Tag: statistics

Malar J. 2025 Apr 13;24(1):120. doi: 10.1186/s12936-025-05356-z.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Despite a significant reduction in malaria cases in America, Venezuela has experienced a substantial increase between 2000 and 2019. Asymptomatic malaria, prevalent in both low- and high-endemic regions, poses a challenge due to the absence of clinical manifestations and often low parasitaemia. This study aims to determine the current prevalence of asymptomatic malaria in four rural communities of Sucre, the third most endemic state in the country.

METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2022 (high seasonality period). Individuals were interviewed in their households and assessed for malaria using rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs), thick and thin blood smear microscopy, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Asymptomatic individuals with PCR positive (PCR+) for Plasmodium were classified as cases, while PCR negative individuals were classified as controls. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. The normality of numerical variables was assessed with the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test. Based on this assessment, Student’s t-test was applied to normally distributed variables and Mann-Whitney U-test to non-normally distributed ones. For categorical variables, Pearson’s chi-square test was used when less than 25.0% of cells had an expected frequency below five; otherwise, Fisher’s exact test was employed.

RESULTS: The study involved 351 individuals, mostly women (54.7%), of mixed (non-indigenous) race (61.3%), with primary (6 years) education (40.7%). The most common occupations were students (30.5%), housekeepers (27.6%), and farmers (16.5%). Over half (54.4%) had lived at their current address for over 10 years. The prevalence of asymptomatic malaria by RDTs and microscopy was 0.3% (n = 1/351) as determined. However, PCR detected a higher prevalence of 24.8% (87 positive cases, 95.0% CI = 20.5-29.5), primarily caused by P. vivax (73.6%). The highest prevalences were observed in individuals aged over 15 years (27.1%, 95.0% CI = 21.6-33.1), males (28.3%, 95.0% CI = 21.7-35.6), those with a college (14 years) education (33.3%, 95.0% CI = 17.2-53.2), and educators (41.7%, 95.0% CI = 18-68.8). The rural community with the highest prevalence was Chacopata (30.6%, 95.0% CI = 17.4-46.7), followed by El Paujil (28.6%, 95.0% CI = 21.9-36.1), Yaguaraparo (23.2%, 95.0% CI = 15.1-33.1), and Cristóbal Colón (16.5%, 95.0% CI = 9.6-25.8). Two-thirds (66.7%) reported a malaria history, predominantly caused by P. vivax (70.5%), with a median of 3 previous episodes. At least one-third (35.5%) had non-adherence to treatment during their most recent malarial episode. No statistically significant differences were observed between sociodemographic characteristics and malaria history of individuals with asymptomatic malaria (PCR+) and controls.

CONCLUSION: RDTs and microscopy only managed to diagnose less than 1.0% of asymptomatic malaria cases. Active surveillance systems with high sensitivity such as PCR may provide accurate estimates of asymptomatic malaria prevalence needed for opportune diagnosis and treatment.

PMID:40223077 | DOI:10.1186/s12936-025-05356-z

BMC Med. 2025 Apr 14;23(1):219. doi: 10.1186/s12916-025-04051-9.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Studies investigating the associations of 24-h movement behaviours (including moderate-to-vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA), light-intensity PA (LPA), sedentary time (ST) and sleep) with depressive symptoms are scarce. It is also unclear whether possible associations differ between urban and rural residents. Hence, we aimed to investigate these associations in a population-based sample of middle-aged Finnish adults.

METHODS: The study population consisted of 4295 adults, aged 46 years, from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966. The participants wore a hip-worn accelerometer for 14 days. Time spent in sedentary, LPA and MVPA was obtained from accelerometer data and then combined with self-reported sleep duration to obtain the 24-h composition. The residential environment was classified as urban or rural based on the participants’ home addresses. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Multivariable adjusted regression analysis using a compositional data analysis approach based on isometric log-ratio transformation was used to determine the associations between movement behaviours and depressive symptoms in urban and rural residential environments.

RESULTS: The 24-h movement behaviour composition was significantly associated with the BDI-II score both in urban and rural residential environment. More time spent in sleep relative to other behaviours was associated with lower BDI-II score in rural residential environments. More time spent in ST among urban residents and in LPA among rural residents was associated with higher BDI-II scores. When modelling pairwise reallocations of time, more MVPA or more sleep at the expense of LPA or ST was associated with lower BDI-II score among rural residents. For urban residents, reallocating time from ST to any other behaviour was associated with lower BDI-II score.

CONCLUSIONS: Our findings showed that more relative time spent in MVPA and sleep was associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms among rural residents, and more relative time spent in any other behaviour at the expense of ST was associated with lower levels of depressive symptoms among urban residents. These differences should be considered in the prevention and treatment of depressive symptoms. Due to the cross-sectional design of this study, causality cannot be inferred, and further research exploring the mechanisms underlying these associations in diverse populations and longitudinal study settings are needed.

PMID:40223075 | DOI:10.1186/s12916-025-04051-9

BMC Pediatr. 2025 Apr 14;25(1):290. doi: 10.1186/s12887-025-05586-9.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To retrospectively investigate the utilization patterns and clinical indications of acupuncture within the pediatric population in general hospitals from 2015 to 2020, including disease spectrum characteristics and relevance to pediatric subspecialties.

METHODS: The clinical data of pediatric inpatients consulted by Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina Department of Qilu Hospital of Shandong University was collected from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2020. The data collected include the number of wards in which consultation was requested, the diseases that require consultation, the distribution of pediatric tertiary disciplines and the system of disease affiliation.

RESULTS: This study summarizes 55 types of pediatric diseases treated with acupuncture. The most common health issues addressed include peripheral facial paralysis, diarrhea, reduced limb mobility or decreased muscle strength, postoperative bloating, and Guillain-Barré syndrome. Acupuncture is utilized across all pediatric subdisciplines, with notable applications in neurology, critical care medicine, general surgery, respiratory medicine, and orthopedics. The classification of diseases for acupuncture consultations primarily focuses on disorders of the nervous system, respiratory system, neoplasms, and digestive system (according to ICD-11).

CONCLUSIONS: In summary, acupuncture has a broad range of applications in the treatment of pediatric diseases and can serve as a valuable complementary and alternative therapy. The advancement of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture in general hospitals is closely linked to the involvement of pediatric practices. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for clinical practice, acupuncture education, pediatric healthcare systems, and social research.

PMID:40223074 | DOI:10.1186/s12887-025-05586-9

BMC Oral Health. 2025 Apr 13;25(1):564. doi: 10.1186/s12903-025-05895-6.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Ni-Ti instruments with varying design features may lead to different levels of postoperative pain, which is a significant clinical concern, particularly in previously asymptomatic teeth. Therefore, the purpose of this randomized clinical trial is to compare postoperative pain following instrumentation with TruNatomy versus ProTaper Next Ni-Ti systems in mandibular molars with asymptomatic apical periodontitis.

METHODS: 90 healthy participants were randomly assigned to two groups: TruNatomy (TN) or ProTaper Next (PTN) instruments. After single-visit root canal treatments, participants were asked to rate their postoperative pain levels at 6, 12, 24, 48, and 72 h and seven days later, using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) through an online questionnaire. In cases of pain, 400 mg of ibuprofen was prescribed. Data from 80 participants were finally included in the analysis. Data were analyzed using the Mann-Whitney U, Friedman, and Fisher’s Chi-Square tests (p < 0.05).

RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative pain intensity at 6, 12, 24, and 48 h and seven days between the groups (p > 0.05). At the 72-hour time point, TN group showed statistically higher postoperative pain intensity (p < 0.05). No statistically significant differences in the incidence of postoperative pain were observed at any of the time points (p > 0.05). Analgesic intake and flare-up incidence were not significantly different between the groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Postoperative pain levels were not significantly influenced by the type of rotary Ni-Ti instrument. Both TN and PTN instruments led to low-level and similar postoperative pain intensity, minimal analgesic use, and a low incidence of flare-ups in teeth with asymptomatic apical periodontitis.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT06545773, Registration Date 8 August 2024 (retrospectively registered).

PMID:40223067 | DOI:10.1186/s12903-025-05895-6

BMC Oral Health. 2025 Apr 13;25(1):560. doi: 10.1186/s12903-025-05961-z.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: Mini implant retained overdentures have been treated in edentulous patients with promising long-term results. However, various attachment systems in this process remain insufficiently investigated. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the effects of the ball and other attachments used in mini-implant overdentures. Marginal bone loss, bite force, implant survival rate, prosthetic maintenance, and complications were assessed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases until 25th February 2025. This systematic review aimed to find studies that compare ball attachments with other attachment systems in mini dental implant (MDI) overdentures. The primary outcome was marginal bone loss, while the secondary outcomes were maximum bite force, implant survival rate, prosthetic maintenance, and complications. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for RCTs, and a quantitative meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS: Of the 561 publications, six randomized clinical trials (101 participants, 234 mini-implants) met the inclusion criteria. Risk of bias assessment revealed three studies with a low risk of bias and three studies with some concerns for risk of bias. There was no significant difference in the marginal bone loss between the ball attachments and others (WMD = 0.15, 95% CI -0.50 to 0.81, p = 0.65), though ball attachments performed better than telescopic ones (P < 0.05) in subgroup analysis. No significant difference in bite force was found (WMD = -5.29, 95% CI -33.46 to 22.87, p = 0.71). Two-year survival rates were 90.9% for ball and 97.8% for bar attachments. The ERA^® (Extra-Coronal Resilient Attachment) group required five interventions (sore spot adjustments, relining, nylon replacements), while the ball attachment group required only two (denture repair, nylon cap replacement) over the one-year follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of the study, it can be concluded that ball, bar, and ERA^® attachments yield similar outcomes in marginal bone loss while telescopic attachments show more statistically significant marginal bone loss (p < 0.05). The type of attachment does not significantly affect maximum bite force.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD42024610018.

PMID:40223059 | DOI:10.1186/s12903-025-05961-z

BMC Oral Health. 2025 Apr 13;25(1):563. doi: 10.1186/s12903-025-05955-x.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the influence of guide support on the accuracy of sCAIS using a keyless guiding system in different cases of partial edentulism.

METHODS: Sixty polyamide models of partially edentulous maxillae, simulating anterior and posterior single-tooth gaps as well as anterior and distal extended edentulous areas, were fabricated. Full-arch, 2-teeth, and 4-teeth supported surgical guides were used to place implants at FDI 15, 17, 21, 26 sites in Model A and at FDI 12, 22, 15 sites in Model B. In total, 210 replica implants were placed using 120 surgical guides in seven implantation sites. Three-dimensional crestal and apical, angular and vertical deviations from the planned implant positions were compared using the Kruskal-Wallis H test with Dunn’s procedure for multiple pairwise comparisons.

RESULTS: Overall median 3D crestal and apical deviations of implants placed with 2-teeth guide support (0.62 mm [0.45-0.84], 0.92 mm [0.69-1.25]) and 4-teeth guide support (0.65 mm [0.52-0.81], 1.01 mm [0.8-1.26]) were significalty lower compared to the full-arch support group (0.86 mm [0.63-0.98], 1.26 mm [0.98-1.52]) with values of p < 0.017. Overall angular and vertical deviations of implants placed with 2-teeth guide support (2.61° [1.71-3.75], 0.32 mm [0.15-0.44]) were significantly lower compare to the full-arch support group (3.22° [2.25-4.41], 0.46 mm [0.24-0.62]). In the subgroup analysis, implants placed at the FDI 12, 22, and 15 positions exhibited significantly higher 3D and angular deviations with full-arch guide support, whereas the 3D apical and angular deviations of were significantly lower with 2-teeth guide support at the FDI 21 site.

CONCLUSIONS: The deviations in all guide support groups did not exceed the recommended safety margins. Statistically significant differences were found between guide support groups, with influence of guide support on the accuracy of sCAIS varying across different implantation sites.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: Not applicable.

PMID:40223057 | DOI:10.1186/s12903-025-05955-x

BMC Med. 2025 Apr 14;23(1):214. doi: 10.1186/s12916-025-04028-8.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Public adherence to cancer screening remains low and is influenced by both rational and non-rational factors, including decision biases that underestimate screening benefits. Digital nudge interventions have shown promise in promoting screening behaviors among at-risk populations, but systematic evidence is still lacking. This study aims to synthesize the effects of digital nudge interventions on promoting cancer screening behaviors in high-risk individuals.

METHODS: A systematic search of 10 electronic databases was conducted, and studies published before April 1, 2024, were included. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the effects of digital nudge interventions on cancer screening behavior with those of a control group and reported at least one outcome. The risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool. Data on cancer screening uptake rates were pooled using a random-effects model. Subgroup analyses were performed for cancer types, intervention media, delivery conditions, and sensitivity. The study identified digital nudge strategies via the MINDSPACE framework and explored their influence on screening behavior through the HSM.

RESULTS: Of the 14 randomized controlled trials included, 10 reported statistically significant results. The types of interventions in these studies were heterogeneous and available across multiple delivery channels based on the web, computer programmes, DVDs, telephones, patient navigation, or apps that tailored or served interactive information to participants to better understand screening risks and options. A random-effects model showed that digital nudge intervention strategies significantly improved adherence to cancer screening behavior (OR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.35-2.44, p < 0.001). Differences between cancer types, intervention media, and delivery conditions were noted. Based on the MINDSPACE framework and HSM, eight nudge strategies were designed to promote screening behaviors, with the most common being the default strategy (n = 9). Most nudge tools were designed to leverage unconscious System 1 thinking, aiming to influence behavior in a more spontaneous and subtle way.

CONCLUSIONS: While digital nudge interventions have demonstrated significant positive effects in promoting early cancer screening participation among high-risk individuals, their impact varies. More robust research is needed to address methodological limitations and facilitate broader adoption and application of these interventions.

PMID:40223053 | DOI:10.1186/s12916-025-04028-8

BMC Ophthalmol. 2025 Apr 14;25(1):203. doi: 10.1186/s12886-025-04041-8.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the pupillary dynamics in patients with serum vitamin D (25(OH)-D) levels below normal and compared with healthy controls.

METHODS: This study included 132 patients and 76 healthy controls. Serum 25(OH)-D concentrations within the range of 10 to 30 ng/mL were classified as vitamin D insufficiency (VDI, Group 1), while those at or below 10 ng/mL were categorized as vitamin D deficiency (VDD, Group 2). The static phase of pupillometry, including scotopic, mesopic, and photopic pupil diameters, was evaluated. Additionally, in the dynamic phase of pupillometric evaluation, pupil dilation velocity (mm/sec) was calculated. These values were compared between patient and control groups.

RESULTS: In static pupil diameters, only photopic pupil diameters were significantly different between Groups 1 and 2 compared to the control group (p = 0.012 and p = 0.008, respectively). In dynamic measurements, the pupil diameter values showed a statistically significant difference between the patient and control groups (p = 0.003). In intragroup comparison, the mean pupil diameter was 3.42 ± 0.81 mm in group 1 and 3.94 ± 0.96 mm in group 2 (p = 0.029). Mean pupil dilation velocity was significantly slower in the patient group (p < 0.001). In intragroup comparison, the mean pupil dilation velocity was 0.162 ± 0.049 mm/sec in group 1 and 0.088 ± 0.032 mm/sec in group 2 (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: We demonstrated that VDD alters pupillary functions with objective measurements. Our study may shed light on the role of vitamin D in multisystemic diseases since it is expressed in many tissues and has multiple functions. Multicenter studies with a large number of participants are needed in the future.

PMID:40223050 | DOI:10.1186/s12886-025-04041-8

BMC Oral Health. 2025 Apr 13;25(1):557. doi: 10.1186/s12903-025-05964-w.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Titanium is commonly used for dental implants due to its high biocompatibility and durability. However, concerns about metal ion release and aesthetic limitations in certain tissue biotypes have driven the search for alternative materials. Polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), a high-performance polymer, has emerged as a promising option due to its biomimetic properties. Surface modifications, such as treatment with sulfuric acid (H2SO4), may further enhance its osteogenic potential.

AIM: The study aimed to evaluate the osteogenic efficacy of H2SO4-modified PEKK implants in comparison to titanium implants.

METHODOLOGY: Three groups were assessed: Titanium, unmodified PEKK and H2SO4-modified PEKK(SPEKK). Surface characteristics were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Wettability was checked through contact angle evaluation. Cell viability was evaluated through MTT assays. Implants were placed in rat mandibles, and bone formation was analyzed after 6 weeks using nano-CT and histological assessments. Toxicity was as Statistical comparisons were performed using one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post-hoc test.

RESULTS: Acid-modified PEKK implants exhibited the highest bone formation (280.09 ± 12.03) significantly outperforming Titanium (265.12 ± 11.08) and unmodified PEKK (266.52 ± 7.28) (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS: H2SO4-modified PEKK (SPEKK) implants demonstrated superior osteogenic properties compared to titanium, suggesting that these modified polymers could be viable alternatives for aesthetic implants.

PMID:40223045 | DOI:10.1186/s12903-025-05964-w

J Holist Nurs. 2025 Apr 13:8980101251330394. doi: 10.1177/08980101251330394. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to evaluate if integrating a holistic mindfulness modality into group therapy can decrease violence with-injury on an inpatient psychiatric unit. Design: The research used a mixed experimental design. Method: Allied Therapy Services (ATS) staff was trained in the mindfulness modality Brief Intentional Grounding and implemented it within group therapy twice daily in two different acute psychiatric units. Six months of post-intervention data on workplace violence with-injury incidents was compared to 6-month pre-intervention statistics on workplace violence with-injury. Qualitative data included patient and staff surveys on benefits of the intervention. Findings: The study revealed the use of Brief Intentional Grounding correlated with a significant reduction in workplace violence with-injury in two adult acute inpatient psychiatric units over a 6-month period when compared to the previous six months. The qualitative survey-data showed significant improvement in patients’ emotional regulation, ability to manage stress, interpersonal connectivity, and gratitude after practicing Brief Intentional Grounding. Furthermore, staff reported practicing Brief Intentional Grounding was beneficial and improved their well-being. Conclusions: Integrating Brief Intentional Grounding into group therapy on an acute adult inpatient psychiatric unit improved patients’ ability to regulate their emotions and led to reductions in violence with-injury, providing a safer work environment for nursing staff.

PMID:40221990 | DOI:10.1177/08980101251330394