Category: Statistics

Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2026 Mar 10. doi: 10.1002/ijgo.70930. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluates the association between obesity and the presence of bowel endometriosis in patients undergoing surgery.

METHODS: A retrospective cross-sectional observational study was conducted with patients treated between September 2023 and December 2024, at a specialized endometriosis outpatient clinic of a tertiary hospital in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Women who underwent surgery for histopathological confirmation of deep endometriosis were included. The outcome was bowel endometriosis, defined as a lesion >1 cm located in the rectosigmoid region. Preoperative weight and height were measured, and obesity was defined according to World Health Organization body mass index (BMI) criteria. The association between obesity and the outcome was assessed using multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for potential confounders. A P-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS: A total of 223 women with histologically confirmed deep endometriosis were included, of whom 24.2% had bowel involvement. In the multivariable logistic regression, after adjusting for age and number of cesarean deliveries, body weight was independently associated with a lower likelihood of bowel lesions (odds ratio [OR]: 0.97; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.94-0.99; P = 0.031). The number of cesarean deliveries was also inversely associated with the outcome (OR: 0.39; 95% CI: 0.21-0.71; P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION: Although higher body weight was associated with a lower chance of bowel involvement, these results should be interpreted cautiously given the cross-sectional nature of the study and the limitations of BMI and body weight as measures of adiposity. Future studies incorporating more precise anthropometric assessments (e.g., bioimpedance, body fat percentage, or abdominal circumference) are warranted.

PMID:41806155 | DOI:10.1002/ijgo.70930

Adv Biotechnol (Singap). 2026 Mar 10;4(1):9. doi: 10.1007/s44307-025-00093-5.

ABSTRACT

Recent advancements in sequencing technologies have transformed the characterization of genomic and transcriptomic complexity. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT), emphasizing its unique capability for real-time, long-read, and direct RNA sequencing. We begin by outlining the core ONT analytical workflow-base calling, alignment, re-squiggling, and quality control-and summarize the major computational tools applied at each stage. Then extensive illustrations of various RNA modification detection techniques are provided, spanning from statistical models, machine learning and deep learning frameworks to advanced strategies incorporating large language models. To assess methodological performance, additional benchmark analyses of m6A and pseudouridine (Ψ) are carried out across two publicly available datasets. These results demonstrate substantial variability across different tools, underscoring the inherent difficulties in reliably detecting modifications from ONT signals. We further examine the biological roles of key RNA modifications and contrast ONT-based approaches with conventional detection technologies. Finally, we discuss persistent limitations such as sequencing error rates, data and computational demands, and the complexity of multi-modification inference, and further propose future directions aimed at improving accuracy, robustness, and biological interpretability in ONT-based epitranscriptomic research.

PMID:41806147 | DOI:10.1007/s44307-025-00093-5

Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2026 Mar 10. doi: 10.1007/s10096-026-05433-4. Online ahead of print.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:41806099 | DOI:10.1007/s10096-026-05433-4

Eur J Orthop Surg Traumatol. 2026 Mar 10;36(1):136. doi: 10.1007/s00590-026-04691-4.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The Peroneus longus graft has not been assessed till now in All-Inside Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction (AI-ACLR). The purpose of this study was to compare the PLT and STT autograft in terms of graft characteristics (e.g. graft diameter, length, etc.) as primary outcome and clinical scores (IKDC, Tegner-lysholm and KOOS scores) as secondary outcomes in AI-ACLR using our modified surgical technique.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective, non-randomised case-control study was conducted from January 2021 to October 2023. Patients with ACL tears, aged between 18 and 50 years, were included. Patients having multiligament injuries, fractures, meniscal injuries, pre-existing osteoarthritis of the knee or a BMI of ≥30 kg/m2 were excluded. Patients were non-randomly divided into two groups according to autograft source. Group 1: PLT; Group 2: STT. 70 patients underwent AI-ACLR using our modified technique: Group 1, n = 35; Group 2, n = 35. Mean follow-up duration was 24 ± 3.4 (range 18-28) months.

RESULTS: Mean age was 28 (17-36) years. The harvested tendon length was significantly longer in group 1 (31.51 ± 2.41 mm vs. 29.0 ± 2.49 mm; P = 0.004). Group 1 also had significantly thicker graft diameter (8.9 ± 0.16 mm vs. 8.1 ± 0.3 mm; P = 0.021), longer graft (69.74 ± 1.54 mm vs. 68.18 ± 2.52 mm; P = 0.039), better followup KOOS (68.86 ± 6.1 vs. 60.09 ± 5.65; P < 0.001), Tegner-Lysholm score (69.46 ± 4.62 vs. 65.73 ± 6.25; P = 0.038) and IKDC score (59.26 ± 3.81 vs. 56.18 ± 5.65; P = 0.045). The mean surgical time was slightly less in group 1 (59.89 ± 9.32 min vs. 61.64 ± 6.82 min), but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.506).

CONCLUSION: Our modified technique of AI-ACLR using Peroneus longus (PLT) provides better graft characteristics for AI-ACLR as compared to Semi-tendinosis (STT). The functional outcome scores were comparable in both the groups with no major complications reported, at a mean of 24 months of follow-up.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE III: (Retrospective comparative study).

PMID:41806080 | DOI:10.1007/s00590-026-04691-4

JACC Adv. 2026 Feb 23:102548. doi: 10.1016/j.jacadv.2025.102548. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

National health surveillance systems in the United States collect essential information about population health, yet differences in analytical methods often make it difficult to compare results across studies. This paper presents a clear and consistent framework for descriptive analyses using the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS). The framework establishes shared definitions for sociodemographic and clinical variables, outlines methods for handling missing data, and describes use of survey weights and multivariable models. This process will generate reproducible and interpretable estimates across different NHIS-based studies.

PMID:41805279 | DOI:10.1016/j.jacadv.2025.102548

Int J STD AIDS. 2026 Mar 10:9564624261432787. doi: 10.1177/09564624261432787. Online ahead of print.

NO ABSTRACT

PMID:41805258 | DOI:10.1177/09564624261432787

Clin Neuropharmacol. 2026 Feb 16. doi: 10.1097/WNF.0000000000000675. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: The role of escitalopram on cognition in patients with dementia is inconclusive. In this study effect of low-dose escitalopram on cognition in subjects with dementia without depression is explored.

METHODS: This is a retrospective study of subjects aged 60 years or more with a diagnosis of dementia without depression conducted in a tertiary-care hospital in India. Subjects treated with low-dose escitalopram with a follow-up of 12 weeks duration were included. The parameters extracted were sociodemographic characteristics, duration and type of dementia, comorbidities, other psychotropics, and antidementia drugs. The change in Hindi Mental Status Examination score from baseline to fourth, eighth, and 12th weeks is considered the primary outcome measure. In addition, changes in neuropsychiatric symptoms are the secondary outcome measures. Statistical methods include descriptive and comparative analysis, and repeated measures ANOVA was applied to assess change in cognition over time.

RESULTS: A total of 44 subjects were included, with a mean age of 73.5 ± 7.42 years and 56.82%. Among the subjects, 79.55% were diagnosed with AD, 11.36% with FTD, and 9.09% with VD, and the average duration of illness was 4.48 ± 2.28 years. Comparison of HMSE score from baseline to fourth, eighth, and 12th week shows a significant difference with P <0.001, with greater improvement in the first 4 weeks. In addition, the NPI and ADL scores showed significant improvement in week-4 with P <0.001.

CONCLUSION: Escitalopram shows a promising effect on cognition, behaviour, and functionality in subjects with dementia in the short term. However, a larger prospective long-term study is needed to validate the study findings.

PMID:41805243 | DOI:10.1097/WNF.0000000000000675

Anal Chem. 2026 Mar 10. doi: 10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06663. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has high incidence rates in India, with poor survival rates due to late diagnosis. Oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) such as leukoplakia (L) and oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) present a critical window for intervention. Minimally invasive approaches capturing early biochemical alterations were investigated to improve early detection and stratification. Blood serum samples from 169 subjects, including healthy controls (C), tobacco habitués (TC), L, OSMF, and OSCC, were analyzed using Raman spectroscopy (RS) and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Principal component-based quadratic discriminant analysis (PC-QDA) models were built with RS data and validated on independent cohorts. Multivariate curve resolution-alternating least-squares (MCR-ALS) analysis identified altered spectral features. Global LC-MS/MS metabolite profiles were assessed by multivariate statistics and pathway enrichment. RS-based PC-QDA models achieved ∼95% accuracy in training and testing when C subjects were compared against TC, L, OSCC, and OSMF in a two-group model. A three-group model with C, TC, and oral diseases accurately classified >80% C and 86% oral disease subjects. The model stratifying L, OSMF, and OSCC identified 100% OSCC and 73-84% of L and OSMF in independent test sets. MCR-ALS revealed spectral features of albumin, immunoglobulins, carotenoids, and lipids, corresponding to LC-MS/MS findings of altered albumin-bound metabolites, bile acids, lipid metabolism, and oxidative stress. Serum RS demonstrated efficacy as a rapid, minimally invasive detection tool for oral disease stratification. LC-MS/MS identified metabolites and pathways aligning with RS spectral signatures. This multimodal approach shows promise for early detection and risk assessment of oral cancer.

PMID:41805242 | DOI:10.1021/acs.analchem.5c06663

Hum Vaccin Immunother. 2026 Dec;22(1):2642457. doi: 10.1080/21645515.2026.2642457. Epub 2026 Mar 10.

ABSTRACT

Microarray patches (MAPs) are an emerging, needle-free vaccination technology with potential to improve vaccine uptake and acceptability. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted to assess parents’ perceptions of MAP safety, usability, and acceptability for themselves and their children. Participants were parents of children aged ≤18 y residing in Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, or New Zealand. Responses were recorded on a 7-point Likert scale. Descriptive statistics and paired t-tests were used for analysis. A total of 102 parents participated (mean age = 40.7 y, SD = 10.6), predominantly from Canada (59.8%) and Australia (35.3%). Parents rated MAP vaccination as safe and effective (mean = 5.13; 95% CI: 4.83-5.43), easy to use (mean = 5.51; 95% CI: 5.26-5.77), and acceptable (mean = 5.43; 95% CI: 5.18-5.68). Respondents preferred MAPs over traditional needle and syringe (N&S) methods for themselves and their children, particularly citing benefits for those with needle-related anxiety. Parents expressed stronger preferences for healthcare provider administration for children compared to themselves. MAP self-administration was also viewed positively. Participants indicated greater willingness to pay more for their child to receive the MAP vaccination compared to themselves. Findings suggest that parents perceive MAPs as a safe, usable, and acceptable alternative to N&S vaccination for themselves and their children.

PMID:41805238 | DOI:10.1080/21645515.2026.2642457

J Psychosoc Oncol. 2026 Mar 10:1-17. doi: 10.1080/07347332.2026.2632685. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cancer have distinct psychosocial and information needs across the cancer care continuum. AYAs often experience developmental milestone disruptions, changes in social functioning, and an unmet need for social connection both during and after treatment. The multidimensional needs of AYAs with cancer necessitates tailored program development to provide patient-centered psychosocial support that is accessible and scalable. To address these critical gaps in AYA cancer care, this study describes an innovative cancer mobile application, iaya, an online platform uniquely for AYAs with cancer designed to promote coping and peer connection.

METHODS: iaya data was collected from late 2021-December 2024. Descriptive statistics were used to examine iaya engagement, growth trends, and summarize user data, including user demographics, app feature engagement, and psychosocial coping toolbox utilization.

RESULTS: Iaya has experienced steady growth over time and now has over 280 total members and 180 active members (66%). Members most frequently visited app spaces for discussion and socialization with other users. These spaces generated more engagement compared to informational or resource specific spaces.

CONCLUSIONS: Findings from this study indicate that there is a desire for social connection with AYA peers above and beyond the need for cancer-related information on iaya, suggesting that many AYAs with cancer are interested and willing to engage with online platforms that facilitate these social connections. Future AYA psychosocial oncology programs should be designed with a focus on strengthening social connectedness and community building among AYAs with cancer and consider implementing a mobile component as a valuable and scalable solution.

PMID:41805234 | DOI:10.1080/07347332.2026.2632685