1.Influencing factors for recompensation and its impact on the prognosis in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis
Danqing XU ; Haiwen LI ; Huan MU ; Yingyuan ZHANG ; Caifen SA ; Li LIU ; Yongrui YANG
Journal of Clinical Hepatology 2026;42(1):90-100
ObjectiveTo investigate the influencing factors for recompensation in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis, as well as the impact of recompensation on the prognosis of such patients, and to provide a basis for early identification of high-risk patients in clinical practice. MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed for the clinical data of patients who attended The Third People’s Hospital of Kunming from January 2016 to December 2022 and were diagnosed with decompensated liver cirrhosis due to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, alcoholic hepatitis, and autoimmune hepatitis, and they were divided into recompensation group and persistent decompensation group. To control for confounding factors, whether recompensation occurred was used as the rouping variable,and BMI, alcohol consumption history, HIV infection history, TG, CHOL, LDL, and HDL were used as covariates. The propensity score was calculated, and 1:1 nearest neighbor matching was performed with a caliper value of 0.1. After propensity score matching, the recompensation group and the persistent decompensation group with relatively balanced covariates were obtained. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional-hazards regression model analyses were used to investigate the influencing factors for recompensation; the “rms” package was used to establish a nomogram; the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was plotted to calculate the area under the ROC curve (AUC); the Hosmer-Lemeshow test was used to assess the goodness of fit of the model; the “Calibration Curves” package was used to plot calibration curves for model assessment. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to plot survival curves, and the Log-rank test was used for comparison of survival curves. ResultsAmong the 863 patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis, 305 experienced recompensation, resulting in an incidence rate of 35.3%. After PSM, 610 cases were successfully matched, with 305 cases in each group. The univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses showed that etiology (hepatitis C: hazard ratio[HR]=0.288, P=0.002); male(HR=0.701, P=0.016), age(HR=0.988, P=0.047), hemoglobin (HGB)(HR=1.006, P=0.017), and CD4 T cell(HR=1.001,P=0.047), TIPS procedure (HR=1.808,P=0.042) were independent influencing factors for recompensation in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. During follow-up, 116 patients died of liver disease-related causes, with 27 patients (8.85%) in the recompensation group and 89 (15.95%) in the persistent decompensation group; 109 patients developed HCC, with 23 patients (7.54%) in the recompensation group and 86 (15.41%) in the persistent decompensation group. The Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed significant separation between the patients with different states of compensation in terms of liver disease-related mortality rate and the incidence rate of HCC, and the Log-rank test showed that there were significant differences between the two groups in liver disease-related mortality rate (χ2=9.023, P=0.003) and the incidence rate of HCC (χ2=10.526, P=0.001). ConclusionEtiology,sex,age,TIPS,HGB,and CD4 T cell are independent influencing factors for recompensation in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis. There is a significant difference in the incidence rate of recompensation between decompensated liver cirrhosis patients with different etiologies, and female patients and patients with a younger age,a history of TIPS, a higher HGB level, and a higher CD4 lymphocyte count are more likely to experience recompensation. Recompensation is the key to improving the long-term prognosis of patients and can significantly reduce long-term liver disease-related mortality rate and the incidence rate of HCC.
2.A Systematic Literature Review on ICU Nurses’ Experience and Family Interactions during Death and Dying from an Islamic Perspective
The International Medical Journal Malaysia 2026;25(No. 2):9-19
The growing complexity of death and dying in Intensive Care Units highlights nurses'
critical role, particularly concerning family interactions and spiritual needs from an
Islamic perspective. However, there is a gap in understanding the nuances of these
interactions, how nurses can best facilitate them, and how potential conflicts arising
from differing interpretations of religious beliefs may impact care; this area remains
underexplored. This systematic literature review aims to synthesize existing studies
on ICU nurses' experiences with critically ill patients during death and dying, focusing
on Islamic perspectives or spiritual care, employing a qualitative synthesis approach.
The Scopus database was used to retrieve relevant documents published between
2005 and 2024. The review followed PRISMA guidelines for identification, screening,
exclusion, and inclusion. Qualitative, quantitative, mixed-method studies, and review
articles were included, with only qualitative papers appraised using the Joanna Briggs
Institute’s criteria. Initially, 378 records were identified. After removing unavailable
files and screening, 113 titles and abstracts were assessed. Of 84 reports reviewed for
eligibility, 68 were excluded, leaving 14 studies that met the inclusion criteria for the
final review. This review emphasizes the crucial need for better training, policies, and
institutional support for ICU nurses. Such measures would enable them to manage the
complexities of culturally sensitive care for family members during loved ones' death
and dying. Implementing standardized guidelines addressing Islamic perspectives can
significantly improve care quality and patient-family satisfaction.
3.Translation and validation of the Filipino version of the knowledge, attitudes and practices questionnaire on personal antibiotic use (KAPQ-PAU-FIL): Potential utility in public health programs in the Philippines.
Maxine Francesco Gwyneth C. BACULO ; Samantha Nicole L. BABAO ; Francesca Anne I. BANDARLIPE ; Fitz Cornelius I. BANEZ ; Evelyn SIAO-BRIGINO ; Wennielyn F. FAJILAN ; Roberto D. AMPIL ; Marvin M. ZAPICO ; Maria Rosario R. ARANDA ; Rosalyn G. MIRASOL ; Ivan Neil B. GOMEZ
Journal of Medicine University of Santo Tomas 2026;10(1):1883-1894
INRODUCTION
The growing misuse of antibiotics and the escalating threat of antibiotic resistance in the Philippines pose significant public health concerns. While various Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) questionnaires on personal antibiotic use have been employed in local studies, none have been fully validated and a standardized, culturally appropriate tool remains lacking.
OBJECTIVEThis study aims to develop a Filipino-translated and culturally adapted KAP questionnaire on personal antibiotic use (KAPQ-PAU-FIL) and evaluate its validity and reliability.
METHODOLOGYThe research consisted of two phases. The first phase is the translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the original questionnaire in collaboration with the UST Sentro sa Salin at Araling Salin. The second phase is the validity and reliability testing of the KAPQ-PAU-FIL using a sample of 176 Filipino adults. This included assessment of its face validity, content validity, construct validity, internal consistency, test-retest reliability and equivalent forms reliability.
RESULTSMost items were translated without difficulty, though four items were modified to better fit the linguistic and cultural context. The KAPQ-PAU-FIL demonstrates strong psychometric properties, with face validity (SFVI/Ave = 0.99), content validity (SCVI/Ave = 0.99), construct validity (CFI = 0.92, RMSEA = 0.06, SRMR = 0.04; FL = 0.60-0.85; ITC = 0.58-0.71), test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.83), internal consistency (α = 0.929) and equivalent forms reliability (p>0.05; κ = 0.62-0.74).
CONCLUSIONThe KAPQ-PAU-FIL is the first ever, Filipino-translated, culturally adapted questionnaire designed to assess KAPQ-PAU-FIL, demonstrating strong validity and reliability to support public health programs against antibiotic misuse.
Surveys And Questionnaires ; Public Health ; Knowledge ; Anti-bacterial Agents ; Philippines ; Program
4.Translation and validation of the health-related quality of life in stroke patients - 26 (HRQoLISP-26) scale into Filipino for Filipino adult stroke Patients.
Shanelle Katrina N. TAN ; Portia Margarita D. SIMSUANGCO ; Fatima Mae S. SINGSON ; Joselle T. SINSON ; Celina Therese R. SOLOMON ; Arnold Christopher P. SORIANO ; Stephen Lorenzo P. SULAY ; Mikhael Thaddeus S. SUPE ; Rafael Alfonso S. SYFU ; Althea Jannary C. TALENS ; Ian Cedric D. TAN ; Jan Tyrone CABRERA ; Wennielyn F. FAJILAN ; Elenita MENDOZA ; John Dale TROGO
Journal of Medicine University of Santo Tomas 2026;10(1):1895-1903
INRODUCTION
Stroke is one of the top five leading causes of disability in the Philippines. It has a significant impact on the quality of life (QoL) of patients, particularly in the functional and psycho-emotional aspects. Thus, it is important to understand the health-related quality of life in stroke patients (HRQoLISP), which focuses on the clinical impact of the disease and disability. The assessment of a stroke patient’s QoL is prognostically significant as it can predict a patient’s treatment success and survival.
OBJECTIVEThis study aims to translate the HRQoLISP-26 into Filipino and assess its content validity for Filipino adult stroke patients.
METHODOLOGYThe HRQoLISP-26 was translated into Filipino using a forward translation protocol and an expert analyzed the forward translation. Selected expert committee members reviewed the first version to assess for content validity and the questionnaire was modified accordingly. The content validity index (CVI) was used for content validity.
RESULTSMajority of the revisions made were done to improve the semantic and grammatical accuracy of items in the Filipino version of the HRQoLISP-26. Only a few items had no revisions implemented. No revisions were done in the final version of the translated questionnaire as each item had a CVI of 1 indicating that it has good content validity.
CONCLUSIONThe Filipino translated HRQoLISP-26 questionnaire is a validated questionnaire that allows assessment of a stroke survivor’s QoL.
Quality Of Life ; Patients ; Life ; Health ; Adult ; Stroke
5.Clinical practice in office hysteroscopy
Namkung JEONG ; Angela CHO ; Yu-Jin KOO ; Jun-Woo AHN ; Hyuntae PARK ; Eun Sil LEE ; Sang Wook YI ; Won Duk JOO ; Sang-Hoon LEE ; Jae Kwan LEE ; Sa Ra LEE ;
Obstetrics & Gynecology Science 2025;68(3):175-185
Hysteroscopy is particularly valuable for the diagnosis of uterine cavity abnormalities through direct visualization. The development of office hysteroscopy has expanded the range of diagnostic and surgical procedures available. These detailed guidelines include patient counseling and the selection and setting of office hysteroscopy, including room, equipment, and medical staff. Analgesia or local anesthesia is often required in selective office hysteroscopy cases. Cervical dilation and preparation using medical or mechanical methods are required for most diagnostic hysteroscopic procedures. Methods for optimizing visualization and choosing suitable distension media are important for a successful office hysteroscopy. It is crucial to adhere to guidelines to prevent complications, such as vasovagal syncope, cervical trauma, uterine perforation, fluid overload, and embolism. Vaginoscopy can be a good alternative option for alleviating pain, especially in cases where the insertion of a vaginal speculum is expected to be challenging.
6.Nutritional management for breast cancer patients
Minjeong KIM ; Minkyoung LEE ; Jisun SA
The Ewha Medical Journal 2025;48(1):e11-
Breast cancer is a complex disease influenced by environmental, genetic, dietary, and hormonal factors. This underscores the importance of postoperative nutritional management in supporting recovery, minimizing complications, and enhancing long-term outcomes. This review synthesizes clinical guidelines, expert recommendations, and observational studies to provide a comprehensive overview of dietary interventions for breast cancer patients following surgery. Post-surgical nutritional care is centered around three primary objectives: supporting wound healing through high-quality protein intake, maintaining optimal nutritional status to prevent malnutrition, and promoting healthy lifestyle habits to reduce the risk of recurrence. To achieve these objectives, postoperative dietary strategies focus on several key components: ensuring adequate hydration for metabolic processes and tissue repair, consuming a balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits to mitigate oxidative stress, incorporating whole grains to support overall healing, and maintaining sufficient intake of high-quality protein from sources such as fish, meat, and dairy products to aid tissue repair and immune system recovery. Patients are also advised to avoid alcohol, limit saturated fats, and reduce intake of salty, sugary, and smoked foods to minimize inflammation. As research progresses, the implementation of personalized dietary plans remains essential for optimizing recovery outcomes in breast cancer patients.
7.Implantation of Islets Co-Seeded with Tregs in a Novel Biomaterial Reverses Diabetes in the NOD Mouse Model
Diana M. ELIZONDO ; Lais L. de Oliveira REKOWSKY ; Ayane de Sa RESENDE ; Jonathan SEENARINE ; Ricardo Luis Louzada da SILVA ; Jamel ALI ; Dazhi YANG ; Tatiana de MOURA ; Michael W. LIPSCOMB
Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine 2025;22(1):43-55
Background:
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) results in autoreactive T cells chronically destroying pancreatic islets. This often results in irreplaceable loss of insulin-producing beta cells. To reverse course, a combinatorial strategy of employing glucose-responsive insulin restoration coupled with inhibiting autoreactive immune responses is required.
Methods:
Non-obese diabetic mice received a single intraperitoneal implantation of a novel biomaterial co-seeded with insulin-producing islets and T regulatory cells (Tregs). Controls included biomaterial seeded solely with islets, or biomaterial only groups. Mice were interrogated for changes in inflammation and diabetes progression via blood glucose monitoring, multiplex serum cytokine profiling, flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry assessments.
Results:
Islet and Tregs co-seeded biomaterial recipients had increased longevity, insulin secretion, and normoglycemia through 180 days post-implantation compared to controls. Serum profile revealed reduced TNFα, IFNγ, IL-1β and increased IL-10, insulin, C-Peptide, PP and PPY in recipients receiving co-seeded biomaterial. Evaluation of the resected co-seeded biomaterial revealed reduced infiltrating autoreactive CD8 + and CD4 + T cells concomitant with sustained presence of Foxp3 + Tregs; further analysis revealed that the few infiltrated resident effector CD4+ or CD8+ T cells were anergic, as measured by low levels of IFNγ and Granzyme-B upon stimulation when compared to controls. Interestingly, studies also revealed increased Tregs in the pancreas. However, there was no restoration of the pancreas beta cell compartment, suggesting normoglycemia and production of insulin levels were largely supported by the implanted co-seeded biomaterial.
Conclusion
These studies show the efficacy of a combinatorial approach seeding Tregs with pancreatic islets in a novel self-assembling organoid for reversing T1D.
9.Alterations in portal vein confluence during gastric cancer surgery: two case reports
Sa-Hong KIM ; Franco José SIGNORINI ; Kyoyoung PARK ; Chungyoon KIM ; Jeesun KIM ; Yo-Seok CHO ; Seong-Ho KONG ; Do-Joong PARK ; Hyuk-Joon LEE ; Han-Kwang YANG
Korean Journal of Clinical Oncology 2025;21(1):40-46
This article presents two cases of extrahepatic portal vein anomalies that can be challenging during lymph node (LN) dissection in gastric cancer surgery. The first case was a participant for a clinical trial assessing the completeness of D2 LN dissection. The trial utilized near-infrared (NIR) lymphangiography with indocyanine green only after completing dissection of a certain topological LN station to detect any residual lymphatic tissue. However, the patient was excluded from the trial due to an unexpected extrahepatic portal vein confluence anomaly and aberrant common hepatic artery. Consequently, continuous lymphatic navigation with NIR imaging was utilized for remaining surgery. The second case featured a patient with an anteriorly positioned splenic vein, hindering LN dissection along the left gastric artery. Preoperative identification of great vessel anomalies around the stomach is critical to prevent life-threatening complications during LN dissection in gastric cancer surgery. Augmented imaging technology can be a valuable tool in ensuring oncologic safety and precision.
10.Glutathione’s Role in Liver Metabolism and Hangover Symptom Relief: Dysregulation of Protein S-Glutathionylation and Antioxidant Enzymes
Hwa-Young LEE ; Geum-Hwa LEE ; Do-Sung KIM ; Young Jae LIM ; Boram CHO ; Hojung JUNG ; Hyun-shik CHOI ; Soonok SA ; Wookyung CHUNG ; Hyewon LEE ; Myoung Ja CHUNG ; Junghyun KIM ; Han-Jung CHAE
Biomolecules & Therapeutics 2025;33(1):117-128
Hangovers from alcohol consumption cause symptoms like headaches, nausea, and fatigue, disrupting daily activities and overall well-being. Over time, they can also lead to inflammation and oxidative stress. Effective hangover relief alleviates symptoms, prevents dehydration, and replenishes energy needed for daily tasks. Natural foods considered high in antioxidants and antiinflammatory properties may aid in the hepatic breakdown of alcohol. The study aims to investigate the impact of glutathione or its enriched yeast extract, which is recognized for its antioxidant characteristics, on alcohol metabolism and alleviating hangovers in a rat model exposed to binge drinking. In this study, glutathione and its enriched yeast extract controlled hangover behaviour patterns, including locomotor activity. Additionally, it enhanced the activities of alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) following ethanol ingestion (3 g/kg). Further, the incorporation of glutathione led to an increase in the expression of antioxidant enzymes, such as SOD and catalase, by activating the nuclear erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway.This activation reduced the excessive production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde. Next, glutathione modulated the activity of cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) and the protein expressions of Bax and Bcl2. Besides, in vitro and in vivo investigations with glutathione demonstrated a regulating effect on the pan-s-glutathionylation and its associated protein expression, glutaredoxin 1 (Grx1), glutathione-S-transferase Pi (GST-π), and glutathione reductase (GR). Together, these findings suggest that glutathione or its enriched yeast extract as a beneficial dietary supplement for alleviating hangover symptoms by enhancing alcohol metabolism and its associated Nrf2/Keap1 signalings.


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