Yaqiong Li, Ze Gao, Zhuolong Xiong
Integrating bibliometric knowledge mapping with bioinformatic analysis, this study identifies research trends and computationally derived candidate molecular correlates that inform future investigations. Findings suggest directions for developing integrated geriatric nursing approaches, though identified biomarkers require prospective clinical validation before translation into practice. Coupling bibliometric evidence synthesis with hypothesis-generating molecular exploration contributes to the evolution from biomechanical repair toward more holistic, function-oriented geriatric nursing care.
BACKGROUND: As global hip fracture care transitions toward more integrated paradigms, clinical practice continues to face significant heterogeneity, particularly at the intersection of orthopedic trauma and psychiatric sequelae-the "brain-bone axis."
METHODS: This study employs a dual-modal analytical approach: first, a bibliometric analysis of 1799 publications (2000-2025) was performed using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and R-Bibliometrix to delineate the global knowledge structure; second, exploratory bioinformatic analysis was conducted by intersecting hip fracture and depression gene sets with GSE137422 proteomics data to identify candidate molecular fingerprints.
RESULTS: Bibliometric projections suggest research output may plateau in the near term, with the United States maintaining global dominance in publication volume and citation impact. Thematic evolution has converged into five core clusters: ERAS-driven perioperative nursing, frailty index-based risk stratification, secondary prevention via Fracture Liaison Services (FLS), psychosocial functional reconstruction, and safety management for patients with dementia. Exploratory bioinformatic analysis identified 25 candidate proteins at the intersection of hip fracture pathophysiology and depression-associated genes, among which ESR1 and S100B emerged as hub proteins linking bone metabolism with neuroinflammatory and emotional regulation pathways.
CONCLUSION: Integrating bibliometric knowledge mapping with bioinformatic analysis, this study identifies research trends and computationally derived candidate molecular correlates that inform future investigations. Findings suggest directions for developing integrated geriatric nursing approaches, though identified biomarkers require prospective clinical validation before translation into practice. Coupling bibliometric evidence synthesis with hypothesis-generating molecular exploration contributes to the evolution from biomechanical repair toward more holistic, function-oriented geriatric nursing care.