Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (3,007)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = sex-based differences

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
19 pages, 623 KB  
Article
Immunogenicity of Hepatitis B Virus Vaccination in Relapsing–Remitting Multiple Sclerosis Patients Under Immunocompromising Treatment
by Jerónimo Cruces-Párraga, Ana Muñoz-Jurado, Begoña M. Escribano, Francisco A. Martín-Hersog, Clara Triguero-Ortiz, Claudia Carmona-Medialdea, Isaac Túnez, Javier Caballero-Villarraso and Eduardo Agüera-Morales
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(6), 2801; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27062801 - 19 Mar 2026
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune and demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). By acting on the immune system, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can control disease activity, but they indirectly increase susceptibility to infections, so different vaccines are necessary to prevent it. [...] Read more.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune and demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). By acting on the immune system, disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) can control disease activity, but they indirectly increase susceptibility to infections, so different vaccines are necessary to prevent it. DMTs may potentially affect vaccine-induced seroconversion. We aim to analyse the response to the hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine (Engerix-B) in relapsing–remitting MS patients (RRMS) using these therapies because the scientific literature remains limited in this area. A retrospective observational study of RRMS patients vaccinated against HBV was conducted. Acquired immunity after vaccination was determined, and an analysis of immunogenicity was conducted based on the type of DMT (immunomodulators/immunosuppressants), vaccine doses, total lymphocyte count (TLC), age, and sex. 200 patients were included, with a mean age 47.79 years, and 140 (70%) were women. A lower vaccine response was observed in patients treated with immunosuppressive DMTs (51.8%, p < 0.001), particularly with fingolimod (32.4%, p < 0.001), and a higher response was seen with immunomodulators like teriflunomide and interferon-β1a (100%, p < 0.001). Using logistic regression, a model was obtained that included the number of vaccine cycles, lymphopenia and type of DMT associated with the response to the HBV vaccine. It is necessary to adapt HBV vaccination protocols for MS patients, considering the type of DMT used and baseline immune status. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Molecular Research in Neuroimmunology)
11 pages, 258 KB  
Article
Visual and Olfactory Cues for Monitoring Lobesia botrana in Vineyards Under Mating Disruption
by Yasir Islam, Constanza Castillo, Marco Tasin and Eduardo Fuentes-Contreras
Agronomy 2026, 16(6), 648; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16060648 - 19 Mar 2026
Abstract
Lobesia botrana is a major pest in grapevine, monitored using sex pheromone as a standard practice. However, when the sex pheromone is used in mating disruption (MD), monitoring becomes ineffective. A blend of 2-phenylethanol (2-PET) and acetic acid (AA) was identified as an [...] Read more.
Lobesia botrana is a major pest in grapevine, monitored using sex pheromone as a standard practice. However, when the sex pheromone is used in mating disruption (MD), monitoring becomes ineffective. A blend of 2-phenylethanol (2-PET) and acetic acid (AA) was identified as an attractant for L. botrana in MD vineyards. With the aim of increasing the attraction of 2-PET/AA, we evaluated whether terpenoid-based attractants and trap color could enhance the catches of L. botrana in traps baited with 2-PET/AA. First, we assessed the attraction to 2-PET/AA in combination with two terpenoid mixtures. Grape Mimic Mixture 1 (GMM1) contained a 100:78:9 proportion of (E)-β-caryophyllene, (E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene, and (E)-β-farnesene, and Grape Mimic Mixture 2 (GMM2) was composed of a 10:1:1:1:1:1 proportion of limonene, (E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene, (±)-linalool, (E)-caryophyllene, farnesene, and methyl salicylate. Furthermore, we assessed whether traps of different colors (blue, green, orange, red, white, and transparent) could enhance L. botrana catches. Neither GMM1 nor GMM2 improved L. botrana catches over 2-PET/AA alone. In addition, the proportion of mated L. botrana females was similar across treatments. Transparent traps caught more moths than other colors. Our results suggest a modification in the color and odor of traps to improve the monitoring of L. botrana in vineyards treated with MD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant–Insect Interactions in the Agroecosystem)
18 pages, 275 KB  
Article
Association of Treadmill Exercise Testing Parameters with PREVENT-Estimated Cardiovascular Risk: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
by Selen Eşki, Hatice Taşkan, Özkan Eravcı, Şeymagül Karaca, Ahmet Arslan and Erkan Yıldırım
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2346; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062346 - 19 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide. The 2023 American Heart Association PREVENT equations represent a contemporary approach to cardiovascular risk estimation, yet they rely on resting clinical and biochemical parameters. This study aimed to evaluate the association [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains the leading cause of death worldwide. The 2023 American Heart Association PREVENT equations represent a contemporary approach to cardiovascular risk estimation, yet they rely on resting clinical and biochemical parameters. This study aimed to evaluate the association between PREVENT-estimated 10-year cardiovascular risk and treadmill exercise testing (TET)-derived physiological variables. Methods: We conducted a single-center observational study of 391 participants (mean age 42.9 ± 9.0 years, 56.8% male) who underwent symptom-limited treadmill testing. Ten-year cardiovascular risk was estimated using PREVENT for total cardiovascular disease (CVD), ASCVD, and heart failure (HF). Hierarchical multivariable regression was performed using log-transformed PREVENT risk estimates to quantify the incremental association of exercise capacity (METs), hemodynamic markers (double product), autonomic recovery (heart rate recovery), and the ST/HR index beyond demographic (age, sex, BMI) and extended clinical base models incorporating available PREVENT input covariates. Results: Beyond the demographic base model, treadmill parameters were significantly associated with log-transformed PREVENT-CVD risk (ΔR2 = 0.026, p < 0.001; Cohen’s f2 = 0.154). Double product (standardized β = 0.116), HRR at 1 min (standardized β = −0.081), and maximum METs (standardized β = −0.079) were independently associated with risk estimates. However, when the full set of available PREVENT input covariates was included in the base model, the incremental association was negligible (ΔR2 = 0.0004, p = 0.386), indicating substantial overlap between exercise-derived physiology and PREVENT-embedded clinical information. The incremental association was greatest in participants with intermediate (1–5%) and higher (≥5%) estimated risk (ΔR2 = 0.052 and 0.246, respectively). Approximately 14% of participants shifted to a different quartile of estimated risk after inclusion of treadmill data. Conclusions: Treadmill-derived physiological parameters are significantly associated with PREVENT-estimated cardiovascular risk, but this association largely reflects shared pathophysiology with PREVENT input variables rather than statistically independent incremental information. Exercise testing may serve as a physiological complement to static risk estimation, particularly in intermediate-risk populations, by providing a dynamic physiological assessment that complements resting clinical measurements. Prospective studies with adjudicated cardiovascular outcomes are needed before clinical implementation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Insights in Preventive Cardiology)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 1064 KB  
Article
Associations Between Hydration, Sodium Intake, and Body Mass in Ultra-Endurance Trail Runners Under Ecological Race Conditions: A Cross-Sectional Field Study
by Rafael Mendes Amorim, Larissa Quintão Guilherme, Mariana de Santis Filgueiras, Guilherme Pereira Saborosa, Gabrielle Ferreira Pires, Nathan de Oliveira Neumann, Volker Scheer, Luciano Bernardes Leite, Pedro Forte, Alexandra Malheiro, Marcus Vinicius Lucio dos Santos Quaresma, Helton de Sá Souza and Ana Claudia Pelissari Kravchychyn
Physiologia 2026, 6(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/physiologia6010021 - 19 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Hydration and electrolyte strategies are critical in mountain ultra-endurance events, yet field-based evidence from trail races remains limited. This study examined the relationship between fluid intake, sodium consumption, and body mass changes in trail runners competing under real environmental conditions. Methods: A [...] Read more.
Background: Hydration and electrolyte strategies are critical in mountain ultra-endurance events, yet field-based evidence from trail races remains limited. This study examined the relationship between fluid intake, sodium consumption, and body mass changes in trail runners competing under real environmental conditions. Methods: A cross-sectional field study was conducted during La Misión Brasil 2024. Athletes of both sexes competing in the endurance race (35 km; EG: n = 15; age = 37.0 [29.5–46.0] years; 12 men and 3 women) and the ultra-endurance race (80 km; UEG: n = 13; age = 42.0 [37.0–46.0] years; 11 men and 2 women) were included in the study. Pre- and post-race body mass were assessed, and in-race fluid and food intake were collected using an adapted 24-h dietary recall. Water and sodium intake were expressed as total (L and mg, respectively) and per-hour (mL/h and mg/h, respectively) values. Environmental temperature and humidity were obtained from a local weather station. Group comparisons were performed using the Mann–Whitney U test, and associations were examined with Spearman’s correlation (p < 0.05). Results: EG (n = 15) and UEG (n = 13) showed similar absolute and relative body mass changes (2.6% to −3.0%; p > 0.05). EG runners presented greater weight loss rate (−270 vs. −115 g/h; p = 0.002), while UEG consumed higher total water (7.11 vs. 4.14 L; p = 0.008) and sodium (5789 vs. 2857 mg; p = 0.003). Water intake per hour was higher in EG (626 vs. 427 mL/h; p = 0.017). Body Mass Index was negatively correlated with hourly weight loss (r = −0.605; p < 0.001). Water and sodium intake per hour were positively correlated (r = 0.607; p < 0.001), though neither predicted hourly weight loss. Conclusions: Hydration responses may differ according to environmental stress and pacing demands. Changes in body mass may not necessarily reflect hydration adequacy, suggesting a possible multifactorial nature of hydroelectrolyte balance during mountain endurance events. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Exercise Physiology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 488 KB  
Article
The Resurgence of Pertussis in Tuscany (Italy): A Six-Year Retrospective Epidemiological Analysis
by Sara Boccalini, Manuela Chiavarini, Alice Dell’Acqua, Beatrice Conti, Zhanna Tumanova, Alessandra Picelli, Vanessa Verniani, Daniele Borchi, Lorenzo Latella, Saverio Checchi, Matteo Bastiani, Barbara Rita Porchia, Daniela Senatore, Giovanna Bianco, Paolo Bonanni and Angela Bechini
Pathogens 2026, 15(3), 326; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens15030326 - 18 Mar 2026
Abstract
Pertussis, caused by Bordetella pertussis, remains a public health concern despite long-standing vaccination programs. After a marked decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, a resurgence was observed in Europe and Italy, with a sharp increase in 2024. This study describes pertussis epidemiological trends [...] Read more.
Pertussis, caused by Bordetella pertussis, remains a public health concern despite long-standing vaccination programs. After a marked decline during the COVID-19 pandemic, a resurgence was observed in Europe and Italy, with a sharp increase in 2024. This study describes pertussis epidemiological trends in the Tuscany Region (Italy) from 2019 to 2024 to identify high-risk groups and inform prevention strategies. A retrospective population-based analysis was conducted using cases reported to the national surveillance system (PREMAL). Incidence rates were calculated using ISTAT population data, and demographic, temporal, and clinical characteristics were analyzed. Overall, 669 cases were reported (mean annual incidence rate: 3.03/100,000 (IC 95% 2.47–3.59; period incidence rate: 18.2/100,000 (IC 95% 16.81–19.56)), with 89% occurring in 2024 (16.34/100,000 (IC 95% 15.03–17.65)). No sex differences were observed, and most cases were reported in Central Tuscany (64%). Children under 15 years accounted for 87% of cases. The highest incidence was observed among 10–14-year-olds, while infants < 1 year, particularly those under 4 months, showed the highest burden in narrower age strata. Hospitalizations occurred in 12.6% of cases, decreasing substantially in 2024. The 2024 resurgence likely reflects waning immunity, disruptions to routine vaccinations during the pandemic, and reduced pathogen circulation in previous years due to containment and isolation measures related to the pandemic. Strengthening surveillance and improving booster and maternal vaccination coverage are essential to protect vulnerable populations. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 239 KB  
Article
Survey of Factors Affecting Torpor in Lesser Hedgehog Tenrecs (Echinops telfairi)
by Isabella C. Fahrenholz, Shannon Irmscher, John Andrews and Tara M. Harrison
J. Zool. Bot. Gard. 2026, 7(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/jzbg7010016 - 18 Mar 2026
Abstract
Lesser hedgehog tenrecs (Echinops telfairi) are small, nocturnal insectivores from Madagascar that exhibit hibernation and brief torpor bouts. While multiple studies have investigated torpor physiology, no studies have focused on torpor in tenrecs maintained under human care or their recommended husbandry. [...] Read more.
Lesser hedgehog tenrecs (Echinops telfairi) are small, nocturnal insectivores from Madagascar that exhibit hibernation and brief torpor bouts. While multiple studies have investigated torpor physiology, no studies have focused on torpor in tenrecs maintained under human care or their recommended husbandry. We surveyed 96 institutions (71.9% response rate) housing 172 tenrecs to assess husbandry, torpor, handling, and associated weight changes. Most institutions reported that torpor occurred annually, typically between October and April, and lasted approximately 5–6 months. Weight distributions differed significantly pre- versus post-torpor, with females and males losing 34.4 g and 20.9 g on average, respectively. Females were heavier than males before and after torpor, the first report of a sex-based weight difference in this species. Most institutions used tenrecs as ambassador animals, and approximately half continued educational programming during torpor. Tenrecs handled more frequently during torpor tended to gain more weight, likely due to increased energy expenditure and compensatory feeding. Tenrecs entered torpor regardless of daylight, temperature, or humidity, with no significant husbandry differences between torpor- and non-torpor-reporting institutions. Torpor is a critical physiological adaptation supporting energy conservation and species survival. Its expression should be supported through appropriate environmental conditions, diet, minimal disturbance, and monitoring. Full article
15 pages, 432 KB  
Article
Risk of Functional Disorders and/or Thyroid Autoimmunity and Its Association with 25OH Vitamin D and Magnesium Levels: A Population-Based Case-Control Study
by Hernando Vargas-Uricoechea, Alejandro Castellanos-Pinedo, Karen Urrego-Noguera, María V. Pinzón-Fernández, Ivonne A. Meza-Cabrera, Hernando Vargas-Sierra and Valentina Agredo-Delgado
Med. Sci. 2026, 14(1), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci14010143 - 18 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Vitamin D (Vit-D) and magnesium (Mg) levels have been associated with an increased risk of developing functional thyroid disorders or autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD). In this study, our objective was to evaluate if 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OH Vit-D) and/or Mg levels are associated [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Vitamin D (Vit-D) and magnesium (Mg) levels have been associated with an increased risk of developing functional thyroid disorders or autoimmune thyroid diseases (AITD). In this study, our objective was to evaluate if 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OH Vit-D) and/or Mg levels are associated with an increased risk of functional thyroid disorders and/or AITD. Methods: A population-based case-control study was conducted, with a total of 1028 participants (514 cases and 514 controls). Blood concentrations of 25OH Vit-D, Mg, TSH, FT4, FT3, and thyroid autoantibodies (TPOAb, TgAb, and TRAb) were determined in the study participants. Results: Among the cases (in women), the prevalence of goiter, hypothyroidism, and thyroid autoantibody positivity was significantly higher. No differences were found in the prevalence of functional thyroid disorders or in thyroid antibody positivity (among cases) according to sex or age. The prevalence of thyroid antibody positivity (specifically TPOAb and/or TgAb) was significantly higher in cases with 25OH Vit-D and/or Mg deficiency. The 25OH Vit-D level that best discriminated the highest frequency of AITD was 23.5 ng/mL [AUC: 0.665 (95% CI: 0.636–0.694, p < 0.001)]; while for Mg it was 1.8 mg/dL [AUC: 0.697 (95% CI: 0.668–0.725, p < 0.001)], indicating that the model has weak discrimination (although better than chance), with good sensitivity and low specificity, being able to identify the vast majority of positive cases (with AITDs), at the cost of including a significant proportion of false positives. Conclusions: Overall, we found that low serum levels of 25OH Vit-D and/or Mg appear to be associated with a significantly increased risk of goiter, functional thyroid disorders (specifically hypothyroidism), and with greater positivity of thyroid antibodies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases)
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1414 KB  
Article
Long-Term Clinical Consequences of Severe Oral Mucositis in Survivors of Lip, Oral Cavity, and Pharynx Cancer Versus Leukemia: A Propensity-Score-Matched Comparative Cohort Study Using Real-World Data
by Poolakkad S. Satheeshkumar, Venu Gopalakrishnan, Joel B. Epstein and Roberto Pili
Med. Sci. 2026, 14(1), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/medsci14010142 - 18 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Severe oral mucositis is widely viewed as a transient toxicity of antineoplastic therapy. Whether its long-term consequences differ between cancers that directly damage the upper aerodigestive tract (cancers of the lip, oral cavity, pharynx [CLOP]) and systemic hematologic malignancies is unknown. The [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Severe oral mucositis is widely viewed as a transient toxicity of antineoplastic therapy. Whether its long-term consequences differ between cancers that directly damage the upper aerodigestive tract (cancers of the lip, oral cavity, pharynx [CLOP]) and systemic hematologic malignancies is unknown. The aim of this study was to compare lifetime risks of mortality, dysphagia, malnutrition, respiratory disease, and cardiovascular disease in propensity-score-matched survivors of CLOP cancer versus leukemia with and without a history of ulcerative oral mucositis. Methods: Population-based retrospective cohort study using the TriNetX US Collaborative Network (90 healthcare organizations, >110 million patients). We identified 80,526 adults with a personal history of CLOP cancer (ICD-10-CM Z85.81) and 43,684 with leukemia (Z85.6) from 2005 to 2024. Cohorts were stratified by presence/absence of severe oral mucositis (K12.31 or K12.33 at any time). Separate 1:1 propensity-score matching was performed within each cancer type on age, sex, race/ethnicity, hypertension, diabetes, BMI, ECOG status, and external causes of morbidity. Exposures included documented severe (ulcerative) oral mucositis. Main outcomes and measures were all-cause mortality and incident dysphagia, malnutrition, respiratory disease (J00–J99), influenza/pneumonia (J09–J18), and circulatory disease (I00–I99) after the index date. Results: After 1:1 matching, 4181 CLOP patients with mucositis were compared with 4181 without, and 2508 leukemia patients with mucositis were compared with 2508 without. In CLOP survivors, mucositis was associated with markedly higher lifetime mortality (adjusted HR 1.94, 95% CI 1.87–2.01), dysphagia (HR 3.42, 95% CI 3.28–3.57), malnutrition (HR 2.81, 95% CI 2.66–2.97), any respiratory disease (HR 1.68, 95% CI 1.63–1.73), and influenza/pneumonia (HR 1.79, 95% CI 1.72–1.86). In leukemia survivors, mucositis conferred only modest or null excess risk (mortality HR 1.12, 95% CI 1.05–1.19; dysphagia HR 1.18, 95% CI 1.07–1.30; malnutrition HR 1.24, 95% CI 1.12–1.37; any respiratory disease HR 1.09, 95% CI 1.03–1.15). Conclusions and Relevance: Severe oral mucositis is a powerful, durable prognostic determinant in cancers of the upper aerodigestive tract, where it identifies patients associated with elevated lifelong risk of swallowing dysfunction, aspiration-related lung disease, malnutrition, and premature death. The markedly attenuated effect in leukemia survivors suggests that direct high-dose radiation-induced structural damage to the pharynx and oral cavity—rather than systemic immunosuppression or chemotherapy intensity alone—is the dominant mechanism. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Section “Cancer and Cancer-Related Research”)
Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 216 KB  
Article
Comparisons of Lower Limb Strength Characteristics Between Male and Female National Team Rugby Athletes
by Boyan Liu, Ziwen Mu, Huiru Ma, Qiran Li, Tao Xiang, Kazuhiro Imai, Hongtao Zeng, Shaoshuai Shen, Cheng Liu, Lin Zhang and Xiao Zhou
Appl. Sci. 2026, 16(6), 2906; https://doi.org/10.3390/app16062906 - 18 Mar 2026
Abstract
This study aims to investigate the gender differences in lower limb strength among Chinese national rugby team athletes, as well as the relationship between these variables. Twenty-seven athletes underwent countermovement jump (CMJ) and one-repetition maximum (1RM) squat tests, with relative strength calculated through [...] Read more.
This study aims to investigate the gender differences in lower limb strength among Chinese national rugby team athletes, as well as the relationship between these variables. Twenty-seven athletes underwent countermovement jump (CMJ) and one-repetition maximum (1RM) squat tests, with relative strength calculated through bodyweight normalization. Results showed that male athletes had significantly higher CMJ height (p = 0.005) and absolute squat 1RM values (p < 0.001) compared to female athletes; male and female athletes showed significant differences in relative strength (p < 0.001). Correlation analysis indicated a positive relationship between CMJ height and absolute squat strength (p = 0.002), but no significant association with relative strength. The findings suggest a significant sex-based disparity in absolute lower limb strength among athletes of the Chinese national rugby team, with relative strength levels also exhibiting variations. When developing training programs, coaches and athletes should consider gender-specific differences in absolute strength. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Sports Performance and Health)
17 pages, 506 KB  
Article
Inflammation and Thrombophilia Markers in Supra-Aortic Takayasu Arteritis-Associated Stroke: A Digital Subtraction Angiography-Based Case Control Study
by Ebru Marzioglu Ozdemir and Gokhan Ozdemir
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2308; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062308 - 18 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Takayasu arteritis is an important non-atherosclerotic cause of ischemic stroke in young adults. However, the relative contribution of systemic inflammation, inherited thrombophilia, and supra-aortic hemodynamic impairment to cerebrovascular events in these patients remains insufficiently defined. This study aimed to evaluate the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Takayasu arteritis is an important non-atherosclerotic cause of ischemic stroke in young adults. However, the relative contribution of systemic inflammation, inherited thrombophilia, and supra-aortic hemodynamic impairment to cerebrovascular events in these patients remains insufficiently defined. This study aimed to evaluate the relative impact of systemic inflammatory activity, hereditary and acquired thrombophilia markers, and supra-aortic vascular involvement on cerebrovascular ischemic events in patients with digital subtraction angiography (DSA) confirmed supra-aortic Takayasu arteritis. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted in consecutively evaluated patients with non-atherosclerotic inflammatory stenosis or occlusion of the carotid, subclavian, or vertebral arteries confirmed by digital subtraction angiography. Age- and sex-matched hospital-based individuals without autoimmune, thrombotic, or cerebrovascular diseases served as controls. Laboratory assessments including erythrocyte sedimentation rate, lipoprotein(a), homocysteine, antinuclear antibody, rheumatoid factor, antiphospholipid antibodies, and a hereditary thrombophilia panel were obtained 4–6 weeks after clinical presentation during a stable clinical phase. Results: Among 46 patients with Takayasu arteritis, 21 patients presented with ischemic stroke. The stroke-positive subgroup demonstrated higher inflammatory activity and a slightly greater prevalence of supra-aortic occlusive lesions, particularly involving the common carotid, internal carotid, and subclavian arteries. Although lipoprotein(a) levels showed statistical differences between groups, mean values remained within reference ranges and were not clinically elevated. The distribution of hereditary thrombophilia variants and the prevalence of elevated homocysteine levels did not differ significantly between groups. Clinical outcomes were favorable overall, with no mortality and functional independence achieved in the majority of stroke-positive patients. Conclusions: These findings suggest that systemic inflammation and supra-aortic hemodynamic impairment may play a more prominent role than inherited thrombophilia in the development of cerebrovascular ischemic events in patients with Takayasu arteritis. Selective rather than routine thrombophilia testing may therefore be appropriate in selected clinical contexts, while careful control of inflammatory activity and continuous vascular monitoring remain essential components of management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Neurology)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 591 KB  
Article
Gender and Sex Differences in Adolescents’ Interpersonal Emotion Regulation: A Multi-Method Study
by Gloria Mittmann, Beate Schrank, Verena Steiner-Hofbauer, Susanne Siegmann and Sonja Zehetmayer
Adolescents 2026, 6(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/adolescents6020028 - 18 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Interpersonal emotion regulation (iER) is the process of managing others’ emotions and is critical during early adolescence, when social awareness and peer dependence increase. Little is known about how sex and gender role orientation shape adolescents’ iER. This study examined whether early [...] Read more.
Background: Interpersonal emotion regulation (iER) is the process of managing others’ emotions and is critical during early adolescence, when social awareness and peer dependence increase. Little is known about how sex and gender role orientation shape adolescents’ iER. This study examined whether early adolescents differ in their use of person-focused (acceptance) versus problem-focused (positive engagement) strategies and whether these differences depend on context and measurement method. Methods: Data were collected from 322 adolescents (141 girls, 181 boys; aged 10–14 years, M = 12.47, SD = 1.55). The cross-sectional online study used a multi-method design comprising open-ended visual vignettes, a standardised questionnaire, and a serious game task. Participants also completed a validated gender-role self-concept measure assessing femininity and masculinity. Analyses were conducted using Poisson and logistic regressions with sex, femininity, and masculinity as predictors. Results: Across tasks, adolescents preferred problem-focused over person-focused strategies. Girls and those higher in femininity reported or generated more acceptance-based strategies, whereas boys and those higher in masculinity favoured positive engagement. These effects were evident in reflective measures (vignettes and questionnaire) but not in the interactive game, where sex and gender differences were absent. Conclusions: Findings suggest that gendered socialisation processes shape how adolescents regulate others’ emotions, particularly when behaviour is consciously reported. However, in ecologically valid contexts, these differences diminish, indicating shared capacities for adaptive interpersonal regulation across genders. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1232 KB  
Article
An Analysis of 12,247 Severe Suicide Attempts Between 2010 and 2023 by Trauma-Inducing Mechanisms: Increasing Frequency and Sex-Specific Differences
by Maximilian Leiblein, Philipp Störmann, Rolf Lefering, Ingo Marzi, Nils Wagner and the TraumaRegister DGU
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(6), 2299; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15062299 - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Suicide attempts represent a major global health problem. Traumatic suicide methods, such as falls from great heights, stab wounds, and gunshot wounds, frequently result in severe or fatal injuries. The COVID-19 pandemic, as well as broader societal stressors including economic uncertainty [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Suicide attempts represent a major global health problem. Traumatic suicide methods, such as falls from great heights, stab wounds, and gunshot wounds, frequently result in severe or fatal injuries. The COVID-19 pandemic, as well as broader societal stressors including economic uncertainty and geopolitical conflicts, has substantially increased psychological stress in the population and has been discussed as a potential influencing factor for suicidal behavior. The aim of this study was to analyze severe traumatic suicide attempts and to evaluate the potential influence of the COVID-19 pandemic in a multicenter analysis of the TraumaRegister (TR) DGU®. Methods: This retrospective multicenter analysis is based on the TraumaRegister DGU®, a standardized database for seriously injured patients. Patients from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland from 2010 to 2023 with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 9, an age ≥ 10 years, and a documented suicide attempt, who arrived at the hospital alive, were included. Results: Among severely injured trauma patients recorded in the registry, 12,247 (4.4%) cases were classified as suspected traumatic suicide attempts. Severe traumatic suicide attempts showed a clear age-dependent distribution, with a marked increase from adolescence and a plateau between 20 and 55 years of age. Both the mean age of the general population and the age of patients with suicide attempts increased over the study period. This trend was reflected in the rise in the ≥70-year age group from 13.6% in 2010 to 19.6% in 2023. The most common method was jumping from a height greater than 3 m (65.3%), followed by stab wounds (11.9%) and gunshot wounds (8.0%). While a significant decline in severe traumatic suicide attempts was observed between 2010 and 2019, a significant increase to 4.5% occurred in 2020, remaining at a comparable level in the following years. Sex-specific differences were observed, with penetrating injuries occurring more frequently in men, whereas jumps from heights > 3 m were more common among women. The highest hospital mortality was observed in gunshot injuries (67.9%). Conclusions: This study demonstrates an increase in severe traumatic suicide attempts in 2020 that persisted at a similar level until 2023. Sex-specific differences in suicide methods highlight the need for targeted prevention strategies. In addition, demographic aging is reflected in the increasing proportion of suicide attempts among older individuals, emphasizing the need for age-specific prevention measures. The relatively high survival rate after certain methods, particularly after falls from height (77%), underlines the importance of structured postoperative psychiatric care pathways. These findings specifically reflect traumatic suicide attempts resulting in severe injury and requiring trauma center treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Research Methods)
Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 353 KB  
Article
Early Cardiovascular Risk Indicators in School-Aged Children from Inland Portugal: Elevated Blood Pressure at Screening and the Coexistence of Underweight and Excess Weight
by Patrícia Coelho, Ana Figueiredo, Sónia Mateus, Guilherme Eustáquio Furtado and Francisco José Barbas Rodrigues
Obesities 2026, 6(2), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/obesities6020016 - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular risk factors may emerge early in life and track into adulthood. Local data from inland and socioeconomically vulnerable regions remain limited. This study aimed to describe cardiovascular risk indicators in school-aged children from inland Portugal, focusing on body mass index (BMI), [...] Read more.
Background: Cardiovascular risk factors may emerge early in life and track into adulthood. Local data from inland and socioeconomically vulnerable regions remain limited. This study aimed to describe cardiovascular risk indicators in school-aged children from inland Portugal, focusing on body mass index (BMI), blood pressure (BP), and physical activity patterns. Methods: A cross-sectional school-based screening study was conducted in 101 children and adolescents aged 10–15 years. Anthropometric measurements and BP were obtained using standardized procedures. BMI categories were classified according to age- and sex-specific WHO references. BP was classified using European pediatric percentiles. Because measurements were obtained during a single visit, results were interpreted as elevated BP at screening. Associations between variables were explored using chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests and Spearman’s correlation. Results: The prevalence of underweight, normal weight, and overweight/obesity was 25.7%, 67.3%, and 6.9%, respectively. Overall, 24.8% of participants presented elevated BP at screening. The BMI category was significantly associated with BP classification (p = 0.003), and BMI correlated positively with systolic BP (ρ = 0.32; p = 0.001). Most children reported only school-based physical education. Conclusions: This school-based screening suggests a high proportion of elevated BP measurements and an unexpectedly high prevalence of underweight children, indicating the coexistence of different nutritional vulnerabilities. Findings should be interpreted cautiously due to the small, single-school sample and single-occasion BP assessment but support the importance of early cardiovascular risk monitoring in vulnerable settings. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 705 KB  
Article
Post-Transplant Tremor: Characteristics and Differences Based on Sex and Post-Transplant Therapy
by Srdjana Telarovic, Maja Vrdoljak Pazur, Nikolina Zupancic, Anamarija Strajduhar and Irma Telarovic
Neurol. Int. 2026, 18(3), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint18030056 - 17 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Kidney transplantation is the standard of care for the majority of patients with end-stage kidney disease. Neurological complications are common, and among them, tremor is very frequent and usually attributed to immunosuppressive drug toxicity. Methods: In this retrospective study, we [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Kidney transplantation is the standard of care for the majority of patients with end-stage kidney disease. Neurological complications are common, and among them, tremor is very frequent and usually attributed to immunosuppressive drug toxicity. Methods: In this retrospective study, we investigate the incidence and characteristics of tremor in kidney transplant patients and analyze its occurrence with respect to a multitude of demographic and clinical parameters, thereby aiming to confirm the role of calcineurin inhibitor-induced neurotoxicity and to identify other putative predictive factors. Furthermore, we characterize post-transplant tremor with the goal of identifying its clinical features and determining the impact on quality of life. Results: A total of 129 kidney transplant recipients were screened; six patients were excluded due to a history of movement disorders prior to kidney transplantation. In total, 123 patients were included in the final analysis—69 male (56%) and 54 female patients (44%), with a median age of 50. A total of 36% (46 patients) developed tremor in the post-transplant period. Using both univariable and multivariable analyses, we found that female sex and tacrolimus use were independently associated with the development of post-transplant tremor. In addition, multivariable analysis identified an association between younger age and post-transplant tremor. Furthermore, we observed a trend in the duration of symptoms in relation to the calcineurin inhibitor choice. Conclusions: Despite a relatively high prevalence (36%), post-transplant tremor does not significantly impact the QoL and spontaneously resolves within 1 year in adult kidney transplant recipients. Female sex and tacrolimus were identified as independent predictors of post-transplant tremor in renal transplant recipients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Movement Disorders and Neurodegenerative Diseases)
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

16 pages, 751 KB  
Article
Frontal Lobe and Subregional Volumetric Alterations Across Alzheimer’s Disease, Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment, and Vascular Dementia: An MRI Volumetry Study
by Stefan Stojanoski, Katarina Karher, Duško Kozić, Siniša S. Babović, Miloš Vuković and Katarina Koprivšek
Brain Sci. 2026, 16(3), 317; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci16030317 - 16 Mar 2026
Abstract
Background: Frontal lobe involvement represents an important but heterogeneously expressed feature across neurodegenerative and vascular cognitive disorders. While frontal atrophy has been described in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), detailed volumetric assessment of frontal subregions across Alzheimer’s disease, amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI), and vascular [...] Read more.
Background: Frontal lobe involvement represents an important but heterogeneously expressed feature across neurodegenerative and vascular cognitive disorders. While frontal atrophy has been described in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), detailed volumetric assessment of frontal subregions across Alzheimer’s disease, amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI), and vascular dementia (VaD) remains insufficiently characterized. The aim of this study was to evaluate frontal lobe and frontal subregional volumetric alterations across these diagnostic groups using automated MRI-based volumetry. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 120 participants divided into four groups: AD, VaD, aMCI, and cognitively healthy controls (n = 30 per group). All participants underwent standardized neuropsychological assessment and 3T brain MRI. Automated volumetric analysis of the frontal lobe and its subregions was performed using the Vol2Brain pipeline. Group differences in total intracranial volume–adjusted frontal volumes were assessed using analysis of covariance, controlling for age and sex, followed by Bonferroni-corrected post hoc comparisons. False discovery rate (FDR) correction was applied across subregional comparisons. Results: A significant main effect of diagnostic group was observed for total frontal lobe volume, with lower adjusted volumes in patients with AD compared with aMCI and cognitively healthy controls. After correction for multiple comparisons, only total frontal lobe volume remained statistically significant. At the nominal level, group differences were observed in several frontal subregions, predominantly involving prefrontal and orbitofrontal areas. However, these findings did not survive FDR correction and should be interpreted as exploratory. No consistent frontal volumetric pattern was observed in VaD. Receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated moderate discriminatory ability of total frontal lobe volume for distinguishing AD from cognitively healthy controls. Conclusions: Automated MRI-based volumetry revealed global frontal lobe reduction in Alzheimer’s disease, whereas subregional findings were exploratory after correction for multiple testing. Frontal volumetric measures did not demonstrate a characteristic pattern in VaD. Global frontal volume may provide complementary structural information within clinically define cognitive disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Using Neuroimaging to Explore Neurodegenerative Diseases)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop