Log-linear Research Articles

An Improved Physics-Based Dual-Band Model for Satellite-Derived Bathymetry Using SuperDove Imagery

Shallow water bathymetry is critical for environmental monitoring and maritime security. Current widely used statistical models based on passive optical satellite remote sensing often rely on prior bathymetric data, limiting their application to regions lacking such information. In contrast, the physics-based dual-band log-linear analytical model (P-DLA) can estimate shallow water bathymetry without in situ measurements, offering significant potential. However, the quasi-analytical algorithm (QAA) used in the P-DLA is sensitive to non-ideal pixels, resulting in unstable bathymetry estimation. To address this issue and evaluate the potential of SuperDove imagery for bathymetry estimation in regions without prior bathymetric data, this study proposes an improved physics-based dual-band model (IPDB). The IPDB replaces the QAA with a spectral optimization algorithm that integrates deep and shallow water sample pixels to estimate diffuse attenuation coefficients for the blue and green bands. This allows for more accurate estimation of shallow water bathymetry. The IPDB was tested on SuperDove images of Dongdao Island, Yongxing Island, and Yongle Atoll. The results showed that SuperDove images are capable of estimating shallow water bathymetry in regions without prior bathymetric data. The IPDB achieved Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) values below 1.7 m and R2 values above 0.89 in all three study areas, indicating strong performance in bathymetric estimation. Notably, the IPDB outperformed the standard P-DLA model in accuracy. Furthermore, this study outlines four sampling principles that, when followed, ensure that variations in the spatial distribution of sampling pixels do not significantly impact model performance. This study also showed that the blue–green band combination is optimal for the analytical expression of the physics-based dual-band model.

Trends in intergenerational class mobility and education in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay, over common birth cohorts

We compare intergenerational class mobility trends in Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay, exploring the effects of education over birth cohorts. After presenting descriptive measures of absolute mobility, we use log-linear models to study relative mobility and the mediating role of education. Then, we examine trends in intergenerational class mobility linked to educational levels over cohorts. Finally, counterfactual simulations show the net effects of education on mobility. Results show that intergenerational class mobility across cohorts occurred only for men in Argentina and Chile. Inequality trends in educational opportunities were only present for women. Class returns to education occurred among men in Chile and Uruguay, and women in Argentina. Social fluidity under the mediating effects of education did not show a clear pattern. The claim that educational expansion created more opportunities for intergenerational mobility does not find support in our data.

Student mobility in Southern Italy: An empirical analysis of preferential patterns

This paper presents an empirical analysis aimed at identifying chain migration patterns among university students from Sicily, Sardinia, and Apulia. Utilizing data from the national archive of university students enrolled in an Italian university from 2008 to 2017, we construct origin–destination matrixes and calculate residuals from a log-linear model to detect key student routes. Positive residuals between specific origin–destination pairs that persist over time can suggest significant attraction and potential chain migration. The results support a “large to large” and “small to small” city mobility model, particularly for Sicily and Sardinia. Students from Palermo, Catania, Messina, and Cagliari show strong connections with large cities such as Rome and Milan. Furthermore, results show historical links between Sardinia and Tuscany date back to the 1950s, and the enduring connections between Apulian students and universities in Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, and Lombardy have been evident since the 1970s. In Sicily, mobility patterns towards the Polytechnic of Turin began in the 1970s and persist today. These patterns underscore the influence of prior migrants on the mobility decisions of university students in Southern Italy, highlighting a potential chain migration effect.

Postoperative outcomes after receipt of ertapenem antimicrobial prophylaxis for colon surgery: a multicenter retrospective cohort study.

To evaluate postoperative outcomes among patients undergoing colon surgery who receive perioperative prophylaxis with ertapenem compared to other antibiotic regimens. Multicenter retrospective cohort study among adults undergoing colon surgery in seven hospitals across three health systems from 1/1/2010 to 9/1/2015. Generalized linear mixed logistic regression models were applied to assess differential odds of select outcomes among patients who received perioperative prophylaxis with ertapenem compared to other regimens. Postoperative outcomes of interest included surgical site infection (SSI), Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) and clinical culture positivity for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteraciae (CRE). Inverse probability weights were applied to account for differing covariate distributions across ertapenem and non-ertapenem groups. A total of 2,109 patients were included for analysis. The odds of postoperative SSI was 1.56 times higher among individuals who received ertapenem than among those receiving other perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis regimens in our cohort (46 [3.5%] vs 20 [2.5%]; IPW-weighted OR 1.56, [95% CI, 1.08-2.26], P = .02). No statistically significant differences in odds of postoperative CDI (24 [1.8%] vs 16 [2.0%]; IPW-weighted OR 1.07 [95% CI, .68-1.68], P = .78) were observed between patients who received ertapenem prophylaxis compared to other regimens. Clinical CRE culture positivity was rare in both groups (.2%-.5%) and did not differ statistically. Ertapenem use for perioperative prophylaxis was associated with increased odds of SSI among patients undergoing colon surgery in our study population, though no differences in CDI or clinical CRE culture positivity were identified. Further study and replication of these findings are needed.

Parameter estimation for second-order SPDEs in multiple space dimensions

AbstractWe analyse a second-order SPDE model in multiple space dimensions and develop estimators for the parameters of this model based on discrete observations of a solution in time and space on a bounded domain. While parameter estimation for one and two spatial dimensions was established in recent literature, this is the first work which generalizes the theory to a general, multi-dimensional framework. Our approach builds upon realized volatilities, enabling the construction of an oracle estimator for volatility within the underlying model. Furthermore, we show that the realized volatilities have an asymptotic illustration as response of a log-linear model with spatial explanatory variable. This yields novel and efficient estimators based on realized volatilities with optimal rates of convergence and minimal variances. For proving central limit theorems, we use a high-frequency observation scheme. To showcase our results, we conduct a Monte Carlo simulation.

Factors affecting Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus transmission in rural Ugandan households, a longitudinal study

BackgroundWe report the impact of HIV infection within a household on oral Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) shedding.MethodsWe enrolled 469 individuals from 90 households. Mouthwash rinse samples collected at three monthly visits were analyzed for KSHV DNA using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Generalized linear mixed effects logistic models were applied to analyze factors associated with KSHV ever shedding, and among shedders, always versus intermittent shedding. Linear mixed effects models were applied to models of KSHV viral loads. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess the contribution of household-level factors to variations in shedding probabilities. Hotspot analyses of geospatial feature clusters were calculated using Getis-Ord Gi* statistic and visualized using inverse distance weighted interpolation.ResultsAnalyses included 340 KSHV seropositive individuals, aged 3 + years, with qPCR results from 89 households. Forty households had 1 + persons living with HIV (PLWH), while 49 had none. Among participants, 149(44%) were KSHV ever shedders. Of 140 who shed KSHV at two or more visits, 34(24%) were always shedders. Increasing number of KSHV seropositive household members was significantly associated with ever shedding [Odds ratio(OR) (95% Confidence Interval(95%CI)):1.14(1.03,1.26);p = 0.013]. Among KSHV shedders, a statistically significant age-related trend was identified with 10–19 years being more likely to be always shedders (type III test p = 0.039) and to have higher viral loads (type III test p = 0.027). In addition, higher viral loads were significantly associated with increasing number of household members [coefficient(95%CI):0.06(0.01,0.12);p = 0.042], increasing number of KSHV seropositive members [coefficient(95%CI):0.08(0.01,0.15);p = 0.021], and living in households with 1 + PLWH [coefficient(95%CI):0.51(0.04,0.98);p = 0.033]. Always shedders exhibited higher viral loads than intermittent shedders [coefficient(95%CI):1.62(1.19,2.05);p < 0.001], and viral loads increased with the number of visits where KSHV DNA was detected in saliva (type III test p < 0.001). Household-level factors attributed for 19% of the variability in KSHV shedding (ICC:0.191;p = 0.010). Geospatial analysis indicated overlapping hotspots of households with more KSHV seropositive individuals and KSHV shedders, distinct from areas where PLWH were clustered.DiscussionKSHV oral shedding is influenced by multiple factors at the individual, household, and regional levels. To mitigate ongoing KSHV transmission a comprehensive understanding of factors contributing to oral KSHV reactivation and transmission within households is needed.

Associations between birthweight and preterm birth and the ages at menarche and menopause

BackgroundWomen who reach menarche and menopause at earlier ages have been shown to be at increased risk for numerous conditions including cardiovascular disease, cancer, depression, and obesity; however, risk factors for earlier ages of menarche and menopause are not fully understood. Therefore, we aimed to perform a retrospective investigation of the associations between a personal birthweight and/or being born preterm and the age of and menarche and menopause and related events in the Women’s Health Initiative, a large, racially and ethnically diverse cohort of postmenopausal women.MethodsAt study entry, women reported their birthweight by category (< 6 lbs., 6–7 lbs. 15 oz, 8–9 lbs. 15 oz, or ≥ 10 lbs.) and preterm birth status (4 or more weeks premature). Ages at events related to menarche and menopause were also self-reported. Linear regression and logistic regression models were used to estimate unadjusted and adjusted effect estimates (β) and odds ratios (OR), respectively (n ≤ 86,857). Individuals born preterm were excluded from all birthweight analyses.ResultsAfter adjustments, individuals born weighing < 6lbs. were more likely to reach natural menopause at an earlier age (adjusted β=-0.361, SE = 0.09, P = < 0.001) and have a shorter reproductive window (adjusted β = -0.287, SE = 0.10, p < 0.004) compared to individuals weighing 6–7 lbs. 15 oz. Individuals born preterm were also more likely to reach natural menopause at an earlier age (adjusted β=-0.506, SE = 0.16, P = 0.001) and have a shorter reproductive window (adjusted β = -0.418, SE = 0.17, p < 0.006).ConclusionsThese findings raise concerns that, as more preterm and low birthweight individuals survive to adulthood, the prevalence of earlier-onset menarche and menopause may increase. Clinical counseling and interventions aimed at reducing the incidence of preterm and low birthweight births, as well as intensification of lifestyle modifications to reduce CVD risk among women with these early-life risk factors, should be prioritized.

Varieties of Number-Line Estimation: Systematic Review, Models, and Data

The psychophysical function that best fits human data from number-line estimation is the subject of a lively, on-going debate with important theoretical and practical implications. We comprehensively reviewed articles which tested competing psychophysical functions and found systematic variablility in task design. To test whether one function could account for data across diverse tasks, we examined 158 children’s and adults’ estimates using two 2 × 2 designs, crossing symbol (symbolic, non-symbolic) and boundedness (bounded, unbounded) on free number-line tasks (Experiment 1) and crossing the same factors on anchored tasks (Experiment 2). This yielded eight varieties of number-line estimation: four old varieties for testing replicability and four new varieties for testing generalizability. Across the eight varieties, 88.84 % of participants provided estimates better fit by a mixed log-linear model than competing models, with weights of the logarithmic component (λ) decreasing with age in each task. Unlike parameters of competing models, λ on any given task significantly predicted λ on the other 7 tasks, as well as predicting arithmetic skills. Results suggest that representations of numerical magnitude play the largest part in number-line estimation, and the “logarithmic-to-linear shift” provides the most accurate and generalizable description of how number-line estimation develops. (196 words)

Comparison of three approaches for treating the bony access window in lateral sinus floor elevation: a retrospective analysis

The aim of this study was to retrospectively determine the effects of applying different treatment methods to the bony access window on the healing outcomes in lateral sinus floor elevation (SFE). Lateral SFE with implant placement was performed in 131 sinuses of 105 patients. The following three treatment methods were applied to the bony access window: application of a collagen barrier (group CB), repositioning the bone fragment (group RW) and untreated (group UT). Radiographic healing in the window area, augmented bone height changes and marginal bone level changes were examined. Mixed logistic and mixed linear models were analyzed. Over 4.3 ± 1.4 years of follow-up, the implant survival rate was 100% in groups CB and UT, and 96.9% in group RW. The treatment applied to the window did not significantly influence the radiographic healing in the window area, augmented bone height changes or marginal bone level changes (p > 0.05). The healed window areas had generally flat morphologies and were fully corticalized. The mean changes in the augmented bone were less than 1.5 mm in all groups. Marginal bone level changes were minimal. In conclusion, Healing outcomes were not different among three different methods to treat the bony access window in lateral SFE.

A-321 Rethinking the Role of Race in Prenatal AFP Screening for Open Neural Tube Defects

Abstract Background The quantification of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in maternal serum is commonly used in prenatal screening to estimate the risk of fetal open neural tube defects (ONTDs). This involves comparing a patient’s measured AFP concentration to the median AFP for women of similar gestational age and weight, reported in AFP multiples of the median (MoM). Current guidelines recommend establishing population medians separately grouped by patients’ race, based on historical reports documenting differences in median AFP concentrations across different populations. We aimed to reevaluate this practice of race based ONTD risk stratification given the limited and questionable historical evidence as well as the small observed differences in AFP concentrations in our practice and in a recent report. Methods We collected maternal serum AFP screening data for patients between 12/30/19 and 2/9/24. Informed by the statistical methods used for clinical risk stratification, we developed two log-linear multiple variable regression models for estimating AFP: gestational age (GA), weight, and interaction terms (Model 1) and Model 1 predictors, race, and interaction terms (Model 2). AFP MoMs were calculated by dividing the measured AFP concentration by the model-estimated AFP. Results We analyzed maternal ONTD screening for 7,702 patients with singleton pregnancies. The current clinical process uses race and ethnicity as documented in the electronic health record, which was categorized as Black (N = 2,360), White (N = 3,734), Hispanic (N = 209), Asian (N = 641), and Other (N = 758). The addition of race in Model 2 included statistically significant predictors (p &amp;lt; 0.001) for Black (β = 0.2), Asian (β = 0.05), and Black:weight interaction (β = -5.9 x 10-4). Between Model 1 and Model 2, the mean change in AFP MoMs was -0.05, +0.03, 0.0, -0.02, and +0.01 for Black, White, Hispanic, Asian, and Other patients, respectively. 95% of Black patients had a change &amp;lt; 0.12 in AFP MoM and &amp;gt; 99% of all other patients had a change &amp;lt; 0.1. Using the clinical interpretative threshold, 56 (0.7%) results were considered elevated in both models, 4 (0.05%) elevated in Model 1 only (3 Black, 1 Other), and 4 (0.05%) elevated in Model 2 only (3 White, 1 Hispanic). Chart review of the 8 discordant interpretations showed small changes in MoMs (mean absolute difference = 0.09) and no cases of ONTDs. Conclusions In our health system’s population, maternal race appears to have a small statistically significant association with maternal AFP concentration, even after adjustment for weight and maternal GA. However, preliminary analyses indicate that this difference has a small impact on the clinical interpretation of these studies, with most patients classified similarly when race is not accounted for in the calculation. Further investigation is needed to clarify whether this small impact on estimation of risk warrants the continued inclusion of race in NTD screening, as well as whether other clinical, social, or community factors available for inclusion in this clinical risk stratification model would be better predictors than the poorly defined and discriminatory concept of race.

Prevalence and predictors of right ventricular dysfunction among adults living with HIV in northwest Nigeria.

People living with the human immunodeficiency virus (PLWH) are at increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Right ventricular (RV) function has important prognostic value in cardiac pathology, and advances in imaging modalities, such as transthoracic echocardiography have enabled in-depth RV studies. There is, however, a scarcity of multiparameter RV function studies in PLWH in low- and middle-income settings, such as Nigeria. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence and predictors of RV dysfunction among adult PLWH in northwest Nigeria. This is a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted between February 1, 2023 and August 31, 2023. We consecutively recruited 330 adults [median age 45 years, interquartile range (IQR), 38 to 52 years, 61% female] attending human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and general outpatient clinics in a tertiary hospital in northwest Nigeria. They included 110 antiretroviral therapy (ART)-experienced PLWH, 110 ART-naïve PLWH, and 110 age- and sex-matched HIV-negative control subjects. All participants had conventional two-dimensional (2D), tissue Doppler (TDI), and speckle tracking (2D-STE) echocardiography to estimate left ventricular (LV) and RV systolic and diastolic function, peak systolic and diastolic myocardial velocities, RV and LV longitudinal strain, and chamber dimensions. All participants also underwent 12-lead electrocardiography. Multiple linear and Firth's logistic regression modeling were performed to assess for independent predictors of RV myocardial performance index (RVMPI) as a continuous and as a dichotomous variable, respectively. The prevalence of RV dysfunction, as determined by the RVMPI among HIV-positive participants was 14.5% [95% confidence interval (CI): 10.5-19.8%] compared to 0% (95% CI: 0.0-3.4%) for those without HIV. Among participants with HIV, RVMPI was associated with participant age (P<0.001) and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (P<0.001). Results were similar when RVMPI was dichotomized. The association between RV dysfunction and LVEF was modified by ART status: a 10% decrease in LVEF was associated with an average decrease of 0.08 in RVMPI among participants who were ART-experienced (β=-0.08, P<0.001) but a lesser decrease among those who were ART- naïve (β=-0.03, P=0.14). This study highlights the complexity of RV dysfunction in PLWH and underscores the importance of LVEF and age as key factors influencing the risk of RV dysfunction in PLWH.

Modeling the critical causal factors of postharvest losses in the vegetable supply chain in eThekwini metropolitan municipality: The log-linear regression model

Vegetables, rich in essential bioactive compounds, are crucial for human health and vital to the global food system. However, the supply chain for vegetables is intricate, marked by product seasonality, demand variability, and limited shelf life. These factors contribute to significant losses, with 44 % of global vegetable production wasted at various stages in the food chain. Postharvest losses (PHLs) are a considerable issue, posing risks to food security and economic sustainability. Despite numerous interventions aimed at reducing PHLs, a comprehensive understanding of the primary causes remains insufficient, preventing the implementation of practical solutions. The study investigates the factors causing PHLs in the vegetable supply chain. A structured questionnaire was used to collect the data from 238 farmers. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design and a multi-stratified random sampling method. Descriptive statistics and log-linear regression were used to analyze the data. The results revealed that 56 % of the farmers were women, with an average age of 45 and a household size of five. Most farmers had completed 12 years of education, with 76 % being unemployed and 78 % depending on farming as their primary source of income. The regression analysis showed that age, distance to markets, and lack of transportation were significant factors at the 1 % level. In contrast, education, farming experience, market access, and weather conditions were significant at the 5 % level. The study recommends policies promoting innovative postharvest technologies alongside investment in infrastructure to mitigate these losses.

Partner Characteristics and HIV Outcomes among Partners Reached by Phone vs. In-person for Assisted Partner Services in Western Kenya.

Assisted partner services (APS) is an effective strategy for testing people with undiagnosed HIV but there is limited information on the relative reach and effectiveness of phone versus in-person contact. We analyzed data from 31 facilities in Western Kenya providing APS to female index clients newly HIV-diagnosed, their male partners, and female partners of men newly HIV-diagnosed. APS providers attempted contacting partners using phone first and, if unsuccessful, in-person in the community. Using log-linear mixed models, we estimated relative risks (RR) between phone being the final contact method and partner characteristics and HIV outcomes. From May 2018-March 2020, 2534 female index clients named 7614 male partners, of whom 772 (10.1%) tested positive and named an additional 4956 non-index female partners. Of 11,912 (94.7%) partners reached, 5179 (43.5%) were via phone and 6733 (56.5%) in-person. Of 8076 testing-eligible partners, 99.7% tested and 11.2% first-time tested. Of those tested, 13.1% were newly-diagnosed, of whom 87.0% linked to care. Newly-diagnosed partners were less likely to have been reached by phone vs. in-person (9.8% vs. 15.9%; adjusted RR:0.61, 95%CI:0.53-0.70). Being reached by phone was not significantly associated with testing, first-time testing, or linkage to care. In an APS program that reached 94% of elicited partners, fewer than half were successfully contacted by phone. A combined phone and in-person approach is likely essential for equitable, effective APS.

Fostering Entrepreneurial Intentions in a Non-Skills-Focused Education System

This article aims to identify the factors that influence the entrepreneurial intentions of young students when the formal education system does not focus on skills. The authors conducted research based on the theory of Planned Behaviour and the concept of entrepreneurial intentions. The research was carried out in three different schools: an urban public school, a rural public school, and an urban private school. The authors studied entrepreneurial intentions among students in the oldest grades from selected schools. The sample selection was purposive, and all students from these schools participated in the study. The authors used statistical analysis, including a log-linear model, to identify significant predictors of entrepreneurial intentions. The study showed that personal characteristics and family support are critical factors in shaping entrepreneurial attitudes among students from different types of schools. The authors suggest that addressing the mismatch between the education system and the needs of students and the labor market requires institutional and curricular changes and a reorientation of educational policy. Otherwise, personality traits and the support of significant others, such as family and friends, will continue to determine students’ development and future careers.

Do tobacco regulatory and economic factors influence smoking cessation outcomes? A post-hoc analysis of the multinational EAGLES randomised controlled trial

IntroductionWe previously reported global regional differences in smoking cessation outcomes, with smokers of US origin having lower quit rates than smokers from some other countries. This post-hoc analysis examined global...

Associations between Digital Skill, eHealth Literacy, and Frailty among Older Adults: Evidence from China

ObjectivesFrailty is a common geriatric syndrome in older adults; however, its relationship with digital factors is underexplored. This study aimed to examine the association between digital skills, eHealth literacy, and frailty to provide insights for developing frailty interventions in the digital age. DesignCross-sectional study. Setting and ParticipantsData were collected from a cross-sectional survey of older adults aged ≥60 years in China. MethodsWe used a digital skills questionnaire, the eHealth Literacy Scale, and the Tilburg Frailty Indicator to measure digital skill, eHealth literacy, and frailty, respectively. Linear regression and logistic models were established to explore the association between digital skill, eHealth literacy, and frailty. Finally, we used a structural equation model and the Karlson-Holm-Breen method to test the mediation. ResultsA total of 2144 older adults were included in this study. The rates of adequate digital skill, adequate eHealth literacy, and frailty were 4.1%, 11.9%, and 38.3%, respectively. Digital skill (β = −0.108; 95% CI, −0.151 to –0.065) and eHealth literacy (β = −0.153; 95% CI, −0.195 to –0.112) were negatively associated with frailty score (P < .05), and adequate digital skill (odds ratio, 0.367; 95% CI, 0.170-0.793) and adequate eHealth literacy (odds ratio, 0.455; 95% CI, 0.298-0.694) were associated with a lower prevalence of frailty. eHealth literacy had a mediating effect on the association between digital skills and frailty. Conclusions and ImplicationsBetter digital skill and eHealth literacy are associated with a lower prevalence of frailty among older adults. The association between digital skill and frailty was found to be completely mediated by eHealth literacy.

Assessing changes in intra- and inter-annual precipitation variability using advanced statistical inference techniques

ABSTRACT Aiming to find statistically significant changes on the usual monthly weather conditions in Alentejo, Portugal, in the past 40 years, time series of precipitation from a grid of locations in Alentejo were studied using an unconventional approach. The time series were divided into 4 decades and disposed in contingency tables with two factors, Year and Month. Then, log-linear models were fitted to those tables. The model deviances for Year and Month represent the weight of each factor in explaning precipitation varibility and Year:Month deviance is an estimate of the lack of independence between both factors, representing changes in intra-annual precipitation variability. The set of all the models deviances, per decade and location, were analysed using ANOVA techniques, first to compare the four decades, then to perform a crossed comparison between decades and between four pre-defined zones. Results indicate significant differences between the oldest and recent decades in terms of intra-annual precipitation variability, which could be interpreted as a trend towards softening the differences in precipitation between the wet months of the year. Furthermore, two homogeneous sub-regions could be defined in Alentejo, a large interior region and a smaller one close to the Atlantic Ocean.

Factors affecting Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus transmission in rural Ugandan households, a longitudinal study.

We report the impact of HIV infection within a household on oral Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) shedding. We enrolled 469 individuals from 90 households. Mouthwash rinse samples collected at three monthly visits, were analyzed for KSHV DNA using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Generalized linear mixed effects logistic models were applied to analyze factors associated with KSHV ever shedding, and among shedders, always versus intermittent shedding. Linear mixed effects models were applied to models of KSHV viral loads. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated to assess the contribution of household-level factors to variations in shedding probabilities. Hotspot analyses of geospatial feature clusters were calculated using Getis-Ord Gi* statistic and visualized using inverse distance weighted interpolation. Analyses included 340 KSHV seropositive individuals, aged 3 + years, with qPCR results from 89 households. Forty households had 1 + persons living with HIV (PLWH), while 49 had none. Among participants, 149(44%) were KSHV ever shedders. Of 140 who shed KSHV at two or more visits, 34(24%) were always shedders. Increasing number of KSHV seropositive household members was significantly associated with ever shedding [Odds ratio(OR) (95% Confidence Interval(95%CI)):1.14(1.03,1.26);p = 0.013]. Among KSHV shedders, a statistically significant age-related trend was identified with 10-19 years being more likely to be always shedders (type III test p = 0.039) and to have higher viral loads (type III test p = 0.027). In addition, higher viral loads were significantly associated with increasing number of household members [coefficient(95%CI):0.06(0.01,0.12);p = 0.042], increasing number of KSHV seropositive members [coefficient(95%CI):0.08(0.01,0.15);p = 0.021], and living in households with 1 + PLWH [coefficient(95%CI):0.51(0.04,0.98);p = 0.033]. Always shedders exhibited higher viral loads than intermittent shedders [coefficient(95%CI):1.62(1.19,2.05);p < 0.001], and viral loads increased with the number of visits where KSHV DNA was detected in saliva (type III test p < 0.001). Household-level factors attributed for 19% of the variability in KSHV shedding (ICC:0.191;p = 0.010). Geospatial analysis indicated overlapping hotspots of households with more KSHV seropositive individuals and KSHV shedders, distinct from areas where PLWH were clustered. KSHV oral shedding is influenced by multiple factors at the individual, household, and regional levels. To mitigate ongoing KSHV transmission a comprehensive understanding of factors contributing to oral KSHV reactivation and transmission within households is needed.

Training experience is an important factor affecting willingness for bystander CPR and awareness of AED: a survey of residents from a province in Central China in 2023.

Bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the use of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) may improve survival in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of CPR training experience and sociodemographic characteristics on bystander CPR willingness and AED awareness. In this study, a questionnaire survey was conducted among 3,569 residents in central China. Descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression and multivariate logistic regression modeling were used to investigate the effect of training experience and sociodemographic characteristics on knowledge of cardiac arrest first aid, awareness of AEDs, and willingness for bystander CPR. Of the 3,569 participants, nearly 52% were female, 69.6% were < 23 years old, 23.5% had CPR training and 22.1% had witnessed OHCA. Characteristics of increasing bystander CPR willingness included CPR training experience, male, witnessed OHCA but not acting, knowing whether family members have cardiac disease, older age (>40 years) and lower level of education. Farmers were the subgroup with the least awareness of AED and knowledge of first aid. In China, CPR training experience was an important factor in improving bystanders' CPR willingness, AED awareness and knowledge of cardiac arrest first aid. Additionally, having witnessed OHCA also had a positive effect on bystander CPR willingness.

Associations between prenatal loss of control eating and cardiovascular health during pregnancy.

Loss of control (LOC) eating (feeling unable to control food type/amount eaten) during pregnancy is common and linked to risk for poor cardiovascular health (CVH), but it is unclear whether prenatal LOC eating directly relates to CVH during pregnancy. The current study tested associations between prenatal LOC eating and CVH during pregnancy in a sample with prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) ≥ 25. At 12-20 weeks' gestation, participants (N = 124) self-reported: prenatal LOC eating, diet, physical activity, nicotine use, sleep; height/weight were measured. Data were collected during 2015-2017. We dichotomized LOC eating (0 = absent; 1 = present) and scored CVH metrics using Life's Essential 8 to create a composite CVH score (range = 0-100; higher = better). Linear and binary logistic regression models tested if LOC eating is related to composite CVH score and odds of scoring low (0)/moderate-high (1) on each CVH metric, respectively. All models employed propensity score adjustment, since those with/without LOC eating may differ in ways affecting CVH, and covaried for: age, gestational age, prepregnancy BMI, ethnicity, race, education, and income. Compared to those without, participants with LOC eating had significantly poorer composite CVH scores (b = -9.27, t(111) = -2.70, p < .01) and lower odds of scoring moderate-high on nicotine use (OR = 0.20, 95% CI [0.04, 0.85], p = .03) and sleep duration (OR = 0.19, 95% CI [0.04, 0.83], p = .03) CVH metrics. Prenatal LOC eating was associated with poorer CVH during pregnancy in this sample with prepregnancy BMI ≥ 25, even after controlling for propensity of experiencing LOC eating and known risk factors for poor CVH. Thus, prenatal LOC may represent a modifiable factor related to prenatal health risk. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).