Tag: statistics

Eur Arch Paediatr Dent. 2025 Aug 15. doi: 10.1007/s40368-025-01094-7. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether defects related to Molar Incisor Hypomineralisation (MIH) and Hypomineralised Second Primary Molar (HSPM), located on working cusps, exhibit greater extent and severity than those on balancing cusps.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 605 children aged 6 to 12 years were evaluated, of whom 110 presented with MIH/HSPM, comprising 268 molars (65 primary and 203 permanent). The molars were divided into two groups based on defect location: G1 (n = 170) with defects on working cusps, and G2 (n = 98) with defects on balancing cusps. Comparative assessments of defect location, extent, and severity were performed using Chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests, with a significance level of 5%.

RESULTS: In the overall sample, including both primary and permanent molars, no statistically significant differences were observed between G1 and G2 regarding extent (p = 0.15) or severity (p = 0.46). However, in primary molars only, significant differences were found for extent (p = 0.008), with greater lesion extension on working cusps, while severity showed no significant difference (p = 0.568).

CONCLUSION: Hypomineralisation-related defects located on working cusps of primary molars exhibited greater extent than those on balancing cusps.

PMID:40815449 | DOI:10.1007/s40368-025-01094-7

Eur J Pediatr. 2025 Aug 15;184(9):555. doi: 10.1007/s00431-025-06368-2.

ABSTRACT

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening complication of diabetes and a leading cause of Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) admissions. The use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) during the acute and critical phase of DKA has been rarely explored and remains uncertain due to concerns about accuracy and utility in a setting where frequent capillary glucose measurements are standard practice. Data was collected from medical records of patients admitted to the PICU with new-onset DKA as the initial presentation of type 1 diabetes (T1D). Mean absolute relative difference (MARD) and Clarke Error Grid (CEG) analysis were used to assess CGM accuracy. Data from 19 patients (mean age 9.9 ± 3.4 years) were included. Within the first 48 h, 16 hypoglycemic episodes were recorded, with CGM detecting 14 episodes and capillary glucose detecting two. A total of 238 matched pairs of capillary and CGM interstitial glucose values were analyzed. Statistical analysis found capillary glucose values significantly higher than interstitial values (p < 0.001). The overall MARD was 14.5% and CEG analysis indicated 89.1% of matched pairs within zones A and B.

CONCLUSIONS: CGM might be a useful point-of-care tool that provides valuable information that may help clinicians to make timely management decisions. The ability of CGM to indicate trends in glucose fluctuations could be its main clinical advantage, particularly in anticipating and preventing potentially dangerous hypoglycemic events, thereby optimizing patient management and safety.

WHAT IS KNOWN: • DKA emergencies require close glucose monitoring. Standard methods, such as capillary glucose monitoring or venous blood glucose measurements, have some limitations in terms of comfort, frequency, and trend detection. • CGM is currently rarely used in PICU or DKA due to a lack of clinical trials, resulting in uncertainty about its accuracy in pediatric DKA. Additionally, CGM has not been FDA-approved for use in inpatients and to manage diabetes emergencies.

WHAT IS NEW: • CGM may benefit children with DKA from the onset. • DKA management in PICUs by showing glucose trends and enabling hypoglycemia to be detected early, supporting timely interventions, reducing workload, and minimizing patient discomfort through fewer capillary punctures.

PMID:40815433 | DOI:10.1007/s00431-025-06368-2

Biotechnol Lett. 2025 Aug 15;47(5):91. doi: 10.1007/s10529-025-03618-z.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Biofilm formation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa provides protection against multiple stressors and contributes to its pathogenicity. Pyocyanin, a virulence factor regulated by quorum sensing, is crucial for infections. This study aimed to evaluate how various physicochemical conditions impact biofilm formation and pyocyanin production in P. aeruginosa PA14.

METHODS: Biofilm formation and pyocyanin production were assessed under varying conditions, including nutrient availability, NaCl concentrations, pH, temperature, heavy metal salts, light exposure, and microbial competition. Biofilm levels were quantified using a crystal violet assay, while pyocyanin levels were measured spectrophotometrically. Statistical analyses were performed to identify significant trends and correlations.

RESULTS: Key findings revealed that biofilm formation and pyocyanin production were reduced under most stress conditions examined in this study, compared to controls, with few exceptions. FeCl₃ enhanced biofilm formation, while NaCl concentrations above 3% and extreme pH values inhibited it. NiCl₂ was the most effective at reducing biofilm amount among the salts which we examined. Pyocyanin production followed similar trends, peaking under neutral pH and nutrient-enriched conditions. Positive correlations between biofilm and pyocyanin production were observed, particularly in nutrient-limited media. Additionally, light exposure and inter-microbial competition significantly reduced biofilm levels.

CONCLUSION: This study highlights the differential responses of P. aeruginosa to various stress conditions, underscoring the importance of environmental factors in modulating biofilm formation and virulence. These findings provide insights into bacterial adaptive strategies and offer potential avenues for developing targeted interventions against biofilm-associated infections.

PMID:40815394 | DOI:10.1007/s10529-025-03618-z

Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging. 2025 Aug 15. doi: 10.1007/s00259-025-07516-4. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of robotic-arm-assisted [¹⁸F]NaF-PET/CT-guided intra-articular block for lumbar facet joint (LFJ) or sacroiliac joint (SIJ) arthropathy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this single-centre, non-randomized, prospective phase 2 clinical-trial, participants with chronic low back pain (CLBP) were recruited from August 2022 to June 2024. Participants having NaF-avid LFJ or SIJ on [¹⁸F]NaF-PET/CT underwent robotic-arm-assisted intra-articular block with steroids and local anaesthesia. Baseline, immediate post-procedural, and 3-month follow-up visual analog score (VAS), Low-Back Outcome Scale (LBOS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and change in SUV values of target joints were documented. The primary end-point of the trial was ≥ 50% improvement in VAS at 3 months, and secondary end-points were improvements in ODI, LBOS by at least one grade and change in SUV. Descriptive statistics were applied. Qualitative variables were reported in percentages.

RESULTS: Out of 85 enrolled participants, 79 (92.9%) underwent [¹⁸F]NaF-PET/CT. Among them, 61 (77.2%) had NaF-avid joints, and 55(69.6%) underwent PET/CT-guided robotic-arm-assisted intra-articular blocks. The primary end-point was met in 84% (46/55) participants, and secondary end-points in 96% (53/55) and 89% (49/55), respectively. The procedure was technically successful in all the target joints. A significant change in pre- and post-procedural median SUVmax and SUVpeak of the treated joints was noticed. No major adverse effects were noticed in the participants.

CONCLUSION: Robotic-arm-assisted [¹⁸F]NaF-PET/CT guided intra-articular blocks of LFJ and SIJ in CLBP appear to be safe and feasible in NaF-avid arthropathy. However, lack of comparison with the standard of care, small sample size, selection bias and radiation exposure limit its generalizability.

PMID:40815392 | DOI:10.1007/s00259-025-07516-4

Probiotics Antimicrob Proteins. 2025 Aug 15. doi: 10.1007/s12602-025-10716-x. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are closely linked with increased risk of hypertension, contributing significantly to cardiovascular complications. While probiotics and synbiotics have shown potential benefits in metabolic health, their specific effects on blood pressure (BP) regulation in this population remain unclear. This study aims to evaluate the impact of probiotics and synbiotics supplementation on BP control in adults with prediabetes and T2DM, addressing this critical knowledge gap. A comprehensive search was conducted on online databases from their inception to January 2025 to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Data were extracted from selected studies. The overall effect size was determined using weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) through a random-effects model. All statistical analyses were carried out using STATA software. The pooled analysis of 17 RCTs (19 effect sizes) with 1,281 participants (646 cases and 635 controls) showed that probiotics and synbiotics supplementation led to a significantly reduction in both systolic BP (WMD: -3.27 mmHg, 95% CI: -5.38 to -1.16, p = 0.002), and diastolic BP (WMD: -1.78 mmHg, 95% CI: -2.61 to -0.95, p < 0.001). The GRADE assessment rated the quality of evidence for SBP as moderate due to significant heterogeneity, which resulted in serious inconsistency; however, no other major limitations were identified. In comparison, the quality of evidence for DBP was rated as very high. This meta-analysis suggests that supplementation with probiotics and synbiotics can effectively reduce BP in adults with prediabetes and T2DM, highlighting their potential as an adjunctive strategy for BP management. Clinically, incorporating these supplements may offer a safe, accessible option to support traditional therapies and help reduce cardiovascular risk in this high-risk population.

PMID:40815364 | DOI:10.1007/s12602-025-10716-x

Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis. 2025 Aug 15. doi: 10.1007/s10096-025-05234-1. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Intracranial infections due to carbapenem-resistant organisms (CRO) pose substantial challenges in the neurosurgical intensive care unit (NICU). The increasing prevalence of infections caused by carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter (CRAB) and carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) necessitates the development of novel treatment strategies. This prospective observational study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intraventricular/intrathecal polymyxin B sulfate (PBS) in NICU patients after neurosurgery.

METHODS: We enrolled patients diagnosed with hospital-acquired post-neurosurgical central nervous system (CNS) infections caused by CRO at Fudan University-affiliated Huashan Hospital between January 2021 and December 2023. Detailed information on demographic characteristics, course of CRO infection treatment and follow-up data was recorded for each patient collected in this study. Upon diagnosis, all external devices were immediately removed. The treatment regimen included local intraventricular/intrathecal PBS injections, systemic antibiotics, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage. The Fisher exact test, theχ² test, and the Student t-test were used for statistical analysis as appropriate.

RESULTS: Among the 27 patients included in this study, 13 were infected with CRAB and 14 with CRKP, with a mean age of 49.4 ± 16.54 years. 96.3% patients had undergone surgical procedures prior to diagnosis, of which 66.7% involved combined surgeries. At the onset of infection, the mean Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score was 6.0 ± 2.17, the average APACHE II score was 17.3 ± 3.80, and the mean SOFA score was 5.9 ± 2.20. The total bacterial clearance rate of CSF was 81.5% (22/27), with CRAB cases achieving a clearance rate of 92.3% and CRKP cases achieving 71.4% (p = 0.163). The clinical cure rates were 69.2% (9/13) for CRAB and 64.2% (9/14) for CRKP. Importantly, the mean duration from the onset of CNS infection to the initiation of intraventricular/intrathecal injection was 4.3 ± 5.01 days, while the mean duration of treatment was 9.9 ± 3.92 days. The time to achieve negative CSF cultures averaged 10.6 ± 7.02 days. No significant differences were found between the CRAB and CRKP groups, except for variations in sex ratio.

CONCLUSION: The findings of our study verified the efficacy and safety of intraventricular/intrathecal PBS in treating CRO-related intracranial infections in neurosurgical patients. The combination of local PBS administration and systemic antibiotic therapy offers a more efficient treatment approach for these complex infections.

PMID:40815361 | DOI:10.1007/s10096-025-05234-1

Int J Clin Pharm. 2025 Aug 15. doi: 10.1007/s11096-025-01987-z. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The second victim phenomenon, referring to the impact of patient safety incidents on healthcare professionals, also affects pharmacists. Dispensing errors or inadequate counselling cause anxiety, reduced motivation, and staff turnover. Support programmes exist for healthcare professionals, but not specifically for pharmacists.

AIM: To explore pharmacists’ perceptions of tailored education to enhance competencies in overcoming second victim experiences, including (i) potential impacts, (ii) recommended content for professional development and undergraduate curricula, (iii) preferred design and delivery methods, and (iv) experience with existing programmes.

METHOD: A qualitative focus group study using the experiences, opinions, and recommendations approach was conducted in Serbia. Data were collected through a semi-structured guide and a self-reported questionnaire on participation in existing programmes. Discussions continued until saturation. Recordings were transcribed verbatim and analysed using the inductive thematic approach with MAXQDA software. Descriptive statistics summarised programme participation.

RESULTS: Participants perceived tailored education as necessary for improving error response, empowering individuals and the profession, and enhancing pharmaceutical care. Thematic analysis identified four themes: (i) impacts of tailored programmes, (ii) topics for professional development, (iii) topics for undergraduate curricula, and (iv) programme design and delivery. Key areas included soft skills, risk and stress management. Undergraduate education should strengthen communication, motivation, and career development. Preferred methods were workshops and blended learning. Of 25 participants, 20 (80%) attended support programmes; 20 (80%) reported improved competence, and 20 (80%) would recommend them to colleagues.

CONCLUSION: Community pharmacists perceived tailored education addressing second victim experiences as important for professional resilience and improving pharmaceutical care.

PMID:40815352 | DOI:10.1007/s11096-025-01987-z

Food Environ Virol. 2025 Aug 15;17(3):44. doi: 10.1007/s12560-025-09659-x.

ABSTRACT

Cosavirus (CoSV) and Salivirus (SalV) are two novel picornaviruses that are associated with human diseases. However, epidemiological data on these viruses in China remain limited. In this study, we conducted the first simultaneous investigation of CoSV and SalV in a city of eastern China by wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) method. From 2021 to 2023, a total of 21 influent wastewater samples were collected. After virus concentration and molecular detection, 71.43% (15/21) and 80.95% (17/21) of samples tested positive for CoSV and SalV, respectively. The sequences of CoSV were determined to be CoSV-A and CoSV-D, and SalV were all genotyped to be SalV-A1. Phylogenetic analysis showed that UTR region of CoSV-D and 3D region of CoSV-A can be divided into several clusters. UTR region of CoSV-A, UTR and 3D region of SalV-A1 were not clustered. Furthermore, the sequences in this study were closely related to some strains from human samples in China and wastewater samples in other countries. These findings reveal that CoSV and SalV circulated at a high prevalence in the local population and demonstrate that WBE is an effective method for novel picornaviruses research.

PMID:40815335 | DOI:10.1007/s12560-025-09659-x

Lasers Med Sci. 2025 Aug 15;40(1):336. doi: 10.1007/s10103-025-04583-9.

ABSTRACT

This study aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of Er, Cr: YSGG laser and fluoride varnish (Duraphat) on the remineralization of demineralized enamel in vitro. The study further compared the combined treatment with the individual effects of the laser and Duraphat, providing a theoretical foundation and technical insights for early caries management. A randomized controlled study was conducted, involving 50 extracted teeth assigned to four groups: control, laser only, Duraphat only, and a combination of laser and Duraphat. Following standardized demineralization protocols, samples underwent respective remineralization treatments. The mineralization level was quantified using a DIAGNOdent pen, and enamel surface microstructural changes were assessed via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA and paired-sample t-tests, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. The laser and Duraphat combination group exhibited the most pronounced remineralization effects, as indicated by a significant reduction in DIAGNOdent values (P < 0.05), outperforming both the laser-only and Duraphat-only groups. SEM analysis demonstrated uniform and dense crystal deposition on the enamel surface, nearly sealing demineralized pores. In contrast, the Duraphat group showed surface-concentrated crystal deposition with limited depth, while the laser group primarily improved enamel surface microstructure without significantly increasing mineralization depth. No notable changes were observed in the control group.The combination of Er, Cr: YSGG laser and Duraphat significantly enhances remineralization by optimizing enamel microstructure and improving fluoride penetration depth and mineralization efficiency, surpassing the efficacy of individual treatments.

PMID:40815334 | DOI:10.1007/s10103-025-04583-9

Environ Geochem Health. 2025 Aug 15;47(9):389. doi: 10.1007/s10653-025-02686-4.

ABSTRACT

The increasing adoption of photovoltaic farms is driven by the growing demand for clean, renewable energy. As advancements in solar technology continue and costs decrease, large-scale solar farms are becoming essential for reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy security. While PV farms offer a sustainable energy solution, they also pose environmental risks. During their operational lifetime, PV panels can be damaged, potentially releasing hazardous materials into the environment. Additionally, stormwater runoff from solar installations may carry pollutants into soil and water sources. Mitigating these risks is crucial to ensuring that solar energy remains both sustainable and environmentally responsible. This work aims to evaluate PV panels’ environmental impact, especially on the soil in one of the oldest PV installations in Poland, comparing it with other sources of pollution in the region, such as mining. Therefore, soil and water samples underwent chemical analysis, statistical analysis, pollution indices assessment, and geospatial analysis to determine potential pollution sources for the observed elemental chemical matrix. Also, the chemical composition of PV material was analyzed. The results indicate that In and Sb are emerging pollutants at moderate levels, potentially originating from long-term use of PV installations. In contrast, elements such as Cd, Cr, Pb, and Zn, which come from mining and smelting activities, present significantly higher environmental risks. This study suggests conducting further similar research across various geological backgrounds to draw broader conclusions. Besides, it is vital to develop experiments that assess the impact of PV panels as hazardous waste materials on soil and water.

PMID:40815333 | DOI:10.1007/s10653-025-02686-4