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Abstract Background International migrants are vulnerable to sexually transmitted infections, and their flow may accelerate the related virus (e.g., HIV, HCV, and syphilis) transmission. When international migrants enter a new environment, there will be a process of adaptation in all areas of life, and social integration plays an important role in international migrants’ daily life. Objective This study aimed to explore the influence of social integration on the risky sexual behaviors of international migrants in China and provided evidence both for healthcare intervention and global health development. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and September 2021 among international migrants who lived in China by snowball sampling method. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the basic characteristics and risky sexual behaviors of international migrants. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify the influencing factors of risky sexual behaviors. Results In total, 1433 international migrants were incorporated into the study. There were 23.10% (331) participants who considered their Chinese fluent, and 34.40% (493) considered it hard. The average number of Chinese friends they frequently interact with was (5.45 ± 2.16), and 77.60% (1112) of international migrants often attend activities held by Chinese people with 84.86% (1216) having a Chinese name. The probability of engaging in risky sexual behaviors was higher among people with lower Chinese or English level. Moreover, participants with fewer Chinese friends frequently interacted with had more unprotected sexual behaviors. People who did not often attend activities held by Chinese people had more multiple sexual partners (AOR 1.441; 95%CI 1.019,2.039) and unprotected sexual behaviors (AOR 1.523; 95%CI 1.006,2.306). Conclusions Social integration was related to the prevalence of risky sexual behaviors among international migrants. Improving Chinese level, increasing social interaction with locals as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle may help decrease risky sexual behaviors. Therefore, more attention should be paid to social integration among international migrants, helping them integrate into local society, and promote their health condition to effectively address the health challenges faced by them in a globalized world.

Abstract Purpose To observe the effect of the forearm rotation function reconstruction with an external fixator in treating congenital radioulnar synostosis. Methods From July 2017 to July 2023, 6 patients (9 sides) with congenital radioulnar synostosis who underwent reconstruction of the forearm rotation with the external fixator were retrospectively analyzed. The extent of flexion and rotation, the Modified An and Morrey functional rating index, and the grade according to the classification system proposed by Failla et al. were compared before and after the operation. Results All patients were followed up for an average of 12.00 (8.00, 38.50) months. The average range of rotation, the Modified An and Morrey functional rating index increased from 0°, 64.56 ± 1.33 points to 85.00° ± 25.86°, 83.71 ± 5.50 points, respectively. The differences were statistically significant (t = 9.86, P

BackgroundAs telehealth services have demonstrated significant advantages in providing qualified and accessible care, health insurance payments for telehealth services have been issued by various countries. However, the optimization of health insurance payments for telehealth services remains uncertain. ObjectiveWe conducted a scoping review of the current situation regarding health insurance payments for telehealth services, with the aim of providing evidence to enhance policies related to health insurance payments for such services. MethodsThis scoping review was conducted by comprehensively retrieving data from 6 electronic bibliographic databases from inception to October 2023. The databases included China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wan Fang, Weipu, Web of Science, PubMed, and Embase, following the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. Two authors independently assessed search results, extracted data, and evaluated the quality of the included studies using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. After the initial screening of titles and abstracts, full texts were obtained and examined. The data regarding the first author, date of publication, country, type of telehealth services introduced in health insurance, health insurance reimbursement providers, reimbursement standards for telehealth (eg, the condition for the reimbursement and reimbursement rate), and key findings of studies were extracted and analyzed. Moreover, we also conducted a narrative synthesis to summarize and report the findings. ResultsA total of 7232 papers were retrieved. Following quality assessment, 23 papers were finally included, with the covered countries including China, the United States, Australia, France, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Germany. The forms of the services vary across different regions, mainly including consultation services, medical monitoring services, mental health services, health education services, and other services. Payment standards are generally categorized into fee-for-service and global budget payment, with clear health insurance payment quotas or proportions and certain restrictions (eg, specifying the location of medical visits and setting the limitation on distance from home to hospitals). The paying entities for health insurance payment include national health insurance and commercial health insurance. In addition, there are 2 kinds of reimbursement rates—a comparable rate for both telehealth and in-person health care services, and a lower rate for telehealth services compared to in-person health care services. ConclusionsTo enhance the accessibility of telehealth services through health insurance payment, it is crucial to further refine the design of health insurance payment for telehealth and strengthen the supervision of services quality, bridging the gap between telehealth and in-person health care services. Additionally, this review did not include studies from all countries, and we recommend that future reviews should include a broader range of countries to provide a more comprehensive view of global telehealth insurance systems.

Abstract BackgroundEvidence has shown that HIV prevalence among young people, especially college students, has increased disproportionately. Preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) are two of the most effective ways to prevent HIV, which are vital for college students with sexual experiences who have sexual risks. ObjectiveTo provide evidence for effective intervention to reduce the risk of HIV infection among young students, this study aimed to analyze the awareness and uptake of HIV PrEP and PEP among college students with sexual experiences. MethodsAn institutional-based cross-sectional study design was used to collect data through an electronic questionnaire from college students in 5 colleges located in Zhejiang Province. A total of 21,962 college students were investigated, of which 2605 students with sexual experiences were included in the data analysis with the following information collected: sociodemographic characteristics, awareness and uptake of HIV PrEP and PEP, sexual behaviors, and HIV tests. Binary logistic regression analysis was used to explore the factors on seeking PrEP and PEP. ResultsThe average age of college students with sexual experiences was 21.25 (SD 2.75) years. Overall, 61.4% (n=1600) of the participants were aware of PrEP, and 53.0% (n=1380) of them were aware of PEP. Moreover, 5.6% (n=146) of them have sought PrEP or/and PEP, and 89.1% (n=2321) have not sought PrEP or PEP. College students who had more than 6 sexual partners, have always had unprotected sex, have subjective perceived risk behavior, and undergo HIV testing were more likely to seek PrEP or/and PEP. The main ways for the participants to learn PrEP and PEP were through school clubs, the internet, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Moreover, senior students and those who had not undergone an HIV test had a lower likelihood of seeking PrEP and PEP. College students who did not have risky sexual behaviors (odds ratio 0.468, PP ConclusionsCollege students with sexual experiences rarely seek PrEP and PEP, with a relatively low awareness of PrEP and PEP. It is very important to increase the knowledge and uptake of PrEP and PEP by educational and behavioral interventions among young students at risk for HIV infection.

Deeper understanding of the crosstalk between host cells and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) provides crucial guidelines for the rational design of novel intervention strategies against tuberculosis (TB). Mycobacteria possess a unique complex cell wall with arabinogalactan (AG) as a critical component. AG has been identified as a virulence factor of Mtb which is recognized by host galectin-9. Here, we demonstrate that galectin-9 directly inhibited mycobacterial growth through AG-binding property of carbohydrate-recognition domain 2. Furthermore, IgG antibodies with AG specificity were detected in the serum of TB patients. Based on the interaction between galectin-9 and AG, we developed a monoclonal antibody (mAb) screening assay and identified AG-specific mAbs which profoundly inhibit Mtb growth. Mechanistically, proteomic profiling and morphological characterizations revealed that AG-specific mAbs regulate AG biosynthesis, thereby inducing cell wall swelling. Thus, direct AG-binding by galectin-9 or antibodies contributes to protection against TB. Our findings pave the way for the rational design of novel immunotherapeutic strategies for TB control.

Introduction: Family doctor contract service (FDCS) is a vital part of China’s primary health care system. This study aims to explore whether contracting with FDCS affects residents’ utilization of and satisfaction with primary health care. Methods: A structured questionnaire was employed to collect data in January 2022. The questionnaire mainly included the following three parts: the social-demographic characteristics, health-related information, and utilization of and satisfaction with primary health care. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to adjust for social-demographic differences between participants who contracted with a family doctor and those who did not. For the matched population, we used the Chi-square test to examine the differences in the utilization of and satisfaction with primary health care between contracted and non-contracted participants. Moreover, multiple logistic regression and linear regression were used to explore the influencing factors of the utilization of and satisfaction with primary health care. Results: A total of 10,850 people were investigated and 10,419 participants were incorporated into the data analysis. After matching, there were no significant differences in most of the matching variables between the contracted and non-contracted groups (P > 0.05). The utilization rate was significantly higher among the contracted population than of the non-contracted (96.3% vs 92.6%, P < 0.001). The quality of services (e.g., good service attitude, high medical level, and a trusted family doctor) was more likely to be cited as the main reasons for the contracted people to utilize primary health care than for the non-contracted. The contracted people were also significantly more satisfied than the non-contracted in all terms of satisfaction. Moreover, people who contracted with a family doctor were more likely to use primary health care with OR = 1.979 (95% CI, 1.511–2.593). Conclusion: The contracted people were more likely to utilize and be satisfied with primary health care than the non-contracted. In addition, the contracted people tended to use primary health care because of the quality of services rather than because of the close distance or short waiting time. Therefore, it is important to further promote the high quality of FDCS to ensure residents’ sense of gain and improve their satisfaction.

Objectives: This study aims at exploring the effects of physicians’ communication behaviors on patients’ satisfaction in primary care medical consultations in Chattogram, Bangladesh. The study used a quantitative research approach designed with a cross-sectional survey. Methods: Data were collected using post-consultation and facilitator administered questionnaire from the patients who visited the physician for medical consultation in different hospitals and clinics in Chattogram city. Seven hundred patients were included as the study participants. A hierarchical linear regression analysis was performed to examine the factors contributing to the outcome variables. Results: A statistically significant difference ( P

Abstract BackgroundDrug users are a high-risk group for HIV infection and are prominent HIV carriers. Given the emergence of new drugs, we explored current drug-using behaviors, HIV infections, and the correlation between drug-using behaviors and HIV infection risk among drug users from 2014 to 2021. ObjectiveWe aimed to identify the prevalence of HIV infection risk among drug users and explore drug use behaviors based on the updated data, which could provide evidence for the precision of HIV prevention strategies among drug users. MethodsData were collected from sentinel surveillance of drug users in rehabilitation centers and communities in Hangzhou (2014‐2021), including sociodemographic characteristics, HIV awareness, drug use, risky sexual behaviors, and HIV infection status. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify the factors influencing HIV infection and risky sexual behaviors among drug users. ResultsIn total, 5623 drug users (male: n=4734, 84.19%; age: mean 38.38, SD 9.94 years) were included. New drugs dominated among the participants (n=3674, 65.34%). The main mode of drug use was noninjection (n=4756, 84.58%). Overall, for 27.45% (n=1544) of injected drugs in the last month before the investigation, the average daily injection frequency was 3.10 (SD 8.24). Meanwhile, 3.43% of participants shared needles. The incidence of sexual behaviors after drug use was 33.13% (n=1863), with 35.75% (n=666) of them using a condom in the last time. Overall, 116 participants tested positive for HIV antibodies (infection rate=2.06%). New drug users exhibited more postuse sexual behaviors than traditional drug users (odds ratio [OR] 7.771, 95% CI 6.126‐9.856; PPPPPPP ConclusionsNew drug types and noninjection were the main patterns in last 7 years. Using new types of drugs, rather than traditional drugs, was associated with an increased risk of HIV infection. Injection drug use was a risk factor for HIV infection. HIV awareness among drug users was high, but the incidence of risky sexual behaviors remained high. Therefore, it is important to promote the behavioral transformation of high-risk populations from cognition to attitude, and then to taking protective measures.

Objectives While it is widely accepted that COVID-19 has disrupted routine vaccination globally, the long-term impact of COVID-19 on parental vaccination intentions is uncertain. This study aims to estimate whether COVID-19 impacted parental intentions for self-paid vaccines, and provides suggestions for local vaccination policy and intervention strategies accordingly.Methods A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 2212 caregivers in Zhejiang province between 22 March and 30 June 2023. The following information was collected: sociodemographic characteristics, self-paid vaccination related intentions and behaviours, and vaccine hesitancy measured by the Vaccine Hesitancy Scale. Multiple multinomial logistic regression models were used to analyse the factors influencing the change in vaccination intentions.Results In total, 19.32% (n=390) of respondents increased their intention to immunise their children with self-paid vaccines after the COVID-19 epidemic, 9.16% (n=185) decreased their intention, and 71.52% (n=1444) of respondents indicated that the COVID-19 epidemic did not affect their intention. The major reason for increased intentions was ‘Vaccines are effective in preventing diseases’ (83.89%) and for decreased intentions was ‘Worried about the side effects of vaccines’ (65.95%). A higher hesitancy degree (OR=2.208, p=0.0001), reduced trust in vaccines after COVID-19 (OR=16.650, p1, all p

The aim of this study was to investigate the global epidemiological trends in the incidence and deaths of acute respiratory infections (ARIs), encompassing both upper respiratory infections (URIs) and lower respiratory infections (LRIs), from 1990 to 2021. Using data from the Global Burden of Disease study 2021 (GBD 2021), we utilized the average annual percentage change (AAPC) to examine the trends in the age-standardized incidence rate and deaths rate (ASIR and ASDRs) of URIs and LRIs. In 2021, the global ASIR of URIs and LRIs were 166,770.73 (95 % UI: 148,098.16–189,487.93) per 100,000 and 4283.61 (95 % UI: 4057.03–4524.89) per 100,000, respectively. The highest ASIR of URIs occurred in high-sociodemographic index (SDI) regions (232744.64, 95 % UI: 206887.07–261694.81) per 100,000, whereas LRIs occurred in low-SDI regions (9261.1, 95 % UI: 8741.61–9820.86) per 100,000. In 2021, the global ASDRs of URIs and LRIs were 0.28 (95 % UI: 0.09–0.61) per 100,000 and 28.67 (95 % UI: 25.92–31.07) per 100,000, respectively. The highest ASDRs of both URIs and LRIs were observed in low-SDI regions, with 1.1 (95 % UI: 0.08–2.78) per 100,000 and 70.68 (95 % UI: 62.56–78.62) per 100,000, respectively. From 1990 to 2021, the global ASIR for URIs and LRIs decreased, with AAPCs of −0.17 % (95 % CI: 0.17 % to −0.16 %) and −1.28 % (95 % CI: −1.37 % to −1.22 %), respectively. The global ASDRs also decreased (−3.39 % for URIs; −2.46 % for LRIs). However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the ASIR of URIs increased in many countries, especially in high-SDI regions (rate difference before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in ASIR was 2210.19 per 100,000.) and low-SDI regions (rate difference in ASIR: 111.26 per 100,000). The global incidence and deaths related to ARIs have decreased over the past 32 years. However, it remains a significant public health concern, particularly due to the notable incidence of URIs in high SDI regions and the deaths associated with both URIs and LRIs in low SDI regions. Furthermore, an increase in the incidence of URIs was observed in both high- and low-SDI regions during the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the need for increased attention.

Abstract BackgroundBehavioral differences exist between countries, regions, and religions. With rapid development in recent decades, an increasing number of international immigrants from different regions with different religions have settled in China. The degrees to which sexual behaviors—particularly risky sexual behaviors—differ by religion and geographical areas are not known. ObjectiveWe aim to estimate the associations of religion and geographical areas with sexual behaviors of international immigrants and provide evidence for promoting the sexual health of international immigrants. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted via the internet with a snowball sampling method among international immigrants in China. In our study, risky sexual behaviors included having multiple sexual partners and engaging in unprotected sex. Descriptive analysis was used to analyze the basic characteristics of international immigrants as well as their sexual behaviors, religious affiliations, and geographical regions of origin. Multivariate binary logistic regression analyses with multiplicative and additive interactions were used to identify aspects of religion and geography that were associated with risky sexual behaviors among international immigrants. ResultsA total of 1433 international immigrants were included in the study. South Americans and nonreligious immigrants were more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors, and Asian and Buddhist immigrants were less likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors. The majority of the Muslims had sexually transmitted infection and HIV testing experiences; however, Muslims had a low willingness to do these tests in the future. The multivariate analysis showed that Muslim (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.453, 95% CI 0.228‐0.897), Hindu (AOR 0.280, 95% CI 0.082‐0.961), and Buddhist (AOR 0.097, 95% CI 0.012‐0.811) immigrants were less likely to report engaging in unprotected sexual behaviors. Buddhist immigrants (AOR 0.292, 95% CI 0.086‐0.990) were also less likely to have multiple sexual partners. With regard to geography, compared to Asians, South Americans (AOR 2.642, 95% CI 1.034‐6.755), Europeans (AOR 2.310, 95% CI 1.022‐5.221), and North Africans (AOR 3.524, 95% CI 1.104‐11.248) had a higher probability of having multiple sexual partners. ConclusionsThe rates of risky sexual behaviors among international immigrants living in China differed depending on their religions and geographical areas of origin. South Americans and nonreligious immigrants were more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors. It is necessary to promote measures, including HIV self-testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis implementation, and targeted sexual health education, among international immigrants in China.

Abstract Background Migration is known to influence human health. China has a high migration rate and a significant number of people who are HIV-positive, but little is known about how these factors intersect in sexual risk behaviors. Objective This study aimed to explore sexual risk behaviors between migrants and non-migrants among newly diagnosed HIV infections, and assess the changes of sexual risk behaviors with length of stay in the current city of migrants. Methods A cross-sectional questionnaire was conducted among people newly diagnosed with HIV from July 2018 to December 2020 who lived in Zhejiang Province. In the study, sexual risk behaviors included having multiple sexual partners and unprotected sexual behaviors (in commercial sexual behaviors, non-commercial sexual behaviors, heterosexual behaviors, and homosexual behaviors). Binary logistic regression models were employed to explore the influencing factors of sexual risk behaviors, measured by multiple sexual partners and unprotected sexual partners. Results A total of 836 people newly diagnosed with HIV/AIDS were incorporated in the study and 65.31% (546) were migrants. The percentages of non-commercial sexual behaviors among migrants were statistically higher than those of non-migrants. Commercial heterosexual behavior was higher among non-migrants compared with migrants. The proportion of study participants having unprotected sexual behaviors and multiple sexual partners with commercial/non-commercial partners was both higher among migrants compared with non-migrants. Among migrants, the likelihood of sexual risk behaviors in both commercial and non-commercial sex increased in the first 3 years and reduced after 10 years. Compared with non-migrants, migrants were statistically associated with multiple sexual partners [P = .007, odds ratio (OR) = 1.942]. However, migrants did not exhibit a significant difference in unprotected sexual behaviors compared with non-migrants. In addition, migrants aged between 18 and 45 years who relocated to the current city in the past 2–3 years tended to have multiple sexual partners (P

Objective: This study examines the current status and variations in creativity between migrant and urban children, exploring the influencing factors affecting creativity. Methods: We selected children from local households in Hangzhou City and non-local migrant households as participants. Their basic demographic information and creative tendencies were assessed using the Children’s Basic Situation Questionnaire and Williams’ Creativity Tendency Measurement Scale, respectively. A multi-model regression analysis was conducted to analyze factors influencing creativity. Results: This study included 1047 children. Significant differences were observed between urban and migrant children regarding age, family type, number of siblings, parental education, parental presence at home, parental guidance in learning, experience of changing schools, having their own room, and academic performance. In addition, migrant children exhibited significantly lower creativity levels compared to urban children. The multi-model regression analysis showed that migrant status, a good parent–child relationship, having parents who often guide learning, having their own room, and excellent academic performance significantly influenced children’s creativity. Conclusions: Migrant children display lower levels of creativity than their urban counterparts, with notable differences across several factors.

Along with China’s active engagement in global affairs over the past decade, China’s public health engagement (CPHE) has become an essential element of China’s 60th anniversary of health aid and cooperation with Africa. Through analysis, we found that CPHE in Africa reflects a new shift in the content and form of China’s foreign health aid. Compared with China’s medical teams which only involve bilateral cooperation, CPHE has a number of substantive characteristics, mainly including the construction of public health infrastructure, malaria control, participation in public health emergencies and the provision of global public goods. This complexity necessitates that CPHE be implemented in a different form from China’s medical teams, by adopting inclusive multiparty cooperation involving African and international partners. However, CPHE in Africa still faces a number of challenges in its practices. In particular, these challenges arise from the cross-cultural practice process, the African sociocultural context, the experience of public health and its participants. While the reasons for these challenges are diverse, this study argues that the main reason is the lack of multidisciplinary engagement in the Africanisation of the Chinese experience that corresponds to cross-cultural practice. On the Chinese side, a systematic strategy is needed to critically refine these challenges.

ObjectivesThe aims are to explore the factors influencing Bangladeshi patients' decision-making process and their satisfaction level toward medical tourism in India.MethodsThe study used a quantitative research approach with a cross-sectional survey. Data were collected from the patients or their relatives (N = 388) who would have decided to travel to India for medical and treatment purposes at the Chittagong Indian visa center (IVAC). Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested, and facilitator-administered questionnaire, which mainly included the social demographic characteristics, health status, medical tourism information and medical tourism index. Hierarchical regression analysis was performed to explore the factors influencing their satisfaction level toward medical tourism in India.ResultsMore than three-fourths of the participants had visited India for self-treatment. Of the participants, 14% were cardiology patients, and 13% suffered from cancer. The relatives were the key source of information regarding medical tourism for more than one-fourth of the respondents. India's availability of well-experienced doctors, hospital/medical facilities with high standards, well-trained doctors, reputable doctors, and quality treatments and medical materials were top-ranked items. Regression results depict that facility and services appeared as the strongest factor (β = 0.24, t = 4.71, p < 0.001) followed by tourism destination factor (β = 0.16, t = 3.11, p = 0.002), medical tourism costs factor (β = 0.16, t = 3.24, p = 0.001) and country environment factor (β = 0.15, t = 2.69, p = 0.007).ConclusionsWe found that the factor related to facility and services is one of the strongest predictors in our models. Therefore, home countries must strengthen the health care providers' advanced professional training, including service attitudes. Moreover, it is important to lessen the language barrier, reduce the airfare for medical tourists, and make the treatment cost more affordable for patients.

Objective To explore the effect of the nurse-led multidisciplinary team (MDT) model of continuous care in patients with psoriasis vulgaris. Methods From December 2019 to December 2020,96 inpatients with psoriasis vulgaris at our hospital were randomly divided into the observation and the control groups, 48 patients per group. Following the discharge, the patients in the control group were given the traditional nurse-led continuous care, while the patients in the observation group were given multi-disciplinary team (MDT) model of continuous care, i.e. with the participation of pharmacists and clinicians. Patients in both groups were followed up for 6 months after discharge. Results The 6-month follow-up showed that patients in the observation group had lower PASI scores (3.87±1.82 vs 6.43±2.57, t=7.87, P

Plain Language Summary Considering the high risk of maternal morbidity and mortality, increased risks of unintended pregnancy, and the unmet need for contraceptives prevalent among the Rohingya refugees, this study aims to explore the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of family planning (FP) and associated factors among Rohingya women living in the refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. Four hundred Rohingya women participated in the study. We found that Rohingya refugee women were a marginalized population in family planning and their comprehensive FP-KAP status was low. Contraceptive uptake among the Rohingya women was low due to a lack of education and family planning awareness. In addition, family planning initiatives among Rohingya refugees were limited by various traditional cultural and religious beliefs. Therefore, strengthening FP interventions and increasing accessibility to essential health services and education are indispensable to improving maternal health among refugees.

Summary: Enhancing chemosensitivity is one of the largest unmet medical needs in cancer therapy. Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) connects genome instability caused by platinum-based chemotherapeutics to type I interferon (IFN) response. Here, by using a high-throughput small-molecule microarray-based screening of cGAS interacting compounds, we identify brivanib, known as a dual inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor and fibroblast growth factor receptor, as a cGAS modulator. Brivanib markedly enhances cGAS-mediated type I IFN response in tumor cells treated with platinum. Mechanistically, brivanib directly targets cGAS and enhances its DNA binding affinity. Importantly, brivanib synergizes with cisplatin in tumor control by boosting CD8+ T cell response in a tumor-intrinsic cGAS-dependent manner, which is further validated by a patient-derived tumor-like cell clusters model. Taken together, our findings identify cGAS as an unprecedented target of brivanib and provide a rationale for the combination of brivanib with platinum-based chemotherapeutics in cancer treatment.

BackgroundThe rising number of migrants worldwide, including in China given its recent rapid economic development, poses a challenge for the public health system to prevent infectious diseases, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs) caused by risky sexual behaviors. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to explore the risky sexual behaviors of international immigrants living in China to provide evidence for establishment of a localized public health service system. MethodsRisky sexual behaviors were divided into multiple sexual partners and unprotected sexual behaviors. Basic characteristics, sexual knowledge, and behaviors of international immigrants were summarized with descriptive statistics. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with risky sexual behaviors, and the associations of demographic characteristics and risk behaviors with HIV testing and intention to test for HIV. ResultsIn total, 1433 international immigrants were included in the study, 61.76% (n=885) of whom had never heard of STIs, and the mean HIV knowledge score was 5.42 (SD 2.138). Overall, 8.23% (118/1433) of the participants had been diagnosed with an STI. Among the 1433 international immigrants, 292 indicated that they never use a condom for homosexual sex, followed by sex with a stable partner (n=252), commercial sex (n=236), group sex (n=175), and casual sex (n=137). In addition, 119 of the international immigrants had more than three sex partners. Individuals aged 31-40 years were more likely to have multiple sexual partners (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.364, 95% CI 1.149-4.862). Married participants were more likely to have unprotected sexual behaviors (AOR 3.096, 95% CI –1.705 to 5.620), whereas Asians were less likely to have multiple sexual partners (AOR 0.446, 95% CI 0.328-0.607) and unprotected sexual behaviors (AOR 0.328, 95% CI 0.219-0.492). Women were more likely to have taken an HIV test than men (AOR 1.413, 95% CI 1.085-1.841). Those who were married (AOR 0.577, 95% CI 0.372-0.894), with an annual disposable income >150,000 yuan (~US $22,000; AOR 0.661, 95% CI 0.439-0.995), considered it impossible to become infected with HIV (AOR 0.564, 95% CI 0.327-0.972), and of Asian ethnicity (AOR 0.330, 95% CI 0.261-0.417) were less likely to have an HIV test. People who had multiple sexual partners were more likely to have taken an HIV test (AOR 2.041, 95% CI 1.442-2.890) and had greater intention to test for HIV (AOR 1.651, 95% CI 1.208-2.258). ConclusionsInternational immigrants in China exhibit risky sexual behaviors, especially those aged over 30 years. In addition, the level of HIV-related knowledge is generally low. Therefore, health interventions such as targeted, tailored programming including education and testing are urgently needed to prevent new HIV infections and transmission among international immigrants and the local population.

BackgroundThe rapid development of “Internet plus healthcare” in China has provided new ways for the innovative development of primary healthcare. In addition, a series of favorable policies have been issued to promote Internet-based healthcare services in primary health institutions.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to describe the utilization of, satisfaction toward, and challenges faced by Internet-based healthcare services provided by primary health institutions in China.MethodsA self-designed structured questionnaire was employed to collect related data in January 2022 through Credamo. The questionnaire mainly included sociodemographic characteristics, health-related information, utilization of, satisfaction toward, and challenges faced by Internet-based healthcare services provided by primary health institutions. Descriptive analysis was used to describe the sociodemographic characteristics, utilization, satisfaction, and challenges by subgroups. The Wilcoxon rank-sum test was carried out to examine the differences in satisfaction with Internet-based healthcare services between participants who ever received these services and those who did not. A multiple logistic regression model was also used to examine the factors influencing the utilization of Internet-based healthcare services provided by primary health institutions.ResultsA total of 10,600 residents were included in the final analysis, of whom 5,754 (54.3%) were women. Overall, 51.3% (5,434) of the total participants ever used Internet-based healthcare services provided by primary health institutions. Among those who used Internet-based healthcare services, the most widely used services were procedure-related consultation services (63.7%). The satisfaction among those who ever used it was significantly higher than that among those who did not (84.7 vs. 45.4%; p-value < 0.001). One of the biggest challenges (69.3%) expressed by the residents was that it was difficult for the elderly to use Internet-based services, followed by community doctors with low capacity of providing primary care online (49.0%) and residents were worried about the information security and privacy protection (48.5%). Younger people, people with lower education levels, and people with chronic diseases were significantly more likely to use Internet-based healthcare services provided by primary health institutions (P < 0.05).ConclusionAmong 10,600 residents surveyed in China in 2022, more than half of the people used Internet-based healthcare services provided by primary health institutions, and most of them were satisfied, although subgroups significant differences existed. The most common use was procedure-related (e.g., online registration and result query), and several challenges of using Internet-based healthcare services exist (e.g., information safety and usage among elderly people). Therefore, it is important to further improve Internet-based primary healthcare services based on the population perception of achieving healthy China in 2030.

The Global Fund has long been the largest international assistance in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) responses for three Southeast Asian countries, including Myanmar, Laos, and Vietnam. However, it recently decided to reduce or withdraw its funding from countries not yet going through donor phase-out, aiming to make these countries respond with their own resources. In examining whether these three countries are well-prepared to donor transition, we uncover potential challenges that will appear in their healthcare systems and especially in the prevention and control for vulnerable populations. By reviewing China's successful experience in donor transition, we propose recommendations for these pre-transition countries, in terms of program operation, budget allocation, and social stigmatization.

Summary: Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) localization is controlled by its phosphorylation state. Here, we describe a protocol to monitor PARP1 subcellular localization in HSV-1-infected HeLa cells using immunofluorescence microscopy and cytoplasmic/nuclear fractionation. We detail steps to identify phosphorylation sites on PARP1 using conserved motif analysis and mass spectrometry. This protocol can be applied to the study of other protein phosphorylation events in other cell types.For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Wang et al. (2022). : Publisher’s note: Undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics.

Background: Teenagers are at a turning point in people’s physical and psychological maturity and are also in a critical period in reproductive and sexual health. It is reported that the initial age at first sexual behavior is younger than decades ago, which implies that the risky sexual behavior among teenagers may be on the rise. However, it is unclear about the changes of sexual knowledge and behaviors in recent years. Methods: Based on the national sentinel surveillance survey in 2011–2021 among students in Hangzhou, we selected out teenagers aged 10–19 years as our study sample. Demographic characteristics (gender, age, marital status, etc.), knowledge of HIV and sexual behaviors were collected. The sexual knowledge score and sexual behaviors were analyzed, and their influencing factors were explored. Results: In total, 1355 teenagers were incorporated in this study; the awareness rates of sexual knowledge in 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2021 were 74.9%, 71.8%, 89.3% and 95.8%, respectively, which showed an overall upward trend. The results of binary logistic regression showed that the survey year, whether students had received and participated in HIV-related publicity services and whether they had sexual behaviors, had a significant influence on whether the awareness rate ≥ 75%. The survey year and whether the awareness rate ≥ 75% had a significant influence on whether students had sexual behaviors. Conclusions: Both the average scores and awareness rates of teenagers’ sexual knowledge showed an overall upward trend from 2011 to 2021. Teenagers’ initial sexual behavior was at a low age, and the proportion of teenagers who had fixed, temporary and commercial heterosexual sex was still relatively high despite no significant increasing. Therefore, we should further strengthen health education on the risks of sexual behaviors from schools, families and health-related institutions to ensure teenagers receive HIV-related publicity services.

Abstract Background Physician-patient communication behavior (PPCB) is the primary process by which medical decision-making occurs and health outcome depends. Physician-patient communication differences may partly from the ethnic disparities. To examine this problem, this study aims to explore whether physician-patient communication differs by ethnicity during primary care medical consultations. Methods The study was conducted among the Bengali and ethnic minority patients (N = 850) who visited a physician for medical consultations. Data were collected using a structured post-consultation questionnaire. T-test was conducted to compare the communication between the Bengali and ethnic minority patients. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to identify the factors associated with favorable communication behavior from the physicians. Results Bengali patients received more supportive communication behaviors from the Bengali doctors than that of ethnic minority patients including physicians’ cheerful greetings, encouraging patients to express health problems and asking questions, listening carefully, responding to questions and concerns, explaining to patients about medical examination procedures, medication, probable side effects, discussing treatment options, involved the patients in decisions, and spending adequate time. Results of linear regression showed that respondents’ level of education, internet use, knowledge about the health issue, having a pre-organized plan about the content of medical consultation, information seeking about the health problem, visiting female doctors, and a quiet ambience of the doctor’s room are significantly associated with a better PPCB score for the Bengali patients. In contrast, age, being the resident of an urban area, perception of affecting a minor health problem, having a pre-organized plan about the content of medical consultation, patients’ involvement in physicians’ decision-making about the treatment, and talking time resulted in better physician-patient communication for the ethnic minority patients. Conclusion This study suggests that reducing disparity in the socio-economic status of the ethnic minority groups through development programs and educating healthcare providers on how to use patient-centered communication skills to engage with their patients is one solution to improve equity in the delivery of healthcare and ensure than patients are receiving high-quality treatment, no matter their race or ethnicity.

BackgroundAs a young subgroup, college students have become the main users of mobile social networks. Considering that people can indiscriminately access explicit sexual content on the internet, coupled with the increase of HIV infections in male college students, the role of the internet in meeting sexual partners and its correlation to risky sexual behavior has become an important topic. ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to explore the effects of internet exposure on sexual partners and sexual risk behavior among sexually experienced male college students. MethodsAn institution-based cross-sectional study design was used to collect data through a paper-based questionnaire administered to male college students recruited from colleges and gay organizations in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. A total of 1045 sexually experienced male students were incorporated in our analysis, with the following information collected: sociodemographic characteristics, sexual intercourse–related behaviors, and sexually transmitted disease (STD) knowledge. Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used to examine differences regarding basic characteristics and sexual risk behaviors between male college students who meet sexual partners via the internet and those who do not. Sequential logistic regression models were employed to examine the influence of meeting sexual partners via the internet on risky sexual behaviors after controlling for other factors. ResultsThe mean age of the sexually experienced male students was 21.6 (SD 2.0) years. The likelihood of risky sexual behavior was varied, yet it was the highest for those who aim to meet paid sexual partners (145/192, 75.5% to 19/22, 86.4%), followed by those seeking partners for love or romance (258/435, 59.3%). Compared to non-internet partner seekers, internet partner seekers tended to have more casual intercourse (292/542, 53.9% versus 51/503, 10.1%), paid intercourse (32/542, 5.9% versus 12/503, 2.4%), and intercourse with same-sex partners (349/542, 64.4% versus 41/503, 8.2%); they were also more likely to use psychoactive drugs (125/349, 35.8% versus 5/41, 12.2%) and have more than 2 partners. With the increase of HIV and STD knowledge, the probability of having unprotected intercourse decreased for non-internet partner seekers. However, it increased for internet partner seekers with a rising HIV knowledge score. Sequential logistic regression showed that meeting sexual partners on the internet was statistically associated with sexual risk behaviors with multiple sexual partners (odds ratio 4.434; P

Background: This study aimed to investigate the changes in the clinical indicators and influencing factors of treatment duration among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients in whom antiretroviral therapy (ART) was unsuccessful. Methods: In this retrospective study, a total of 9,418 HIV patients who failed in ART during 2004–2016 were included and divided into two treatment groups—Group 1 (treatment time ≤3 years, n1 = 5,218) and Group 2 (treatment time > 3 years, n2 = 4,200). Patient follow-up data, including age, cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) count, and viral load, glucose, creatinine, and triglyceride levels, were extracted from electronic health record databases. Covariance analysis for repeated measures was used to analyze the biochemical indicators, and multiple logistic regression modeling was used to compare relevant data extracted from the Group 1 and Group 2 HIV patient cohorts with different treatment time. Results: The median initial CD4 count was 175.0 cells/μl (interquartile range, 77.0–282.0), while the initial CD4 counts for Group 1 were lower than those for Group 2 (P

BackgroundEsophageal cancer (EC) is the sixth leading cause of tumor-related deaths worldwide. Estimates of the EC burden are necessary and could offer evidence-based suggestions for local cancer control. ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to predict the disease burden of EC in China through the estimation of disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and direct medical expenditure by sex from 2013 to 2030. MethodsA dynamic cohort Markov model was developed to simulate EC prevalence, DALYs, and direct medical expenditure by sex. Input data were collected from the China Statistical Yearbooks, Statistical Report of China Children’s Development, World Population Prospects 2019, and published papers. The JoinPoint Regression Program was used to calculate the average annual percentage change (AAPC) of DALY rates, whereas the average annual growth rate (AAGR) was applied to analyze the changing direct medical expenditure trend over time. ResultsFrom 2013 to 2030, the predicted EC prevalence is projected to increase from 61.0 to 64.5 per 100,000 people, with annual EC cases increasing by 11.5% (from 835,600 to 931,800). The DALYs will increase by 21.3% (from 30,034,000 to 36,444,000), and the years of life lost (YLL) will account for over 90% of the DALYs. The DALY rates per 100,000 people will increase from 219.2 to 252.3; however, there was a difference between sexes, with an increase from 302.9 to 384.3 in males and a decline from 131.2 to 115.9 in females. The AAPC was 0.8% (95% CI 0.8% to 0.9%), 1.4% (95% CI 1.3% to 1.5%), and –0.7% (95% CI –0.8% to –0.7%) for both sexes, males, and females, respectively. The direct medical expenditure will increase by 128.7% (from US $33.4 to US $76.4 billion), with an AAGR of 5.0%. The direct medical expenditure is 2-3 times higher in males than in females. ConclusionsEC still causes severe disease and economic burdens. YLL are responsible for the majority of DALYs, which highlights an urgent need to establish a beneficial policy to reduce the EC burden.

Summary: Interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) is an essential transductor for initiation of many immune responses. Here, we show that lncRNA-ISIR directly binds IRF3 to promote its phosphorylation, dimerization, and nuclear translocation, along with enhanced target gene productions. In vivo lncRNA-ISIR deficiency results in reduced IFN production, uncontrolled viral replication, and increased mortality. The human homolog, AK131315, also binds IRF3 and promotes its activation. More important, AK131315 expression is positively correlated with type I interferon (IFN-I) level and severity in patients with lupus. Mechanistically, in resting cells, IRF3 is bound to suppressor protein Flightless-1 (Fli-1), which keeps its inactive state. Upon infection, IFN-I-induced lncRNA-ISIR binds IRF3 at DNA-binding domain in cytoplasm and removes Fli-1’s association from IRF3, consequently facilitating IRF3 activation. Our results demonstrate that IFN-I-inducible lncRNA-ISIR feedback strengthens IRF3 activation by removing suppressive Fli-1 in immune responses, revealing a method of lncRNA-mediated modulation of transcription factor (TF) activation.

BackgroundPattern recognition receptors (PRRs) family plays a vital role in the initial stage of innate immune response and the subsequent activation of adaptive immunity. Increasing evidences have indicated that several PRRs play critical roles in the progress of inflammation and tumorigenesis. However, the comprehensive significance of PRRs family in clinical prognosis of different cancers is still elusive.MethodsWe analyzed expression of 20 canonical PRRs in tumor samples from 9502 patients of 33 tumor types. Next, we used expression profiles of PRRs in skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) to build a Cox prognosis model. Then, we analyzed immune infiltration features and immune activity of high risk score and low risk score patients. Finally, we analyzed the single-cell sequencing data of different cancers and detected the expression of PRRs in mouse melanoma model to identify PRRs-expressing cell types.ResultsWe found PRRs had a significantly positive correlation with prognosis in SKCM rather than other tumors, and PRR-based Cox model had a much better prognosis potential than any single PRR. Further analysis shows risk score could indicate immunocyte infiltration and immune activity in SKCM. We also found the expressions of some PRR genes were highly correlated with the expression of immune checkpoints molecules in SKCM, indicating they could be indicators for clinical immune therapy. Finally, we found only in SKCM samples, the expression of PRRs is especially high in a subpopulation of macrophages with a trait of CD206 low expression, probably explaining why PRRs have prognosis potential in melanoma.ConclusionsOur study reveals PRR family in macrophages has a positive prognosis potential in melanoma and could be valuable for clinical prognosis and immune therapy.

Abstract Background Parent-adolescent reproductive health (RH) communication is one of the potential sources of information for adolescents on the topic. Given that female adolescents in Bangladesh are faced with increasing RH-related risks, it is important to understand how parents communicate about RH to their adolescents from the adolescents’ perspectives. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore the status of mother-adolescent daughter communication on reproductive health in Bangladesh. Methods A cross-sectional study targeting female students was conducted in five high schools in Chittagong based on a self-administered questionnaire survey. A description method was used to describe the characteristics of mother-adolescent daughters’ communication on RH including the frequency, type and the quantity of topics. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to explore the factors influencing mother-adolescent daughter communication. Results In the study, 1174 female students aged from 13 to 19 years old were included. The main source of knowledge on RH was from their mother (62%), and the mother was the person who communicated first on RH with adolescent students. The topics of mother-daughter communication were mainly focused on menstruation issues (> 80%). Multivariate logistic regressions showed that Hindu students, students with good RH knowledge, adolescents’ mothers having good RH knowledge, mothers with high media use, good mother-daughter relationship, daughters’ regular general communication with mothers, and students’ perceiving comfort in RH communication with their mothers were reported as significant predictors for a good RH communication status. On the contrary, students having family members numbering more than four, whose primary source of reproductive health information was friends/classmates as well as media were less likely to have better RH communication with mothers. Conclusions The overall communication on reproductive health between adolescent daughters and their mothers was not good. This study suggests for conducting qualitative research investigating the socio-cultural context within which the RH communications happen. and how to address the obstacles that might hinder this communication.

Hepatic gluconeogenesis plays an important role in maintaining the body’s glucose metabolism homeostasis. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver diseases, when combined with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), it can cause severe glucose metabolism disorders. Studies have confirmed that chronic liver inflammatory lesions are the basis of T2DM combined with NAFLD (T2DM–NAFLD), inhibiting liver inflammation can improve glucose metabolism disorders. It is essential to explore safe and effective drugs to inhibit liver inflammation to improve the body’s glucose metabolism disorders. Bicyclol is a biphenyl derivative that has anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, the hepatoprotective effects and underlying mechanisms of bicyclol in T2DM–NAFLD were investigated, and T2DM–NAFLD with/without bicyclol treatment models were established. The results revealed that bicyclol alleviated fasting blood glucose, serum transaminase levels, insulin resistance, hepatic adipogenesis, lipid accumulation and markedly reduced T2DM–NAFLD rat histological alterations of livers. Not only that, bicyclol markedly attenuated T2DM–NAFLD induced production of inflammation factors (IL-1β and TNF-α). Moreover, bicyclol suppressed the expression of insulin/gluconeogenesis signaling pathway (Akt, PGC-1α and PEPCK). These findings suggested that bicyclol might be a potentially effective drug for the treatment of T2DM–NAFLD and other metabolic disorders.

Objectives We assess whether China’s diabetes pilot hierarchical diagnosis and treatment reforms shifted patient healthcare-seeking behaviour towards primary health institutions (PHIs) and away from secondary and tertiary hospitals. From the patients’ perspective, we evaluate whether the hierarchical system saw the decline of average hospital cost, out-of-pocket (OOP) expenses and the increase of reimbursement rate in PHIs. From the health system’s perspective, we also assessed whether the share of PHIs in total costs, total visits and reimbursement rate increased and the share of secondary and tertiary hospitals decreased.Methods Data were collected from the health insurance bureau of 11 cities in Shandong Province, China between 2015 and 2017, which included 9 118 518 outpatient visits and 622 739 inpatient visits. For both inpatients and outpatients and the health system, we analysed health services-seeking characteristics including hospital costs, hospital visits, OOP expense and reimbursements of hospital costs. Binary logistic regression was conducted to analyse the influencing factors of seeking PHI health services.Results PHIs remained the lowest hospital cost provider, but average hospital costs declined across all three healthcare levels of PHIs, secondary hospitals and tertiary hospitals from 2015 to 2017. The hierarchical system aimed to shift patients to PHIs, increasing PHIs’ share of total hospital costs. However, the PHI share of total outpatient costs declined 12.0%, while rising 15.0% in secondary hospitals, the opposite of the goal of the hierarchical medical system. Average outpatient visits rose roughly at the same rate in PHIs (5.1%) as secondary hospitals (6.8%), with no evidence of a shift in patient visits between hospital levels over 2015–2017. Average inpatient visits fell across all levels of hospitals, with no significant difference in the rate of decline between PHIs (9.4%) and secondary (7.5%) and tertiary (7.8%) hospitals. For outpatient and inpatient services, the binary logistic regression showed that over the 2015–2017 period patients with diabetes increasingly used higher level hospitals rather than PHIs (p

Background: The rate of death among people living with HIV/AIDS has decreased significantly as a result of treatment with highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). However, the issues of drug induced toxicities and complexity of current HAART regimens has remained of great concern. The aim of this study was to determine factors influencing antiretroviral regimen changes among people living with HIV/AIDS in China.Methods: This retrospective study collected data through face-to-face interviews with people living with HIV/AIDS who were receiving HAART, and gathered relevant information from infectious disease hospitals. The following information were collected: social-demographic characteristics, antiretroviral therapies, CD4 cell counts, virus loads, reasons for changing medication and other related data. Mean and percentages were used to describe the frequency of regimen change among patients, and binary logistic regression was employed to test the factors influencing regimen change.Results: 1,123 people who had experienced regimen change were included in the analysis. On average, patients remained on HAART for 10.2 months before changing regimen, and the average CD4 cell count and viral load (VL) were 383.1 cells/μl and 28,132.4 copies/mL respectively when changing regimen. The reasons for modification were determined as treatment failure (52.5%), adverse reactions (32.3%), and other reasons including pregnancy (15.2%). There are significant differences in regimen change among people with different genders (P

Abstract Background As an emerging donor in health related development across the world, particularly towards Africa, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has been increasing its influence within the field of global public health over the past few decades. Yet between the period of 2000 and 2013, little is known about the scope, scale and priority of China’s grant-making programs. Methods Based on data sourced from the China Aid Database (version-1.2), descriptive analyses were applied to analyze the features of 531 health related projects that were undertaken between 2000 and 2013. Spearmen correlation was also performed to assess the relationship between China’s export and aid to recipient countries. Results The total value of China’s grant-making programs in the health related sector between 2000 and 2013 was 5.67 billion USD, with 531 projects undertaken. During the five year period between 2004 and 2008, China had a contribution of 1.54 billion USD, which increased to 3.8 billion USD during the five year period between 2009 and 2013 – an 146.26% increase. In terms of specific diseases, China is most concerned with building an African public health system through donations targeted towards general health (313 projects), combating Malaria (115 projects) and maternal, neonatal and child health (MNCH), (12 projects). When it comes to recipient countries, if counted in total value, Zimbabwe received the most financial assistance from China, totaling 1.08 billion USD and 19 projects, while Angola and Tanzania received more projects - 30 and 29 projects respectively. In terms of the channeling of aid funding, most projects were targeted towards infrastructure, equipment and medicine (304 projects in total), followed by medical teams (189 projects). Moreover, there is a statistically significant relationship between aid to Africa and Chinese exports to Africa. Conclusion During the past decade, Chinese aid projects played an important role in the African public health system through providing funding for infrastructure, equipment and medicine, training health professionals, as well as disease treatment. However, very limited attention was paid towards disease prevention, health promotion and awareness initiatives, and health education. Furthermore, serious questions were raised regarding the long-term financial sustainability and actual impact these projects have on health development.

Neutrophils have a traditional role in inflammatory process and act as the first line of defense against infections. Although their contribution to tumorigenesis and progression is still controversial, accumulating evidence recently has demonstrated that tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) play a key role in multiple aspects of cancer biology. Here, we detected that chemokine CXCL1 was dramatically elevated in serum from 3LL tumor-bearing mice. In vitro, 3LL cells constitutively expressed and secreted higher level of CXCL1. Furthermore, knocking down CXCL1 expression in 3LL cells significantly hindered tumor growth by inhibiting recruitment of neutrophils from peripheral blood into tumor tissues. Additionally, tumor-infiltrated neutrophils expressed higher levels of MPO and Fas/FasL, which may be involved in TAN-mediated inhibition of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. These results demonstrate that tumor-derived CXCL1 contributes to TANs infiltration in lung cancer which promotes tumor growth.

Abstract Background EYA4 variants are responsible for DFNA10 deafness. Due to its insidious onset and slow progression, hearing loss in autosomal dominant non-syndromic hearing loss (ADNSHL) is usually challenging to detect early in clinical settings, with limited intervention options. Genetic testing can aid in early detection of hearing loss, enabling timely intervention to reduce disability rates and improve the quality of life. Methods In this study, we report the case of a Chinese family with postlingual and progressive hearing loss that was passed down for four generations. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on DNA samples from the proband. Candidate variants identified in the proband and family members were confirmed via Sanger sequencing. In silico prediction tools and co-segregation analyses were used to assess the pathogenicity of identified variants. A literature review of known EYA4 variants was performed, analysing variant frequency, distribution characteristics across different populations, and genotype-phenotype correlations. Results We identified a novel EYA4 variant, c.1745_1748del (p.Glu582ValfsTer6), in a Chinese family with ADNSHL, and co-segregation with the family’s phenotype was confirmed. The audiometry showed mid-to-high frequency downsloping hearing loss. To date, 52 pathogenic variants of EYA4 have been reported, with majority identified in Asian populations. Most observed are the missense and frameshift variants. Conclusions A novel variant of EYA4 was identified in a Chinese family with postlingual hearing loss, contributing to the expanding spectrum of EYA4 variants. The audiological features of EYA4 variants are highly heterogeneous and often challenging to detect early in clinical settings. Our findings highlight the significance of genetic testing in patients presenting with postlingual hearing loss.