Search Results (17,136)

Social anxiety is a prevalent mental health concern among college students, often intensified by academic and interpersonal pressures on campus. This study investigated the relationship between physical activity, loneliness, and social anxiety among college students, aiming to examine the mediating role of loneliness in the process of physical activity affecting social anxiety, as well as the moderating role of gender in this mediating effect. A cross-sectional research design was adopted, and data on physical activity levels, loneliness, and social anxiety were collected through questionnaires completed by 638 students at a university in China. This study conducted a single-factor Harman test, descriptive statistical analysis, reliability analysis, correlation analysis, and independent-samples t-tests, and it modeled the moderated mediation effect. The results showed that physical activity was significantly and negatively correlated with both loneliness and social anxiety. Loneliness played a mediating role in the influence of physical activity on social anxiety, and this mediating effect was moderated by gender, being more pronounced in the female group. This study concluded that physical activity can help alleviate social anxiety, but the mechanism involving the reduction of loneliness is more apparent in women, indicating the need to consider gender differences when developing interventions, as there may be other, more significant reasons for men. Full article

Blood-based biomarkers allow monitoring of an individual’s health status and provide insights into metabolic and inflammatory processes in conditions like obesity, cardiovascular, and liver diseases. However, selecting suitable biomarkers and optimizing analytical assays presents challenges, is time-consuming and laborious. Moreover, knowledge of potential sex differences remains incomplete as research is often carried out in men. This study aims at enabling researchers to make informed choices on the type of biomarkers, analytical assays, and dilutions being used. More specifically, we analyzed plasma concentrations of >90 biomarkers using commonly available ELISA or electrochemiluminescence-based multiplex methods, comparing normal weight (BMI < 25; n = 40) with obese (BMI > 30; n = 40) adult blood donors of comparable age. To help choose optimal biomarker sets, we grouped frequently employed biomarkers into biological categories (e.g., adipokines, acute-phase proteins, complement factors, cytokines, myokines, iron metabolism, vascular inflammation), first comparing normal-weight with obese persons, and thereafter exploratively comparing women and men within each BMI group. Many biomarkers linked to chronic inflammation and dysmetabolism were elevated in persons with obesity, including several adipokines, interleukins, chemokines, acute-phase proteins, complement factors, and oxidized LDL. Further exploration suggests sex disparities in biomarker levels within both normal-weight and obese groups. This comprehensive dataset of biomarkers across diverse biological domains constitutes a reference resource that may provide valuable guidance for researchers in selecting appropriate biomarkers and analytical assays for own studies. Moreover, the dataset highlights the importance of taking possible sex differences into account. Full article

Background/Objectives: Despite growing interest in oral frailty as a public health issue, no nationwide study has assessed regional differences in oral frailty awareness, and the factors associated with such differences remain unclear. This study investigated regional differences in oral frailty awareness among older adults in Japan and identified the associated individual- and municipal-level factors, focusing on local policy measures and community-based oral health programs. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using data from the 2022 wave of the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study. The analytical sample comprised 20,330 community-dwelling adults aged ≥65 years from 66 municipalities. Awareness of oral frailty was assessed via self-administered questionnaires. Individual- and municipal-level variables were analyzed using multilevel Poisson regression models to calculate prevalence ratios (PRs). Results: Awareness of oral frailty varied widely across municipalities, ranging from 15.3% to 47.1%. Multilevel analysis showed that being male (PR: 1.10), having ≤9 years (PR: 1.10) or 10 to 12 years of education (PR: 1.04), having oral frailty (PR: 1.04), and lacking civic participation (PR: 1.06) were significantly associated with lack of awareness. No significant associations were found with municipal-level variables such as dental health ordinances, volunteer training programs, or population density. Conclusions: The study found substantial regional variation in oral frailty awareness. However, this variation was explained primarily by individual-level characteristics. Public health strategies should focus on enhancing awareness among socially vulnerable groups—especially men, individuals with low educational attainment, and those not engaged in civic activities—through targeted interventions and community-based initiatives. Full article

Diabetes-related pathophysiological processes contribute to endothelial dysfunction, arterial stiffening (AS), hypertension, vascular remodeling, and impaired myocardial perfusion. This study aimed to assess the relationship between arterial wall parameters and sST2 concentration as potential risk factors in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and investigate sex-related differences. To achieve this, we enrolled 100 patients with suspected or exacerbated coronary artery disease (CAD) and divided them into a T2DM group (n = 58) and a control group (n = 42). Endothelial reactivity (lnRHI), ABI, sST2 levels, and carotid–femoral (cfPWV) and carotid–radial pulse wave velocity (crPWV) were assessed. Coronary angiography was performed in every patient, and epicardial flow and myocardial perfusion were evaluated using QuBE and FLASH. Our results showed that the coronary angiographic findings were similar in both groups. However, T2DM patients had a significantly higher central AS (cfPWV 10.8 ± 2 vs. 9.9 ± 2.7 m/s, p < 0.05) and vascular age (70.0 ± 12.3 vs. 61.3 ± 15.4 years, p < 0.05), while peripheral AS, RHI, and ABI showed no differences. CfPWV correlated with renal function; higher HbA1c and sST2 levels were additionally associated with advanced vascular age. Notably, central AS and vascular age were higher in men with T2DM but not in women. These findings indicate that T2DM patients exhibit increased central AS and vascular aging, influenced by sST2 levels, suggesting fibrosis as a target for precision medicine in T2DM. Full article

Introduction: Lichen sclerosus (LSc) is a chronic, progressive, inflammatory skin disease that primarily affects the anogenital region in both sexes and across all age groups. Aim: To investigate the relationship between quality of life (QoL) and disease severity, as measured by a newly developed Lichen Sclerosus Score (LSc score), with respect to anatomical site before and after 12 weeks of treatment. Methods: A total of 136 patients diagnosed with LSc (88 men, 48 women) were enrolled between March and September 2022. Patients were clinically evaluated using the LSc score and completed the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Treatment was individualized based on clinical findings and history. At 12 weeks, both clinical assessment and DLQI were repeated. Results: LSc scores significantly decreased following treatment (p < 0.001), except in the female subgroup. In men, LSc scores were strongly correlated with DLQI scores both before (r = 0.709; p < 0.001) and after (r = 0.492; p < 0.001) treatment. Among women, a significant correlation was found only before treatment (r = 0.457; p < 0.001). Significant associations were identified between LSc score and DLQI items 1, 8, and 9 in men and the overall cohort. No statistically significant differences in LSc scores or DLQI were observed across anatomical sites after correction for multiple comparisons. Conclusions: Disease severity in genital LSc is closely associated with QoL impairment. This is, to our knowledge, the first study to examine the correlation between a clinical severity score and DLQI. While anatomical site did not significantly affect scores, certain sites may have a disproportionate impact, underscoring the complex ways in which LSc affects patients’ lives. Full article

Background/Objectives: Male infertility is a major health concern with a complex etiopathology, yet a substantial proportion of cases remain idiopathic. Mitochondrial dysfunction and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) deregulation have both been implicated in impaired spermatogenesis, but their interplay remains poorly understood. This study aimed to identify infertility-specific variants in ncRNAs that affect mitochondrial dynamics and homeostasis and to explore their roles. Methods: Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed on genomic DNA samples from teratozoospermic, asthenozoospermic, oligozoospermic, and normozoospermic men. Variants uniquely present in infertile individuals and mapped to ncRNAs that affect mitochondrial dynamics were selected and prioritized using bioinformatics tools. An independent transcriptomic validation was conducted using RNA-sequencing data from testicular biopsies of men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) to determine whether the ncRNAs harboring WGS-derived variants were transcriptionally altered. Results: We identified several infertility-specific variants located in lncRNAs known to interact with mitochondrial regulators, including GAS5, HOTAIR, PVT1, MEG3, and CDKN2B-AS1. Transcriptomic analysis confirmed significant deregulation of these lncRNAs in azoospermic testicular samples. Bioinformatic analysis also implicated the disruption of lncRNA–miRNA–mitochondria networks, potentially contributing to mitochondrial membrane potential loss, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, impaired mitophagy, and germ cell apoptosis. Conclusions: Our integrative genomic and transcriptomic analysis highlights lncRNA–mitochondrial gene interactions as a novel regulatory layer in male infertility, while the identified lncRNAs hold promise as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. However, future functional studies are warranted to elucidate their mechanistic roles and potential for clinical translation in reproductive medicine. Full article

Most academic papers on Jordanian colloquial Arabic allophonic consonant variants have primarily examined their influence on the social status of speakers and their role in shaping linguistic prestige. However, there is a significant lack of research exploring the potential for manipulation and establishment of power through the deliberate use of consonantal variants by Jordanian speakers in Arabic. Using a variety of allophonic consonantal variants, this study investigates how speakers of Jordanian colloquial Arabic attempt to construct their discourse of power. The targeted phonemes in the current study were /q/, /θ/, /ð/, and /k/. Focus groups were used to gather data, which were then examined within the framework of Fairclough’s technologized discourse and thematic approaches. Twenty persons, 10 women and 10 men, ranging in age from 18 to 45 years, comprised each of the two groups. The duration of each focus group session was 50 min. Analysis of the data indicates that the presence of [q], [θ], [ð], and [k] allophones in Standard Arabic is restricted to particular social circumstances, such as official and scientific environments. This usage is a common trait among those who have received formal education and privileged social standing. The findings also reveal that participants strategically utilize the allophonic variants [g], [ʔ], [k], [t̪], [d̪], and [tʃ] to exert influence over interlocutors by demonstrating authority related to social identity, gender, and emotional state. This study intends to advance discussions on allophonic consonant variants in Jordanian colloquial Arabic by providing insights into their manipulative functions. Full article

This study explores the role of egoistic and altruistic values on green real estate purchase intention among young consumers in Canada aged between 20 and 40 years. In addition, this study examines the mediating effects of pro-environmental self-identity between social consumption motivation and green real estate purchase intention. A quantitative cross-sectional research design with an explanatory nature is employed. A total of 432 participating consumers in Canada, comprising 44% men and 48% women, with a graduate educational background accounting for 46.7%, and the ages between 24 and 35 contributing 75.2%, were part of the study, and the data collection used a survey method with a purposive sampling, followed by a respondent-driven method. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed on the scales used for the study variables. A structural equational model and path analysis were conducted to derive the results, and the relationships were positive and significant. The study results infer the factors contributing to green real estate purchase intention, including altruistic value, egoistic value, social consumption motivation, and pro-environmental self-identity, with pro-environmental self-identity mediating the relationship. This study emphasizes the relevance of consumer values in real estate purchasing decisions, urging developers and marketers to prioritize ethical ideas, sustainable practices, and building a feeling of belonging and social connectedness. Offering eco-friendly amenities and green construction methods might attract clients, but creating a secure area for social interaction is critical. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to explore the role of egoistic and altruistic values on purchase intention, mainly in the housing and real estate sector, with the target consumers being young consumers in Canada. Full article

Background: Fixed-dose combinations of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe are increasingly used in clinical practice, but real-world data on their effectiveness and safety in large populations remain limited. Methods: This prospective, single-group, open-label, non-interventional observational study was conducted in the Republic of Korea to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of Rovazet^® (a fixed-dose combination of rosuvastatin and ezetimibe). Patients were prospectively enrolled from 235 institutions (50 general hospitals and 185 private clinics) as part of routine clinical practice over a five-year period. Lipid profiles and medication compliance questionnaire results were collected at baseline, 12 weeks, and 24 weeks of treatment. Results: A total of 5527 patients with dyslipidemia, the majority were men (53.0%), and the mean age was 60.4 years. Rovazet^® significantly reduced low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) by 23.5% at 12 weeks (from 117.47 ± 50.65 mg/dL to 81.14 ± 38.20 mg/dL; p < 0.0001) and by 27.4% at 24 weeks (from 117.47 ± 50.65 mg/dL to 74.52 ± 33.36 mg/dL; p < 0.0001). Total cholesterol was significantly reduced by 17.7% at 12 weeks and by 19.8% at 24 weeks. Rovazet^® treatment reduced triglycerides by 4.1% at 12 weeks and by 7.2% at 24 weeks. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol increased by 4.5% at 12 weeks and by 7.9% at 24 weeks following Rovazet^® treatment. These changes in lipid profiles were consistent, regardless of cardiovascular risk profiles. By 24 weeks of treatment with Rovazet^®, 91.8% of patients had reached their target LDL-C goals. Adverse drug reactions were reported in 2.81% of patients, most of which were minor, indicating that Rovazet^® was well tolerated. Conclusions: Rovazet^® was effective in improving lipid profiles and well tolerated in Korean adults with dyslipidemia. Full article

Background: Prostate cancer (PC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men in the United States. A subset of patients develops non-metastatic, castration-resistant PC (nmCRPC), for which management requires a personalized consideration for appropriate treatment. However, there is no consensus regarding when to switch from androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) to more aggressive treatments like abiraterone or enzalutamide. Methods: We analyzed 5037 nmCRPC patients and employed a Weibull Time to Event Recurrent Neural Network to identify patients who would benefit from switching from ADT to abiraterone/enzalutamide. We evaluated this model using differential treatment benefits measured by the Kaplan–Meier estimation and milestone probabilities. Results: The model achieved an area under the curve of 0.738 (standard deviation (SD): 0.057) for patients treated with abiraterone/enzalutamide and 0.693 (SD: 0.02) for patients exclusively treated with ADT at the 2-year milestone. The model recommended 14% of ADT patients switch to abiraterone/enzalutamide. Analysis showed a statistically significant absolute improvement using model-recommended treatments in progression-free survival (PFS) of 0.24 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.23–0.24) at the 2-year milestone (PFS rate increasing from 0.50 to 0.74) with a hazard ratio of 0.44 (95% CI: 0.39–0.50). Conclusions: Our model successfully identified nmCRPC patients who would benefit from switching to abiraterone/enzalutamide, demonstrating potential outcome improvements. Full article

Objectives: The present study investigated proclivity for non-consensual intimate-image distribution and its related dimensions—enjoyment and acceptance—in relation to key demographic and relational variables, including gender, age, sexual orientation, frequency of dating app use, and current romantic relationship status. Methods: A total of 1735 Greek university students (mean age = 22 years, standard deviation = 6.18; 35.2 percent male) participated in an anonymous online survey. Pearson correlation analyses and multiple linear regression models were conducted to examine the associations and predictive value of the demographic variables on proclivity, enjoyment, and acceptance of non-consensual intimate-image distribution. Results: Men, younger participants, and those who reported more frequent use of dating applications or websites demonstrated higher proclivity for non-consensual intimate-image distribution. Gender and frequency of dating app use were also significant predictors of enjoyment, with men and frequent users reporting greater enjoyment. Regarding acceptance, sexual orientation was the only significant predictor, with non-heterosexual individuals indicating higher levels of acceptance. Romantic relationship status did not significantly predict any of the three outcome variables. Conclusions: These findings highlight the significance of gender, age, sexual orientation, and dating app engagement in understanding the psychological and behavioral dimensions of non-consensual intimate-image distribution. The results support the need for targeted prevention efforts and further research into the contextual and psychosocial factors associated with this form of image-based abuse. Full article

Prostate cancer is among the most prevalent malignancies in men worldwide, underscoring the need for early and accurate diagnostic tools. This study presents a proof-of-concept and pilot clinical validation of a novel bioelectric impedance-based biosensor for the detection of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in human serum. The system integrates Molecular Identification through Membrane Engineering (MIME) with the xCELLigence real-time cell analysis platform, employing Vero cells electroinserted with anti-PSA antibodies. Optimization experiments identified 15,000 cells/well as the optimal configuration for impedance response. The biosensor exhibited specific, concentration-dependent changes in impedance upon exposure to PSA standard solutions and demonstrated significant differentiation between PSA-positive and PSA-negative human serum samples relative to the clinical threshold of 4 ng/mL. The biosensor offered rapid results within one minute, unlike standard immunoradiometric assay (IRMA), while showing strong diagnostic agreement. The system’s specificity, sensitivity, and reproducibility support its potential for integration into point-of-care screening workflows. This bioelectric assay represents one of the fastest PSA detection approaches reported to date and offers a promising solution for reducing overdiagnosis while improving clinical decision-making and patient outcomes. Full article

Background: Estimating race times for open-water swimming based on pool swimming times could be useful for talent identification and training optimisation. We aimed to compare the swimming speeds of the world’s top and other swimmers in the 2023 Aquatics Championship men’s 10 km OWS race. Methods: Sixty-five swimmers were divided into four groups: G1 (1st–10th positions), G2 (11st–30th positions), G3 (31st–47th positions), and G4 (48th–65th positions). Swimming speed, stroke frequency (SF), and stroke length (SL) for each lap (laps 1–6) were recorded. Critical speed (CS) was calculated from each participant’s personal best times in the 400, 800, and 1500 m freestyle events in the pool. Swimming speed against CS was calculated (%CS). Results: The top performance group (G1) maintained their swimming speed from beginning (lap 1, 1.53 m/s) to end (lap 6, 1.50 m/s), at 92.7 ± 1.9% of CS, characterised by longer SL (1.26 m) and lower SF (72.86 rpm). G3 and G4 were unable to maintain their swimming speed, which decreased from G3: 97.64 ± 1.62% and G4: 96.10 ± 1.96% of CS at lap 1 to G3: 88.39 ± 3.78% and G4: 85.13 ± 5.04% at lap 6. This reduction in swimming speed is consistent with the increased reliance on anaerobic metabolism reported in previous studies under similar conditions. Conclusions: Race pacing for maintaining speeds of 92%CS throughout the race could be an important resilient index in open-water swimming. %CS might be a useful index for estimating the athletic performance level in open-water swimming. Full article

Mpox has become a significant health concern since the global outbreak that began in 2022. The aim of this study is to present the epidemiological situation of Mpox in Romania during 2022–2023 and to describe a severe case of Mpox in a patient who survived despite multiple co-pathologies. Forty-seven confirmed cases were reported at the national level, all in men, in 2022. The median age was 33 years. Twenty-six cases involved men who have sex with men (MSM), and twenty-three tested positive for HIV. We also describe a severe case involving a 34-year-old bisexual male with newly diagnosed AIDS who developed severe Mpox with persistent necrotic skin lesions, respiratory involvement, and multiple opportunistic infections: tuberculosis, pneumocystis pneumonia, syphilis, and oral candidiasis. The patient presented with fever, night sweats, weight loss, and dyspnea, with a single ulcerative facial lesion that later disseminated. Mpox infection was confirmed through PCR from skin lesion, serum, saliva, urine, rectal, nasal, and pharyngeal swab samples, with high viral loads persisting despite prolonged Tecovirimat therapy. The patient developed immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome following the initiation of antiretroviral therapy. This case emphasizes the challenges of treating Mpox in immunocompromised patients. Full article