Category: Statistics

Sci Bull (Beijing). 2025 Oct 31:S2095-9273(25)01105-3. doi: 10.1016/j.scib.2025.10.046. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Soil moisture is critical for climate prediction, ecological management, and disaster warning. However, multi-source datasets show spatiotemporal inconsistencies and uncertain regional applicability due to algorithmic and observational limitations. We assess the statistical performance and spatiotemporal variations of 23 global surface soil moisture datasets (1980-2023) from reanalysis, land surface models, and microwave remote sensing across global and regional scales (classified by Köppen climates and IPCC land uses). Results show a slight long-term (1980-2023) global surface soil moisture decline (-4.30 × 10^-4 m³ m^-3 a^-1), with some datasets indicating short-term wetting (7.17 × 10^-4 m³ m^-3 a^-1) post-2010 (2010-2023). A dual-validation against 992 and a filtered subset of 483 highly representative in situ stations shows that most products perform moderately well (Pearson R ≈ 0.5-0.7). Microwave remote sensing products, especially those based on SMAP, consistently demonstrate superior performance in capturing temporal dynamics (R ≈ 0.7). Our analysis demonstrates that spatial representativeness error can mask true performance, with validation in the tropics improving dramatically after site filtering (mean R increase of 0.41). The findings highlight product-specific strengths and weaknesses, underscoring the necessity of a science-informed, application-specific approach to dataset selection for robust hydrological and climatic research.

PMID:41241614 | DOI:10.1016/j.scib.2025.10.046

J Voice. 2025 Nov 14:S0892-1997(25)00448-5. doi: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2025.10.027. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To explore the vocal complaints and presentation of people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS).

METHODS: A comprehensive search was conducted through PubMed, Science Direct, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ASHAWire until August 30, 2025. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute’s Critical Appraisal Checklists. The primary method of data synthesis was vote counting based on sign tests to estimate the direction of effects with Wilson score interval. Narrative summary was utilized when results were not compared with controls.

RESULTS: Of the 1140 articles identified, 58 were included. PwMS demonstrated a variety of vocal presentations across each domain: (1) self-perception of voice and impact on quality of life, (2) auditory-perceptual assessment, (3) acoustic and aerodynamic measures, and (4) visualization of laryngeal function. The only statistically significant effects compared with controls were increased degree of dysphonia (100% [95% CI {confidence interval} 68% to 100%], P = 0.008), breathiness, (100% [95% CI 65% to 100%], P = 0.016), jitter (90% [95% CI 60% to 98%], P = 0.021) and shimmer (100% CI [68% to 100%], P = 0.008); and decreased maximum phonation time (90% [95% CI 60% to 98%], P = 0.021).

DISCUSSION: This systematic review identifies that PwMS present with diverse vocal symptoms. It is unclear if this diversity of presentation is expected variability given the nature of MS, or the result of significant heterogeneity in nomenclature, outcome measures, methodology, statistical analysis, data reporting, and study quality. Future studies should utilize updated, standardized metrics and analyze findings based on comprehensive participant demographic information and disease details.

PMID:41241603 | DOI:10.1016/j.jvoice.2025.10.027

Dent Mater. 2025 Nov 14:S0109-5641(25)00813-9. doi: 10.1016/j.dental.2025.11.008. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: While compomers are widely used in pediatric dentistry, their antibacterial potential and fluoride release remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial and mechanical properties of compomers modified with different concentrations of calcium fructoborate-loaded mesoporous silica (CF@SBA-15) nanoparticles.

METHODS: CF was synthesized via the Miljković method and loaded into SBA-15. The resulting CF@SBA-15 nanomaterial was incorporated into a compomer at 0.5 % (Group 1) and 1.0 % (Group 2) by weight. Surface roughness, microhardness, and degree of conversion (DC) were evaluated. Characterization was performed using FT-IR, SEM-EDX, and TGA analyses. Boron release was quantified at 1, 24, 72, and 96 h using ICP-MS. Antibacterial activity against Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus casei was assessed by the direct contact test (DCT). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS: Surface roughness and microhardness values increased significantly with higher CF@SBA-15 concentrations (p < 0.001), with Group 2 exhibiting the highest mean values. DC was significantly higher in both experimental groups than in the control (p = 0.009). Boron release demonstrated a progressive, concentration-dependent pattern, with Group 2 showing greater cumulative release (p = 0.009). Both nanoparticle-modified groups exhibited significantly stronger antibacterial effects compared with the control (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS: Incorporating CF@SBA-15 nanoparticles into compomers enhanced antibacterial efficacy while preserving the essential physicochemical integrity of the material.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: CF@SBA-15-modified compomers offer a promising strategy for developing durable, antibacterial, and caries-resistant restorative materials, particularly suitable for pediatric dental applications.

PMID:41241588 | DOI:10.1016/j.dental.2025.11.008

Magn Reson Med. 2025 Nov 15. doi: 10.1002/mrm.70180. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy enables quantitative measurement of tissue oxygen levels. The conventional single-loop EPR resonator designs limit the oxygen measurements to superficial tissues within 1-3 cm depth and inadequately address clinical requirements for deep-tissue oxygen monitoring in anatomically complex regions and confined body cavities. The aim of this study was to develop a flexible RF coil-based sensor (OxyTrack) designed for real-time oxygen measurements in complex anatomical environments that are typically inaccessible to conventional rigid coil configurations.

METHODS: The RF coil configuration of the OxyTrack included a catheter-like, flexible design that incorporates the OxyChip (oxygen sensor) in the resonant loop. A modified coaxial cable arrangement with braided shielding was used for cavity measurements. The constructed coil/sensor was evaluated for power saturation thresholding, oxygen sensitivity (calibration), mechanical stability, and integrity of the coil under various stress conditions. Biological validation studies were performed to test dynamic oxygen variations in the gastrointestinal tract (GI) of murine subjects.

RESULTS: The flexible OxyTrack exhibited an oxygen sensitivity of 14.8 mG/mmHg with a linear response across physiological ranges (0-160 mmHg), maintaining signal integrity under various mechanical stresses. In vivo validation experiments in mice GI tracts demonstrated statistically significant discrimination of rectal tissue oxygenation between normoxic (0.52 ± 0.04 mmHg) and hyperoxic conditions (6.43 ± 0.24 mmHg) with p < 0.001. Pre-clinical imaging compatibility established the absence of significant artifacts.

CONCLUSION: This flexible RF coil sensor enables minimally invasive, real-time oxygen monitoring in complex anatomical locations, with implications for pre-clinical research and potential clinical translation in oxygen-related pathophysiology assessment.

PMID:41240324 | DOI:10.1002/mrm.70180

Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2025 Nov 15:e70208. doi: 10.1111/nmo.70208. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) and achalasia are distinct esophageal disorders with overlapping symptoms, complicating diagnosis and treatment. While previous studies examined EoE among achalasia patients, less is known about the inverse relationship. We aimed to characterize features of EoE patients with and without the diagnosis of comorbid achalasia, as well as the temporal relationship between them.

METHODS: A retrospective, population-based cohort study was conducted using the Clalit Health Services database, covering over 5 million individuals. Patients diagnosed with EoE between 2000 and 2025 were included. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, and treatment data were compared between EoE patients with and without achalasia. Direct matching according to age, biological sex and ethnicity was used to identify independent predictors of achalasia.

RESULTS: Among 2496 EoE patients (median age 14, IQR 6.3-29.8 years; 73.2% male), 51 (2.0%) had achalasia, including 10 pediatric cases (0.6% of 1609 children). Achalasia preceded the EoE diagnosis in 20 patients (39.2%), occurred within 30 days in 20 (39.2%), and followed in 11 (21.6%). Compared to EoE-only patients, those with achalasia were older and had significantly higher rates of esophageal complications such as food impaction (23.5% vs. 12%, p = 0.013), esophageal stricture (11.8% vs. 4.6%, p = 0.017) and Barrett’s esophagus (3.9% vs. 0.9%, p = 0.029). However, it had fewer atopic characteristics such as food allergy (3.9% vs. 24.7%, p < 0.001) and peripheral eosinophilia (15.7% vs. 29.5%). However, after direct matching there was no statistical difference.

CONCLUSIONS: The concomitant diagnosis of achalasia occurs in a notable subset of EoE patients and tends to precede or coincide with EoE, suggesting that eosinophilic inflammation may be secondary in some cases. Awareness of this overlap may improve diagnostic elucidation in identifying the primary underlying process (eosinophilic infiltration or dysmotility) and diagnosis (EoE or achalasia).

PMID:41240319 | DOI:10.1111/nmo.70208

Vet Res Commun. 2025 Nov 15;50(1):37. doi: 10.1007/s11259-025-10985-5.

ABSTRACT

Considering the importance of pigs acting as a source of infection for zoonotic protozoan species, this study aimed to investigate the prevalence and perform the molecular characterization of Cryptosporidium spp. in pigs raised in semi-intensive production systems in the municipality of Araçatuba, state of São Paulo, Brazil. Two hundred fecal samples from pigs raised in four farms were collected between March and August 2018. Detection and speciation of Cryptosporidium spp. were performed by nested PCR of small subunit ribosomal RNA (18 S rRNA) gene followed by Sanger sequencing. The chi-square statistical test was performed to verify the association between positivity and negativity for Cryptosporidium spp. with the age of the pigs. Cryptosporidium spp. were identified in 34/200 (17%) samples. Sequencing of amplified fragments identified Cryptosporidium scrofarum in ten samples. No statistical significance was observed between the positivity and age of the animals. The presence of C. scrofarum, a potentially zoonotic protozoan, was confirmed in domestic pigs for the first time in the state of São Paulo, Brazil.

PMID:41240284 | DOI:10.1007/s11259-025-10985-5

Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2025 Nov 15. doi: 10.1007/s11356-025-37148-y. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Understanding how urbanization reshapes local thermal conditions is essential for planning in fast-growing tropical cities. We assessed Landsat-derived LST, NDVI, and BU; land-use dynamics; and the station-based Thom’s Discomfort Index (DI) for João Pessoa, Brazil. The series covers 2013, 2016, 2019, and 2022, using images acquired on December 3, 2013; November 25, 2016; May 26, 2019; and August 6, 2022 (Landsat OLI/TIRS). The selected dates represent months typically within the region’s dry (November-December) and rainy (May-August) seasons; where indicated, DI was also summarized by dry and rainy periods. Using cloud masking and zonal statistics in buffers around meteorological stations, we paired remote-sensing indices with DI for the north and south sectors. Results confirm that the loss of green areas due to urban expansion contributes to higher thermal conditions and the intensification of surface urban heat islands; these areas reached LST up to 37 °C in 2022. Citywide NDVI statistics-computed over valid pixels within the municipal boundary after cloud/water masking-declined from 2013 (max, 0.4427; mean, 0.1983) to (Thom and Thom 2022) (max, 0.3876; mean, 0.1277), reflecting vegetation loss. The BU analysis highlighted the expansion of built-up areas and its correlation with thermal increases, with conditions categorized as “slightly uncomfortable.” DI remained “partially comfortable” (24 °C ≤ DI ≤ 26 °C) in all years, indicating proximity to discomfort thresholds. Overall, João Pessoa requires targeted mitigation and prevention strategies to safeguard public health and quality of life.

PMID:41240279 | DOI:10.1007/s11356-025-37148-y

Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins. 2025 Nov 15. doi: 10.1007/s12602-025-10816-8. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Recent research has highlighted the potential of postbiotics as alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters (AGPs) in broiler production. The impact of postbiotics on growth performance and gut health in broilers has shown inconsistent findings, influenced by parameters such as postbiotic type, dosage, and delivery techniques. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the impact of postbiotics on broiler growth performance, including average daily gain (ADG), body weight (BW), feed intake (FI) and feed conversion ratio (FCR), in addition to gut morphology metrics, such as villus height (VH) and crypt depth (CD). A comprehensive search was performed in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. A total of 30 studies were selected from an initial group of 413 studies. The research included randomized controlled trials and observational studies published from 2015 to 2025. Effect sizes were computed using Cohen’s d, while publication bias was evaluated through funnel plots and Egger’s test. The Cochran Q test was used to assess heterogeneity among studies, employing a random-effects model for cases with statistically significant heterogeneity. Subgroup analyses were conducted according to postbiotic type, sample size, and age of broilers. The meta-analysis results indicated a positive impact of postbiotics on ADG and BW, especially for bacterial-based postbiotics such as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Bacillus subtilis. The meta-analysis also indicated a positive impact of fermented based postbiotics on feed intake (FI) of broilers. Nonetheless, the impact on gut morphology was inconsistent, with considerable diversity noted among studies. Heterogeneity was significant, with variables including postbiotic type, sample size, and age of broilers influencing outcome variability. In conclusion, although postbiotics have potential as substitutes for AGPs, their impact on grill growth and gut health remains inconsistent. This study highlights the necessity for more research to standardize postbiotic therapies and investigate their long-term impacts on poultry productivity.

PMID:41240268 | DOI:10.1007/s12602-025-10816-8

Community Ment Health J. 2025 Nov 15. doi: 10.1007/s10597-025-01555-9. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a CHIME-based psychoeducational group intervention on personal recovery in individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. A randomized controlled trial with a pretest-posttest design was conducted between January and July 2024. A total of 60 participants receiving services from a Community Mental Health Center and meeting the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n = 29) or the control group (n = 30). The intervention group participated in a structured “CHIME-Based Psychoeducation Program” comprising seven weekly sessions, each lasting approximately 60 min. Outcome measures included the Subjective Recovery Assessment Scale (SRAS), Psychological Resilience Assessment Scale (PRAS), and Schizophrenia Hope Scale (SHS). Assessments were conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and three-month follow-up. Both groups continued to receive standard community mental health services throughout the study. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, Friedman tests, and intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis for handling missing data. Accordingly, the CHIME-Based Group Psychoeducation Program can be considered an effective intervention to enhance personal recovery, psychological resilience, and hope. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier number is NCT06284096.

PMID:41240240 | DOI:10.1007/s10597-025-01555-9

Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2025 Nov 15. doi: 10.1007/s10096-025-05355-7. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the pathogens and clinical characteristics of necrotizing pneumonia (NP) in our hospital from January 2019 to June 2025.

METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of children with NP. Patients were divided into a single- bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) group and a multiple-BAL group. Pathogens and clinical characteristics were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS: This study included 365 patients with NP, 193 of whom were males. The incidence of NP significantly increased in 2023-2024. The pathogen identification rate was 98.36%, with Mycoplasma pneumoniae (MP) being the most commonly pathogen (91.00%). There were 138 cases of mixed infection and 227 cases of single infection. The 335 cases underwent BAL, with 139 cases assigned to the single-BAL group. Follow-up within 6 months after discharge was conducted for 238 patients, and the majority exhibited a favorable prognosis. No statistical differences were observed between the two groups regarding gender, age, time from onset to diagnosis, or duration of fever. However, a significant difference was noted in the length of hospital stay (P < 0.05). The infection rate of MP in the single-BAL group was lower than that in the multiple-BAL group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: The incidence of NP significantly increased in 2023-2024, with MP as the predominant pathogen. Children with NP present with severe clinical symptoms, a prolonged disease course, and significantly elevated inflammatory markers. Most NP patients have a favorable prognosis. Patients requiring multiple BAL procedures demonstrate a higher MP infection rate.

PMID:41240235 | DOI:10.1007/s10096-025-05355-7