Browse our Medical Journals - AKJournals

Among all scientific traditions alive, medical publishing has a good chance to be the oldest. The first fully peer reviewed academic journal, “Medical Essays and Observations” was launched in 1731 by the Royal Society in Edinburgh. Since then, hundreds of medical journals have been published worldwide. Medical publication in Hungary started in 1857 when the famous physician, Markusovszky founded “Orvosi Hetilap”, which has been published since then every week (with short breaks during the world wars). It is now a most prestigious piece in AKJournals’ portfolio, listed in Journal Citation Reports, with a remarkable impact factor.

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Journal of Behavioral Addictions
Authors:
Astrid Müller
,
Maithilee Joshi
,
Annica Kessling
,
Nicolas Erdal
,
Katja Tilk
,
Christian J. Merz
,
Oliver T. Wolf
,
Elisa Wegmann
, and
Matthias Brand

Abstract

Background and aims

There is a lack of research on the impact of acute stress on the interaction of affective and cognitive processes in online compulsive buying-shopping disorder (CBSD). Therefore, this project addressed stress response, cue reactivity, attentional bias, and implicit associations in individuals with online CBSD.

Methods

Women with CBSD (n = 63) and women with non-problematic online buying-shopping (n = 64) were randomly assigned to the Trier Social Stress Test or a non-stress condition. After the stress/non-stress induction, participants performed a cue-reactivity paradigm, a dot-probe paradigm, and an implicit association task, each with addiction-related (online buying-shopping) and control (social networks) cues.

Results

Individuals with CBSD showed stronger affective responses towards the addiction-related and control cues than the control group and rated the addiction-related pictures with higher ‘arousal’ and ‘urge’ than the control images. No group differences emerged in the dot-probe paradigm and implicit association task. Acute stress showed no effect on performance in the behavioural tasks. Regression models investigating the impact of craving on the relationship between stress response and implicit cognitions within the group with CBSD were not significant.

Discussion

The findings demonstrate the involvement and generalization of cue reactivity in online CBSD, but do not provide support for effects of acute stress on cue reactivity, attentional bias and implicit associations.

Conclusions

Future studies should not be restricted to women and combine laboratory and naturalistic study designs to investigate the complex psychological mechanisms in online CBSD.

Open access
Journal of Psychedelic Studies
Authors:
Beatriz Caiuby Labate
,
Henrique Fernandes Antunes
,
Jamie Beachy
,
Jordan Sloshower
, and
Clancy Cavnar

Abstract

This article critically addresses one of the most pressing questions of the current moment of the psychedelic wave: Is mainstreaming psychedelics a good thing? Our aim is not to provide a simple “yes” or “no” as an answer but to explore the tensions, controversies, disparities, inequalities, and risks that have risen in the last decades. We discuss the limits of psychedelic science as the paradigm leading this movement and the risks of an overemphasis on biomedicalization to the detriment of the social sciences, humanities, and traditional knowledge. We also examine policy considerations, the dangers of commodification, and the ecological burdens that the expansion of the use of psychedelics is causing. Additionally, the article reflects on the tendency to prioritize the psychotherapeutic approach to care, a topic that has been neglected in the field. The authors put forward the need for inclusion, ethics, and reciprocity to balance the inequalities that risk recreating the psychedelic movement as another expression of mainstream capitalist endeavors. Given the Food and Drug Administration's delay in approval of MDMA for PTSD and the hurdles for regulating access to psychedelics in ceremonial and therapeutic contexts, such as Colorado and Oregon, there is an urgent need to engage in an informed conversation about the future of the psychedelic movement. It is important to avoid the tendency to romanticize this landscape and to do a proper assessment of the contemporary challenges and ethical risks that we face in the future.

Open access
Imaging
Authors:
Gabor Mohos
,
Adam Zoltan Farkas
,
Andras Bibok
,
David Adam Korda
,
Oszkar Hahn
,
Attila Doros
,
Pal Akos Deak
, and
Denes Balazs Horvathy

Abstract

We report a case of a female patient in her 40s who presented with right upper quadrant pain and abdominal discomfort. Surgical removal was not possible due to the location of the lesion. Between 2021 and 2022, the patient had four additional sessions of conventional transarterial embolization (TAE) with Lipiodol, but none succeeded in sufficiently reducing the hemangioma's size or permanently improving the symptoms. In November 2022, we used transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) with a Bleomycin-Lipiodol emulsion. Follow-up MRI scans showed a gradual reduction in the hemangioma volume, but the symptoms only improved partially. Hence, the patient underwent a second bleomycin TACE embolization in November 2023. By August 2024, control showed a total volume reduction of 409 cm³ (56%) and significant symptom improvement. This case demonstrates that Bleomycin-Lipiodol TACE can effectively reduce the size of giant liver hemangiomas, even after the failure of other interventional therapies.

Open access

Abstract

Background and aims

Online dating applications (ODAs) are gaining popularity, raising concerns about their potential addictive effects on users' health. The main objective of this study was to investigate the association between problematic ODA use and mental health, substance use, and sexual behavior outcomes in men-who-have-sex-with-men (MSM). To achieve this, we first validated a German version of the Problematic ODA Use Scale (PODAUS), which assesses problematic ODA usage patterns.

Methods

Problematic ODA use was assessed in 226 HIV-negative MSM counseling for HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis at baseline and 6-month follow-up (n = 164, Mage = 42, SD = 11). The German PODAUS was validated using confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) and correlational analysis. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to investigate associations of PODAUS with mental, sexual health, and substance use outcomes.

Results

CFA supported PODAUS’ 6-item unidimensional structure, demonstrating excellent fit indices. Reliability analyses indicated good internal consistency (α = 0.79) and high test-retest reliability (r s = 0.68). Regarding mental health, significant positive associations were found between PODAUS and symptoms of depression, loneliness, anxiety, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and impulsivity, with medium to large effect sizes. Regarding sexual health, significant negative associations of small to medium effect sizes were found between PODAUS and lifetime prevalence of sexually transmitted infections, body acceptance, and sexual fulfillment, while a significant positive association with trait sex motivation occurred.

Discussion and Conclusion

The German version of PODAUS emerges as a valid, reliable tool to assess problematic ODA use. In an MSM sample, problematic ODA use was associated with lower mental and sexual health.

Open access

Abstract

Background

There is a need to systemically diversify psychedelic clinical trials, considering the growing interest in in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics within Black, Indigenous, and Peoples of Color (BIPOC) and queer communities. Doing so contributes to a more inclusive foundation of evidence-based research and addresses ethical considerations surrounding anticipated demand for these treatments following regulatory approval. Cultural attunement may be key to facilitating effective research and ensuring equitable treatment.

Aims

Here, we introduce a primer for culturally attuned psychedelic clinical trials. We narratively review prevalent psychological and pragmatic barriers to diversity – as part of set and setting – in modern psychedelic trials. We also propose potential strategies for the culturally attuned recruitment, assessment, and retention of diverse participants.

Methods

This primer narratively synthesizes existing literature on barriers and potential strategies for culturally attuned psychedelic trials. Here, the scope is on classic psychedelics and other drugs with consciousness-altering effects (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine [MDMA], ketamine). The term ‘diversity’ focuses on BIPOC and sexual- and gender-diverse populations, primarily in the US.

Results

Psychological and pragmatic barriers include stigma, medical mistrust, history of psychedelic-assisted conversion therapy, income disparities, schedule inflexibilities, and transportation inaccessibility. Culturally attuned recruitment, assessment, and retention strategies include queering/diversifying the study team, debinarizing the therapist dyad, developing culturally attuned flyers, community outreach, using culturally attuned language, improving transportation-related access, diversifying room setup, and using culturally attuned assessments.

Conclusions

Psychedelic research groups are encouraged to adapt and enact these recommendations in their clinical trials, to improve accessibility to innovative mental health treatments for diverse populations.

Open access

Az akut szuicid veszély értékelése

A komplex rizikóbecslés lehetőségei a klinikai gyakorlatban

Assessment of acute suicide risk

Opportunities for comprehensive risk evaluation in clinical practice
Orvosi Hetilap
Authors:
Péter Osváth
,
Csilla Molnár
,
Csenge Lovig
,
Fanni Napsugár Major
,
Szonja Venczák
,
Sándor Fekete
,
Tamás Tényi
,
Lisa Cohen
,
Igor Galynker
, and
Viktor Vörös

Introduction: The identification of acute suicide risk is of paramount importance for the prevention of suicidal behavior. However, we currently lack sufficient data to reliably detect pre-suicidal mental states. Objective: Hungarian adaptation of the screening test and questionnaire developed by Galynker and colleagues based on the concept of the suicide crisis syndrome. Method: Acute Suicidal Risk Test, based on the suicide crisis syndrome, and Rihmer’s Short Suicide Scale were administered consecutively to all patients treated at our outpatient and inpatient clinic during the study period. In cases where the screening tests were positive, a more detailed questionnaire assessing the symptoms of suicide crisis syndrome was completed. Results: 99 patients completed a total of 150 questionnaires, with one-third (n = 35) being outpatients and two-thirds (n = 64) inpatients. The most frequent clinical diagnoses were depressive (44.7%), adjustment (34%), psychotic (33.3%), and substance use disorders (33.3%), with a high rate of comorbidities. The screening tests indicated suicide risk in 54.3% (n = 19) of outpatients and in 76.6% (n = 49) of inpatients. After inpatient treatment, this proportion significantly decreased (n = 17, 33.3%). The full diagnostic criteria for suicide crisis syndrome were the most frequently met in patients with a positive Acute Suicidal Risk Test, either alone (74.2%) or in combination with the Short Suicide Scale (87.1%). The presence of both positive Acute Suicidal Risk Test and Short Suicide Scale was associated with severe Suicide Crisis Syndrome symptoms (29%). Discussion: The short screening test, based on the suicide crisis syndrome, identified acute suicidal risk in a significant proportion of patients. One of the key advantages of the suicide crisis syndrome concept and method is its ability to detect suicide risk even in the absence of overt suicidal intents. The value of the acute screening test is further enhanced by Rihmer’s Short Suicide Scale, which primarily assesses lifetime suicidal risk. Conclusion: The combined use of these tests supports clinical decision-making for acute psychiatric admissions and helps prevent the premature discharge of patients, underscoring the relevance of this screening method in suicide prevention. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(4): 146–153.

Open access

A korai elbocsátás kritériumainak és biztonságának vizsgálata anastomosissal járó elektív colorectalis műtétek során

Analysis of criteria and safety of early discharge after elective colorectal surgery with anastomosis

Orvosi Hetilap
Authors:
Tamás Sztipits
,
Tamás Hidas
, and
András Vereczkei

Introduction: Thanks to minimally invasive techniques and effective perioperative protocols, morbidity and hospital stay associated with colorectal surgery can be reduced. After elective colorectal procedures, some patients may be discharged within 72 hours. However, early discharge is not a routine practice, and its criteria are unclear. Method: A retrospective cohort study was conducted among patients who underwent elective colorectal surgery with anastomosis between March 2022 and May 2024. We analyzed the relationship between early discharge (<72 hours) and 30-day morbidity as well as unplanned hospital readmissions. To identify factors influencing successful early discharge, we examined demographic, medical history, intraoperative, and postoperative data. Results: A total of 109 patients underwent elective colorectal surgery. There were 85 laparoscopic, 8 robot-assisted, 4 open procedures and 12 stoma closures. The 30-day morbidity rate was 8.25% (n = 9), with severe morbidity (Clavien–Dindo 3b) at 4.6% (n = 5). Cases with complications within 72 hours (n = 9) were excluded. After an uncomplicated postoperative course, 30 patients were discharged early, while 70 patients had longer hospital stay (hospital stay: 67.5 ± 4.13 vs. 99.8 ± 2.06 hours; p = 0.0001). The groups were similar in age (57.17 ± 5.27 vs. 61.94 ± 2.75 years; p = 0.09), gender (p = 0.83), body mass index (p = 0.13), and performance status (p = 0.85). Bowel function recovery was comparable (31.0 ± 3.84 vs. 34.5 ± 3.49 hours; p = 0.26). Right- and left-sided resections were equally represented in both groups (p = 0.28), stoma closures were more frequent in the early discharge group (11 vs. 1; p<0.00001). There was no readmission, morbidity, or mortality within 30 days in either group. Conclusion: Following uncomplicated elective colorectal resections and stoma closures, early discharge within 72 hours is safe. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(4): 139–145.

Open access

A szomatosztatin és szisztémás felszabadulásának jelentősége gyulladásos, fájdalommal járó és egyéb állapotokban

The role of somatostatin and its systemic release in inflammatory, painful and other conditions

Orvosi Hetilap
Authors:
Balázs Tornai
,
Barbara Hetényi
, and
István Zoárd Bátai

Somatostatin (SST) is a multifunctional peptide hormone of 14–28 amino acids, first discovered in the hypothalamus and later detected in other tissues, acting through different receptors (SST1–5). It has mainly inhibitory properties in endocrine and various nervous system processes. Its physiological properties and role go beyond the regulation of hormones, and it is involved in the modulation and regulation of neurogenic inflammation. During neurogenic inflammation, neuropeptides released from sensory neurons – such as substance P and the gene-related peptide calcitonin (CGRP) – trigger inflammatory responses. SST inhibits the release of these, other mediators and the associated inflammatory processes. The anti-inflammatory effect of SST has animportant clinical relevance in the treatment of neurological and inflammatory diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease, migraine, chronic pain syndrome, neurodegenerative disorders, etc.). Synthetic derivatives (e.g., octreotide) can also be used in various clinical conditions, as well as in the treatment of neuroendocrine tumours (they inhibit excessive hormone production and tumour growth). Recent research has highlighted the importance of SST in pain perception. SST and its analogues are able to reduce nociceptive transmission and thus modulate pain sensation, especially in chronic and neuropathic pain. SST and its analogues represent a potential therapeutic target for modulating neurogenic and inflammatory pathophysiological processes, as a target for the treatment of pain and inflammatory diseases. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(4): 123–129.

Open access

A testösszetétel meghatározásának módszerei a klinikai gyakorlatban

Body composition assessment methods in clinical practice

Orvosi Hetilap
Authors:
Tamás Leel-Őssy
,
Máté Babity
,
Márk Zámodics
,
Eszter Szigeti
,
Andrea Hájer
,
Orsolya Kiss
,
Csaba Horváth
, and
Szilvia Mészáros

Body composition assessment might be an essential tool in clinical studies. Over the metabolic diseases, body composition assessment can play an important role in sports medicine and in old patient care. Numerous methods are available, including simpler and more cost-effective ones, as well as more expensive but complex procedures. Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry is considered the gold standard method for body composition assessment in clinical practice. However, the increasing precision of bioelectrical impedance-based devices might provide reliable alternatives. In our article, we summarized the basic characteristics of methods for determining body composition, with particular emphasis on the procedures most widely used in clinical practice. Orv Hetil. 2025; 166(4): 130–138.

Open access

Abstract

Objective

To explore the individual and interactive associations between mobile gaming addiction (MGA), excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), and overweight/obesity among schoolchildren, and to investigate whether these interactions vary by gender or grade level.

Methods

Data were drawn from the Children's Growth Environment, Lifestyle, and Physical and Mental Health Development project (COHERENCE) conducted in Guangzhou, China, during the 2019/20 academic year. 418,197 children aged 6–12 years were included in the study. All participants were asked to complete an eligible questionnaire to provide details of their MGA over the past three months and SSBs consumption over the past week. Multiplicative and additive interaction models were performed to evaluate the interaction effects of MGA and excessive SSBs consumption on overweight/obesity, and variations by gender and grade level were also examined.

Results

Excessive SSBs consumption was identified as a risk factor for childhood overweight/obesity, but MGA was not. However, the combination of MGA and excessive SSBs consumption was associated with an increased risk of overweight/obesity. This multiplicative interaction was significantly stronger in girls than in boys, with no differences observed across grade levels. Additionally, the additive interaction effect between MGA and excessive SSBs consumption was present only in girls and children in the lower elementary grades.

Conclusions

This cross-sectional study found that the combination of MGA and excessive SSBs consumption is linked to an increased risk of childhood overweight/obesity, particularly in girls and children in lower elementary grades. These findings highlight the importance of addressing these factors together in targeted interventions.

Open access