Spearman Rank Research Articles

The influence of the structure of the masticatory system on the presence and severity of the gag reflex in children with cerebral palsy.

Dysphagia, prevalent in 90% of children with neurological disorders, poses risks of medical complications and is associated with cognitive and psychosocial challenges. The absence of the sucking-swallowing reflex and variations in the gag reflex contribute to feeding difficulties. This study focuses on examining the impact of the gag reflex on the masticatory system structure in children with cerebral palsy, aiming to assess its significance. This observational study investigated the gag reflex and soft palate shape in 25 children with cerebral palsy (average age: 14 years). Inclusion criteria considered specific levels of the Eating and Drinking Ability Classification System (EDACS) and the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). Exclusion criteria comprised hypotension, inflammation and tumors. The Castillo-Morales questionnaire assessed variables and statistical analysis (Spearman's rank correlation and non-parametric tests) utilizing PQStat v. 1.8.6.120 software. Findings did not reveal an association between the absence of the gag reflex and abnormal palate structure in children. Our results showed a correlation between higher tension of the buccinator muscles and mobility of the tongue on the structure of the palate. Children with neurological disorders, such as cerebral palsy, are a diverse group requiring specialized orthodontic treatment and close interdisciplinary collaboration.

Implementation of the Oxygen Saturation Index as a Predictor of Outcome in Prenatally Diagnosed CDH Neonates in the First 24 Hours of Life.

This study aimed to evaluate the Oxygen Saturation Index (OSI) as a noninvasive measure for early postnatal management and outcome prediction in neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Additionally, the study analyzed the correlation and predictive ability of OSI, Oxygenation Index (OI), Horovitz Index (HI), and partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO2) regarding mortality and the need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). A retrospective, single-center study using data from 2013 to 2020. Parameters for calculating indices were extracted from patient charts every hour during the first 24 h of life. Statistical analyses included ROC analysis for predictive cut-off values and Spearman's rank for correlation assessments. The study included 138 neonates. Postductal OSI demonstrated high sensitivity (80%-85%) and negative predictive value (NPV) for predicting mortality and ECMO need, with cut-off values between 11.5 and 13. Optimal cut-off values for predicting ECMO need were 10 at 12 and 24 h (sensitivity 96.7%). OSI, OI, HI, and PaO2 showed comparable predictive capabilities with strong correlations. The lowest OI of 18 predicted mortality with a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 90.9%. Strong correlations were found between the lowest PaO2 and lowest HI (0.963-0.974), and between highest OI and lowest PaO2 (-0.922 to -0.945). OSI is a promising index for predicting outcomes in CDH neonates, showing strong correlation with indices like OI and HI. Despite limitations, OSI provides continuous, bedside monitoring without invasive blood sampling. Further prospective studies are needed to validate these findings and establish new cut-off values.

Leucine-Rich Alpha-2 Glycoprotein Is Associated With Transmural Inflammation Assessed by Intestinal Ultrasound in Patients With Crohn's Disease.

Intestinal ultrasound (IUS) is a non-invasive tool for evaluating transmural inflammation in Crohn's disease (CD). However, its utility is constrained by operator dependency and limited accessibility. To explore the feasibility of serum biomarkers-specifically leucine-rich alpha-2 glycoprotein (LRG)-as an alternative to IUS for assessing transmural inflammation. This retrospective, single-centre study included patients with CD who underwent IUS and measurements of LRG and C-reactive protein (CRP). We assessed correlations between biomarkers and five IUS scores (Limberg score, Bowel Ultrasound Score (BUSS), International Bowel Ultrasound Segmental Activity Score (IBUS-SAS), Simple Ultrasound Score (Simple-US) and Simple Ultrasound Score for Crohn's Disease (SUS-CD)) using receiver operator characteristic curve analysis and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient. We conducted subgroup analyses for patients in clinical remission. We analysed 213 IUS examinations performed on 97 patients; 170 (80%) IUS were during clinical remission. The area under the curve for LRG for each IUS score (0.76, 0.80, 0.77, 0.75 and 0.69, respectively) was superior to that of CRP and was statistically significant, particularly for LS, BUSS, IBUS-SAS and Simple-US (p < 0.001, p = 0.018, p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Predictive values remained consistent among patients in remission. LRG demonstrated excellent correlation with IUS scores in both the overall patient population and those in remission. LRG showed a robust correlation with IUS scores, suggesting its potential as a novel indicator for targeting transmural healing in patients with CD.

The size of higher education, R&D expenditure, academic documents and international rankings

This study explored the correlations among the number of higher education institutions, R&D expenditures, international academic publications, and international rankings in Taiwan on an annual basis. The case study is based on Taiwan's 1996 education reform policy, which allowed the establishment of new universities and colleges, followed by a decline in birth rates affecting the educational environment. The study covers the period from 1996 to 2023, spanning 28 years. Data were obtained from the Scientific Journal Rankings (SJR) by the Scimago Journal & Country Rank and statistics published by local authorities. Spearman's rank correlation coefficients revealed a significant relationship between the number of higher education institutions and improvements in international rankings, as evidenced by the increase in international academic publications. This finding underscores the crucial role of universities and colleges in enhancing international rankings and academic output. The strong positive correlation between R&D expenditure and academic output further emphasizes the importance of research funding. However, the regressive effect on the country's rankings suggests a need for more effective allocation of R&D funds. The Granger causality tests highlighted the bidirectional feedback between changes in academic production and international rankings. This finding underscores the dynamic nature of academic performance and rankings and the potential impact of R&D expenditure on these outcomes. This highlights the need for higher education institutions to strengthen industry-academia cooperation models, diversify their financial resources, and increase R&D investment. By optimizing the use of research personnel and expanding research departments, institutions can mitigate the negative impact of a declining number of institutions on academic performance.

Studying turn performance, trunk control, and mobility in acute stroke subjects: a cross-sectional study.

Stroke leads to various impairments like motor deficits, impaired trunk control and restricted mobility. However, rehabilitation professionals often underestimate the fundamental function of turning, which is essential for daily living activities like walking, cooking, or performing household chores. Impaired turning can be attributed to motor deficits post-stroke, resulting in restricted mobility and impaired trunk movement. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the relationship between turn performance, trunk control, and mobility in stroke patients. A total of 63 first-time supratentorial stroke (i.e., anterior circulation stroke) patients aged 18-90 years were recruited for the study. Turn performance was assessed by asking patients to walk for 10 feet comfortably, then take a 180° turn and return to the starting position. In addition, the duration and number of steps were recorded. Following this, the Trunk Impairment Scale (TIS) and Stroke Rehabilitation Assessment of Movement (STREAM) were used to assess trunk impairment and mobility, respectively. The group turn performance was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test with a post hoc Mann-Whitney U test for between-group comparisons. The turn duration and turn steps were correlated with age, trunk control, and mobility using Spearman's rank correlation. A regression analysis was performed to determine the association of turn performance with age, trunk control, and mobility among stroke patients. Thirty stroke patients had turning difficulty, and 33 did not. Hence, they were categorized into the turning difficulty (TD) and non-turning difficulty (NTD) groups. When correlated with turn duration and the number of steps taken by the stroke patients while turning, the STREAM and TIS scores revealed a significant negative correlation (p < 0.001). The subjects' age showed a significant positive correlation with the turn duration and number of steps taken by stroke patients while turning (p < 0.001). A significant association was also found between turn performance and age and trunk control. However, there was no significant association between turn performance and mobility. The observed associations highlight the complexity of turning ability and trunk control necessary to complete a turn safely. Additionally, with advancing age, turn performance and turning movement are compromised in stroke patients. This indicates that turning difficulty is more pronounced in older individuals with stroke.

Assessment of myelination development in neonatal rats using chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) 7-T MRI.

Myelination is a crucial process in the nervous system. This study aimed to evaluate the progression of myelin sheath development in different brain regions of neonatal rats at distinct developmental stages using Chemical Exchange Saturation Transfer (CEST) 7-T MRI. Male SD rats of different ages (3days, 1week, 2weeks, 3weeks, 1month, 2months) were selected for the study. Advanced in vivo MRI experiments were conducted using a 7-T MRI scanner. Custom MatLab scripts were employed to generate MR images and process the data. Myelin staining was used to assess myelin distribution in various brain regions. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) and Spearman's rank correlation. The progression of myelination was significantly different in different brain regions (F(5, 30) = 3.34, P < 0.05), with the corpus callosum showing an accelerated rate of myelination. Within the first month alone, there was an increase of 46.1% in myelination (t(35) = 2.29, P < 0.05). The hypothalamus and internal capsule exhibited a more gradual yet consistent increase in myelination over the two-month period, with increases of 47.1% (t(35) = 2.27, P < 0.05) and 39.8% (t(35) = 2.59, P < 0.05), respectively. A substantial positive correlation was found between the MRI-based and histological measurements of myelination (r = 0.31, P < 0.05). This study demonstrates the potential of CEST 7-T MRI as a non-invasive tool for assessing myelination progression and provides insights into the differential myelination rates across various brain regions during early development.

Hubungan antara Durasi Penggunaan Suara dengan Permasalahan Suara pada Aktor Teater di Sanggar Teater di Wilayah Kota Surakarta

Background: An actor is a profession that requires both good vocal range and a quality voice simultaneously. In their workplace, they utilize their voices, which poses a risk of vocal issues such as overuse, potentially leading to voice problems. Persistent voice problems can endanger their professional career. Objectives: Discovering whether there is a correlation between the duration of voice usage and vocal issues among theater actors at the Theater Studio in the Surakarta City Area. Methods: Based on the type of data, this research is a quantitative study and is cross-sectional type. The sampling technique used in this research is purposive sampling with a sample size of 50 respondents. The statistical test employed is the Spearman’s Rank test. Results: The results of the correlation analysis using Spearman's Rank test indicate that the p-value is 0.188 or &gt;0.05. It can be interpreted as accepting H₀ and rejecting Ha, indicating no relationship between the duration of voice use and voice problems in theater actors at the Theater Workshop in the Surakarta City area. Furthermore, the correlation strength (-0.189) is weak with a negative correlation direction, suggesting that the longer the duration of voice use, the smaller the value of voice problems. Conclusion: There is no correlation between the duration of voice usage and voice problems among theater actors at the Theater Studio in the Surakarta City Area. Keyword : Duration of Voice Use, Voice Problems, Theater Actors

Hubungan antara Penggunaan Media Buku Cerita dengan Kemampuan Bahasa Reseptif Anak Usia Dini Umur 4-5 Tahun di TKIT Mardhatilah Kemasan Polokarto

Background: Children between the ages of 0 and 6 are called the golden years because at this age, children experience rapid development and growth in all aspects. At the age of 4-5 years, the most appropriate time to develop all abilities in children, one of the most important abilities is language. As a teacher, you can help provide stimuli such as storytelling or reading storybooks in children's language development. Objectives: To find out the relationship between the use of storybook media and the receptive language skills of children aged 4 to 5 years. Methods: This research is quantitative research that uses a correlation study research design with a cross-sectional approach. The sampling technique used is intentional sampling. The data collected will be analysed univariately and bivariately. The statistical test used is spearman rank. Results: The results of the data analysis obtained a ρ value of 0.000, which implements accepted Ha. We also know that the correlation value r = 0.668, which shows that the correlation between the two variables is strong with a positive direction. Conclusion: There is a relationship between the use of storybook media and receptive language skills with a high level of correlation and positive direction, which means that the higher the use of storybook media and the more receptive language skills are used. Keywords: Storybook media use, receptive language, preschooler, spearman rank.

Correlation between sonographic classification and the efficacy of microwave ablation for adenomyosis.

Adenomyosis is a common benign gynecological disease. Patients often experience abnormal uterine bleeding, dysmenorrhea, and infertility. Percutaneous microwave ablation (PMWA) is a minimally invasive method used for treating adenomyosis while preserving the uterus. However, no study has examined whether the efficacy of PMWA differs according to the severity of adenomyosis. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between sonographic classification and the efficacy of ultrasound-guided PMWA for adenomyosis. This cross-sectional study included 129 patients with symptomatic adenomyosis who received PMWA in the Longyan First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University between May 2019 and October 2022. Patients were divided into three groups of sonographic classification: mild (n=31; 1-3 points), moderate (n=50; 4-6 points), and severe (n=48; ≥7 points). To clarify the effect of PMWA treatment in the different degrees of adenomyosis, clinical questionnaire data were obtained for the three groups using the preoperative and 3-, 6-, and 12-month postoperative menstrual pictorial blood loss analysis chart (PBAC), the dysmenorrhea visual analog scale (VAS), symptom severity scale (SSS), and health-related quality of life scale (HRQL). The uterine corpus volume (UCV) and postoperative UCV reduction rate (UCR) were also calculated, and the correlation between the ultrasound scores and these indicators was analyzed. Nonparametric tests were used to examine differences in measures of efficacy between and within groups. The Chi-square or Fisher exact test was used to examine the intergroup differences in the type of adenomyosis composition, satisfaction with efficacy, and complications. The severe group had the highest preoperative menstrual blood loss, uterine volume, and SSS score but the lowest HRQL score. The moderate group had the highest VAS score. Additionally, the PBAC, VAS, SSS, HRQL, and UCV in the three groups improved postoperatively (all P values <0.05). The moderate, mild, and severe groups demonstrated significant improvements in UCR, the highest proportion of satisfactory efficacy, and the highest proportion of unsatisfactory efficacy, respectively. Most adverse reactions were mild. Ultrasound scores were positively correlated with preoperative PBAC [Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (rs) =0.573; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.384-0.727; P<0.001], SSS (rs =0.299; 95% CI: 0.122-0.467; P=0.002), UCV (rs =0.575; 95% CI: 0.421-0.715; P<0.001), and 12-month postoperative UCR (rs =0.623; 95% CI: 0.485-0.739; P<0.001); meanwhile, ultrasound scores were negatively correlated with preoperative HRQL (rs =-0.301; 95% CI: -0.478 to -0.111; P=0.002). There was no significant correlation between ultrasound scores and preoperative VAS (rs =0.076; 95% CI: -0.119 to 0.262; P=0.450). Sonographic classification reflected the severity of adenomyosis. The therapeutic effect of PMWA on adenomyosis varied across patients according to the severity of adenomyosis. Sonographic classification may potentially serve as a preoperative image-evaluation tool for predicting the ablation effect of PMWA.

Pengaruh antara Tingkat Kepatuhan Orang Tua dalam Menjalankan Home Program dengan Kemampuan Pragmatik pada Anak ASD di PLDPI Kota Surakarta

Background: The presence of parents as one of the components in society is one of the supporting components in the growth and development process of autistic children. Parental support becomes one of the factors for the success of therapies conducted by children, such as providing full support to the child, motivating the child, consulting about the child's issues, as well as parenting style. Regarding the pragmatic abilities of children with autism, they have difficulties in developing interactive conversations. This happens because the symptoms of autism make it difficult for them to understand and predict the thoughts and feelings of others. Objectives: This study aims to determine whether there is an Influence Between Parental Compliance Level in Conducting Home Programs and Pragmatic Abilities in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder at PLDPI Surakarta City. Methods: This research is a quantitative study with an observational analytic research design, and the experimental design used is the One group pretest-posttest design. The sample size in this study is 30 autistic children at PLDPI Surakarta City using the Purposive Sampling technique. The statistical test used is Spearman rank.Results: The description of parental compliance in conducting home programs yielded highly compliant results from 17 respondents, compliant from 9 respondents, and less compliant from 4 respondents. The description of pragmatic abilities in autistic children yielded highly capable results from 6 respondents, capable from 9 respondents, and less capable from 15 respondents. The Spearman's rank correlation test results showed ρ = 0.000 (ρ &lt; 0.05 = Ha accepted), with an r value of 0.619 and a positive correlation direction. Conclusion: Based on the analysis of the data, it can be concluded that there is an influence between the level of parental compliance in conducting home programs on pragmatic abilities in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder at PLDPI Surakarta City. The strength of the influence between these two variables falls into the strong category. Keywords: Level of Parental Compliance, Home Program, Pragmatic Ability, Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Modified Hospital Frailty Risk Score (mHFRS) as a Tool to Identify and Predict Outcomes for Hospitalised Older Adults at Risk of Frailty.

This study aims to determine whether modified Hospital Frailty Risk Score (mHFRS) can identify frail hospitalised older adults by comparing mHFRS to HFRS and Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS). A retrospective review was undertaken in patients =>65 years hospitalised following an Emergency Department attendance between 1st July 2022 and 31st March 2023. Predictive models were evaluated with correlation and measure of agreement between frailty risk scores, CFS and HFRS, CFS and modified HFRS (mHFRS) using the Spearman's rank correlation and Cohen's kappa (κ). Of 3042 patients, CFS categorised 1635 (53.7%) patients as non-frail (CFS 1-4) and 1407 (46.3%) as frail (CFS 5-9,p<0.001). Frail patients were more likely to be female (55.9%), older (81.8 years, SD 8.41 vs 75.3 years, SD 7.20, p<0.001), with longer LOS (52.5% % vs 31.5%, p<0.001), higher 30-day emergency re-admission (18.5% vs 9.9%, p<0.001) and higher mortality at all time points. We could compute mHFRS for 1623 (53.4%) patients, of whom, 37.5% were low risk, 40.5% intermediate risk and 22.1% high frailty risk. mHFRS showed significant correlation with CFS (p<0.001) and HFRS (p<0.001), respectively and achieved comparable association with clinical outcomes. mHFRS was better at identifying non-frail patients and provides a novel, standardised and comparable frailty risk stratification tool for screening older hospitalised patients.

The Impact of Online Game Addiction and Transformations of Emotional Intelligence and Intellectual Intelligence in Middle Adolescents

Adolescence is a critical stage towards adulthood, marked by physical, cognitive and emotional changes. Rapid growth, identity conflicts, and attraction to peers influence development. Online game addiction is increasingly widespread, which can disrupt emotional and intellectual intelligence. Negative impacts include mental health disorders, decreased academic achievement, and disturbances in social interactions and self-regulation. The aim of this research is to determine the relationship between online game addiction and changes in emotional intelligence and intellectual intelligence in middle stage adolescents at SMKN 1 Banyudono. This research is a quantitative study with a cross-sectional design. This research used a total sampling technique with a sample size of 51 respondents. This research instrument uses the Game Addiction Scale (GAS) questionnaire which consists of 21 statements, an emotional intelligence questionnaire with 40 statements and an intellectual intelligence questionnaire with 6 statements. Data were analyzed using Spearman's rank test and regression test. The results of bivariate analysis using the Spearman's rank test obtained a p-value of 0.000 (p-value &lt; 0.005) indicating that there is a significant relationship between online game addiction and changes in emotional intelligence, and a p-value of 0.000 (p-value &lt; 0.005) indicates that there is significant relationship between online game addiction and changes in intellectual intelligence. And the results of multivariate analysis using the regression test obtained a p-value of 0.000 (p-value &lt;0.005). So, it can be concluded that there is a significant relationship between online game addiction and changes in emotional intelligence and intellectual intelligence in middle stage adolescents at SMKN 1 Banyudono

Correlation of dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasonography and the Ki-67 labelling index in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a highly malignant and aggressive tumor, and high Ki-67 expression indicates poor histological differentiation and prognosis. Therefore, one of the challenges in diagnosing preoperatively patients with PDAC is predicting the degree of malignancy. Dynamic contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (DCE-US) plays a crucial role in abdominal tumor diagnosis, and can adequately show the microvascular composition within the tumors. However, the relationship between DCE-US and the Ki-67 labelling index remains unclear at the present time. To predict the correlation between Ki-67 expression and the parameters of DCE-US. Patients with PDAC who underwent DCE-US were retrospectively analyzed. Patients who had received any treatment (radiotherapy or chemotherapy) prior to DCE-US; had incomplete clinical, imaging, or pathologic information; and had poor-quality image analysis were excluded. Correlations between Ki-67 expression and the parameters of DCE-US in patients with PDAC were assessed using Spearman's rank correlation analysis. The diagnostic performances of these parameters in high Ki-67 expression group were evaluated according to receiver operating characteristic curve. Based on the Ki-67 labelling index, 30 patients were divided into two groups, i.e., the high expression group and the low expression group. Among the relative quantitative parameters between the two groups, relative half-decrease time (rHDT), relative peak enhancement, relative wash-in perfusion index and relative wash-in rate were significantly different between two groups (P = 0.018, P = 0.025, P = 0.028, P = 0.035, respectively). The DCE-US parameter rHDT was moderately correlated with Ki-67 expression, and rHDT ≥ 1.07 was more helpful in accurately diagnosing high Ki-67 expression, exhibiting a sensitivity and specificity of 53.8% and 94.1%, respectively. One parameter of DCE-US, rHDT, correlates with high Ki-67 expression. It demonstrates that parameters obtained noninvasively by DCE-US could better predict Ki-67 expression in PDAC preoperatively.

Similar weight loss with semaglutide regardless of diabetes and cardiometabolic risk parameters in individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: Post hoc analysis of three randomised controlled trials.

Weight loss mediated by glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogues is lower in patients with type 2 diabetes versus those without. Type 2 diabetes and obesity are risk factors for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and associated steatohepatitis (MASH). We evaluated weight changes in adults with MASLD/MASH with or without type 2 diabetes receiving the GLP-1 analogue semaglutide. This was a post hoc analysis of data from three 48-72-week randomised trials investigating the effect of semaglutide versus placebo in adults with MASLD (NCT03357380) or biopsy-confirmed MASH (NCT02970942 and NCT03987451). Pooled data for semaglutide (0.4 mg once daily and 2.4 mg once weekly [n = 163]) and placebo (n = 137) were analysed at 1 year. Weight changes were analysed by type 2 diabetes status (type 2 diabetes [n = 209], pre-type 2 diabetes [n = 51] and no diabetes [n = 40]) and by other cardiometabolic risk parameters using analysis of covariance and Spearman's rank correlations. The overall mean weight change was -11.1 kg (-11.7%) and -0.7 kg (-0.6%) with semaglutide and placebo, respectively. While numerically higher for people without type 2 diabetes, estimated treatment differences with semaglutide versus placebo were similar overall for people with type 2 diabetes (-10.2 kg; -10.8%), pre-type 2 diabetes (-9.8 kg; -10.2%) and no diabetes (-11.6 kg; -13.1%). Differences between groups were not statistically significant (p > 0.50 for all). Baseline fasting plasma glucose, glycated haemoglobin, insulin levels, insulin resistance and lipids did not correlate with weight change. People with MASLD/MASH had similar semaglutide-mediated weight loss regardless of type 2 diabetes status and other cardiometabolic risk parameters.

Pancreatic volume change using three dimensional-computed tomography volumetry and its relationships with diabetes on long-term follow-up in autoimmune pancreatitis.

Several studies found that early pancreatic atrophy detected by computed tomography (CT) within 6 months was associated with a high incidence of diabetes in patients with type-1 autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) receiving steroid therapy; however, no long-term follow-up studies have been performed. To investigate pancreatic volume (PV) changes using three dimensional (3D)-CT volumetry and their relationship with IgG4 and diabetes in patients with AIP. This retrospective study included 33 patients with type-1 AIP receiving steroid therapy. Patients were divided into diffuse (D-type) and mass-forming type (M-type) AIP. PV was determined by semi-automated 3D-CT volumetry, and changes between initial and follow-up values were calculated. The relationship between PV and serum IgG4 levels was analyzed by Spearman's rank correlation. The PV atrophy ratio compared with the presumed normal PV at the time of last follow-up CT and its relationship with diabetes were investigated. There were 16 D-type and 17 M-type patients with long-term follow-up (mean, 95.8 months). The regression curve of mean relative PV change reduced exponentially and rapidly during the first 25 months and then more slowly in both groups. The overall cumulative pancreas re-enlargement rates at 1, 3, 5, 7 and 10 years were 6.1%, 12.2%, 29.2%, 47.5% and 55.0%, respectively. There was a moderate-to-very strong positive correlation (ρ ≥ 0.4) between PV and serum IgG4 levels in nine (9/13, 69.2%) patients. All 33 patients showed pancreatic atrophy (mean 59.3%) after long-term follow-up. Patients with D-type AIP had a significantly higher atrophy rate and higher incidence of diabetes than M-type patients (P < 0.05). PV change initially reduced exponentially and then more slowly and is considered an important factor associated with diabetes. Serum IgG4 levels were positively correlated with PV during follow-up.

Classifying School Scope Using Deep Neural Networks Based on Students' Surrounding Living Environments

This research investigates school scope classification using Deep Neural Networks (DNN), focusing on students living environments and educational opportunities. By addressing the interplay of socioeconomic and educational factors, the study aims to develop an analytical framework for understanding how environmental contexts shape academic trajectories. The research provides a nuanced understanding of the importance of features in educational classification by developing DNN models based on Spearman's Rank Correlation Coefficient (SRCC). The methodology employs machine learning techniques, integrating data wrangling, exploratory analysis, and multiple DNN models with K-fold cross-validation. The study analyzes 677 student records from two schools. The research examined multiple model configurations. Results show that the 'All Data' model achieved 83.08% accuracy, the 'Top 5' model 81.54%, and the 'Non-Top 5' model 79.23%. The SRCC-based approach revealed that while top correlated features are important, additional variables significantly contribute to model performance. The study highlights the profound impact of family background, social environment, and educational contexts on school selection. Furthermore, it demonstrates DNN's capability to uncover intricate, non-linear relationships, offering actionable insights for policymakers to leverage machine learning's potential in developing targeted educational strategies.

Correlation of bisphenol A and bisphenol S exposure with the metabolic parameters on FDG PET/CT image.

Bisphenol A (BPA) and its analogs have been proved to be harmful to human health. This study aimed to assess the correlation of BPA and its major analog, Bisphenol S (BPS), with metabolic parameters within main organs using 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG PET/CT) imaging. A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who had undergone FDG PET/CT imaging and were also examined for BPA and BPS levels. Urine samples were collected for detection of BPA and BPS. Standardized uptake values (SUVmax and SUVmean) of main organ tissues including liver, blood, spleen, muscle, thyroid, and cerebral cortex were quantified. Statistical analysis was performed using Spearman's rank correlation. Forty patients (20 female, 20 male; mean age: 56.1 ± 15.4 years) were included. Mean urine BPA and BPS concentrations were 2.1 ± 1.2 ng/mL and 1 ± 0.6 ng/mL, respectively. Urine BPA exhibited a moderate positive correlation with liver SUVmax (r = 0.351, p = 0.026) and SUVmean (r = 0.361, p = 0.022) in male. No significant correlations were found between BPA and blood, muscle, spleen, thyroid, and cerebral cortex (p > 0.05). Conversely, urine BPS demonstrated a negative correlation with thyroid SUVmax in male (r = -0.43, p = 0.012) and SUVmean (r = -0.432, p = 0.012), while a positive correlation was observed between BPS and cerebral cortex SUVmax in female (r = 0.366, p = 0.033). Urinary levels of BPA and BPS exerted distinct influences on tissue metabolic parameters observed via FDG PET/CT imaging, particularly affecting the liver, thyroid, and cerebral cortex.

VALIDATION STUDY ON THE SUBJECTIVE AND OBJECTIVE QUALITY OF LIFE OF EMPLOYEES – THE CASE OF THE REPUBLIC OF SERBIA

In this paper, the validity and reliability of the Comprehensive Quality of Life Scale-A5 (ComQoL-A5) was evaluated on a sample of 761 employees in production and service activities in the City of Niš. The research was carried out using the Cronbach α internal consistency coefficient of all components (domains) of the questionnaire scales in order to analyze the reliability of the quality of life scales. In addition, the correlation analysis assessed the interdependence between the values of individual domains within the scales for assessing the quality of life, while Spearman's rank correlation coefficient - r was calculated between the individual domains of the scales for the objective and subjective quality of life. The results of the research confirm the high reliability of the scales for assessing the subjective quality of life (0.823) in the general population of employees, while the reliability of the scale for assessing the objective quality of life is in accordance with the values of the Cronbach α coefficients in the tests of the objective quality of life in a large number of studies during the initial testing of the questionnaire by the author himself (0.39 vs. 0.49). It was confirmed that the application of a standardized generic questionnaire for quality of life (ComQoL-A5) is a suitable and reliable instrument for future research on quality of life in the general population and for the working population.

Local and Regional, Not Latitudinal, Variation in Microclimate and Bedrock Shapes Moss‐Associated Diatom Communities in Greenland

ABSTRACTAimGreenland is among the most rapidly changing regions on Earth, with climate change having a profound impact on its terrestrial ecosystems. Here, moss‐associated diatoms hold great potential as sensitive biological indicators to monitor responses to climate change, but their diversity, community structure and biogeography remain virtually unexplored. Our study, thus, aims to (1) explore the diversity and community structure of moss‐associated diatoms in Greenland and (2) assess the environmental and spatial variables driving their geographic distribution, establishing a baseline for their use as bio‐indicators of climate change.LocationGreenland, spanning a gradient from high to subarctic regions.TaxonMoss‐associated diatoms (Bacillariophyta).MethodsLM and SEM analysis was conducted on 175 terrestrial moss samples collected from preserved herbarium material and fresh samples (1988–2021) from high, low and subarctic localities in Greenland. Biogeographical distributions, biodiversity patterns and community structure were examined in relation to environmental and spatial factors using Kruskal–Wallis, Spearman's Rank, ordination, SIMPROF and variation partitioning analyses.ResultsA total of 544 diatom taxa (66 genera) were identified, with nearly half potentially new to science. Community structure was predominantly influenced by moisture, pH, conductivity and temperature. Local variation in microclimate and bedrock, thus, explained more variation in the diatom communities than latitude‐related environmental gradients. Surprisingly, temperature had a negative impact on diatom richness, probably due to its adverse effect on moisture, highlighting the vulnerability of Arctic moss diatoms to global warming.Main ConclusionsThis study provides the first comprehensive analysis of Greenland's moss‐associated diatoms, highlighting their high diversity and sensitivity to environmental changes. Our findings underscore their potential as indicators for monitoring climate change in the Arctic, with moisture, pH, conductivity and temperature being critical factors influencing their communities, laying the groundwork for future research and monitoring efforts.

Perfusion-Based Relative Cerebral Blood Volume Is Associated With Functional Dependence in Large-Vessel Occlusion Ischemic Stroke.

Pretreatment computed tomography perfusion parameter relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) lesion volume has been shown to predict 90-day modified Rankin Scale score in small-core strokes with Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score ≥5, including those with medium-vessel occlusions (mid and distal M2 segment occlusions). Hence, in this study we aim to assess the performance of different rCBV lesion volume thresholds (rCBV <42%, rCBV <38%, and rCBV <34%) with 90-day modified Rankin Scale score including patients with large core (Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score <5) and strictly including only patients with anterior circulation large-vessel occlusion. In this retrospective evaluation of our prospectively collected database, inclusion criteria were (1) Computed tomographic angiography confirmed anterior circulation large-vessel occlusion from September 1, 2017, to October 1, 2023; and (2) diagnostic computed tomography perfusion. Student t test, Mann-Whitney U test, and χ2 test were used in the univariate data analysis. Spearman's rank correlation analysis was used to assess correlations. Outcome measure was dichotomized into good functional outcome (90-day modified Rankin Scale score, 0-2) and poor functional outcome (90-day modified Rankin Scale score, 3-6) for logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic analysis. P≤0.05 was considered significant. In total, 229 patients met our inclusion criteria. The majority of the patients (n=161) in our cohort had M1 occlusion. All the rCBV thresholds were significantly higher in patients with poor 90-day functional outcomes and were independently associated with the outcome. Spearman's rank correlation analysis revealed a slightly stronger correlation of rCBV <42% (ρ=0.27, P<0.001), as compared with rCBV <38% (ρ=0.25, P<0.001) and rCBV <34% (ρ=0.24, P<0.001) with functional outcome. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that rCBV <42% (area under the curve, 0.67 [95% CI, 0.60-0.74]; P<0.001) performed marginally better than rCBV <38% (area under the curve, 0.66 [95% CI, 0.59-0.73]; P<0.001), and rCBV <34% (area under the curve, 0.65 [95% CI, 0.58-0.72]; P<0.001). All the rCBV thresholds were independently associated with poor 90-day functional outcome; however, the rCBV <42% marginally outperformed rCBV <38% and rCBV <34% lesion volumes.