Category: Statistics

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2026;1487:181-199. doi: 10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_20.

ABSTRACT

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a frequently occurring and impairing mental health condition marked by cognitive deficits in several areas, such as attention, executive functions, information processing speed, and memory. It is noteworthy that while affective symptoms of MDD tend to subside when the depressive episode is resolved, cognitive impairment frequently persists and increases the risk of relapse. The present study systematically collected and assessed evidence from the past 10 years of randomized controlled clinical trials targeting cognitive deficiencies in adults with MDD through the implementation of psychological interventions, specifically cognitive remediation therapy or cognitive behavioral therapy. A comprehensive search was conducted in the PubMed and Web of Science databases from January 1, 2013, to July 31, 2023. A total of 520 studies were initially identified, and six of them met the inclusion criteria, in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Participants in the intervention groups were 187, and 125 in the control groups. Most studies showed significant improvements in attention and self-assessed everyday performance. Findings pertaining to executive function and verbal learning and memory varied, with some studies conveying significant improvements in those domains post-intervention, and others failing to demonstrate any statistically significant effects. The results showcased the need to conduct larger, meticulously designed, double-blind randomized controlled trials with standardized measurement tools to more accurately evaluate the efficacy of those non-pharmaceutical interventions. Future research is warranted to investigate deficits in verbal memory, verbal learning, and executive function, since these domains seem to be the most resistant to change.

PMID:41273562 | DOI:10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_20

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2026;1487:173-180. doi: 10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_19.

ABSTRACT

Although menopause is a normal process, it causes a number of symptoms that affect women’s health and quality of life (QoL). Furthermore, mental health problems, including depression and anxiety, in peri- and postmenopausal women are a major public health concern. The aim of this research study was to investigate menopausal symptoms and their association with mental health and quality of life. A cross-sectional study involving 78 women aged 36-58 years who were in the perimenopause or menopause was conducted. The instruments used were the Greek versions of the Menopausal Rating Scale (MRS), the Depression, Stress and Anxiety Assessment Scale (DASS-21), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale (WHOQoL-BREF). According to the results, menopausal symptoms were found to be of low overall severity, a small proportion (7.8%) have mild depressive symptoms and mild anxiety symptoms (9.1%), and all scales of women’s quality of life show high mean values, indicating a good to fairly good quality of life. The most important findings of the study are the statistically significant negative correlations between almost all dimensions of the DASS-21 scale and the WHOQoL-BREF dimensions, and between almost all dimensions of the MRS scale and the dimensions of the WHOQOL-BREF scale. In our study, menopause was not associated with poor quality of life at a general level; however, it was confirmed to have a statistically significant negative effect on quality of life, depending on the severity of symptoms and the coexistence of other complications such as depression.

PMID:41273561 | DOI:10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_19

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2026;1487:163-172. doi: 10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_18.

ABSTRACT

Conservative treatment with a brace has shown significant improvement in patients with idiopathic scoliosis. Initial in-brace correction can serve as a predictive factor for the treatment outcome. Additionally, significant data highlight the effectiveness of Schroth exercises. There is also evidence that the combination of Schroth and Bracing can provide a better treatment outcome. The study aimed to investigate the effect of a Schroth exercise program on the initial in-brace correction and in a 6-month follow-up in-brace radiological evaluation. Fifty children aged 10-17 years, diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis were divided into two groups: a treatment group (n = 25) and a control group (n = 25). The treatment group used a brace combined with a specialized Schroth exercise program. The control group used only bracing. Schroth-compatible braces were used by all the participants and bracing was prescribed for 18-22 hours daily. Schroth exercise was performed twice a week under supervision and 4 times at home. For the statistical analysis, 2-way ANOVA and paired t-test were used. The statistical analysis has shown a statistically significant group * time interaction (p = 0.015). According to the findings, a significant improvement was demonstrated in in-brace correction in the intervention group over a 6-month period. This indicates the effect of Schroth exercises in enhancing in-brace correction values over time.

PMID:41273560 | DOI:10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_18

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2026;1487:141-153. doi: 10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_16.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Epilepsy is a serious chronic neurological disorder affecting more than 50 million people globally. Social support has been consistently linked to improved health outcomes in a variety of chronic illnesses.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the impact of perceived social support on anxiety/depression among persons with epilepsy (PWE).

METHODS AND MATERIAL: The sample of the study consisted of 100 PWE visiting an outpatient clinic of a public hospital in Greece. Data were collected via interviews using the scales “Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MPSS)” and “The Hospital Anxiety And Depression Scale (HADs)” for the evaluation of social support and anxiety/depression, respectively, which also included participants’ characteristics.

RESULTS: According to the results, at least 50% of the sample scored over 19, 18, and 19 (median) in perceived social support from significant ones, family, and friends, respectively. These values in relation to the possible range of scores (4-28) indicate moderate social support of participants. There was a statistically significant association between social support either by significant ones or family or friends and participants’ anxiety-depression (p < 0.001). Participants who reported anxiety or depression had lower support scores than patients who did not. Furthermore, anxiety and depression were statistically significant associated with PWE who reported not to receive their medicine strictly (p = 0.002, p = 0.002), concealed epilepsy (p = 0.044, p = 0.025), faced financial difficulties due to epilepsy (p = 0.034, p = 0.001), and had insomnia (p = 0.001, p = 0.001), respectively.

CONCLUSION: Findings underscore the need to enhance social support as an important component of PWE management. It is essential for health professionals to encourage PWE to express their feelings and address their needs, in order to enjoy social support and confront with the psychological burden of the disease.

PMID:41273558 | DOI:10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_16

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2026;1487:125-128. doi: 10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_14.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The uncoupling of cerebral oxygenation is interconnected with brain hydration dynamics and is essential for understanding the characteristics of intracerebral hemorrhage pathomorphosis. The aim was to study the brain hydration and cerebral oxygen saturation status changes in perilesional penumbra foci (PPF) in moderate isolated traumatic brain injury (moiTBI) patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-seven moiTBI patients (women 35 and men 42, median age 37 years) with unilateral lesions (Marshall Score II-III) were included in this study. Net water uptake was measured in PPF using non-contrast computed tomography (NCCT) 2 days after admission. NWU in hypoattenuated zones of PPF was calculated using NCCT. Cerebral oxygen saturation (SctO₂) was measured in the frontal lobes. Data are shown as a median [interquartile range]. Statistical analysis was performed using nonparametric statistics.

RESULTS: In PPF, SctO₂ was 64.03% [60.1;67.0], and NWU was 4.98% [2.21;7.39]. Increased NWU values in PPF were significantly inversely correlated with SctO₂ (r = -0.608, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: Brain edema parameters in PPF were significantly associated with cerebral O₂ saturation disturbances in moiTBI.

PMID:41273556 | DOI:10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_14

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2026;1487:115-123. doi: 10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_13.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) significantly affects patients’ quality of life (QoL) due to its physical, cognitive, and psychological consequences. Despite increasing TBI incidents, advancements in medical care have improved survival rates, raising the need to understand the economic burden and its impact on QoL.

PURPOSE: This study aims to investigate the impact of living cost on the QoL of patients with moderate and severe TBI.

METHOD: The study involved patients aged 18-70 years hospitalized at the General Hospital KAT in Athens, Greece, with moderate and severe TBI. QoL was measured using the Short Form Questionnaire (SF-36) questionnaire, while living cost were assessed using a specialized questionnaire. Data were collected upon hospital discharge, at 6 months, and at 12 months postdischarge.

RESULTS: The study included 50 patients with a mean age of 37.80 ± 8.16 years; 64% had moderate TBI, and 36% had severe TBI. The SF-36 scores indicated significantly lower QoL for patients with severe TBI. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between higher monthly family income and better QoL (p < 0.05). The average total rehabilitation cost in the first 6 months post discharge was €2338.80 ± 282.14, and the total financial loss per household was €4392.80 ± 652.39. Higher rehabilitation costs were associated with lower QoL scores, particularly in mental health and social functioning dimensions.

CONCLUSION: The study highlights the substantial economic burden of TBI rehabilitation and its negative impact on QoL. Financial stability and injury severity are critical factors influencing patients’ recovery and well-being. Comprehensive support systems addressing both financial and healthcare needs are essential to enhance the QoL of TBI patients.

PMID:41273555 | DOI:10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_13

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2026;1487:59-62. doi: 10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_7.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The aim was to study visual perception changes based on eye-tracking data assessments in response to transcranial photobiomodulation (t-PBM) in young, healthy subjects.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Our non-randomized single-center study involving 53 young, healthy volunteers (22 men and 31 women). The eye tracking procedure (EyeTracker, BVG Software Group LLC, CA, USA) was carried out before and immediately after t-PBM (Elmedlife H, RF). Data were expressed as a median [interquartile range]. Statistical analysis was performed using the T- criterion Wilcoxon. The significance level was preset p < 0.05.

RESULTS: Vertical vergence reactivity indexes (VRx) after t-PBM were significantly higher than before 0.881 [0.841; 0.914] vs. 0.784 [0.711; 0.832], p < 0.05, respectively. Horizontal VRx before t-PBM were significantly lower than after t-PBM 0.893 [0.822; 0.935] vs. 0.920 [0.917; 0.929], p < 0.05.

CONCLUSION: Transcranial PBM improves visual perception in young, healthy volunteers, as reflected by a significant increase in both vergence reactivity indices.

PMID:41273549 | DOI:10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_7

Adv Exp Med Biol. 2026;1487:53-57. doi: 10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_6.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to assess the dynamics of cerebral arterial stiffness based on cerebral arterial compliance (CAC) changes during the acute stage of severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: We examined 75 patients with severe TBI (men 52 and women 23). During or immediately after dynamic computed tomography angiography (DCTA), the monitoring of the transcranial Doppler of the MCA was recorded bilaterally with 2-MHz probes in the first days after trauma (first control point) and in 10-14 days of acute stage of sTBI (second control point). The cerebral blood volumes were calculated from the DCTA data using complex mathematical procedures using the “direct flow model” algorithm. Data were normally distributed and expressed as mean ± standard deviation. The statistical analysis was performed using parametric statistics and correlation analysis methods. The level of significance was p < 0.05.

RESULTS: CAC was significantly decreased (p < 0.001) in both the control points. The stiffness of middle cerebral arteries significantly (p < 0.05) increases in the first days and stays increased during all acute stages of severe TBI. The CAC was significantly correlated with CBF (r = -0.161, p < 0.05).

PMID:41273548 | DOI:10.1007/978-3-032-03398-7_6

Clin Rheumatol. 2025 Nov 22. doi: 10.1007/s10067-025-07828-8. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the value of chemokine CXCL10 in clinical stratification across the spectrum of diseases encompassing giant cell arteritis (GCA) and polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR).

METHODS: A total of eight newly diagnosed GCA patients (active GCA group), nine treated and remitted GCA patients (remission GCA group), 40 newly diagnosed PMR patients (active PMR group), 37 PMR patients in remission, and 31 healthy individuals undergoing physical examinations (healthy control group) were selected. Serum CXCL10 levels were measured using ELISA. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate the role of CXCL10 in differential diagnosis and clinical stratification within the GCA-PMR spectrum disease.

RESULTS: Serum CXCL10 levels in the active GCA group were significantly higher than in the healthy control group (Z = – 3.826, P < 0.001) and the active PMR group (Z = – 3.071, P = 0.001). Serum CXCL10 levels in the GCA remission group were significantly higher than in the healthy control group (Z = – 3.806, P < 0.001) and the PMR remission group (Z = – 3.918, P < 0.001). The ROC curve analysis indicates that CXCL10 is valuable for differential diagnosis between active GCA and PMR (AUC = 0.847, sensitivity = 0.7, specificity = 1, cut-off value = 51.87), as well as between remission-phase GCA and PMR (AUC = 0.925, sensitivity = 0.838, specificity = 1, cut-off value = 45.17).

CONCLUSION: The chemokine CXCL10 may be involved in the pathogenesis of GCA and helps distinguish between clinical stratification of GCA and PMR within GPSD. Key Points • The concentrations of CXCL10 was higher in peripheral blood of GCA patients. • The level of CXCL10 might contribute to the stratification of GCA-PMR spectrum disease.

PMID:41273539 | DOI:10.1007/s10067-025-07828-8

Forensic Sci Med Pathol. 2025 Nov 22. doi: 10.1007/s12024-025-01126-0. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The aim of the current study is to investigate if third molar agenesis is associated with dental maturity variations in Brazilian children. Radiographs of children from 10 to 15 years old were examined and patients with 32 teeth were included in the control group and patients with at least one third molar agenesis were included in the agenesis group. Demirjian’s method was used to calculate dental age and evaluate dental maturity. Dental age was calculated using the Dental Age mobile app. The dental maturity was determined by calculating the difference between dental age and chronological age (DA-CA), in which positive, negative, and null values indicated advanced, delayed, or normal dental development, respectively. T test and ANOVA were used for comparisons. The Pearson correlation test was used to evaluate the relationship between chronological age and dental age (alpha = 5%). A total of 336 patients were included, 58 (17.3%) had at least one third molar agenesis. Third molar agenesis was associated with delayed dental maturity (p = 0.0294). Patients with 3 or 4 missing third molars had statistically significantly more delayed dental development compared with control patients (p = 0.0001) and patients with 1or 2 third molar agenesis (p = 0.0290). Individuals with third molar agenesis present delayed dental maturity. Our results also suggested that the number missing third molars are associated with the delayed maturity. Individuals with third molar agenesis showed delayed dental maturity, which was more pronounced in those missing three or four third molars. These findings suggest that the extent of agenesis is associated with the magnitude of maturational delay.

PMID:41273500 | DOI:10.1007/s12024-025-01126-0