Tag: statistics

J Periodontal Implant Sci. 2025 Jun;55(3):180-190. doi: 10.5051/jpis.2400820041.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Hormonal fluctuations, primarily in progesterone and estrogen during the menstrual cycle, may influence periodontal tissues, with inflammatory cytokines playing a crucial role. Therefore, our primary objective was to assess clinical periodontal parameters and measure levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) throughout the menstrual cycle.

METHODS: This longitudinal prospective study was conducted from February to April 2022 and included 50 participants. We assessed clinical periodontal parameters-plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), pocket depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), and tooth mobility-at three stages of the menstrual cycle: menstruation day, ovulation day, and premenstrual day. Additionally, GCF samples were collected using paper points. These samples were then stored and analyzed for levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays.

RESULTS: There were 25 participants in our study. The GI, PD, and CAL increased significantly during the menstrual cycle and were significantly higher during the premenstrual phase than in the ovulation phase (P<0.05). The levels of GCF IL-1β (P=0.012), IL-6 (P=0.002), and TNF-α (P=0.015) showed statistically significant throughout the menstrual cycle compared to baseline which was the menstrual (follicular) phase. Furthermore, the GCF levels of IL-1β and IL-6 reached their peak during the luteal or premenstrual phase, whereas TNF-α peaked during the ovulation phase. The increase in biological markers was more pronounced between the menstruation phases than the clinical periodontal markers.

CONCLUSIONS: All clinical periodontal parameters, except for the PI, showed a slight increase from the follicular phase to the luteal phase, with significant differences observed between each phase. The levels of GCF IL-1β (P=0.012), IL-6 (P=0.002), and TNF-α (P=0.015) were statistically significant, with increases in IL-1β and IL-6 throughout the menstrual cycle, peaking in the luteal phase. This demonstrates the influence of the menstrual cycle on clinical periodontal and GCF inflammatory markers.

PMID:40618197 | DOI:10.5051/jpis.2400820041

Biophys J. 2025 Jul 4:S0006-3495(25)00417-5. doi: 10.1016/j.bpj.2025.06.040. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The coronavirus main protease (MPro) plays a pivotal role in viral replication and is the target of several antivirals against SARS-CoV-2. In some species, CRCs of MPro enzymatic activity can exhibit biphasic behavior in which low ligand concentrations activate the enzyme whereas higher ones inhibit it. While this behavior has been attributed to ligand-induced dimerization, quantitative enzyme kinetics models have not been fit to it. Here, we develop a kinetic model integrating dimerization and ligand binding. We perform a Bayesian regression to globally fit the model to multiple types of biochemical and biophysical data. The reversible covalent inhibitor GC376 strongly induces dimerization and binds to the dimer with no cooperativity. In contrast, the fluorescent peptide substrate has a minor effect on dimerization but binds to the dimer with positive cooperativity. The biphasic concentration response curve occurs because compared to substrate, the inhibitor accelerates turnover in the opposite catalytic site.

PMID:40618193 | DOI:10.1016/j.bpj.2025.06.040

BMC Womens Health. 2025 Jul 5;25(1):333. doi: 10.1186/s12905-025-03890-1.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Our aim was to compare preoperative and postoperative hematological inflammatory parameters in women with endometriosis.

METHODS: Data were collected from 411 patients who underwent laparoscopy surgery between January 2018 and December 2023. Postoperatively, the pathology reports indicated ovarian endometrioma in 201 patients (48.9%) and other benign ovarian cysts in 210 patients (51.1%). Subgroups were categorized as stage 1-2 endometriosis (n = 26, 6.3%), stage 3-4 endometriosis (n = 175, 42.6%) and benign ovarian cysts (n = 210, 51.1%). Hematological inflammatory markers and ultrasound findings were evaluated one week before the operation and six weeks after the operation and compared between groups. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS version 26.0 Not normally distributed parameters were analyzed with the Kruskal Wallis, post hoc and Mann-Whitney U tests. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to determine changes before and after treatment. Chi-square test and Fisher precision test were used in the analysis of categorical data. Receiver operating characteristic analysis was performed to calculate the area under the curve, which indicates the average sensitivity of variables and its 95% confidence interval are reported for each assessed parameter. The appropriate cut-off value indicating the sum of the highest sensitivity and specificity was calculated for the most predictive variable. The p value considered statistically significant was < 0.05.

RESULTS: When comparing the postoperative and preoperative parameters of the main groups, it was determined that the NLR, MLR, and PLR values of both groups increased in the postoperative period, whereas the CA-125 value decreased. In a similar comparison within the subgroups, it was determined that NLR and PLR increased in all three groups in the postoperative period. MLR was found to increase in the stage 3-4 endometriosis and benign ovarian cyst groups. CA-125 decreased in the stage 3-4 endometriosis and benign ovarian cyst groups. RDW > 13.5, PLR > 123.4 and CA-125 > 35 were determined as the cut-off value to predict endometriosis.

CONCLUSION: During the follow-ups, we revealed that CA-125 still maintains its effectiveness. There is a lack of existing literature that directly compares hematological inflammatory parameters before and after treatment for endometriosis.

PMID:40618158 | DOI:10.1186/s12905-025-03890-1

Parasit Vectors. 2025 Jul 5;18(1):261. doi: 10.1186/s13071-025-06885-x.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Sicilian virus (SFSV), a phlebovirus transmitted by sand flies, is an understudied arbovirus in the Mediterranean region, with limited data on its epidemiology and human health impact. This study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of SFSV among blood donors in mainland Portugal and explore associations with sociodemographic factors and exposure to other sand-fly-borne pathogens.

METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted using serum samples from 800 blood donors collected between February and June 2022. The study sample was selected from a previously established cohort designed for Leishmania seroprevalence assessment. The microneutralization technique was employed to detect anti-SFSV antibodies. Sociodemographic data were obtained from self-administered questionnaires. Associations between SFSV seropositivity and Toscana virus (TOSV)/Leishmania seropositivity or sociodemographic variables were explored using univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS: Overall, the estimated national true seroprevalence of SFSV was 4.7% (95% CI 3.4-6.3%). Regional seroprevalence varied significantly, with the highest rates (up to 11.9%) observed in the Algarve, Alentejo, and Grande Lisboa regions, respectively. In univariate analysis, SFSV seropositivity was not significantly associated with sex, age, dog ownership, or positive serology for TOSV or Leishmania. In multivariate analysis, geographic area of residence was the only independent factor associated with seropositivity (adjusted odds ratio 3.05; 95% CI 1.85-5.02; p < 0.001).

DISCUSSION: TThis study represents the first nationwide SFSV seroprevalence estimate in Portugal, revealing wider circulation than previously recognized. The lack of association with TOSV or Leishmania seropositivity could suggest the involvement of distinct vector species.

CONCLUSIONS: Given the observed geographic clustering, SFSV should be considered in the differential diagnosis of undifferentiated febrile syndromes, particularly in endemic regions during peak sand fly activity. Further research is needed to identify specific vectors, improve diagnostic capabilities, and assess the clinical impact of SFSV infections in Portugal.

PMID:40618143 | DOI:10.1186/s13071-025-06885-x

Crit Care. 2025 Jul 5;29(1):281. doi: 10.1186/s13054-025-05527-z.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Candidemia is a life-threatening fungal infection in intensive care unit (ICU) patients that can be complicated by secondary localization (SL). However, the prevalence, risk-factors, and outcomes of patients with secondary localization during candidemia remain poorly explored.

METHODS: The CandidICU study was a retrospective multicenter cohort study conducted in 16 French ICUs. All adult patients hospitalized from 01-2015 to 01-2023 for candidemia were enrolled. We assessed the prevalence and risk-factors for SL. In addition, we explored the clinical course according to the screening and occurrence of SL.

RESULTS: Among 492 patients hospitalized in ICU with at least one positive blood culture for Candida sp., 376 were screened for SL (76.4%). At least one SL was diagnosed in 82 patients (21.8%). Competing risk analysis identified the SAPSII score and the duration of positive blood cultures as independent risk factors for SL (sdHR 1.01 [95%CI 1.00-1.02]; p = 0.031 and sdHR 1.05 [95%CI 1.02-1.08]; p = 0.003, respectively). Age and Candida glabrata infection were protective factors against SL (sdHR 0.98 [95%CI 0.97-1.00]; p = 0.016 and sdHR 0.38 [95%CI 0.15-0.99]; p = 0.048, respectively). Finally, patients with SL received longer antifungal treatment (18 [11-30] versus 14 [6-18] days; p < 0.001) and had a higher rate of antifungal escalation (27.8% versus 12.3%; p = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS: In this cohort, 76·4% of ICU patients with candidemia were screened for SL and at least one SL was diagnosed in 21·8%. The severity at ICU admission and duration of positive blood cultures were identified as independent risk factors for SL, whereas age and Candida glabrata infection were protective. Finally, the screening and occurrence of SL were associated with significant changes in the management of patients.

PMID:40618139 | DOI:10.1186/s13054-025-05527-z

BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2025 Jul 5;26(1):658. doi: 10.1186/s12891-025-08909-0.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: To evaluate the clinical outcomes of the proximal lateral-entry pinning technique in the treatment of supracondylar humeral fractures and to explore its performance in terms of intraoperative nerve protection.

METHODS: This retrospective analysis involved data from pediatric patients with supracondylar humeral fractures who were admitted to the Department of Pediatric Surgery at Binzhou Medical University Hospital between September 2017 and November 2023. A total of 342 patients were included and divided into two groups: Group P (proximal lateral-entry pinning) and Group C (conventional lateral condyle pinning). All patients were followed up for at least 6 months postoperatively. Baseline characteristics, the interval from injury to surgery, the operative time, the fracture healing status, and the timing of Kirschner wire removal were recorded. Elbow function was assessed using Flynn’s functional and cosmetic criteria. Statistical comparisons were conducted using the Mann-Whitney U test, independent samples t-test, chi-square test, or Fisher’s exact test, as appropriate. Complications such as loss of reduction, elbow deformity, vascular injury, iatrogenic nerve injury, and pin-tract infection were also documented.

RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in sex, body weight, age at injury, fracture laterality, anesthesia type, or waiting time from injury to surgery between the two groups (P > 0.05). Additionally, the operative time and timing of Kirschner wire removal did not differ significantly between the groups (P > 0.05). At the final follow-up, the proportion of patients with excellent/good elbow function in Group P was 99.42%, which was significantly greater than the proportion of 94.64% observed in Group C (P < 0.05). No radial or ulnar nerve injuries were reported in either group. Three cases of pin-tract infection occurred in Group P, and seven cases occurred in Group C (P > 0.05). Loss of reduction occurred in three cases in Group P and11 in Group C (P > 0.05). No incidences of elbow deformity or iatrogenic vascular injury were noted.

CONCLUSION: The proximal lateral-entry pinning technique yields favorable fracture outcomes and does not increase the risk of radial or ulnar nerve injury when it is performed meticulously. This approach is therefore recommended as a viable surgical technique for treating supracondylar humeral fractures in children.

PMID:40618131 | DOI:10.1186/s12891-025-08909-0

BMC Public Health. 2025 Jul 5;25(1):2394. doi: 10.1186/s12889-025-23339-2.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Workplace bullying occurs in various professions worldwide and significantly impacts employees and organizations. Researchers have reported that workplace bullying may be associated with an increased intention to leave one’s job. However, the conclusions regarding this relationship remain inconsistent.

METHODS: We searched the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, PsycInfo, and ProQuest databases from inception to September 20, 2024. Two authors independently screened the studies, assessed the quality of the included studies, and extracted data. Any disagreements were resolved through discussion with a third author. A meta-analysis was performed to combine the regression coefficient (B) or odds ratios (ORs) with their confidence intervals. The I² statistic was used to quantitatively evaluate the degree of heterogeneity. Stata version 18.0 was used to conduct the meta-analysis, sensitivity analysis, and evaluation of publication bias risk.

RESULTS: This systematic review and meta-analysis included 27 studies, including 3 prospective and 24 cross-sectional studies. In the cross-sectional studies, as combined effect sizes, the B and OR values revealed a significant association between the experience of workplace bullying and an increased intention to leave (B = 0.25, 95% CI [0.19, 0.31]) (OR = 1.30, 95% CI [1.17, 1.44]). The prospective studies indicated that experiencing workplace bullying is associated with increased turnover intentions over time (B = 0.09, 95% CI [0.01, 0.17]).

CONCLUSION: Experiencing workplace bullying is positively correlated with employees’ increased intentions to leave. This result suggests that to reduce employee turnover in organizations, it is crucial to focus on and prevent workplace bullying.

PMID:40618127 | DOI:10.1186/s12889-025-23339-2

BMC Womens Health. 2025 Jul 5;25(1):328. doi: 10.1186/s12905-025-03886-x.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Green space exposure has been demonstrated to influence human physical and psychosocial health. We explored the relationship between self-reported green space exposure and maternal perceived stress, anxiety and depression.

METHODS: We interviewed 420 mothers using a hospital-based cross-sectional study design. We assessed maternal stress, anxiety and depression levels. Maternal self-reported green space exposure characteristics were identified using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Multiple regression was used to identify the nature of relationships.

RESULTS: Higher perceived stress, anxiety, and depression were observed in 58.1%, 42.5%, and 58.9% of respondents, respectively. Perceived stress was significantly associated with maternal utilization of green spaces for leisure activities and physical exercise (β = -0.118, 95% CI [-0.118, 0.025]). Mothers’ belief that spending time in green spaces positively impacts one’s overall well-being was significantly associated with maternal anxiety (β = 0.117, 95% CI [0.049, 0.491]) and depression (β = 0.164, 95% CI [0.205, 0.769]).

CONCLUSIONS: Our study findings suggest that green space exposure has the potential to attenuate stress, anxiety and depression among mothers. Policies relating to the establishment of green spaces and the maternal utilization of green spaces should be encouraged. Further studies should explore maternal health green space relationships using objective green space measurement.

PMID:40618119 | DOI:10.1186/s12905-025-03886-x

BMC Vet Res. 2025 Jul 5;21(1):442. doi: 10.1186/s12917-025-04882-x.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Nepal relies on an agrarian-based economy, with the livestock sector contributing significantly to the national GDP. However, diseases like leptospirosis negatively impact cattle production and pose significant zoonotic risks. This study represents the first attempt to evaluate the risk factors of leptospirosis in cattle in Nepal. A cross-sectional study was conducted from March 2019 to April 2020 in 14 administrative units of the Rupandehi district. A total of 367 blood samples were collected from 206 cattle farms using a proportionate sampling procedure. An indirect ELISA was used to detect specific antibodies in serum samples against Leptospira interrogans serovar Hardjo. Farm management practices and knowledge of zoonotic diseases were assessed through interviews with animal owners from the 206 cattle farms. Regression analyses were conducted to analyze the herd and farm level risk factors.

RESULTS: The overall farm-level seroprevalence of leptospirosis was 4.85% (95% CI: 2.35-8.75), while the animal-level seroprevalence was 3.81% (95% CI: 2.10-6.30). Using multivariable logistic regression analysis, we found that farms with purchased cattle (farms that regularly introduce cattle from other farms) had a borderline significant increase in odds of leptospirosis (OR: 7.25, 95% CI: 0.88-59.46, p = 0.065) compared to farms that only keep home-bred cattle. Additionally, larger farms (> 10 animals) were significantly associated with increased odds of leptospirosis (OR: 13.34, 95% CI: 1.64-108.42, p = 0.015) compared to smaller farms (≤ 10 animals). At the animal level, no statistically significant difference was observed in the multivariable mixed-effects logistic regression model, which included farm as a random effect.

CONCLUSION: The detection of farms with positive serum samples highlights the persistent threat of leptospirosis to cattle production and its occupational hazards within Nepal’s dairy sector. Farm-level risk factors, such farms with purchased cattle and larger farm sizes, emphasize the need for targeted control measures. Given the zoonotic nature of the disease and its ecological complexity involving multiple hosts, a One Health approach is essential. Collaborative efforts among stakeholders are needed to develop evidence-based policies, strengthen health system preparedness, and implement practical interventions that reduce transmission risks and the overall disease burden in both human and animal populations across the country.

PMID:40618117 | DOI:10.1186/s12917-025-04882-x

World J Emerg Surg. 2025 Jul 5;20(1):59. doi: 10.1186/s13017-025-00633-3.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Qatar is one of six neighboring countries in the Gulf Cooperation Council region that form a political and economic alliance to foster multilateral cooperation. Given the shared challenges in trauma care, there is a need for a collaborative network to develop region-specific injury prevention strategies. For example, this study examines the clinical patterns and predictors of hospital mortality among trauma patients in Qatar.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis of trauma-related deaths (2010-2023) was conducted. Patients were stratified into early hospital mortality (EHM, ≤ 48 h) and late hospital mortality (LHM, > 48 h) groups. Further analyses examined in-hospital mortality (24 h, 24-48 h, 3-7 days, and > 7 days), age groups, injury mechanisms, and severity. A multivariable regression analysis identified predictors of early mortality.

RESULTS: Among 2,452 trauma-related deaths, 59% occurred in pre-hospital, while 41% occurred in-hospital. Compared to LHM (47%), EHM (53%) was associated with a younger age (35 vs. 39 years; p = 0.002), higher systolic blood pressure (0.82 vs. 0.67; p = 0.002), and diastolic blood pressure (2.03 vs. 1.75; p = 0.001). Motor vehicle crash (MVC) was the leading cause of death (35.3%), with vulnerable road users (VRU) the commonest in EHM (p = 0.004) and falls in LHM (p = 0.004). LHM was associated with a higher injury severity score (p = 0.001). On-admission systolic shock index independently predicted EHM (OR 2.23; 95% CI 1.09-4.52), while head (OR 7.14; 95% CI 2.44-20.00) and pelvic injuries (OR 3.70; 95% CI 1.19-11.11) and sepsis (OR 6.25; 95% CI 1.22-33.33) predicted LHM. In-hospital deaths exhibited a bimodal distribution, with peaks at 24 h (15%) and between the third and seventh days (10%). EHM showed an upward trend over the years (R² = 0.312), while LHM remained stable. Trauma-related mortality rates declined from 10.4 to 5.0 per 100,000 population (2011 and 2017) before rising to 9.7 by 2022. Pre-hospital deaths followed a similar pattern to the overall mortality, while the in-hospital rates remained steady. VRU-related injuries persisted at a high level, accounting for 26-43% of cases throughout the study period.

CONCLUSION: This study highlights distinct trauma-related mortality patterns, with EHM linked to hemorrhage and shock, while LHM is associated with severe head injuries and sepsis. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to optimize bleeding control and address predictors such as shock indices for EHM and head injuries for LHM.

PMID:40618106 | DOI:10.1186/s13017-025-00633-3