1.Sex differences in the prevalence of common comorbidities in autism: a narrative review
Yoo Hwa HONG ; Da-Yea SONG ; Heejeong YOO
The Ewha Medical Journal 2025;48(1):e79-
Autism spectrum disorder involves challenges in social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors. Historically, males have received autism diagnoses at comparatively high rates, prompting an underrepresentation of females in research and an incomplete understanding of sex-specific symptom presentations and comorbidities. This review examines sex differences in the prevalence of common comorbidities of autism to inform tailored clinical practices. These conditions include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety disorders, conduct disorder, depression, epilepsy, intellectual disability, and tic disorders. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is prevalent in both sexes; however, females may more frequently exhibit the inattentive subtype. Anxiety disorders display inconsistent sex differences, while conduct disorder more frequently impacts males. Depression becomes more common with age; some studies indicate more pronounced symptoms in adolescent girls, while others suggest greater severity in males. Epilepsy is more prevalent in females, especially those with intellectual disabilities. Despite displaying a male predominance, intellectual disability may exacerbate the severity of autism to a greater degree in females. No clear sex differences have been found regarding tic disorders. Overall, contributors to sex-based differences include biases stemming from male-centric diagnostic tools, compensatory behaviors like camouflaging in females, genetic and neurobiological differences, and the developmental trajectories of comorbidities. Recognizing these factors is crucial for developing sensitive diagnostics and sex-specific interventions. Inconsistencies in the literature highlight the need for longitudinal studies with large, diverse samples to investigate autism comorbidities across the lifespan. Understanding sex differences could facilitate earlier identification, improved care, and personalized interventions, thus enhancing quality of life for individuals with autism.
2.Complete mouth rehabilitation with fixed implant-supported prosthesis in an edentulous maxilla using dental CAD-CAM technology
Jeong Eun HONG ; Hwa-Ryun CHA ; Ji-Won BANG ; Seong-A KIM ; Keun-Woo LEE ; Yong-Sang LEE ; Hee-Won JANG
The Journal of Korean Academy of Prosthodontics 2025;63(2):194-202
For patients with edentulous maxillae, creating a prosthetic treatment plan involves considering anatomical factors, aesthetics, the patient’s financial situation, and oral hygiene capabilities. In this case, CAD-CAM technology was used to accurately plan implant placements for a full arch fixed restoration based on the design of the final prosthesis. A customized surgical guide ensured precise implant placement and a provisional restoration was created using CAD-CAM. The definitive prosthesis was then created based on the second provisional restoration that has been previously used and adjusted by the patient. This approach achieved an excellent functional and aesthetic outcome, highlighting the benefits of digital approach and its potential for further clinical applications.
3.Characteristics and outcomes of portal vein thrombosis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease in Korea
Ki Jin KIM ; Su-Bin SONG ; Jung-Bin PARK ; June Hwa BAE ; Ji Eun BAEK ; Ga Hee KIM ; Min-Jun KIM ; Seung Wook HONG ; Sung Wook HWANG ; Dong-Hoon YANG ; Byong Duk YE ; Jeong-Sik BYEON ; Seung-Jae MYUNG ; Suk-Kyun YANG ; Chang Sik YU ; Yong-Sik YOON ; Jong-Lyul LEE ; Min Hyun KIM ; Ho-Su LEE ; Sang Hyoung PARK
The Korean Journal of Internal Medicine 2025;40(2):243-250
Background/Aims:
Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) frequently occurs in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), particularly when influenced by factors such as abdominal infections, IBD flare-ups, or surgical procedures. The implications of PVT range from immediate issues such as intestinal ischemia to long-term concerns including portal hypertension and its complications. However, there is a notable gap in comprehensive studies on PVT in IBD, especially with the increasing incidence of IBD in Asia. This research aimed to evaluate the clinical features and outcomes of PVT in patients with IBD at a leading hospital in South Korea.
Methods:
This retrospective analysis reviewed adult patients diagnosed with both IBD and PVT from 1989 to 2021 at a renowned South Korean medical center. The study focused on patient characteristics, specifics of PVT, administered treatments, and outcomes, all confirmed through enhanced CT scans.
Results:
A total of 78 patients met the study’s criteria. Notably, only 20.5% (16/78) were treated with oral anticoagulants; however, a vast majority (96.2%; 75/78) achieved complete radiographic resolution (CRR). When comparing patients receiving anticoagulants to those who did not, a significant preference for anticoagulant use was observed in cases where the main portal vein was affected, as opposed to just the left or right veins (p = 0.006). However, multivariable analysis indicated that neither anticoagulant use nor previous surgeries significantly impacted CRR.
Conclusions
Patients with IBD and PVT generally had favorable outcomes, regardless of anticoagulant use.
4.A comparison of soft tissue outcomes in skeletal Class II malocclusion: Anterior segmental osteotomy vs. non-surgical orthodontic treatment
Hyunhee CHOO ; Young Ho KIM ; Pureum HONG ; Young-Jin CHOI ; Reuben KIM ; Hwa Sung CHAE
The Korean Journal of Orthodontics 2025;55(3):224-233
Objective:
Temporary anchorage devices (TADs) have considerably reduced the need for anterior segmental osteotomy (ASO) in patients with Class I malocclusion. Most previous studies have been published before the widespread use of TADs, thus warranting new guidelines for determining the optimal approach for surgery and orthodontic treatment. This study aimed to establish guidelines on the choice between ASO and non-ASO (NASO) based on soft tissue considerations.
Methods:
Sixty-seven patients diagnosed with skeletal Class II malocclusion were divided into the ASO (n = 31) and NASO (n = 36) groups. Cephalometric analyses were used to compare the initial and final records to assess the effect of treatment on soft tissues. The interlabial gap, upper lip anterior to the E-line, lower lip anterior to the E-line, H-angle, upper lip to the nasion-perpendicular line, and nasolabial angle were evaluated. In particular, a proportional difference indicator between the upper and lower lips relative to the pogonion angle between the facial plane and CK line was presented, followed by statistics analyses. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.
Results:
Both groups demonstrated normal proportions of the upper and lower lips; however, significant differences favoring ASO over NASO in terms of soft tissue changes were observed for several variables.
Conclusions
ASO is advised if the required adjustment for the upper and lower lips is –4.0 mm and –5.0 mm, respectively. For modifications of –2.0 mm, NASO is preferred. This study provides clinical guidelines on the choice between ASO and NASO based on the required lip movement measurements.
5.Better Chemotherapeutic Response of Small Cell Lung Cancer in Never Smokers than in Smokers
Ha-Young PARK ; Hyung-Joo OH ; Hwa Kyung PARK ; Joon-Young YOON ; Chang-Seok YOON ; Bo Gun KHO ; Tae-Ok KIM ; Hong-Joon SHIN ; Chul-Kyu PARK ; Yong-Soo KWON ; Yu-Il KIM ; Sung-Chul LIM ; Young-Chul KIM ; In-Jae OH
Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases 2025;88(2):334-341
Background:
Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is called ‘smoker’s disease’ because it is strongly associated with smoking and most cases occur in smokers. However, it can also occur in never smokers. We investigated the clinical features of never smokers with SCLC and compared their treatment outcomes with those of smokers with SCLC.
Methods:
We retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of patients who had proven SCLC and had received chemotherapy at a single cancer center between July 2002 and April 2021.
Results:
Of 1,643 patients, 1,416 (86.2%) were enrolled in this study. A total of 162 (11.4%) and 1,254 (88.6%) patients were never smokers and smokers, respectively. There were more female never smokers than smokers (n=130; 80.2% vs. 79, 6.3%, p=0.000), and the incidence of ischemic heart disease was lower among never smokers than among smokers (4/1,416, [2.5%] vs. 83/1,416 [6.6%], p=0.036). Never smokers showed less symptoms at diagnosis than smokers (80.9% vs. 87.2%, p=0.037); however, they showed more toxicity after first-line treatment (61.7% vs. 47.8%, p=0.001). The objective response rate (ORR) was significantly higher in never smokers (74.1% vs. 59.6%, p=0.000). In the multivariate analysis, never smoking and second-line treatment were associated with a better ORR. However, progression-free survival and overall survival were not significantly different between never smokers and smokers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, never smokers accounted for 11.4% of patients with SCLC. They had distinguishing clinical characteristics and showed better chemotherapeutic responses than smokers.
6.Development of a Standardized Suicide Prevention Program for Gatekeeper Intervention in Korea (Suicide CARE Version 2.0) to Prevent Adolescent Suicide: Version for Teachers
Hyeon-Ah LEE ; Yeon Jung LEE ; Kyong Ah KIM ; Myungjae BAIK ; Jong-Woo PAIK ; Jinmi SEOL ; Sang Min LEE ; Eun-Jin LEE ; Haewoo LEE ; Meerae LIM ; Jin Yong JUN ; Seon Wan KI ; Hong Jin JEON ; Sun Jung KWON ; Hwa-Young LEE
Psychiatry Investigation 2025;22(1):117-117
7.Diabetes Is Positively Associated With High Risk of Depression in Korean Cervical Cancer Patients: Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2010–2021
Seon-Mi LEE ; Daun SHIN ; Aeran SEOL ; Sanghoon LEE ; Hyun-Woong CHO ; Kyung-Jin MIN ; Jin-Hwa HONG ; Jae-Kwan LEE ; Nak-Woo LEE ; Jae-Yun SONG ; Won Jun CHOI
Psychiatry Investigation 2025;22(1):57-65
Objective:
Objective of this study is to evaluate the association between high risk of depression and metabolic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia in Korean cervical cancer patients.
Methods:
A total of 330 women with cervical cancer were included in this study, using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey from 2010 to 2021. Participants were categorized into two groups—high risk of depression and non-depression—based on their answers to survey items related to depression. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the influence of metabolic diseases on high risk of depression in patients with cervical cancer.
Results:
A total of 78 (23.64%) and 252 (76.36%) women were classified into the high risk of depression and non-depression groups, respectively. In multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusting for age, menopausal status, and smoking status, diabetes was associated with an odds ratio of 2.47 (95% confidence interval: 1.205, 5.071) for high risk of depression in cervical cancer patients. However, among the metabolic diseases, hypertension, and dyslipidemia were not associated with high risk of depression in patients with cervical cancer.
Conclusion
This study suggests that diabetes may be associated with a increased risk of high risk of depression in cervical cancer patients. Therefore, appropriate treatment of diabetes in cervical cancer patients may contribute to lowering the risk of depression in the future.
8.Sex differences in the prevalence of common comorbidities in autism: a narrative review
Yoo Hwa HONG ; Da-Yea SONG ; Heejeong YOO
The Ewha Medical Journal 2025;48(1):e79-
Autism spectrum disorder involves challenges in social communication and restricted, repetitive behaviors. Historically, males have received autism diagnoses at comparatively high rates, prompting an underrepresentation of females in research and an incomplete understanding of sex-specific symptom presentations and comorbidities. This review examines sex differences in the prevalence of common comorbidities of autism to inform tailored clinical practices. These conditions include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, anxiety disorders, conduct disorder, depression, epilepsy, intellectual disability, and tic disorders. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is prevalent in both sexes; however, females may more frequently exhibit the inattentive subtype. Anxiety disorders display inconsistent sex differences, while conduct disorder more frequently impacts males. Depression becomes more common with age; some studies indicate more pronounced symptoms in adolescent girls, while others suggest greater severity in males. Epilepsy is more prevalent in females, especially those with intellectual disabilities. Despite displaying a male predominance, intellectual disability may exacerbate the severity of autism to a greater degree in females. No clear sex differences have been found regarding tic disorders. Overall, contributors to sex-based differences include biases stemming from male-centric diagnostic tools, compensatory behaviors like camouflaging in females, genetic and neurobiological differences, and the developmental trajectories of comorbidities. Recognizing these factors is crucial for developing sensitive diagnostics and sex-specific interventions. Inconsistencies in the literature highlight the need for longitudinal studies with large, diverse samples to investigate autism comorbidities across the lifespan. Understanding sex differences could facilitate earlier identification, improved care, and personalized interventions, thus enhancing quality of life for individuals with autism.
9.Complete mouth rehabilitation with fixed implant-supported prosthesis in an edentulous maxilla using dental CAD-CAM technology
Jeong Eun HONG ; Hwa-Ryun CHA ; Ji-Won BANG ; Seong-A KIM ; Keun-Woo LEE ; Yong-Sang LEE ; Hee-Won JANG
The Journal of Korean Academy of Prosthodontics 2025;63(2):194-202
For patients with edentulous maxillae, creating a prosthetic treatment plan involves considering anatomical factors, aesthetics, the patient’s financial situation, and oral hygiene capabilities. In this case, CAD-CAM technology was used to accurately plan implant placements for a full arch fixed restoration based on the design of the final prosthesis. A customized surgical guide ensured precise implant placement and a provisional restoration was created using CAD-CAM. The definitive prosthesis was then created based on the second provisional restoration that has been previously used and adjusted by the patient. This approach achieved an excellent functional and aesthetic outcome, highlighting the benefits of digital approach and its potential for further clinical applications.
10.Development and Application of New Risk-Adjustment Models to Improve the Current Model for Hospital Standardized Mortality Ratio in South Korea
Hyeki PARK ; Ji-Sook CHOI ; Min Sun SHIN ; Soomin KIM ; Hyekyoung KIM ; Nahyeong IM ; Soon Joo PARK ; Donggyo SHIN ; Youngmi SONG ; Yunjung CHO ; Hyunmi JOO ; Hyeryeon HONG ; Yong-Hwa HWANG ; Choon-Seon PARK
Yonsei Medical Journal 2025;66(3):179-186
Purpose:
This study assessed the validity of the hospital standardized mortality ratio (HSMR) risk-adjusted model by comparing models that include clinical information and the current model based on administrative information in South Korea.
Materials and Methods:
The data of 53976 inpatients were analyzed. The current HSMR risk-adjusted model (Model 1) adjusts for sex, age, health coverage, emergency hospitalization status, main diagnosis, surgery status, and Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) using administrative data. As candidate variables, among clinical information, the American Society of Anesthesiologists score, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II, Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS) 3, present on admission CCI, and cancer stage were collected. Surgery status, intensive care in the intensive care unit, and CCI were selected as proxy variables among administrative data. In-hospital death was defined as the dependent variable, and a logistic regression analysis was performed. The statistical performance of each model was compared using C-index values.
Results:
There was a strong correlation between variables in the administrative data and those in the medical records. The C-index of the existing model (Model 1) was 0.785; Model 2, which included all clinical data, had a higher C-index of 0.857. In Model 4, in which APACHE II and SAPS 3 were replaced with variables recorded in the administrative data from Model 2, the C-index further increased to 0.863.
Conclusion
The HSMR assessment model improved when clinical data were adjusted. Simultaneously, the validity of the evaluation method could be secured even if some of the clinical information was replaced with the information in the administrative data.

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