Category: Statistics

Mar Biotechnol (NY). 2026 May 13;28(3):83. doi: 10.1007/s10126-026-10627-0.

ABSTRACT

Microbial platforms are now recognized as sustainable sources of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). This study presents a novel bioprocessing approach that integrates abiotic stress with exogenous phytohormones, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), salicylic acid (SA), and abscisic acid (ABA) to enhance the biosynthesis of PUFAs in marine Thraustochytrium sp. BM2. While individual stress strategies are known to either enhance lipid accumulation or modulate oxidative responses. The combined effect of phytohormones and multiple treatments of cold stress conditions (4 °C) enhanced the PUFAs fraction (including DHA, EPA, DPA, and ARA) and lowered the SFAs fraction. IAA combined with cold stress marginally enhanced lipid yield by 73.3% (up to 9.48 g L⁻¹), but the composition of fatty acids was significantly changed. These changes were aligned with significant increases in EPA (100%, 0.38 g L⁻¹), DPA (19%, 1.06 g L⁻¹), and DHA (19%, 1.94 g L⁻¹). SA in combination with cold stress achieved a 39.7% increase in lipid yield (7.63 g L⁻¹), with corresponding improvements in EPA (21%, 0.23 g L⁻¹), DHA (5.2%, 1.72 g L⁻¹), while ARA (300%, 0.12 g L⁻¹). The combined effect of ABA resulted in enhanced levels of EPA, DPA, DHA, and ARA by 21%, 39%, 16%, and 200%, respectively. These results were statistically validated by ANOVA, with all variations demonstrating significance at p < 0.05. This sustainable and eco-efficient strategy addresses the limitations of fish oil-based PUFA production, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs: 7, 12, and 13) and offering a scalable alternative for the nutraceutical and biofuel industries.

PMID:42126715 | DOI:10.1007/s10126-026-10627-0

Work. 2026 May 13:10519815261438027. doi: 10.1177/10519815261438027. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BackgroundStanding work is common across a wide range of industries and service sectors and has been associated with the development of low back pain.ObjectiveTo analyze changes in low back pain across eight experimental scenarios combining exposure to risk factors associated with standing work.MethodologyA controlled factorial experiment (2³) comprising eight experimental scenarios and 32 simulations. Thirty volunteers (16 men and 14 women) participated in the study. Each participant completed an experimental scenario involving light manual activity in a standing position for 120 min, varying posture (dynamic or static), surface (hard or soft), and the use of insoles (with or without inserts). Every 30 min, low back pain intensity was recorded using a Visual Analog Scale (0 mm = no pain; 100 mm = maximum pain). Results: Time had a significant effect on increases in low back pain relative to baseline (T0 = 1.71, SE = 0.34). The estimated increases in low back pain from baseline were 1.41 at (T1), 2.38 at (T2), 3.07 at (T3), and 3.66 at (T4), all of which were statistically significant (p < 0.001).ConclusionsLow back pain intensity increased significantly and similarly across all experimental scenarios, regardless of the combination of factors evaluated (posture, surface, or insole use). The results indicate that low back pain, as the starting point of clinical pain perception (≥ 9 mm VAS), manifests itself after 60 min of standing, regardless of the combined study factors.

PMID:42125858 | DOI:10.1177/10519815261438027

Water Environ Res. 2026 May;98(5):e70395. doi: 10.1002/wer.70395.

ABSTRACT

This study presents a systematic and reproducible methodology for developing synthetic wastewater that mimics the bulk physicochemical characteristics of palm oil mill final effluent (SWM-POME_FE) at laboratory scale. The framework was established through four sequential phases: (1) physicochemical characterization of real POME_FE (R-POME_FE), (2) dose-response analysis of selected media, (3) iterative formulation of SWM-POME_FE, and (4) stability and statistical validation. R-POME_FE was characterized across 10 sampling events to establish baseline conditions for key parameters. Dose-response analyses of glucose, lignin, surfactant, unrefined red palm oil, and NH₄Cl were conducted to reproduce COD, BOD₅, color, O&G, and NH₃-N contributions. Three progressively refined formulations were developed through iterative adjustments, demonstrating strong agreement between experimental results (Exp-R) and calibrated predictions (Cal-P), with deviations ranging from 0.3% to 6.3%. Statistical similarity analysis of the final SWM-POME_FE formulation showed that NH₃-N, O&G, color, and turbidity closely matched the distribution of the R-POME_FE dataset, with mean values falling within the 95% confidence interval, interquartile range, and ±10% tolerance band. These parameters also exhibited very small standardized deviations (|z| ≤ 0.2), indicating negligible differences relative to the natural variability of the field measurements. TSS met all criteria except the interquartile range (z = 0.76). In contrast, COD and BOD₅ fell outside the central distribution metrics but remained within the observed field range (z = 1.03 and 1.52, respectively). Although formal equivalence testing using the two one-sided tests procedure did not demonstrate strict equivalence, this was attributed to the large natural variability of the field measurements. Stability assessments further confirmed the robustness of the formulation, with < 5% variation during the 5-day short-term test and only minor reductions after 3-month storage, indicating that SWM-POME_FE provides a stable physicochemical surrogate for controlled laboratory studies.

PMID:42125849 | DOI:10.1002/wer.70395

J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil. 2026 May 13:10538127261448975. doi: 10.1177/10538127261448975. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

ObjectiveQuantify the burden of occupational ergonomic-attributable low back pain (LBP) in men aged 20-54 from 1990-2021 at global, regional and national levels to inform targeted prevention.MethodsWe extracted Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 estimates of disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) for LBP (ICD-10 M54.3-M54.5) related to occupational ergonomic risks. Age-standardized DALY rates (ASDRs) and estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) were computed by Socio-demographic Index (SDI) quintile, 27 GBD regions, 204 countries and seven 5-year age bands. Predictive models linking burden with time, age, SDI and geography were trained and interpreted using SHAP to reveal each predictor’s direction and contribution. Reference-scenario forecasts of DALYs and ASDRs to 2050 were produced with 95% uncertainty intervals. All statistical analyses were performed using R software (version 4.3.1).ResultsFrom 1990 to 2021, total DALYs rose while ASDRs declined. The greatest ASDR decrease occurred in low-SDI settings; high-SDI settings showed the largest 2021 burden. Andean Latin America had the largest increase, South Asia the steepest decline, and Central Europe the highest 2021 rate. China, India and the United States had the largest national DALY totals; the 45-49 age group carried the heaviest burden. Forecasts indicate continued growth in absolute DALYs alongside declining age-standardized rates through 2050.ConclusionAbsolute occupational LBP burden among men aged 20-54 increased despite falling ASDRs. SHAP-guided forecasts support prioritizing ergonomic interventions in high-burden settings and the 45-49 age cohort.

PMID:42125822 | DOI:10.1177/10538127261448975

Anat Sci Educ. 2026 May 13. doi: 10.1002/ase.70229. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Pathologists’ assistants (PAs) are pivotal in healthcare, conducting autopsies and examining tissues under a pathologist’s guidance. Embryology knowledge is crucial for PAs to accurately assess anomalies and identify pathologies. Yet, it is often overlooked in academic PA training programs. Given the cognitive demands on students and limited curricular time, integrating embryology requires the identification of vocationally relevant topics. This study sought to determine essential embryology learning objectives (LOs) for PAs by consulting practicing PAs and pathologists. Beginning with an initial list of 85 LOs across 16 embryology content themes, practicing PAs and pathologists rated how essential each LO is to professional practice via an online survey. The Lawshe content validity method quantified consensus, with results stratified by stakeholder group characteristics. The survey, distributed via various networks, had 115 respondents (PAs = 102) from across Canada (61% from Ontario), with diverse academic backgrounds. Fifteen LOs were identified as statistically essential, covering numerous embryology content themes including terminology, neurulation, placenta/fetal membranes, and cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, and urinary systems. PAs expected more of themselves compared to pathologists (LOs = 14 vs LOs = 6), with additional discrepancies among PA service cohorts and those with differing years of experience and types of training. This research has, for the first time, identified the essential embryology learning objectives specific to the PA profession, revealing differences in knowledge expectations among relevant professional stakeholders. The final list of 15 essential learning objectives can be immediately leveraged to design streamlined embryology curricula that meet vocational relevance across PA training programs.

PMID:42125813 | DOI:10.1002/ase.70229

Technol Cancer Res Treat. 2026 Jan-Dec;25:15330338251408546. doi: 10.1177/15330338251408546. Epub 2026 May 13.

ABSTRACT

BackgroundSirtuin-3 (SIRT3) regulates the production of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). This study aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in oral lesion development by exploring the relationship between SIRT3 expression, gutka consumption, and oral disease progression, with the objective of identifying potential biomarkers for early detection and risk assessment.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among individuals who regularly underwent oral health check-ups, excluding patients with premalignant and oral cancers from the study. Participants were categorized into three groups: Case 1 (gutka and alcohol consumers), Case 2 (gutka consumers without alcohol), and Control (non-consumers). Unstimulated saliva samples were collected and analysed using ELISA to measure SIRT3 levels. Statistical comparisons were performed using ANOVA followed by post hoc Tukey testsResultsThe mean SIRT3 levels were 7.57 ± 3.23 ng/mL (Case 1), 8.17 ± 2.87 ng/mL (Case 2), and 9.9 ± 2.78 ng/mL (control). The differences between the groups were statistically significant (p = .036), with the greatest difference observed between the case 1 group and the control group.ConclusionSIRT3 levels were lowest in individuals who consumed gutka and alcohol and were significantly lower than those in the control group. These findings suggest a potential negative impact of gutka and alcohol consumption on SIRT3 levels.

PMID:42125806 | DOI:10.1177/15330338251408546

Drug Chem Toxicol. 2026 May 13:1-9. doi: 10.1080/01480545.2026.2669776. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Heavy metals are associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), interfering with neurodevelopment. This study assessed differences in urinary heavy metal concentrations and environmental risk factors between children with ASD and neurotypical controls. A hospital-based case-control study, including 25 ASD patients and 25 age- and sex-matched neurotypical controls aged 5-14 years at the Psychiatry Clinic of Cairo University’s Kasr Al Ainy Hospital, was conducted between September and December 2024. ASD was diagnosed according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria, and symptom severity was evaluated using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale, Second Edition. Morning urine samples were collected and analyzed for lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), and copper (Cu) via inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy with concentrations standardized to creatinine levels. Guardians completed a questionnaire addressing sociodemographic characteristics and environmental, prenatal, and postnatal exposures. Children with ASD had significantly higher rates of prenatal complications (p = 0.0002) and postnatal complications (p < 0.0001), as did those with prenatal pesticide exposure (p = 0.0006). Aluminum pan usage was more common among children with ASD (p < 0.0001). The urinary levels of As (p = 0.011) and Hg (p = 0.021) were significantly higher in the ASD group, whereas those of Pb and Cu were not significantly different (p > 0.05). Secondhand smoke exposure was the strongest predictor of ASD status (OR = 10.79, p = 0.034). Arsenic and mercury exposure, together with environmental risk factors, may contribute to ASD pathogenesis and highlight the importance of environmental risk assessment in pediatric populations.

PMID:42125782 | DOI:10.1080/01480545.2026.2669776

Biomed Rep. 2026 Apr 27;24(6):77. doi: 10.3892/br.2026.2150. eCollection 2026 Jun.

ABSTRACT

Coronavirus (CoV) disease 2019 (COVID-19) deteriorates existing hepatopathies, such as liver cirrhosis and metabolic-associated syndrome liver disease (MASLD), which in turn increases the risk of serious complications. The pathophysiology of COVID-19 includes inflammation, proinflammatory cytokine storms, oxidative stress and fibrosis. Notably, pentoxifylline (PTX) blocks nuclear factor-κB activity, thus inhibiting the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, and is an antioxidant and antifibrotic agent. The present study reported on the use of PTX in 20 patients with liver cirrhosis (13 men, 7 women) of different etiologies and in 25 patients with MASLD (16 women, 9 men) infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome-CoV-2; age range of all patients, 29-83 years. Firstly, the detection of CoV-2 was confirmed by PCR. All patients received PTX (400 mg twice daily; per os) for 8 weeks, alongside standard care provided for COVID-19 symptoms and for their liver condition. In all patients, the following inflammatory markers were assessed at the beginning and at the end of the study: C-reactive protein, D-dimer, ferritin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), platelet count and oxygen saturation. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. At the end of the study, no patient required admission to the intensive care unit and no patient fatalities were noted. Notable improvement was noted in seven of the eight inflammatory markers in both liver pathologies, and the only sole parameter that worsened was LDH. Notably, no serious adverse events were observed in these patients. In conclusion, PTX treatment was associated with favorable clinical outcomes and improved inflammatory marker levels in patients with liver cirrhosis and MASLD with COVID-19.

PMID:42125764 | PMC:PMC13158840 | DOI:10.3892/br.2026.2150

Biomed Rep. 2026 Apr 17;24(6):73. doi: 10.3892/br.2026.2146. eCollection 2026 Jun.

ABSTRACT

Sedation is a critical component of modern anesthesia and procedural medicine, particularly outside the operating room. Dexmedetomidine and remimazolam have emerged as prominent sedatives due to their unique pharmacological profiles. However, the comparative efficacy and safety of these agents remain incompletely understood, especially regarding recovery times and adverse events. In the present study, a systematic review and meta-analysis as performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library and Scopus from inception until March 2025. The eligible studies compared the sedation efficacy, safety and recovery time of the dexmedetomidine group with the remimazolam group. Data extraction was independently conducted by two reviewers using a standardized data collection form. The methodological quality of observational studies was assessed using the Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Studies-of Interventions (ROBINS-I) tool, while randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 (RoB 2.0) tool. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models, and heterogeneity was evaluated through prediction interval analysis and sensitivity testing. A total of 9 studies were included, 4 of which were RCTs and judged to have low risk of bias across all domains. The remaining 5 observational studies, with most rated as having moderate risk of bias and 1 study rated as serious due to confounding and outcome measurement concerns. The forest plot analysis revealed that there was no statistically significant difference in the sedation efficacy between the dexmedetomidine group and the remimazolam group [standardized mean difference (SMD), 0.049; 95% confidence interval (CI), -0.101 to 0.198; P=0.523]. However, the remimazolam group consistently demonstrated significantly shorter full alertness times compared with the exmedetomidine group (SMDs ranging from -0.511 to -1.852, all P<0.001). There was no significant difference in the overall risk of adverse events between the two groups [odds ratio (OR), 1.509; 95% CI, 0.246-9.153; P=0.654]; however, the subgroup analysis showed that the risk of arrhythmia in the dexmedetomidine group was significantly higher than that in the remimazolam group (OR, 2.152; 95% CI, 1.158-3.999; P=0.015). In conclusion, both dexmedetomidine and remimazolam achieved similar sedation success rates, indicating no significant difference in procedural efficacy. However, remimazolam was associated with significantly faster recovery times and a lower risk of arrhythmia, making it particularly attractive for short-duration or outpatient procedures where rapid emergence and hemodynamic stability are prioritized.

PMID:42125761 | PMC:PMC13159053 | DOI:10.3892/br.2026.2146

Laryngoscope Investig Otolaryngol. 2026 May 11;11:e70434. doi: 10.1002/lio2.70434. eCollection 2026 Jun.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) and transoral videolaryngoscopic surgery (TOVS) have been increasingly adopted for the treatment of head and neck tumors. However, their effectiveness and the differences in their effects on postoperative quality of life (QOL) have not been established. We aimed to evaluate and compare the postoperative QOL of patients who underwent TORS and TOVS.

METHODS: This study included 103 patients with head and neck tumors treated with TOVS (83 patients) and TORS (20 patients) between 2016 and 2024. QOL was assessed preoperatively and 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months postoperatively using QOL questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-H&N35).

RESULTS: Pain and mouth opening limitation were significantly worse at 1 month postoperatively than preoperatively for the TOVS and TORS groups. However, when comparing both groups, no statistically significant difference was observed in postoperative QOL symptom scores, including pain and mouth opening limitation. Multivariate analysis revealed that pain was associated with neck dissection, and mouth opening limitation was associated with neck dissection and oropharyngeal cancer.

CONCLUSION: Postoperative QOL after TORS and TOVS was associated with pain and mouth opening limitation. However, no statistically significant difference in postoperative QOL was observed between TOVS and TORS.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 3.

PMID:42125760 | PMC:PMC13160656 | DOI:10.1002/lio2.70434