadership behaviors of nurse managers experienced by staff nurses. Cross-sectional study. A total of 12 public hospitals in Guiyang and Zunyi city, Guizhou Province, China. From May 7, 2024 to December 31, 2024, a total of 900 nurses participated, and 868 valid questionnaires were collected with a validity rate of 96.44%. Data was collected via the Toxic Leadership Behaviors of Nurse Managers scale and a demographic questionnaire. Using latent profile analysis (LPA), distinct profiles of toxic leadership behaviors among nurse managers were identified. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with the toxic leadership behavior of nurse managers. The toxic leadership behaviors suffered by nurses were divided into four profiles: low toxic leadership behavior group (55.07%), moderate toxic leadership behavior group (16.71%), high toxic leadership behavior group (13.36%), and high Intemperate behavior group (14.86%). The results of multiple logistic regression analysis showed that nurses who are male, employed as non-permanent staff, or working in general hospitals are more susceptible to toxic leadership behaviors. This study used latent profile analysis to identify four distinct subgroups and found that male nurses, non-permanent staff, and nurses in general hospitals are more susceptible to toxic leadership behaviors. These results emphasize the need for developing strategies to address toxic leadership behaviors in order to promote nurses' wellbeing. Show less
A growing body of research highlights the crucial role of self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies in enhancing teaching effectiveness and promoting continuous professional growth. Teachers’ ability t Show more
A growing body of research highlights the crucial role of self-regulated learning (SRL) strategies in enhancing teaching effectiveness and promoting continuous professional growth. Teachers’ ability to plan, monitor, and evaluate their own learning processes has been linked to improved instructional quality and adaptability. While prior studies have explored the effects of accountability on teacher motivation and pedagogical practices, limited evidence exists regarding how teachers’ self-regulation patterns differ and how these variations relate to perceived accountability. This study aimed to identify distinct SRL profiles among teachers and examine their associations with internal and external accountability perceptions. A total of 339 primary and secondary school teachers in Türkiye participated in the study. Using latent profile analysis (LPA), teachers were classified based on their reported SRL strategies. Differences in accountability perceptions across the resulting profiles were examined through multivariate analyses. The LPA revealed three meaningful SRL profiles: Low Self-Regulators (Profile 1), High Self-Regulators (Profile 2), and Moderate Self-Regulators (Profile 3). Teachers in the High Self-Regulators profile reported significantly higher levels of both internal and external accountability than those in the other two groups, whereas the Low Self-Regulators profile was characterized by lower accountability across all measures. Moreover, internal accountability emerged as a stronger motivational factor than external mechanisms for teachers with well-developed SRL skills. These results indicate that SRL is a multidimensional construct closely linked to how teachers perceive and respond to accountability demands. The findings underscore the importance of fostering teachers’ self-regulatory capacities as part of professional development initiatives. Teacher education programs should adopt differentiated approaches that consider individual SRL profiles and accountability orientations to enhance reflective and autonomous teaching practices. Future research is encouraged to explore the longitudinal development of these profiles and evaluate the impact of accountability-driven interventions on sustained professional growth. Show less
Junying Wang, Ning Jia · 2026 · Frontiers in psychology · Frontiers · added 2026-04-24
Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent and often co-occurring mental health issues among adolescents, with comorbidity leading to poorer outcomes and additional challenges. Left-behind adolescent Show more
Depression and anxiety are highly prevalent and often co-occurring mental health issues among adolescents, with comorbidity leading to poorer outcomes and additional challenges. Left-behind adolescents-a unique group experiencing disrupted parent-child relationships and limited social support-may face a higher risk of such comorbidity. Yet, few studies have examined the depression-anxiety network in this population. Latent profile analysis (LPA) identified subgroups with similar symptom patterns, and network analysis visualized the structure of comorbidities. Network comparison tests evaluated differences across subgroups. Based on the "Science Database of People Mental Health" managed by the National Population Health Data Center (China), a total of 3,205 left-behind adolescents (1,538 males; 1,667 females) were included. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale-7 were used to assess depression and anxiety among left-behind adolescents. Three distinct profiles were identified: high-comorbidity (8.2%), moderate-comorbidity (28.7%), and low-comorbidity (63.1%). Network structures and global strength differed significantly between subgroups. "Restlessness" was the central bridge symptom in the high-comorbidity group, while "Nervousness" was central in the moderate- and low-comorbidity groups. These findings suggest tailored interventions targeting subgroup-specific bridge symptoms-such as restlessness or nervousness-may improve outcomes for left-behind adolescents with comorbid depression and anxiety. Show less
Lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular events and aortic stenosis. In Spain, the prevalence of elevated Lp(a) and its clinical impact remain poorly def Show more
Lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]) is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular events and aortic stenosis. In Spain, the prevalence of elevated Lp(a) and its clinical impact remain poorly defined. We conducted a cross-sectional study including two cohorts: patients discharged after a non-fatal acute coronary syndrome (secondary prevention), and asymptomatic patients with subclinical atherosclerosis ("1.5 prevention"). The prevalence of elevated Lp(a) levels was assessed in both groups. Associations with multivessel coronary artery disease (secondary prevention) and with a coronary artery calcium (CAC) score ≥300 AU (1.5 prevention) were analyzed. A total of 1043 patients were included (788 secondary prevention). Median Lp(a) levels were 61 nmol/L in secondary prevention and 29 nmol/L in the 1.5 prevention cohort. In secondary prevention, 36.8%, 33.6%, 29.2%, and 24.5% had Lp(a) ≥125, ≥150, ≥175, and ≥ 200nmol/L, respectively; in the 1.5 prevention cohort the corresponding proportions were 27.5%, 24.3%, 17.6%, and 14.1%. In secondary prevention, Lp(a) ≥175 nmol/L was associated with multivessel disease after multivariable adjustment for age, sex, LDLc, and statin treatment (OR 1.45, 95% CI: 1.04-2.01; Elevated Lp(a) levels are common in both populations and correlate with greater atherosclerotic burden. These findings support the systematic assessment of Lp(a) to guide preventive strategies across both patient populations. Show less
Cardiovascular (CV) disease risk is increased in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is the leading cause of mortality. Improved CV risk stratification tools in RA could enhance use of preventative care and Show more
Cardiovascular (CV) disease risk is increased in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is the leading cause of mortality. Improved CV risk stratification tools in RA could enhance use of preventative care and improve outcomes. We previously studied biomarkers of CV disease - adiponectin, hsCRP, Lp(a), osteoprotegerin (OPG), high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T (hsTnT), serum amyloid A (SAA), YKL-40, soluble TNF receptor1 (sTNFR1) -- that were associated with CV risk. In the current study, these biomarkers were tested in an unrelated external cohort of RA patients followed at a single academic medical center without a history of CV events. CV events were identified through Medicare and Medicaid administrative data or through medical record review of self-reported events.Biomarkers were assessed at cohort entry among a nested cohort of cases and controls, matched 1:1 on sex and age. Analyses were conducted using conditional logistic regression. We examined whether the candidate biomarkers added to clinical CV risk factors improved model prediction, using the area under the curve (AUC) as well as the net reclassification index (NRI). From a cohort of 1,345 eligible patients with RA, we identified 123 patients with confirmed CV events. Cases and matched controls were typical of RA: median age 63 years, 77% women, RA disease duration 11 years, 72% seropositive, 85% used a biologic or conventional disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug, 58% non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and 30% oral glucocorticoids. From the candidate biomarkers, LASSO regression selected hsTnT and sTNFR1 as associated with CV events. The AUC for models that included only clinical risk factors was 0.758 (95% CI 0.689-0.829); after adding hsTnT and sTNFR1, the AUC increased to 0.802 (95% CI 0.718-0.998). The NRI of the model with biomarkers was 16.3%, with improvement only observed in patients who did not have CV events during follow-up. Adding selected biomarkers to clinical risk factors enhances the discrimination of models predicting CV events among patients with RA. These risk models require prospective testing to see if they have value in clinical practice decision-making regarding preventative care. Show less
This study aimed to assess the childbirth readiness of women in their third trimester of pregnancy and to identify distinct readiness profiles using latent profile analysis (LPA). Additionally, it exp Show more
This study aimed to assess the childbirth readiness of women in their third trimester of pregnancy and to identify distinct readiness profiles using latent profile analysis (LPA). Additionally, it explored the factors influencing childbirth readiness in order to guide targeted interventions for improved maternal and neonatal outcomes. A cross-sectional study was conducted among women in their third trimester of pregnancy between May and November 2024. Eligible participants completed a general information questionnaire, the Childbirth Readiness Scale (CRS), the Childbirth Attitude Questionnaire (CAQ), and the Perceived Social Support Scale (PSSS). LPA identified three groups with distinct childbirth readiness levels: "Low Readiness - Childbirth Knowledge Deficit" (37.9%), "Moderate Readiness - Good Lifestyle Habits" (47.9%), and "High Readiness - Rich Health Knowledge" (14.2%). In addition, gestational age, previous childbirth history, adverse pregnancy outcomes, childbirth attitudes, and social support had different influences on women in different latent profiles of childbirth readiness. There was significant heterogeneity in childbirth readiness among women in their third trimester. Women with lower readiness-especially in childbirth knowledge-would greatly benefit from targeted educational programs, whereas those with moderate readiness levels would find enhanced emotional and psychological support most advantageous. These findings support the implementation of profile-based, personalized prenatal care strategies to improve childbirth preparedness and optimize maternal and neonatal outcomes. Show less
Coronary artery calcification (CAC) signifies advanced atherosclerosis and portends increased cardiovascular risk. Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a causal risk factor for atherosclerosis; however, its asso Show more
Coronary artery calcification (CAC) signifies advanced atherosclerosis and portends increased cardiovascular risk. Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is a causal risk factor for atherosclerosis; however, its association with in vivo lesion morphology and clinical outcomes in patients with symptomatic, advanced CAC remains incompletely characterized. This study aimed to investigate the association between elevated Lp(a) levels and both in vivo lesion morphology and clinical outcomes in this high-risk population. In this retrospective cohort, 292 patients with intravascular ultrasound(IVUS)-confirmed CAC were stratified into elevated (≥50 mg/dL,n = 77) or low (<50 mg/dL,n = 215) Lp(a) groups. The primary endpoint was major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs). Associations were assessed via multivariable Cox models adjusted for clinical covariates. Patients in the elevated Lp(a) group presented a greater incidence of aortic valve calcification (p < 0.001). IVUS revealed constrictive remodeling with a smaller lumen and vessel dimensions. During a median follow-up of 17.2 months, the elevated Lp(a) cohort had a significantly higher MACE rate (37.7% vs. 15.8%; adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 2.60, 95% CI 1.55-4.35, p < 0.001). Elevated Lp(a) independently predicted increased risks of ischemic stroke (aHR 7.14) and in-stent restenosis (aHR 2.78). In symptomatic patients with IVUS-confirmed CAC, elevated Lp(a) identifies a high-risk phenotype characterized by constrictive vascular remodeling and a markedly increased risk of MACEs, driven particularly by ischemic stroke and in-stent restenosis. These findings support the integration of routine Lp(a) testing into the risk stratification of patients with severe CAC, thereby identifying a precise high-risk phenotype that warrants intensified monitoring and represents an ideal target for emerging Lp(a)-lowering therapies. Show less
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a cell-signaling lipid that has been proposed as an early-stage biomarker for ovarian cancer (OC). Diagnosing OC in Stage I is critical to improving patient outcomes, in Show more
Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a cell-signaling lipid that has been proposed as an early-stage biomarker for ovarian cancer (OC). Diagnosing OC in Stage I is critical to improving patient outcomes, increasing the survival rate from 30% (when diagnosed in late stages of the disease) to over 90%. This significant improvement is due to the success of early interventions; however, current diagnostic methods are not as effective at early-stage detection, with only 15% of cases diagnosed in Stage I and over 70% diagnosed in Stage III or IV. There is a strong need for LPA detection that is sensitive, specific, rapid, low-cost, and automated to truly validate its effectiveness as a diagnostic characteristic for OC. We report the preliminary development and characterization of one such biosensor, which makes use of the advantages of magnetic particles and chemiluminescence for quick, sensitive detection of LPA. The sensor has proven to be viable, with a positive response to LPA concentration, a measurement time of 5 s after incubation, and an LOD of 3.5 nM. Show less
China's total fertility rate has reached a critically low level, dropping to approximately 1.0 by the end of 2023which is significantly below the population replacement level of 1.5. This decline refl Show more
China's total fertility rate has reached a critically low level, dropping to approximately 1.0 by the end of 2023which is significantly below the population replacement level of 1.5. This decline reflects a marked reduction in fertility intention among reproductive-aged women, exacerbating population aging and threatening long-term labor supply and social sustainability. Despite policy adjustments and governmental support initiatives, intended outcomes have not been realized. Current literature largely focuses on isolated determinants of fertility intention, overlooking heterogeneity within the population. Moreover, the pathways through which psychosocial factors operate across different subgroups remain poorly understood. Data for this study were derived from the 2021 Psychological and Behavioral Investigation of Chinese Residents (PBICR 2021), a nationally representative cross-sectional survey. Latent profile analysis (LPA) was employed to identify subtypes of fertility intention among reproductive-aged women, followed by multinomial logistic regression, which examined factors associated with different profiles. Among 2,973 reproductive-aged female participants, three distinct fertility intention profiles were identified via latent profile analysis: the Fertility Intention Decline Group (25.1%), the Low Fertility Intention Group (51.3%), and the High Fertility Intention Group (23.6%). Multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed that, compared with the Fertility Intention Decline Group, the Low Fertility Intention Group was significantly associated with family type, aged 20-40 years, residential location, having 2 children, and retirement status (all Fertility intention among reproductive-aged women demonstrates significant heterogeneity. This study identified three distinct latent profiles, each characterized by unique patterns of influencing factors. The findings highlight the necessity of moving beyond one-size-fits-all policy approaches and emphasize the importance of developing tailored interventions that account for the specific characteristics and determinants of each subgroup. Show less
Nurses in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) departments face significant sleep challenges associated with occupational stressors. However, person-centered analyses classifying these sleep patterns re Show more
Nurses in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) departments face significant sleep challenges associated with occupational stressors. However, person-centered analyses classifying these sleep patterns remain scarce. This study aimed to identify heterogeneous sleep disturbance subgroups via latent profile analysis (LPA) and evaluate the performance of explainable machine learning models in discriminating these subgroups based on demographic and occupational features. A cross-sectional survey enrolled 7721 nurses from 130 TCM healthcare institutions in Liaoning Province (December 2024). Data encompassed demographic, occupational, and psychological variables obtained via self-administered questionnaires, including the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Sleep Disturbance short form 8a. LPA was employed to categorize sleep disturbance patterns. Recursive feature elimination with random forest (RFE-RF) was used to select features associated with subgroup membership for five machine learning models. Models were trained on 70% of the data and evaluated on a 30% independent test set. The optimal classification model (XGBoost) underwent interpretability analysis using Shapley additive explanations (SHAP). LPA identified three subgroups: mild-stable (29.8%), moderate-fluctuating (60%), and severe-persistent (10.2%). Machine learning models achieved test AUCs of 0.71-0.84, with XGBoost demonstrating the highest discriminatory performance (AUC = 0.84, 95%CI: 0.83-0.85) in classifying subgroups. SHAP analysis indicated that monthly income, organizational support, hospital level, self-compassion, and resilience were the top five features contributing to the model's classification output. This study characterized three distinct sleep disturbance subgroups among TCM nurses, with the majority exhibiting moderate symptoms. The sequential application of LPA and explainable machine learning demonstrated robust performance in distinguishing sleep disturbance patterns. Identifying correlates-such as lower income and resilience-may assist nurse managers in stratifying risk and tailoring interventions for those most likely to fall into the severe subgroup. Future longitudinal studies are required to validate the stability of these subgroups and establish causal relationships. Show less
Accurate measurement of lipoprotein(a)-cholesterol [Lp(a)-C] may be useful in interpreting the traditional lipid panel, particularly in patients with high Lp(a). We developed and analytically validate Show more
Accurate measurement of lipoprotein(a)-cholesterol [Lp(a)-C] may be useful in interpreting the traditional lipid panel, particularly in patients with high Lp(a). We developed and analytically validated a direct immunocapture ELISA in a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments-certified laboratory for quantifying Lp(a)-C in human plasma using an apolipoprotein(a)-specific monoclonal antibody (LPA4) coupled to magnetic beads. The linearity of the assay was found to be excellent (R Show less
This is a cross-sectional study designed to identify the latent profiles of psychological resilience in elderly patients with fracture and examine the relationship between resilience categories and fe Show more
This is a cross-sectional study designed to identify the latent profiles of psychological resilience in elderly patients with fracture and examine the relationship between resilience categories and fear of falling (FOF), thereby informing individualized rehabilitation strategies. A convenience sample was drawn from elderly patients admitted to the Department of Traumatology and Orthopedics at a tertiary general hospital in Beijing between September 2024 and July 2025 due to fall-related fractures. A total of 213 older adults aged 60 and above with fall-related fractures were included. Psychological resilience was assessed using the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), and FOF was measured with the Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I). Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) was used to identify resilience profiles. Logistic and linear regression analyses, adjusting for age, sex, comorbidities, pain level, functional status, and time since fracture/surgery, were performed to explore the relationship between resilience subtypes (entered as a continuous CD-RISC score), demographic and clinical factors, and FOF levels. The age of elderly patients with fall-related fractures was 60–98 (75.28 ± 8.73) years old, and the median age was 74 years old. Three latent resilience profiles were identified: low (33.5%), moderate (22.7%), and high (43.8%) resilience groups. Patients in the high-resilience group exhibited significantly lower FOF scores than those in the other two groups ( Psychological resilience is independently associated with fear of falling among elderly fracture patients, with a clear gradient across resilience profiles. Enhancing resilience, particularly in low-resilience individuals, may be a potential target for intervention, though causal inference is limited by the cross-sectional design and single-center, convenience sampling strategy. Integrating resilience assessment into clinical evaluation could support more holistic rehabilitation planning. ChiCTR2400089221, September 4, 2024. Show less
Physical activity can improve health-related quality of life (HRQoL); however, it is not clear whether this association is direct or indirect. The aims of this study were to examine the associations o Show more
Physical activity can improve health-related quality of life (HRQoL); however, it is not clear whether this association is direct or indirect. The aims of this study were to examine the associations of daily movement behaviours with physical and mental HRQoL in older adults, and the mediating role of muscle strength and body composition on it. Three hundred thirty-four community-dwelling older adults wore the Intelligent Device for Energy Expenditure and Activity for two consecutive days to quantify time spent in sedentary behaviour (SB), light physical activity (LPA), and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA). HRQoL was assessed using the 12-Item Short-Form Health Survey, yielding physical (PCS) and mental (MCS) component scores. For muscle strength, a handgrip dynamometer and the Sit-to-Stand test were used. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and estimates of skeletal muscle mass and fat mass by bioelectrical impedance were included as body composition variables. Association analyses were examined using linear regression models, and for mediation analysis, structural equation modelling was used. MVPA was positively associated with PCS [β (95%CI): 0.39 (0.19, 0.59)], whereas no significant associations were observed between MVPA, LPA, or SB and MCS. The association between MVPA and PCS was partially mediated by lower-limb muscle strength and fat mass percentage [8.5% (z = 1.753, p = 0.080) and 28.9% (z = 1.912, p = 0.056), respectively], and fully mediated by skeletal muscle mass normalized by BMI [28.2% (z = 2.016, p = 0.044)].Regular engagement in MVPA is positively associated with the physical component of HRQoL in older adults, both directly and indirectly through muscle strength and skeletal muscle mass. Show less
This study aimed to identify heterogeneous profiles of self-neglect (ESN) and their associated factors among rural Chinese older adults with chronic diseases. A cross-sectional survey was conducted am Show more
This study aimed to identify heterogeneous profiles of self-neglect (ESN) and their associated factors among rural Chinese older adults with chronic diseases. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 719 rural older adults with chronic diseases in Sichuan, China, from January to June 2020. The questionnaire included sociodemographic and health-related characteristics, as well as the Three-Item UCLA Loneliness Scale (UCLALS-3), the Social Support Rating Scale (SSRS), the Scale of Older Adults Self-Neglect (SESN), the Five-Item Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-5), and the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire (SPMSQ). Latent profile analysis (LPA) was conducted to identify distinct patterns of patterns of self-neglect among older adults (ESN). Four profiles were identified: low-level neglect (35.0%), selective mild neglect (37.7%), moderate neglect (14.7%), and severe neglect (12.5%). Compared with the low-level neglect group, selective mild neglect was more common among participants with poorer economic status, poor sleep quality, and alcohol consumption. The moderate neglect profile was associated with older age, lack of regular physical examinations, smoking, pain, cognitive impairment, and lower social support. Severe neglect was marked by the absence of grandchild caregiving, higher loneliness, smoking, and depression. Pairwise comparisons indicated stage-dependent patterns, with reversed associations for social support (protective in moderate neglect but a risk marker in severe neglect) and pain (a risk factor in moderate neglect, whereas its absence indicated higher risk in severe neglect). ESN among older adults with chronic diseases in rural China is heterogeneous and comprises distinct latent profiles with stage-dependent risk factors. For selective mild neglect, interventions should emphasize economic and lifestyle support. For moderate neglect, priorities include routine monitoring, regular physical examinations, and health literacy promotion. For severe neglect, intensive psychosocial interventions should address depression and loneliness and promote alternative engagement in family roles, particularly among older adults who do not provide grandchild caregiving. Integrating these profile-specific strategies into rural primary care may help reduce self-neglect and improve health outcomes in this vulnerable population. Show less
This study aimed to identify latent profiles of spiritual orientation (SO) and psychological well-being (PWB) among female healthcare workers and to examine how demographic factors predict profile mem Show more
This study aimed to identify latent profiles of spiritual orientation (SO) and psychological well-being (PWB) among female healthcare workers and to examine how demographic factors predict profile membership. A total of 104 female healthcare professionals from two hospitals in eastern Türkiye were recruited using purposive criterion sampling. Participants completed validated self-report measures assessing SO and PWB. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) with varying means, equal variances, and covariances fixed to zero (Model 1) was conducted to uncover distinct profiles based on standardized mean scores. Four profiles were identified: “Low Spirituality-Low Well-Being” (5.8%), “Moderate Spirituality-Low Well-Being” (13.5%), “High Spirituality–High Well-Being” (61.5%), and “Low Spirituality-High Well-Being” (19.2%). The four-class solution demonstrated superior fit indices (BIC = 1737.0, entropy = 0.956) compared to alternative models. Multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed that education level, tenure, and marital status standing significantly predicted membership in the more adaptive profiles, particularly the “High Spirituality–High Well-Being” group. Notably, a moderate positive correlation ( Show less
Influenza vaccination coverage among older adults in China is low. We sought to identify latent vaccine-hesitancy profiles and their correlates. This community-based cross-sectional survey from May to Show more
Influenza vaccination coverage among older adults in China is low. We sought to identify latent vaccine-hesitancy profiles and their correlates. This community-based cross-sectional survey from May to July 2025 involved 1773 older adults from various areas in Jiangsu province. Data were collected via Wenjuanxing and included demographics, the Influenza Vaccine Hesitancy Scale, and the vaccine literacy scale. Group differences were examined using chi-square tests and one-way ANOVA; latent profile analysis (LPA) identified vaccine hesitancy subgroups, and multinomial logistic regression estimated correlates of profile membership. Three profiles emerged: Low Hesitancy (23.0%), Moderate Hesitancy (35.0%), and High Hesitancy (42.0%). Rural residence predicted Moderate (OR = 2.030) and High (OR = 2.993) hesitancy. Lower household income and chronic disease were associated with the Moderate Hesitancy profile, whereas male sex was associated with the High Hesitancy profile. Higher interactive (OR = 0.686) and critical (OR = 0.599) vaccine literacy were inversely associated with High hesitancy.Concerns about vaccine quality predicted both Moderate (OR = 1.433) and High (OR = 1.376) groups; knowledge gaps and fear of adverse reactions concentrated in the High group. Older adults show heterogeneous vaccine hesitancy phenotypes. Uptake efforts should move beyond one-size-fits-all messaging toward segmented strategies. These strategies should integrate cost-related measures with literacy-sensitive, trust-oriented communication, prioritizing rural residents, older men, and those with chronic conditions. The reported proportions of hesitancy profiles reflect our sample only and should not be viewed as nationally representative. Show less
Autistic youth experience high rates of emotion dysregulation, which can significantly impact functioning and quality of life. Despite its clinical significance, emotion dysregulation remains understu Show more
Autistic youth experience high rates of emotion dysregulation, which can significantly impact functioning and quality of life. Despite its clinical significance, emotion dysregulation remains understudied and misunderstood, with few validated measures for use in autistic youth. This study aimed to further validate the Emotion Dysregulation Inventory (EDI) and explore its utility in understanding emotion dysregulation, its relationship with autism symptoms, and its associations with treatment-relevant factors. Caregivers of autistic youth aged 6-11, recruited through the SPARK initiative, completed questionnaires on child behaviors, emotions, and experiences. A total of 320 families were included, with oversampling of minoritized racial and ethnic backgrounds. Structural equation modeling was used to confirm the EDI's two-factor structure and measurement invariance across diverse groups. Latent profile analysis (LPA) and the R3STEP procedure were used to identify subgroups based on emotion dysregulation and autism symptom severity and examine associations with child and family factors. The EDI demonstrated robust psychometric properties, with measurement invariance supporting its use across diverse racial and ethnic groups, as well as for youth with or without a history of language disorder. LPA identified three phenotypic subgroups, each showing meaningful associations with child and family characteristics, including behavioral problems, parental stress, and sleep disturbances. This study contributes to our understanding of emotion dysregulation in autism by supporting the EDI's validity in diverse samples and highlighting associations with autism symptoms, comorbidities, and other challenges. Integrating emotion dysregulation into clinical conceptualizations can improve the quality of care for autistic youth. Show less
Yushu He, Bin Ma · 2026 · AME case reports · added 2026-04-24
Pulmonary artery sling (PAS) is a rare congenital vascular anomaly, in which the left pulmonary artery arises aberrantly from the right pulmonary artery and courses between the trachea and esophagus, Show more
Pulmonary artery sling (PAS) is a rare congenital vascular anomaly, in which the left pulmonary artery arises aberrantly from the right pulmonary artery and courses between the trachea and esophagus, often causing tracheobronchial compression. It is frequently considered within the spectrum of vascular rings. Prenatal diagnosis remains challenging yet crucial for optimizing perinatal management and neonatal outcomes. This case report illustrates the enhanced diagnostic capability achieved by integrating conventional two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound with spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC) technology for the accurate prenatal identification of PAS. A 33-year-old gravida 2 para 0 woman was referred for routine fetal assessment at 31 weeks of gestation. Initial 2D ultrasonography in the three-vessel tracheal view revealed an anomalous vascular configuration, suggesting the left pulmonary artery (LPA) originating from the right pulmonary artery (RPA). To confirm the diagnosis and delineate the vascular course, STIC technology was employed. The STIC volumetric acquisition and subsequent multi-planar reconstruction unequivocally demonstrated the LPA arising from the RPA and coursing posteriorly behind the trachea, thereby confirming the diagnosis of PAS. A comprehensive fetal echocardiogram excluded associated intracardiac anomalies. Following extensive parental counseling, the pregnancy continued uneventfully. The infant was delivered via elective cesarean section at 38 The synergistic use of routine 2D ultrasound and STIC technology provides a robust, clinically accessible method for the precise prenatal diagnosis of fetal PAS. This integrated imaging approach facilitates definitive diagnosis, enhances parental counseling, enables coordinated multidisciplinary perinatal planning, and ensures timely surgical intervention, all of which are pivotal for achieving favorable long-term outcomes in affected infants. Show less
This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the associations between the 24-h movement behaviors and mental health among university students in China, and to determine the optimal behavioral balance b Show more
This cross-sectional study aimed to examine the associations between the 24-h movement behaviors and mental health among university students in China, and to determine the optimal behavioral balance based on the top 5% of model-predicted mental health outcomes using compositional data analysis. A total of 6,084 university students aged 17–24 years in Southwest China self-reported their daily durations of moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA), light-intensity physical activity (LPA), sedentary behavior (SED), and sleep (SLP). They were stratified by gender and then randomly and equally assigned to the “recommendation” group and the “validation” group. Using compositional data analysis, time-use compositions (MVPA, LPA, SED, SLP) were transformed into isometric log-ratios (with quadratic terms as needed) and subsequently used in regression models to predict the three mental health outcomes. All possible combinations of motion components were examined to determine the combination with the highest correlation (top 5%) for each outcome. Through research and analysis of the recommendation groups, the optimal combination of average (range) time usage is determined as follows: for males, MVPA 92 (60–110) min/day, LPA 361 (310–400) min/day, SED 372 (350–480) min/day, SLP 614 (530–680) min/day; for females, MVPA 58 (40–90) min/day, LPA 290 (180–390) min/day, SED 445 min (400–560), SLP 665 (580–740) min/day. The recommended durations served as benchmarks for the validation group. Participants who met the optimal 24-h movement behavior time showed significantly lower depression (males: β = –1.290, The optimal 24-h movement behavior time differs between men and women. Males tend to require a longer optimal MVPA duration than females, while females require a longer optimal SLP duration than males. The findings provide valuable reference for developing 24-h movement guidelines and promoting healthy and balanced lifestyles among university students. [Image: see text] The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-026-26534-x. Show less
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a major manifestation of systemic atherosclerosis and affects vascular health in older adults. Dyslipidaemia contributes significantly to PAD, but the predictive val Show more
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a major manifestation of systemic atherosclerosis and affects vascular health in older adults. Dyslipidaemia contributes significantly to PAD, but the predictive value of composite lipid indices remains unclear. The non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio (NHHR) reflects the balance between atherogenic and protective lipoproteins. This study aimed to explore the association between the NHHR and PAD among vascular surgery inpatients aged ≥50 years in Kunshan, China. This retrospective cross-sectional study included 3,532 patients (aged ≥ 50 years) hospitalized at the Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University, Suzhou, from December 2017 to August 2024. NHHR, calculated as (total cholesterol - HDL-C)/HDL-C, was the exposure variable; PAD, defined as PAD-like symptoms with an ankle brachial index < 0.9, was the outcome. Covariates included age, sex, lipoprotein(a) level [Lp(a)], apolipoprotein A1 level (Apo A1), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level, neutrophil count (NEUT), hypertension status, diabetes status, smoking status, and alcohol consumption status. Multivariate logistic regression, smooth curve fitting, and threshold analyses were performed. After adjustment for confounders, the NHHR was nonlinearly associated with PAD (OR = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.65-0.93; The NHHR was associated with the presence of PAD, with the evidence suggesting a nonlinear relationship and potential sex-specific differences. Given the retrospective cross-sectional design, this association does not support causal inference or strong predictive claims. The NHHR may help identify individuals who could benefit from further clinical evaluation for PAD, but prospective studies are needed to confirm its clinical relevance before its routine application. Show less
Elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is an independent, causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), yet testing remains low. As our health system has expanded its efforts to incr Show more
Elevated lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] is an independent, causal risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), yet testing remains low. As our health system has expanded its efforts to increase Lp(a) awareness, we evaluated testing rates and their impact on care. Lp(a) testing rates were collected through electronic health record queries between 1/1/2022 to 12/31/2024. Baseline demographics, ASCVD status, Lp(a) testing rates by specialty, lipid lowering therapy (LLT) prescriptions and number of cardiology referrals were collected. 450,412 outpatients had ≥1 lipid panel order and 3.7 % ( While Lp(a) testing was low, it increased substantially over time. High risk Lp(a) levels were found irrespective of ASCVD status and were associated with more aggressive treatment. Systematic strategies to increase Lp(a) awareness and testing are warranted to mitigate cardiovascular risk. Show less