Category: Statistics

Suicide Life Threat Behav. 2025 Jun;55(3):e70023. doi: 10.1111/sltb.70023.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Few studies investigate cause-specific mortality in individuals with tic disorders. We aimed to examine all-cause, natural-cause, and unnatural-cause mortality in individuals with tic disorders.

METHODS: Using the nationwide database of Taiwan from 2003 to 2017, we identified 50,018 patients with tic disorders and, using a ratio of 1:4, matched unaffected controls based on birth year and sex. Cause-specific mortality (i.e., natural cause, accident, and suicide mortality) and all-cause mortality were assessed between the two cohorts using time-dependent Cox regression models.

RESULTS: After adjusting for demographics, individuals with tic disorders had increased likelihoods (reported as adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] with 95% confidence interval [CI]) of all-cause (1.14, 1.03-1.26), unnatural-cause (including accidents and suicides; 1.78, 1.43-2.23), and suicide mortality (3.09, 2.07-4.59) compared to controls. With additional adjustments for psychiatric comorbidities, the likelihood of all-cause, unnatural-cause, and suicide mortality remained significant. However, we did not find a higher natural cause mortality in patients with tic disorders compared to controls (1.02, 0.91-1.15).

CONCLUSION: Individuals with tic disorders have a higher likelihood of unnatural causes and suicide mortality after adjusting for demographics, clinical characteristics, and psychiatric comorbidities. Our findings suggest that clinicians should routinely monitor both the physical and mental conditions of patients with tic disorders.

PMID:40401343 | DOI:10.1111/sltb.70023

Lupus. 2025 May 22:9612033251344192. doi: 10.1177/09612033251344192. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BackgroundTo summarize the clinical characteristics of pediatric lupus encephalopathy and to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of intrathecal methotrexate and dexamethasone in the treatment of pediatric lupus encephalopathy.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on 83 children diagnosed with Neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) at the Department of Pediatric Nephrology and Rheumatology of the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from January 2002 to December 2023. The intrathecal injection and non-injection groups were divided based on whether they received intrathecal injections of methotrexate and dexamethasone. Clinical symptoms, laboratory tests, renal biopsy pathology, disease activity, and treatments were compared between the two groups, and the efficacy of intrathecal injection therapy for NPSLE was also assessed.ResultsOf the 83 children with NPSLE, 14 were male and 69 were female. NPSLE was the initial manifestation in 12 (14.46%) patients, while 71 (85.54%) developed it after systemic lupus erythematosus onset. The most frequently observed symptoms were headache and seizures. Imaging (CT/MRI) in 81 children showed abnormalities in 64 (79.01%), with cerebral atrophy being most common. The results of electroencephalography in 21 patients demonstrated abnormalities in 14 cases, and 7 of the 29 patients exhibited abnormal cerebrospinal fluid findings. A total of 68.67% of NPSLE patients were classified as chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 1, while 31.33% were CKD stage 2 or higher. Renal biopsy in 60 children commonly indicated class IV or IV+V. The SLEDAI score at initial consultation was 20.93 ± 6.41. Among the 83 patients, 10 (12.05%) received intrathecal injections with an average of 5.2 per patient. Before treatment, the injection group had higher SLEDAI scores (p < 0.05). After treatment, the resolution times for NPSLE-related symptoms and imaging were shorter in the injection group, although the difference did not reach statistical significance. Notably, the injection group had a lower SLEDAI score and a more pronounced reduction (p < 0.05).ConclusionChildren with NPSLE in our center demonstrated more severe disease and higher disease activity index. Methotrexate and dexamethasone intrathecal therapy provided faster symptomatic relief and reduced disease activity in children with NPSLE.

PMID:40401342 | DOI:10.1177/09612033251344192

Age Ageing. 2025 May 3;54(5):afaf131. doi: 10.1093/ageing/afaf131.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Older adults, as a vulnerable population, typically show lower engagement with eHealth technologies. Limited internet access and low use for health information may contribute to poorer health outcomes.

OBJECTIVES: The purposes of this study were to examine differences in socio-demographics and compare healthy lifestyles, health statuses and attitudes toward online health information among different groups of internet access and use for health information.

DESIGN: This cross-sectional study utilised secondary data from the International Social Survey Programme.

METHODS: A structured questionnaire was used for data collection from May 2023 to April 2024. Respondents were divided into three groups: 22.02% in a No-Access group (no internet access), 28.75% in a Non-User group (have access but do not use it for health information), and 49.22% in a User group (have access and use it for health information). In total, 14 008 respondents aged over 60 years from 30 countries were selected.

RESULTS: Groups were significantly associated with most sociodemographic factors, with the educational level showing the strongest effect size in both access/no-access and users/non-users comparisons. Older adults in the No-Access group had lower frequencies of healthy lifestyles and worse health statuses, while those in the User group had higher frequencies of healthy lifestyles, better health statuses, and positive attitudes toward online health information.

CONCLUSIONS: Promoting a digitally inclusive environment is essential for enhancing internet access and use among older adults to support healthier lifestyles and improved health statuses.

PMID:40401340 | DOI:10.1093/ageing/afaf131

J Food Sci. 2025 May;90(5):e70279. doi: 10.1111/1750-3841.70279.

ABSTRACT

Ozonated olive oils are recognized for their remarkable antimicrobial properties. The reaction between ozone (O₃) and unsaturated fatty acids leads to the formation of bactericidal compounds (ozonides, aldehydes, and peroxides) with valuable applications. This study represents the first comprehensive investigation into the effects of a wide range of ozone exposure durations (from 0 to 48 h) on the physicochemical properties and antimicrobial activity of both virgin olive oil (VOO) and pomace olive oil (POO), along with a thorough statistical analysis of the correlation between ozone dose and these parameters. The physicochemical indicators, including fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) composition, peroxide index, acidity index, iodine value, and viscosity, were measured at ozonation doses ranging from 0 to 1 mol O₃. Significant changes were observed with increasing ozonation time, including a 69% and 46% reduction in oleic acid content, as well as increased peroxide values of 1255.2 mEq O₂/kg and 1878.8 mEq O₂/kg for VOO and POO, respectively. Antimicrobial activity was evaluated against Escherichia coli (STCC 45), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (STCC 109), and Staphylococcus aureus (STCC 239), with the highest inhibition observed against S. aureus (22.68 mm with POO at 48 h and 1 mol O₃). PCA analysis identified three groups: low ozone doses (0-0.08 mol O₃) associated with higher iodine values; intermediate doses (0.16-0.5 mol O₃) linked to increased peroxide, acidity, viscosity, and antimicrobial activity; while high doses (1 mol O₃) provided no further benefits, suggesting that moderate doses are sufficient for effective antimicrobial activity. These findings highlight the potential of ozonated olive oils for novel applications in the food industry.

PMID:40401333 | DOI:10.1111/1750-3841.70279

Andrology. 2025 May 22. doi: 10.1111/andr.70065. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Only approximately 30% of conceptions result in live births. Historically, research has predominantly focused on maternal factors impacting pregnancy success, despite the cause remaining unidentified in most cases. The influence of paternal factors on a couple’s likelihood of achieving a successful pregnancy is still not well understood and warrants further investigation.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to examine the chance of biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, and a live-born child in couples where the male partner has ischemic heart disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This nationwide cohort study based on Danish health registries included couples undergoing in vitro fertilization with or without intracytoplasmic sperm injection from 2006 to 2019. The cohort was divided into two groups: exposed and unexposed. The exposed cohort included embryo transfers in couples where the male partner had ischemic heart disease, while the unexposed group included those where the male partner did not have this condition.

RESULTS: A total of 101,875 couples with a known male partner were included. Among these, 653 couples were included in the exposed cohort and 101,222 were included in the unexposed cohort. The adjusted odd ratios (ORs) for a biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, and live-born child were 0.99 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.79; 1.23), 0.79 (95% CI: 0.51, 1.23), and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.62, 1.44), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that paternal ischemic heart disease prior to oocyte retrieval is not associated with a statistically significant decrease in the chances of biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, or live birth.

PMID:40401311 | DOI:10.1111/andr.70065

Innov Pharm. 2025 Jan 15;15(4). doi: 10.24926/iip.v15i4.6459. eCollection 2024.

ABSTRACT

Background: Although the FDA approved acetaminophen toxicity dosing regimen for intravenous n-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a three-bag regimen, alternate regimens have been published which are generally simpler, and decrease errors and adverse effects. It is not clear how pervasive alternative regimens are used in hospitals in the US and reasons for a change from the FDA regimen. Objective: Characterize practice patterns for treating acetaminophen toxicity. Methods: A pilot-tested, electronic survey containing demographic and practice pattern questions for acetaminophen toxicity management was sent to residency program directors. The survey was open for 4 weeks with several reminder e-mails sent to non-responders. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Results: There were 119 responses (9.2% response rate). Responses were representative of all geographic areas in the US and were most commonly from community hospitals (67.2%) and those with 300 or more beds (72.2%). Nearly two-thirds used the FDA approved NAC regimen, whereas others used an alternate regimen. Reasons for making the change were for simplicity, to decrease errors or adverse events, or based on local poison center recommendations. More than one-third of respondents reported not using a maximum dosing weight. Conclusions: N-acetylcysteine is usually administered intravenously using the FDA approved regimen for acetaminophen toxicity. The weight for dosing was commonly capped at 100 kg, but some institutions did not use a maximum. Alternative intravenous regimens have been implemented at some institutions with the impetus for change being safety and simplicity.

PMID:40401298 | PMC:PMC12090092 | DOI:10.24926/iip.v15i4.6459

Innov Pharm. 2025 Jan 14;15(4). doi: 10.24926/iip.v15i4.6435. eCollection 2024.

ABSTRACT

Background: Our student-run free clinic (SRFC) treats uninsured patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in a medically underserved region. Mississippi has the second highest diabetes prevalence in the nation. Increasing access for patients with diabetes to affordable medication is challenging. Some studies provide encouraging results for lowering hemoglobin A1C and increasing medication adherence through patient assistance programs (PAP). None have examined a student-run PAP committee’s impact on diabetes outcomes. Objective: To compare A1C levels for patients with diabetes enrolled in PAPs by our committee with those not enrolled and to describe clinical outcomes. Methods: A retrospective review of patients with T2D at our SRFC between 2015 and 2023 was performed. The primary outcome was change in A1C within a 4-9 month follow-up window. Secondary outcomes were emergency department (ED) visits and hospital admissions. Results: Twenty-five patients with T2D were enrolled in PAPs, while 77 were not. The PAP group had a higher baseline A1C (10.9% vs. 8.7%). The difference in A1C between groups was not statistically significant (P=0.68), even with adjustment for covariates (P=0.59). ED visit and hospital admission frequency was similar between groups. Neuropathy was the most common diabetic complication. ED visits and hospital admissions for heart attacks occurred only in the non-PAP group. Conclusion: While patients enrolled in PAPs showed a greater average reduction in A1C, the difference was not statistically significant. The higher baseline A1C in the PAP group carries greater reduction potential. A prospective study is necessary to better evaluate PAP enrollment outcomes for uninsured patients with diabetes.

PMID:40401297 | PMC:PMC12090084 | DOI:10.24926/iip.v15i4.6435

Innov Pharm. 2025 Jan 14;15(4). doi: 10.24926/iip.v15i4.6432. eCollection 2024.

ABSTRACT

Purpose: In the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), select sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are recommended based on comorbidities such as chronic kidney disease (CKD), heart failure (HF), and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Because guidelines typically recommend insulin for inpatient treatment of T2DM, there is potential that these therapies may be negatively impacted by hospitalization. This study aimed to assess the effect of hospitalization on outpatient T2DM therapy. Methods: In this retrospective study, patients were included if they had a diagnosis of T2DM plus a comorbidity (CKD, HF, ASCVD) for which they were prescribed an SGLT2 inhibitor or GLP-1 receptor agonist and had a recent hospitalization and follow-up appointment at an outpatient clinic. Electronic medical records were reviewed to determine if these therapies were continued during transitions of care. Data was analyzed with basic descriptive statistics. Results: Thirty-six patients on SGLT2 inhibitor therapy met inclusion criteria. Four (11%) patients were never restarted on therapy outpatient following hospitalization, three of which did not have an appropriate reason for discontinuation. Twenty-two patients on GLP-1 receptor agonist therapy met inclusion criteria. Four (18%) were never restarted on therapy outpatient following hospitalization, two of which did not have an appropriate reason for discontinuation. Conclusion: Five out of 58 patients (8.6%) included in the study experienced an inappropriate discontinuation of therapy throughout the transitions of care process. While most patients had their T2DM medication restarted, this study shows hospitalization can impact guideline-directed outpatient therapy.

PMID:40401295 | PMC:PMC12090087 | DOI:10.24926/iip.v15i4.6432

Bioinformation. 2024 Mar 31;20(3):282-291. doi: 10.6026/973206300200282. eCollection 2024.

ABSTRACT

The knowledge of Dentists and Endodontists in Saudi Arabia regarding antibiotic prescriptions during and after endodontic treatment is of interest. A self-designed questionnaire survey was utilized to assess the knowledge of dentists across various cities in Saudi Arabia concerning antibiotic usage guidelines for endodontic purposes. A total of 391 participants were included in the study and the questionnaire was distributed through social platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook Messenger and email. Results revealed that over 80% of participants acknowledged the need for antibiotics in cases of acute apical abscess with cellulitis, with amoxicillin being the most recommended antibiotic by dentists. Interestingly, there was no statistically significant difference in knowledge based on experience or graduation group. In conclusion, while participants demonstrated adequate knowledge about antibiotic prescriptions in endodontic cases, continued awareness of updated guidelines, including the WHO’s Essential Medicines List (EML), guidelines by the European Society of Endodontology (ESE) and American Association Endodontists (AAE) is essential for optimal clinical practice.

PMID:40401285 | PMC:PMC12093258 | DOI:10.6026/973206300200282

Front Surg. 2025 May 7;12:1550024. doi: 10.3389/fsurg.2025.1550024. eCollection 2025.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of percutaneous minimally invasive reduction combined with crossbar external fixation in the treatment of Sanders type II and III calcaneal fractures.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed on 65 patients with Sanders type II and III calcaneal fractures who were treated at Zhongshan Hospital affiliated with Dalian University between February 2019 and June 2021. Among them, 48 were males and 17 were females, with a mean age of 42.3 ± 10.2 years. There were 45 cases of Sanders type II fractures and 20 cases of type III fractures. Patients were divided into three groups based on the surgical methods: Group A (n = 25, minimally invasive reduction with crossbar external fixation), Group B (n = 21, minimally invasive locking plate fixation via the sinus tarsi approach), and Group C (n = 19, locking plate fixation via the lateral L-shaped incision). The following parameters were recorded and compared among the groups: preoperative waiting time, operative duration, intraoperative blood loss, incision length, and postoperative complications. Imaging parameters assessed included calcaneal length, width, height, Böhler angle, Gissane angle, and varus angle. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot score, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and Maryland Foot and Ankle Score.

RESULTS: Baseline characteristics showed no significant differences among the groups (P > 0.05). All patients were followed up for an average duration of 15.6 ± 1.2 months. Group A demonstrated significantly shorter preoperative waiting times, operative durations, lower intraoperative blood loss, and shorter incision lengths compared with groups B and C (P < 0.05). Furthermore, VAS scores 3 days postoperatively were significantly lower in group A compared to groups B and C (P < 0.05), whereas no significant difference was observed between groups B and C. The incidence of postoperative complications was significantly lower in groups A and B compared with group C (P < 0.05), with no significant difference observed between groups A and B. In addition, complications observed in the study included pinhole infections, cyanosis of the skin at the edge of the incision, nerve damage, and skin necrosis. Statistically, the complication rate was significantly lower in the group with the percutaneous minimally invasive approach than in the group with the traditional L-shaped approach. Imaging assessments at 2 weeks and 12 months postoperatively revealed no significant differences among the three groups in Böhler angle, Gissane angle, calcaneal varus angle, and calcaneal dimensions (P > 0.05). All imaging parameters significantly improved postoperatively within each group (P < 0.05). At the final follow-up, clinical outcomes (AOFAS, SF-36, Maryland scores) showed no significant differences among groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION: The Percutaneous minimally invasive reduction combined with crossbar external fixation provides effective fixation with minimal trauma, shorter hospital stays, and lower complication rates, representing a viable treatment strategy for Sanders type II and III calcaneal fractures.

PMID:40401282 | PMC:PMC12092454 | DOI:10.3389/fsurg.2025.1550024