Bosnian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences (BJBMS)
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Global, regional, and national trends in thyroid cancer burden (1990–2021): Insights from the GBD 2021 study
Get PDFThe global incidence of thyroid cancer (TC) has been steadily increasing and is now recognized as one of the most prevalent endocrine malignancies. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the prevalence, incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) associated with TC from 1990 to 2021. Data for this study were sourced from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD). To quantify temporal patterns and assess trends in age-standardized TC metrics—namely, age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized death rate (ASDR), and DALYs—estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were calculated. The analysis was stratified by sex, 20 age groups, 21 GBD regions, 204 countries/territories, and five Socio-demographic Index (SDI) quintiles. Statistical analyses and plotting were conducted using R statistical software version 4.4.2 and Joinpoint software. The study found that the global burden of thyroid cancer remains substantial, with a significant increase in the total number of cases. In 2021, regions with high SDI reported the highest ASPR, showing an upward trend compared to 1990; however, this trend began to decline significantly after 2009. Conversely, regions with low and low-middle SDI exhibited noticeable increases in ASPR, ASIR, ASDR, and DALYs. The highest prevalence and incidence were observed in the 55-59 age group, followed by a gradual decline. The majority of affected individuals were women. A high body mass index (BMI) was identified as the primary risk factor for TC, and both prevalence and incidence are expected to continue rising through 2040
Retraction: Tocilizumab inhibits neuronal cell apoptosis and activates STAT3 in cerebral infarction rat model
Get PDFRetracted article: https://www.bjbms.org/ojs/index.php/bjbms/article/view/853
Following publication, concerns were raised by readers and the public regarding the integrity of the data presented in two figures of this article:
Figure 2B: An unexpected overlap was found between an image presented in this study and figures published in other articles.Figure 4: An unexpected overlap was detected within the Western blot panels, suggesting potential duplication or manipulation.
The editorial office contacted all authors on 13 January 2025 and 30 January 2025 to clarify these concerns. On 4 March 2025, the corresponding author was specifically approached through both the e-mail address provided upon article submission and an institutional e-mail located online. However, no response or explanation was ever received.
Following our journal’s policies and guidelines from the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE), the editors have decided to retract the article from publication due to serious concerns about the reliability and originality of the data. This retraction is intended to maintain the integrity of the scientific record.
We apologize to the readership for any inconvenience caused. We thank the individuals who brought these concerns to our attention.
The Editor-in-Chief has approved this retraction note
Induced sputum KL-6 combined with HRCT scoring for diagnosing and monitoring idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Get PDFIdiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive and fatal interstitial lung disease for which reliable early diagnostic biomarkers are still lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic and monitoring value of induced sputum Krebs von den Lungen-6 (KL-6) levels in patients with IPF and to investigate their relationship with pulmonary function parameters and high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scoring. In this prospective observational study, 20 patients with IPF and 20 age-matched healthy subjects (HS) were enrolled between October 2021 and April 2023. Induced sputum samples were collected for KL-6 measurement using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, while all participants underwent pulmonary function testing and HRCT scoring. KL-6 levels were significantly higher in the IPF group compared with the HS group [776.29 (interquartile range, IQR: 681.98–858.57) vs. 322.21 (IQR: 253.67–338.64) U/mL, p<0.001]. In IPF patients, induced sputum KL-6 levels showed strong negative correlations with multiple lung function indices, including forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO) (all p<0.05), and a strong positive correlation with HRCT scores (r=0.908, p<0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis demonstrated that combining KL-6 levels with HRCT scores yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.936 (95% confidence interval, CI: 0.914–0.944), with specificity of 97.5% and sensitivity of 80.0%. In conclusion, induced sputum KL-6 levels reflect the degree of pulmonary fibrosis and are closely associated with functional and imaging indicators in IPF. The combination of KL-6 with HRCT scoring enhances diagnostic accuracy, underscoring its potential clinical utility as a noninvasive biomarker for early detection and monitoring of IPF
Response to the Letter regarding "Association between triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and risk of depression in middle-aged and elderly Chinese adults: Evidence from a large national cohort study."
Get PDFThis response addresses constructive feedback on our CHARLS cohort study linking the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index to depressive symptoms. As noted by the letter\u27s author, a substantial body of research on TyG-related composite indices and mental disorders has emerged, with inconsistencies in cutoff values and the shape of dose-response curves observed among different indices. Our decision to focus solely on the single TyG index in this study was primarily motivated by the following two considerations. Firstly, the study population consisted of elderly individuals, among whom BMI levels cannot effectively reflect metabolic status. Secondly, this study represents a continuation of our group\u27s preliminary preclinical research, thus specifically focusing on the factor of insulin resistance. Different findings derived from different indices necessitate consideration of various factors, including different application contexts, variations in the study populations, and differences in data processing methods. Finally, we believe more large randomized controlled trials and related pharmacological intervention studies are essential to validate the use of TyG and its related indices in the diagnosis and treatment of psychiatric disorders.
This is the response to Letter to the Editor which you can read here: https://www.bjbms.org/ojs/index.php/bjbms/article/view/12739
Effect of topical nitroglycerin on neoangiogenesis and pedicle-independent viability in a rat dorsal skin flap model
Get PDFInterpolated flaps are frequently used in reconstructive surgery when free tissue transfer is not feasible, but they require staged procedures due to pedicle dependence. Flap autonomization, the process by which transferred tissue develops new vascular connections and survives independently of its pedicle, is essential before division. Although methods such as delay techniques, hyperbaric oxygen (HBO), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and stem cell therapies have been tested to enhance angiogenesis, the effect of topical nitroglycerin (NTG), a nitric oxide (NO) donor with vasodilatory, anti-inflammatory, and angiogenic properties, has not been investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of topical NTG on neoangiogenesis and flap autonomization in a rat dorsal skin flap model. Sixty Wistar-Albino rats were divided into five groups (n = 12). A 3×3 cm dorsal flap with a caudal pedicle was elevated in all animals. In Groups 1–3, pedicles were transected on day 5: Group 1 received vaseline, Group 2 received NTG for 5 days then vaseline, and Group 3 received NTG continuously. Groups 4 and 5 were sacrificed on day 5 to assess early angiogenesis after vaseline or NTG. Flap survival was analyzed with ImageJ, angiogenesis with VEGF, CD34, and CD105 staining, and histology with Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) and Masson’s Trichrome. Flap survival was significantly greater in Groups 2 (485.5 mm²) and 3 (757.3 mm²) than in Group 1 (273.5 mm²), with Group 3 highest (p < 0.01). NTG-treated groups showed increased VEGF, CD34, and CD105 expression, with the strongest angiogenesis in Group 3. Group 5 also had higher vascular proliferation than Group 4 (p < 0.001). Histology showed that NTG reduced epithelial disruption, hemorrhage, collagen degradation, and leukocytic infiltration while enhancing vascular proliferation. In conclusion, continuous topical NTG enhanced angiogenesis and accelerated flap autonomization, leading to greater viability after pedicle division. NTG may help shorten pedicle division intervals and improve outcomes in reconstructive surgery, but further molecular and clinical studies are needed
Extraovarian fibrothecomas: Two case reports and comprehensive review of ovarian sex cord-stromal fibroma-thecoma tumors
Get PDFSex cord-stromal tumors are rare ovarian neoplasms, with fibromas comprising approximately 4% and thecomas accounting for 0.5–1% of all ovarian tumors. The occurrence of these tumors outside the ovaries is exceptionally rare and diagnostically challenging, often mimicking malignancy when associated with ascites, elevated CA-125 levels, or Meigs-like syndrome. This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the histopathological, immunohistochemical, radiological, and molecular features of ovarian fibroma-thecoma group tumors and highlight their clinical relevance. We report two postmenopausal women with large abdominal masses located extraovarian: one in the broad ligament and the other adherent to the omentum and intestines. In the first case, markedly elevated CA-125, ascites, and pleural effusion initially suggested Meigs syndrome. The second case presented with an abdominal mass and ascites. Imaging studies indicated the possibility of malignant ovarian tumors in both patients, leading to surgical excision. Histopathological examination revealed spindle-to-oval tumor cells arranged in fascicular or storiform patterns, with focal lipid-rich theca-like cells. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that the tumors were positive for vimentin, WT1, progesterone receptor (PR), and variably for estrogen receptor (ER), CD56, inhibin, and calretinin, while being negative for markers of epithelial, melanocytic, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. A review of the literature identified only 11 well-documented cases of extraovarian fibroma-thecoma group tumors, which most commonly arise in the broad ligament or pelvic cavity. These cases are frequently associated with ascites and elevated CA-125 levels and are often misdiagnosed preoperatively as malignant disease. Our cases underscore the importance of considering extraovarian fibromas and thecomas in the differential diagnosis of pelvic and abdominal masses presenting with similar features. Accurate pathological assessment can prevent unnecessary radical surgeries and promote more favorable patient outcomes.
From BJBMS to Biomolecules and Biomedicine: A new chapter
Get PDFThe scientific community is continually evolving, driven by advancements, shifting priorities, and growing demands for global dissemination of knowledge. A clear example of successfully adapting to these demands is the transition from the Bosnian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences (BJBMS) to Biomolecules and Biomedicine (BB) in 2023. This strategic move symbolizes a significant step forward, expanding the journal’s global reach and scientific scope.
Read more in the PDF.
Increased carotid intima-media thickness in pediatric nephrotic syndrome: A meta-analysis
Get PDFNephrotic syndrome (NS) in children has been associated with an increased risk of early atherosclerosis, as indicated by carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT). However, the existing literature on the relationship between NS and cIMT in pediatric populations presents inconsistent findings. This meta-analysis aims to compare cIMT measurements between children with NS and healthy controls. A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science was conducted through May 22, 2025. Observational studies that compared cIMT in children under 18 years with NS against controls were included. Mean differences (MDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were aggregated using a random-effects model to account for potential heterogeneity. Thirteen case-control studies involving 578 children with NS and 741 controls were analyzed. The results indicated that children with NS had significantly higher cIMT compared to controls (MD: 0.06 mm; 95% CI: 0.04–0.08; p < 0.001; I² = 68%). Subgroup analyses revealed that the difference in cIMT was notably larger in studies with ≥ 60% male participants (MD: 0.09 mm) compared to those with < 60% males (MD: 0.03 mm; p for subgroup difference = 0.01). No significant differences were observed based on age, disease duration, or adjustments for body mass index, blood pressure, or lipid profile (all p > 0.05). Meta-regression analyses suggested that the proportion of male participants and the rate of steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS) may contribute to observed heterogeneity (adjusted R² = 29.8% and 22.5%, respectively), although the slopes for these meta-regressions were not statistically significant (p = 0.13 and 0.87). In conclusion, children with NS exhibit increased cIMT compared to controls, indicating early vascular changes. The predominance of males and the presence of SRNS may partially account for the heterogeneity observed across studies
Obstetric-specific compared to general early warning system for predicting severe postpartum maternal morbidity
Get PDFSevere maternal morbidity is a major global health concern, and early identification of at-risk postpartum women is essential to improving outcomes. We aimed to compare the predictive values of the Modified Early Obstetric Warning System (MEOWS) versus the non-obstetric general Early Warning System (EWS) for predicting severe maternal morbidity in postpartum women. We retrospectively reviewed hospital documentation of 723 postpartum women admitted to the obstetric high dependency unit between October 2020 and March 2021. Severe maternal morbidity was defined using the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists’ criteria. We assessed the sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, as well as positive and negative likelihood ratios, of the MEOWS and the EWS for predicting severe postpartum maternal morbidity. Twenty-four (3.3%) women included in the study met the criteria for severe maternal morbidity. Hypertensive complications and obstetric haemorrhage were the most prevalent causes of maternal morbidity. The sensitivity of the MEOWS was 92%, specificity 62%, positive predictive value 8%, and negative predictive value 100%. The positive likelihood ratio was 2.4, while the negative likelihood ratio was 0.1. In comparison, the EWS had a sensitivity of 63%, specificity of 66%, positive predictive value of 6%, and negative predictive value of 98%. The positive likelihood ratio for the EWS was 1.8, and the negative likelihood ratio was 0.6. The obstetric-specific early warning system proved to be superior for the early prediction of severe postpartum maternal morbidity compared to the general non-obstetric warning system
Lymph node ratio is a prognostic indicator for locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma after neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy
Get PDFThe lymph node ratio (LNR) is regarded as a prognostic indicator in esophageal cancer (EC), but its applicability to neoadjuvant immunochemotherapy (NICT) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains unexplored. This retrospective study, conducted between 2019 and 2021, analyzed ESCC patients who underwent radical esophagectomy following NICT. Patients were divided into two groups based on their LNR values according to the X-tile software: Low-LNR group (LNR 0-10%) and High-LNR group (LNR 10-100%). The association between LNR and clinical outcomes in ESCC after NICT were analyzed. A total of 212 ESCC patients who underwent surgery after NICT were included in this study, among which, 169 (79.7%) and 43 (20.3%) cases were allocated to the Low- and High-LNR groups, respectively. Pathologic complete response (PCR) was observed in 28.3% (60/212) of the overall cohort. Patients in the Low-LNR group demonstrated a significantly improved 3-year overall survival (OS) (81.7% vs 55.3%; P < 0.001) and disease-free survival (DFS) (79.9% vs 37.4%; P < 0.001). These findings were consistent among those with non-PCR (3-year DFS was 73.7% vs 37.4%; P < 0.001, and the 3-year OS was 78.9% vs 55.3%; P < 0.001, respectively). High LNR was associated with a 4.013-fold increased risk of relapse and a 7.026-fold elevated risk of death. Compared to the post-neoadjuvant therapy pathologic lymph nodes staging (ypN), LNR exhibited similar prognostic capabilities for DFS and OS. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to investigate the prognostic value of LNR in ESCC after NICT, suggesting that LNR may serve as a viable alternative to the ypN stage for prognostication in ESCC patients treated with NICT