Tag: statistics

Med Vet Entomol. 2026 Apr 16. doi: 10.1111/mve.70073. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Blow flies represent one of the most forensically significant insects in legal investigations. Their habitat-specific abundance and temperature-dependent development rates can help estimate a post-mortem interval (PMI), cause of death and post-mortem movement of a deceased body. As the role of forensic entomology expands in human and wildlife criminal investigations, there is a need for updated regional surveys for blow fly species. All recent and previous blow fly surveys in Arizona have been limited to the southern and central ecoregions. The objective of this study was to identify blow fly species between two contrasting habitats in northwestern Arizona-the Black Mountains (Mojave Desert) and the Hualapai Mountains (Arizona/New Mexico Mountains). This research aimed to assess the impacts of food source (game meat (javelina; Tayassu tajacu) compared to chicken (Gallus domesticus) liver), seasonality and elevation on blow fly biodiversity. Each habitat had three site locations at different elevational gradients (low, middle, high) with four bait traps deployed at each site (two of each bait type). This study found a significant difference in the biodiversity of blow flies between and within each habitat seasonally, as well as elevational variation within each habitat. Bait-preference also was statistically significant for overall abundance, and two indicator species for each bait type were identified. Additionally, this research presents the northernmost recorded presence of Chrysomya rufifacies in Arizona, as well as the first records of Cynomya cadaverina and Calliphora alaskensis in the state. The data collected establishes an important baseline for these understudied regions of Arizona and facilitates a wider use of blow flies in forensic investigations for rural areas of Mohave County, AZ.

PMID:41989004 | DOI:10.1111/mve.70073

Glob Health Action. 2026 Dec;19(1):2627679. doi: 10.1080/16549716.2026.2627679. Epub 2026 Apr 16.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Community health workers (CHWs) play a vital role in spreading health-related information in low-and middle-income countries. Assessing their knowledge is crucial to combat health misinformation.

OBJECTIVE: To identify locally relevant COVID-19 and mental health-related information commonly held by CHWs and the misconceptions most prevalent in their communities in Haiti, Malawi, and Rwanda.

METHODS: A card-sorting activity was conducted with 39 CHWs from rural communities in Haiti (n = 13), Malawi (n = 12), and Rwanda (n = 14), between February and April 2023. The activity involved free sorting, true/false sorting, and card ranking to assess CHWs’ knowledge, beliefs, and misconceptions surrounding COVID-19 and mental health.

RESULTS: CHWs primarily categorized cards based on perceived truths, reflecting knowledge from trainings, media, and community beliefs. Overall, CHWs correctly identified 59% of true COVID-19 statements and 73% of false statements, with no statistical differences in COVID-19 knowledge rates among countries [correctly sorted as true: p = 0.421; correctly sorted as false: p = 0.128]. However, specific COVID-19 misconceptions varied across countries, such as beliefs about vaccine effectiveness and side effects. Mental health knowledge varied substantially across countries, with Haitian CHWs demonstrating the highest expertise in correctly identifying false mental health information [Haiti: median 86.0%; Malawi: median 21.0%; Rwanda: median 79.0%; p < 0.001)]. Significant misunderstandings about mental health causes and treatments were influenced by religious and spiritual beliefs.

CONCLUSION: CHWs have substantial gaps in information about COVID-19 and mental health. Knowledge of areas of misinformation can differ between countries. Constructing country-specific educational messages to address these areas can better inform CHWs and improve health literacy.

PMID:41988959 | DOI:10.1080/16549716.2026.2627679

Cancer. 2026 Apr 15;132(8):e70409. doi: 10.1002/cncr.70409.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: There is limited information about care experiences and health outcomes among transgender, gender-nonconforming, and nonbinary (TGNCNB) individuals with cancer. This study quantifies experienced health care discrimination among TGNCNB individuals living with cancer and its impact on their health.

METHODS: This cross-sectional analysis used data from the All of Us Research Program on individuals with cancer. The authors performed propensity score matching (1:5) to balance TGNCNB and cisgender individuals by sociodemographic factors and cancer site. Health care discrimination and health were assessed using the Discrimination in Medical Settings Scale and the Overall Health survey. They used multivariable logistic regression models to adjust for sociodemographic characteristics.

RESULTS: The cohort included 1476 participants, of which 246 (17%) identified as TGNCNB. TGNCNB participants had greater odds of reporting feeling unheard by providers (odds ratio [OR], 2.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.79-3.17), treated with less respect (OR, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.91-3.57), receiving poorer service (OR, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.73-3.31), and providers acting afraid (OR, 2.32; 95% CI, 1.37-3.93) compared to their cisgender counterparts. In adjusted models, TGNCNB identity was associated with increased odds of experiencing any health care discrimination (OR, 2.42; 95% CI, 1.81-3.25), and discrimination was associated with self-reported poor health (OR, 3.24; 95% CI, 2.58-4.07).

DISCUSSION: The findings of this study suggest that in the TGNCNB population, increased rates of health care discrimination are associated with poorer health outcomes, which may perpetuate medical mistrust and decrease patient-centric quality of care overall. Future research and policy efforts should identify actionable interventions to advance equitable cancer care for TGNCNB individuals.

PMID:41988958 | DOI:10.1002/cncr.70409

Health Econ. 2026 Apr 16. doi: 10.1002/hec.70107. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Governments frequently adopt austerity policies when facing economic crises, yet their long-term consequences for population health remain incompletely understood. This paper examines the impact of large-scale fiscal austerity on infant mortality by exploiting the Troika-led economic adjustment program implemented in Greece beginning in 2010 as a quasi-experimental shock. Using the synthetic control method, we construct a counterfactual for Greece based on OECD and Union for the Mediterranean countries that did not experience austerity of comparable depth or duration. Relative to this counterfactual, Greece experienced a sharp and persistent increase in infant mortality following the onset of austerity. The divergence emerges immediately after 2010, remains statistically significant throughout the post-intervention period, and shows little evidence of full reversion prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. The estimated effect corresponds to an average 43 percent increase in the infant mortality rate. Mortality effects are larger for boys than for girls and are concentrated in the neonatal period. Accounting explicitly for the fertility decline, we estimate approximately 854 excess infant deaths cumulatively from 2010 to 2020. Extensive robustness checks support the findings. The results identify the total effect of austerity and highlight the importance of protecting early-life health during fiscal consolidation.

PMID:41988926 | DOI:10.1002/hec.70107

J Mol Endocrinol. 2026 Apr 15:JME-25-0224. doi: 10.1530/JME-25-0224. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

The gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse generator is a critical neural oscillator that governs reproductive function through the pulsatile release of luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). Early electrophysiological studies, notably by Ernst Knobil, identified multiunit activity (MUA) volleys in the mediobasal hypothalamus that aligned with LH pulses, suggesting a neural basis for GnRH pulsatility. Although GnRH neurons exhibit some intrinsic secretory rhythmicity in vitro, their isolated electrophysiological signatures have proven inconsistent. Recent advances, including GCaMP fibre photometry in freely behaving mice, have revealed a precise correlation between episodic GnRH distal processes and LH pulses. However, it is now well established that a neural oscillator comprising hypothalamic kisspeptin neurones co-expressing neurokinin B and dynorphin, collectively termed the KNDy network, represents the core construct of the GnRH pulse generator. Understanding the dynamics of this network and its modulation by external inputs such as stress, metabolic cues, and circadian rhythms is essential. Computational modelling provides a systematic framework for integrating experimental data with mechanistic and predictive analyses to decode the GnRH pulse generator dynamics.

PMID:41988873 | DOI:10.1530/JME-25-0224

Water Environ Res. 2026 Apr;98(4):e70386. doi: 10.1002/wer.70386.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Harmful algal blooms (HABs) pose a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems worldwide, with freshwater environments being particularly vulnerable. Among the primary contributors to these blooms is Microcystis aeruginosa, a cyanobacterium known for producing toxins that are harmful to both human health and aquatic life. Given its toxic nature and ecological impact, understanding the factors that influence its growth is crucial. Since M. aeruginosa naturally inhabits sunlit surface waters, it is especially vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation stress, making this an ecologically and practically relevant area of study. Investigating the effects of UV radiation on M. aeruginosa growth can provide valuable insights into bloom dynamics, ecological consequences, and potential strategies for bloom management and control.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to examine the effects of UV radiation on the growth dynamics of both toxic and nontoxic strains of M. aeruginosa, specifically PCC 7806 and PCC 7005.

METHODS: M. aeruginosa cultures PCC 7806 and PCC 7005 were exposed to varying levels of UV radiation (80, 60, and 20 mW/cm²). Key parameters such as growth rates, cell concentrations, and the relative UV effects were monitored. Cell counts were determined microscopically and subsequently used to calculate the growth rate.

RESULTS: UV radiation was found to exert a significant influence on the proliferation of both strains of M. aeruginosa, inducing discernible alterations in growth patterns and physiological mechanisms as compared to the control group. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated a significant effect of treatment intensity, with an F statistic of 13.71, p < 0.0001, and an R² value of 0.5950. Pairwise comparisons revealed that the mean difference for the 80 mW/cm² treatment was -4.458 (95% CI: -8.937 to -0.02000, p = 0.0514). Overall, the findings indicate that UV treatment intensity significantly influences growth, with the most pronounced effects observed at 80 mW/cm².

CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that the growth of both M. aeruginosa strains, PCC 7806 and PCC 7005, is reduced under high UV radiation during algal blooms. A reduction in dense Microcystis blooms as a result of increased UV exposure could enhance light penetration in water bodies. These findings provide valuable insights for water resource management teams, enabling them to develop strategies to mitigate the public health risks associated with HABs.

PMID:41988826 | DOI:10.1002/wer.70386

Front Public Health. 2026 Mar 31;14:1798507. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2026.1798507. eCollection 2026.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Thyroid disorders are common and often under-recognized. Evidence on public thyroid health literacy in Palestine is limited. This study assessed public knowledge of thyroid disorders among adults in the West Bank, Palestine.

METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted from May 1 to August 1, 2025, among adults (≥18 years) residing in the West Bank. Participants with current or prior health-professional training or employment in healthcare were excluded. Non-probability convenience sampling was used through social media distribution (Facebook, WhatsApp, Telegram). Knowledge was assessed using a 17-item multiple-choice instrument covering risk factors (7 items), clinical manifestations (7 items), and preventive behaviors (3 items). Correct responses were scored as 1 and incorrect/”I don’t know” as 0; knowledge levels were categorized as low (<50%), moderate (50-75%), and high (>75%). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and ordinal logistic regression.

RESULTS: A total of 1,119 participants were included (71.3% women, 75.0% university-educated). Mean knowledge score was 8.60/17 (50.6%); 56.7% had low knowledge, 26.3% moderate, and 17.1% high. Risk-factor knowledge was lowest (mean 2.97/7; 42.4%), while prevention-related knowledge was comparatively higher (mean 2.03/3; 67.7%). Notable gaps were observed for medication-related risks (amiodarone 9.7%; lithium 11.0%) and pregnancy/postpartum risk (41.7%). In adjusted analyses, higher knowledge was associated with age >50 years (aOR 1.71), while lower knowledge was associated with male sex (aOR 0.70) and no formal education versus university education (aOR 0.26).

CONCLUSION: Public knowledge of thyroid disorders in the West Bank was generally low, with the most pronounced deficits related to pregnancy and the postpartum period and to medication associated thyroid dysfunction. These findings support targeted, low cost health education integrated into routine primary care, maternal and reproductive health services, and community pharmacy counseling, with future studies needed to evaluate effects on timely care seeking and safer medication practices.

PMID:41988568 | PMC:PMC13076517 | DOI:10.3389/fpubh.2026.1798507

Front Physiol. 2026 Mar 31;17:1754825. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2026.1754825. eCollection 2026.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: With the continuous advancement of sports training methodologies, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and small-sided games (SSG) have emerged as crucial strategies for enhancing players’ physical fitness. However, the comparative effects of these training modalities on various fitness components and their underlying physiological adaptation mechanisms remain insufficiently explored.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to compare the overall impact of HIIT and SSG on players’ physical fitness and examine the moderating effects of different training parameters, including training frequency, intervention duration, players’ training experience, age, and gender. The findings seek to provide theoretical insights for optimising training protocols.

METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and EBSCOhost to identify relevant English-language randomised controlled trials that met predefined eligibility criteria. Hedges’ g was used as the effect size metric, and a random-effects model was applied for meta-analyses of power, speed, endurance, and agility. Subgroup analyses were performed to assess the influence of potential moderators.

RESULTS: The meta-analysis revealed that, compared to SSG, HIIT produced a small but statistically significant improvement in speed (ES = 0.564) and a moderate and statistically significant improvement in endurance (ES = 0.706). In contrast, gains in power (ES = -0.144) and agility (ES = -0.159) were trivial in magnitude and not statistically significant. Subgroup analyses indicated that lower training frequency (<3 sessions per week) and shorter intervention duration (<6 weeks) yielded significant improvements. Furthermore, players across different age groups benefited from HIIT, while sex did not exhibit a significant moderating effect.

CONCLUSION: This systematic review and meta-analysis confirm that both HIIT and SSG effectively enhance players’ physical fitness, with HIIT demonstrating a distinct advantage in improving speed and endurance. Although HIIT showed relatively limited improvements in power and agility compared to SSG, both training modalities exert their effects through distinct physiological adaptation mechanisms. Subgroup analysis findings suggest that appropriately balancing training frequency and intervention duration is crucial for achieving optimal training outcomes. Future research should further investigate the long-term effects of these interventions to provide a more robust theoretical foundation for personalised training program design.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024555633.

PMID:41988503 | PMC:PMC13076140 | DOI:10.3389/fphys.2026.1754825

ACS ES T Water. 2026 Mar 12;6(4):2458-2467. doi: 10.1021/acsestwater.5c01470. eCollection 2026 Apr 10.

ABSTRACT

Evaluating drinking water treatment (DWT) performance requires understanding how dissolved organic matter (DOM) is transformed during treatment and how these transformations drive the formation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs), which remain major concerns in drinking water safety. While current regulations target a limited number of DBP classes, including trihalomethanes (THMs) and haloacetic acids (HAAs), chlorination of DOM produces a much broader pool of largely unregulated DBPs with poorly understood toxicological relevance. In this study, a full-scale conventional drinking water treatment plant was evaluated using an integrated analytical framework combining molecular-level DOM fingerprinting by high-resolution mass spectrometry, targeted DBP quantification by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and adsorbable organic halide measurements. This integrated approach enables the assessment of DOM transformation and DBP formation under realistic treatment conditions. Although approximately 60% of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) was removed, molecular fingerprinting revealed a highly selective DOM removal pattern. Aromatic and condensed aromatic compounds were preferentially eliminated, whereas aliphatic and unsaturated fractions persisted and showed a positive statistical association with DBP formation. These results indicate that bulk DOC removal alone is insufficient to mitigate DBP formation and highlight the need for treatment strategies targeting specific reactive DOM fractions to enhance drinking water safety.

PMID:41988169 | PMC:PMC13078287 | DOI:10.1021/acsestwater.5c01470

Ann Ital Chir. 2026 Apr 10;97(4):694-700. doi: 10.62713/aic.4469.

ABSTRACT

AIM: The optimal uterine suturing technique for repeat caesarean section in women with a scarred uterus remains controversial, and evidence comparing novel techniques, such as the breakwater suture, with conventional methods in terms of comprehensive recovery is limited. The objective of this study is to investigate the combined effects of single-layer suturing, double-layer suturing, and breakwater suture techniques on postoperative recovery in patients with scarred uteri undergoing repeat caesarean section.

METHODS: In this retrospective cohort study, 300 pregnant women with scarred uteri undergoing repeat caesarean section at The Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital of Tong Xiang between January 2022 and December 2024 were included. The sample was divided into three groups based on the type of suture used: single-layer suture group (n = 108), double-layer suture group (n = 103), and breakwater suture group (n = 89). Primary outcomes comprised postoperative recovery time, complications, uterine healing status, psychological state, and sleep quality.

RESULTS: There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics among the three groups (p > 0.05). Regarding postoperative recovery, the breakwater suture group demonstrated significantly shorter time to anal flatus, time to first ambulation, and postoperative hospital stay compared with both the single-layer and the double-layer suture groups (p < 0.05). Postoperative ultrasound revealed significantly greater uterine segment myometrial thickness in the breakwater suture group compared to the other two groups (p < 0.001). At six months postoperatively, the incidence of uterine diverticulum in the breakwater suture group (4.5%) was significantly lower than that in the single-layer suture group (15.7%); the overall difference among the three groups was statistically significant (p = 0.041). Furthermore, patients in the breakwater suture group demonstrated significantly better postoperative outcomes on the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) compared with the other groups (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS: In repeat caesarean sections in women with scarred uteri, the breakwater suture technique comprehensively promotes postoperative recovery and may be recommended as a suturing method.

PMID:41987623 | DOI:10.62713/aic.4469