Univariate Linear Regression Research Articles

P-036 Female age affects the combined impact of DNA fragmentation and high DNA stainability on embryo development in intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles

Abstract Study question To investigate the role of female age in regulating the co-effect of DNA fragmentation index (DFI) and high DNA stainability (HDS) on ICSI embryological outcomes. Summary answer When female age exceeded 35, co-exposure high DFI and middle HDS might delay embryonic development after ICSI treatment. What is known already Sperm DNA damage had a negative influence on embryonic development. Oocytes and embryos have adopted specific response and repair mechanisms to repair sperm DNA damage. However, the DNA repair capacity in the oocyte is limited and likely decline with increasing age. Study design, size, duration This historical cohort study was included 1334 couples underwent ICSI from January 2017 to December 2022. An unsupervised K-means clustering method was used to divide participants into three clusters base on DFI value and HDS value, as follow: cluster 1 with low DFI values and low HDS values (lDFI-lHDS group), cluster 2 with middle DFI values and high HDS values (mDFI-hHDS group), and cluster 3 with high DFI values and middle HDS values (hDFI-mHDS group). Participants/materials, setting, methods All participants were further stratified into female age<35 subgroup and female age≥35 subgroup. The univariate and multivariate linear regression model was used for statistical analysis. Multivariate model was adjusted for female factor (including age, AMH, basal FSH and the numbers of retrieved oocyte) and male age which were significantly correlated with embryo development in univariate models. The main outcome measure was D5 blastocyst development rate and D6 blastocyst development rate. Main results and the role of chance In the female age<35 subgroup, D5 blastocyst development rate in the mDFI-hHDS group (48.53% [25.00%, 66.67%] and the hDFI-mHDS group (50.00% [28.57%, 71.07%]) was significantly higher than that in the lDFI-lHDS group (40.00% [0.00%, 63.96%]). No significant differences were observed between the three groups regarding D6 blastocyst development rate. And univariate model and multivariate model showed that the mDFI-hHDS group (adjusted B value=0.36, 95% CI: 0.08∼0.64, P=0.010) and hDFI-mHDS group (adjusted B value=0.41, 95% CI: 0.12∼0.70, P=0.006) had higher D5 blastocyst development rate compared with lDFI-lHDS group. In the female age≥35 subgroup, D5 blastocyst development rate in the hDFI-mHDS (20.00% [0.00%, 50.00%]) group was significantly lower than that in the lDFI-lHDS group (36.93% [0.00%, 66.67%]) and the mDFI-hHDS group (41.43% [0.00%, 63.54%]). Accordingly, D6 blastocyst development rate in the hDFI-mHDS group (66.67% [33.33%, 100.00%]) was significantly higher than that in the lDFI-lHDS group (50.00% [16.67%, 80.00%]) and the mDFI-hHDS group (50.00% [33.33%, 66.67%]). And both model showed that hDFI-mHDS group (adjusted B value=0.73, 95% CI: 0.36∼1.11, P<0.001) had higher D6 blastocyst development rate compared with the lDFI-lHDS group. Although not statistically significant, hDFI-mHDS had negative correlation with D5 blastocyst development rate. Limitations, reasons for caution The main weakness of this study was the participants were not randomized. Wider implications of the findings hDFI-mHDS group were negatively associated with D5 blastocyst development rate and positively related with D6 blastocyst development rate in female age≥35 subgroup. These results suggested that co-exposure high DFI and middle HDS might be recommended as a predictor for the detection of delayed embryo development when female age exceeded 35. Trial registration number not applicable

Health-Related Quality of Life and its Determinants among School-going Adolescents: A Cross-sectional Study.

Adolescents experience rapid physical, cognitive, and psychosocial growth in their transition from childhood to adulthood, affecting health outcomes and well-being. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is a useful indicator of health outcomes, assessed in the current study along with associated determinants. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 634 randomly selected adolescents from 13 randomly selected schools in Gharwal division, Uttarakhand, India, from August 2019 to September 2020. The students studying in the 8th-11th standard and those providing assent and consent from their parents were included in the study. They were screened using the short version of the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire. Along with physical activity and fitness assessment, the Global School-based Student Health Survey questionnaire was administered. The transformed HRQoL domain scores were calculated using the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. A univariate and multivariable linear regression model was applied to identify the determinants of HRQoL using SPSS version 23. The study included 324 (51.1%) boys and 310 (48.9%) girls. The mean age of the students was 14.4±1.4 years. The highest mean score was 72.3±21.0 for the social relationship domain and the lowest was 55.6±15.0 for the physical domain. The age, parents using any form of tobacco, a history of ever-use of alcohol and physical fitness were significantly associated with HRQoL domain scores. The non-dominant back stretch test was also significantly associated (Beta coefficient; SE, P-value) with physical (-4.1; 1.4, 0.002), psychosocial (-3.9; 1.5, 0.010) and environmental (-3.5; 1.4, 0.014) domain scores. All domains of HRQoL need to be improved and should address the psychological, social, and mental well-being of adolescents. Physical activity and fitness of students emerged as a strong modifiable predictor affecting almost all the domains of HRQoL, warranting its promotion in schools and the promotion of healthy behavior among parents and adolescents.

Deep Learning‐Enabled Vasculometry Depicts Phased Lesion Patterns in High Myopia Progression

PurposeTo investigate the potential phases in myopic retinal vascular alterations for further elucidating the mechanisms underlying the progression of high myopia (HM). MethodsFor this retrospective study, participants diagnosed with high myopia at Beijing Tongren Hospital were recruited. Based on bionic mechanisms of human vision, an intelligent image processing model was developed and utilized to extract and quantify the morphological characteristics of retinal vasculatures in different regions measured by papilla-diameter (PD), including vascular caliber, arteriole-to-venule ratio (AVR), tortuosity, the angle of the vascular arch (AVA), the distance of the vascular arch (DVA), density, fractal dimension, and venular length. In addition, the optic disc and the area of peripapillary atrophy (PPA) were also quantified. The characteristics of the overall population, as well as patients aged less than 25 years old, were compared by different genders. Univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to investigate the correlation of retinal vasculature parameters with PPA width, and detailed trends of the vascular indicators were analyzed to explore the potential existence of staged morphological changes. FindingsThe study included 14,066 fundus photographs of 5775 patients (aged 41.2 ± 18.6 years), of whom 7379 (61.2 %) were female. The study included 12,067 fundus photographs of 5320 patients (aged 41.2 ± 18.6 years). Significant variations in the morphological parameters of retinal vessels were observed between males and females. After adjusting for age and sex, multiple linear regression analysis showed that an increased PPA width ratio was associated with lower AVA (1PD), DVA (1PD), vascular caliber (0.5–1.0 PD), tortuosity (0.5–1.0 PD), density and fractal dimension (all P < 0.001, Spearman’s ρ < 0). Overall, the changes in retinal vascular morphology showed two phases: tortuosity (0.5–1.0PD) and AVA (1PD) decreased rapidly in the first stage but significantly more slowly in the second stage, while vascular density and fractal dimension showed a completely opposite trend with an initial slow decline followed by a rapid decrease. ConclusionsThis study identified two distinct phases of retinal vascular morphological changes during the progression of HM. Traction lesions were predominant in the initial stage, while atrophic lesions were predominant in the later stage. These findings provide further insight into the development mechanism of HM from the perspective of retinal vasculature.

Paper 06: Lower Socioeconomic Status is Associated with Recurrent Shoulder Instability Before Surgical Shoulder Stabilization

Objectives: Social determinants of health (SDOH) are comprised of a patient’s environmental conditions including social and economic factors, which influence access to health care and resources. Growing evidence in orthopaedic surgery has revealed that SDOH factors lead to differential access to care and ultimately health disparities after surgery. For shoulder instability, previous literature has demonstrated that the number of previous dislocations before a stabilization procedure increases the risk of recurrent instability after the procedure. The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of SDOH on the number of dislocation events before surgical intervention. Methods: A retrospective review of patients who underwent shoulder stabilization surgery at a health system in a large metropolitan area between January 1, 2021 and April 13, 2023 were identified. Patients’ demographic and social determinants variables were extracted using the electronic medical record. Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) socioeconomic subscore and Area of Deprivation Index (ADI) were collected using online mapping data based on patient zip codes. The number of dislocation events and the time they occurred were determined using clinical charts. Operative variables collected included the date of surgery to determine the time from clinical presentation to surgery and the procedure performed. Univariate linear regression analysis was used to evaluate potential predictors of increasing time to presentation and increasing time to surgery. Univariate logistic regression analysis was also performed of all potential predictors of having &gt;1 dislocation event. A multivariate model was then created using all predictors with a P value &lt; 0.05 in the univariate models. Results: There were 106 patients who underwent shoulder surgery for instability, including arthroscopic and open stabilization, and had complete social determinant data, with 54% (n = 57) identifying as White, 29% (n = 31) as Black/African American, and 17% (n = 18) as other. A total of 38 (35.8%) patients suffered 1 dislocation (single dislocation cohort) before undergoing surgery, and 68 (64.2%) experienced &gt; 1 dislocation (recurrent cohort) before surgery. No significant variables were associated with increasing time to presentation or surgery. Univariate logistic regression revealed that decreasing age (odds ratio [OR] 0.94 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.89- 0.99]; P = 0.02), decreasing body mass index (BMI) (OR 0.90 [95% CI 0.83-0.98]; P = 0.02), increasing SVI (OR 1.21 [95% CI 1.05-1.38]; P = 0.006), and increasing area deprivation index (ADI) (third tercile compared to first, OR 6.04 [95% CI 2.05-17.8]; P = 0.003) were associated with increased odds of having &gt; 1 instability event before surgical intervention. There was no association with race found in terms of number of dislocations before surgery. Multivariate logistic regression modeling revealed that decreasing BMI (OR 0.87 [95% CI 0.78-0.98]; P = 0.02) and increasing ADI (third tercile compared to first tercile, OR 7.46 [95% CI 1.26-44.2]; P = 0.02) were associated with increased odds of having &gt; 1 instability event before shoulder instability surgery. Conclusions: Lower socioeconomic status, as measured by ADI, is an independent predictor of a higher likelihood of recurrent instability before shoulder stabilization surgery. Recognizing these relationships may motivate surgeons to create pathways to prevent these treatment disparities among shoulder instability patients. Further studies are required to examine if these SDOH variables lead to disparities in postoperative outcomes.

Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) and adverse outcomes in acute coronary syndrome patients

Background and objectives. Red blood cell distribution width (RDW) is an early biomarker indicative of the inflammatory process. Elevated levels of systemic and local inflammation are integral to the pathophysiology of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). This study aims to examine the correlation between increased RDW and various severe prognostic factors associated with ACS. Materials and methods. This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on a cohort of 60 patients diagnosed with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). The diagnostic threshold for elevated RDW-CV was established at 15%. Accordingly, the study population was stratified into two groups: group 1 (RDW-CV≤15%), and group 2 (RDW-CV15%). Results. The range of RDW-CV (%) distribution is from 11.2% to 16.9%, with a mean value of 14.2±1.3. A negative correlation exists between RDW-CV (%) and ejection fraction (EF%) (r=-0.4, p&lt;0.01). Univariate linear regression analysis indicates that a 1% increase in RDW-CV (%) corresponds to a 3.3% decrease in EF (%) (Coefficient=-3.3, p&lt;0.01). Furthermore, univariate logistic regression analysis reveals that patients with RDW &gt;15% have a 9.3-fold increased risk of heart failure with reduced EF (OR=9.3, p&lt;0.01) and a 4.5-fold increased risk of having damage to 2-3 coronary vessels (OR=4.5, p&lt;0.05) compared to those with RDW≤15%. ROC curves demonstrate that RDW has a good predictive ability for reduced EF (AUC=0.779, 95% CI 0.626-0.932, p=0.006). Conclusions. There is a significant relationship between elevated RDW and severe prognostic factors in acute coronary syndromes (ACS), including reduced ejection fraction (EF) and the extent of coronary vessel damage. Monitoring this straightforward hematological marker can enhance prognostic accuracy and inform appropriate treatment strategies.

Ensuring quality indicators of photopolymer 3D printing by using mathematical modeling and test models

The subject of the research in the article is the analysis of the influence of technological parameters of photopolymer printing on the appearance of defects in the printing process. Test models for analysis are used, which contain elements that are affected by changes in technological parameters. The purpose of the work is to determine the dependence between the technological parameters of photopolymer printing and the defects that arise because of printing using models for testing. The article addresses the following tasks: analysis of existing test models and determination of model elements and the influence of technological parameters on them. The methods used for the research are mathematical analysis in the form of univariate linear regression and the empirical method. This method consists in comparing and measuring the difference between individual test samples to obtain values that will later be used in regression analysis. The following results were obtained: the dependence of technological factors and their influence on the elements of the test model was determined, which consists in changing the physical dimensions of the test models. With insufficient exposure time, the dimensions of the model are reduced, and defects are created. When the exposure time increases, the dimensions of the model increase linearly, defects appear in the form of holes disappearing or their sizes changing. Conclusions: because of an experimental study, which consists in printing test models and their analysis with the help of linear one-factor regression, the dependence between the exposure time and the physical dimensions of the model was determined and confirmed. Then a method of studying the correspondence of dimensions depending on the exposure time using test models was proposed and mathematical modeling in the form of regression univariate analysis. In the following, it is proposed to determine the influence of the layer height on the exposure time. Further, it is proposed to determine the significance of individual technological factors among themselves and their influence on the defects obtained because of printing. Building a regression analysis model, determining the correlation of technological parameters and their influence on quality indicators. Determination of the coefficient of determination of the constructed model.

Expression and predictive value of serum core fucosylated low molecular weight kininogen and alpha-galactosylated antibodies in patients with hepatic fibrosis.

Hepatic fibrosis is a common pathological basis for many chronic liver diseases and can progress to cirrhosis, a leading cause of mortality in liver diseases. Early identification and reversal of hepatic fibrosis are key in the treatment of chronic liver disease. This study aims to compare the expression levels of serum core fucosylated low molecular weight kininogen (LMWK-Fc) and alpha-galactosylated (α-Gal) antibodies in patients with hepatic fibrosis at different stages, and to evaluate their diagnostic efficacy for hepatic fibrosis. A retrospective analysis was conducted on 275 patients with chronic liver disease who visited the Department of Infectious Diseases at the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University between June 2022 and March 2023. Among these, 115 patients underwent liver biopsy. Based on the extent of collagen deposition and its impact on liver structure and microcirculation, patients were staged from 0 to 4: S0 (no significant collagen deposition in liver tissues; liver structure and microcirculation are normal), S1 (mild collagen deposition in liver tissues, with partial disruption of lobule structure, but microcirculation remains largely normal), S2 (moderate collagen deposition in liver tissues, with partial disruption of lobule structure and microcirculation), S3 (extensive collagen deposition in liver tissues, with substantial disruption of lobule structure and microcirculation), and S4 (development of cirrhosis, with heavy collagen deposition, complete disruption of lobule structure, and severe impairment of microcirculation). Patients were grouped as no fibrosis (S0), fibrosis (S1-S2), and significant fibrosis (S3-S4). For the 160 patients without liver biopsy, they were categorized based on liver stiffness measurement (LSM) value: no fibrosis (F0: LSM<7.3 kPa), fibrosis (F1-F2: LSM 7.3-12.4 kPa), and significant fibrosis (F3-F4: LSM>12.4 kPa). Demographic data (age, gender) and laboratory indicators (alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase, alpha-fetoprotein, platelet count) were collected to calculate the fibrosis-4 index (FIB-4) and aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI). Serum LMWK-Fc and α-Gal antibodies were measured and compared across the groups, and their correlation with fibrosis severity was analyzed. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to assess the predictive value of serum LMWK-Fc and α-Gal antibody levels for hepatic fibrosis. Among the 160 patients without complete liver biopsy, serum α-Gal antibody and LMWK-Fc levels increased progressively from the no fibrosis group to the significant fibrosis group, with statistically significant differences (P<0.05). Among the 115 patients with liver biopsy, serum LMWK-Fc levels were significantly higher in the fibrosis group and the significant fibrosis groups compared with the no fibrosis group, and α-Gal antibody levels were significantly higher in the significant fibrosis group compared with the no fibrosis group and the fibrosis group (P<0.001, P=0.032, respectively). Univariate and multivariate linear regression analyses showed that hepatic fibrosis was correlated with gender and LMWK-Fc levels (both P<0.05), but not with age, α-Gal antibody levels, FIB-4, or APRI (all P>0.05). The expression levels of serum LMWK-Fc and α-Gal antibodies vary across different stages of hepatic fibrosis, suggesting a potential association with fibrosis progression. LMWK-Fc levels have a certain predictive value for the diagnosis of hepatic fibrosis.

Oncologic control and predictors of urologic reconstruction after Mohs micrographic surgery for low-risk penile malignancy.

Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is a low-risk penile cancer management option. However, contemporary patients' short-term oncologic control and preoperative characteristics predicting reconstruction needs are undefined. This study assesses MMS's oncologic efficacy for low-risk penile cancer and identifies baseline predictors of post-resection reconstruction referral. We retrospectively reviewed 73 adult males with 78 penile cutaneous malignancies treated with MMS from 2005 to 2019. Patients underwent MMS with or without surgical reconstruction. Demographic information, MMS operative details, lesion pathology, and short-term outcomes were recorded. Descriptive statistics for all variables were calculated, and logistic regression identified predictive factors for urologic referral for complex reconstruction. Seventy-three men with 78 lesions, all staged ≤ cT1a prior to MMS, were identified. Twenty-one men were found to have invasive SCC. Median follow-up was 2.0years (IQR 0.8-5.2years). MMS was able to clear the disease in 90.4% of cases. One patient had disease related death following progression. Dermatology closed primarily in 68% of patients. Twenty percent of patients had a complication, most commonly poor wound healing. On univariate and multivariate linear regression analysis, lesion size > 3cm and involvement of the glans independently predicted the need for referral to a reconstructive surgeon. MMS for penile cancer appears to provide sound oncologic control in the properly selected patient. Involvement of a reconstructive surgeon may be needed for glandular and large lesions, necessitating early referral to a comprehensive multidisciplinary care team.

Unsolicited scam invitations from predatory publications and fraudulent conferences: Radiology-in-training experience

PurposeRadiology faculty across various specialties have been reported to receive an average of 20.7 invitations to submit manuscripts to bogus journals and 4.1 invitations to speak at unsuitable events over a two-week span. Radiology trainees also receive a fair number of unsolicited invitations from unknown senders to submit manuscripts and speak at meetings. Trainees can be more vulnerable to predatory invitations due to potential naivety. We aimed to determine the prevalence of these spam invitations received by radiology trainees. Material and methodsThe designed survey for evaluating the experience of radiology trainees regarding phishing scams of predatory publications and conferences was sent to radiology residency and neuroradiology fellowship program leadership to redistribute amongst their trainees, and was advertised on social media platforms. The survey was first sent out on September 28, 2023, and was closed two weeks later October 12, 2023. Spearman’s correlation, univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were performed. ResultsOur study included 151 respondents who completed the survey. Of the survey respondents, 53 % reported receiving unsolicited emails from predatory publications (mean = 6.76 ± 7.29), and 32 % reported receiving emails from fraudulent conferences (mean = 5.61 ± 5.77). Significant positive correlation was observed between number of unsolicited email invitations with number of PubMed indexed publications, number as corresponding author, number in open access journals and number of abstract presentations. ConclusionsTrainees in radiology receive many unsolicited invitations to publish papers as well as to present at meetings that are not accredited. This could lead to wasted time and financial resources for unsuspecting trainees.

Sarcopenia is independently associated with poor preoperative physical fitness in patients undergoing colorectal cancer surgery.

Accurate preoperative risk assessment for major colorectal cancer (CRC) surgery remains challenging. Body composition (BC) and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) can be used to evaluate risk. The relationship between BC and CPET in patients undergoing curative CRC surgery is unclear. Consecutive patients undergoing CPET prior to CRC surgery between 2010 and 2020 were identified between two different UK hospitals. Body composition phenotypes such as sarcopenia, myosteatosis, and visceral obesity were defined using widely accepted thresholds using preoperative single axial slice CT image at L3 vertebrae. Relationships between clinicopathological, BC, and CPET variables were investigated using linear regression analysis. Two hundred eighteen patients with stage I-III CRC were included. The prevalence of sarcopenia, myosteatosis, and visceral obesity was 62%, 33%, and 64%, respectively. The median oxygen uptake at anaerobic threshold (VO2 at AT) was 12.2mL/kg/min (IQR 10.6-14.2), and oxygen uptake at peak exercise (VO2 peak) was 18.8mL/kg/min (IQR 15.4-23). On univariate linear regression analysis, male sex (P<0.001) was positively associated with VO2 at AT. While ASA grade (P<0.001) and BMI (P=0.007) were negatively associated with VO2 at AT, on multivariate linear regression analysis, these variables remained significant (P<0.05). On univariate linear regression analysis, male sex (P<0.001) was positively associated with VO2 peak, whereas age (P<0.001), ASA grade (P<0.001), BMI (P=0.003), sarcopenia (P=0.015), and myosteatosis (P<0.001) were negatively associated with VO2 peak. On multivariate linear regression analysis age (P<0.001), ASA grade (P<0.001), BMI (P<0.001), and sarcopenia (P=0.006) were independently and negatively associated with VO2 peak. The novel finding that sarcopenia is independently associated with reduced VO2 peak performance in CPET supports the supposition that reduced muscle mass relates to poor physical function in CRC patients. Further work should be undertaken to assess whether sarcopenia diagnosed on CT can act as suitable surrogate for CPET to further enhance personalized risk stratification.

Cortex-to-caudate volume ratio as a predictor of cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment

BackgroundBrain and cortical atrophy play crucial roles in supporting the clinical diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study hypothesized that the ratios of brain or cortical volume to subcortical gray matter structure volumes are potential imaging markers for cognitive alterations in AD dementia and amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI). MethodsSeventy-seven subjects diagnosed with AD dementia or aMCI underwent baseline neuropsychological testing, 2-year follow-up cognitive assessments, and high-resolution T1-weighted MRI scans. Total brain/cortical volume and subcortical gray matter structure volumes were automatically segmented and measured. Univariate and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted to determine the associations between volumetric ratios and interval changes in cognitive scores. ResultsThe ratio of cortical volume to caudate volume showed the most significant association with changes in MoCA (B = 0.132, SE = 0.042, p = 0.002), MMSE (B = 0.140, SE = 0.040, p = 0.001), and CDR-SOB (B = −0.013, SE = 0.005, p = 0.007) scores over the 2-year follow-up period. These associations remained significant after adjusting for various covariates. Similar associations were observed for the ratios of cortical volume to putamen and globus pallidum volumes. ConclusionsThe cortex-to-caudate volume ratio is significantly associated with cognitive decline in AD dementia and aMCI. This ratio may serve as a useful biomarker for monitoring disease progression and predicting cognitive outcomes. Our findings highlight the importance of considering the relative atrophy of cortical and subcortical structures in understanding AD pathology.

Application Model of Hyperspectral Technology Based on Novel Spectral Indices for Salinity Assessment in Soil Heritage Sites

Abstract. The Dunhuang murals are a precious treasure of China's cultural heritage, yet they have long been affected by salt damage. Traditional methods for detecting salt content are costly, inefficient, and may cause physical harm to the murals. Among current techniques for measuring salt content in murals, hyperspectral remote sensing technology offers a non-invasive , circumventing issues of high costs, low efficiency. Building on this, our study developed a high-spectral feature inversion model for mural phosphate content using Fractional Order Differentiation (FOD), a novel three-band spectral index, and Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR) algorithm. The specific research contents include: 1) Exploring the absorption mechanism of phosphates and their characteristic bands, combined with the optimal spectral index to construct a univariate linear regression model, providing a basis for rapid quantitative measurement of mural phosphate content. 2) By comparing the accuracy of the PSR and PNDI spectral indices based on the linear regression model, the first six orders of the highest accuracy spectral index were selected as the optimal three-band spectral index combination, used as explanatory variables, with mural plaster electrical conductivity as the response variable, employing the PLSR method to construct the mural phosphate content high-spectral feature inversion model. The study's findings include: 1) By comparing the outcomes of different orders of fractional differentiation, it was found that the model performance reached its optimum at a 0.3 order of differentiation for both PSR and PNDI data, with a determination coefficient (R2) of 0.728. 2) Utilizing PLSR, this study employed the previously determined optimal six-order three-band spectral index combination as explanatory variables, with salt content as the response variable, successfully constructing the high-spectral feature inversion model for mural phosphate content with a determination coefficient (R2) of 0.815. This provides an effective technical means for monitoring the salt damage conditions of precious cultural heritage such as murals.

Incidence distributions, risk factors and trends of vaginal cancer: A global population-based study.

This study aimed to investigate the incidence, risk factors and trends for vaginal cancer. Retrospective observational design. Data were collected from multiple sources, including the Global Cancer Observatory, Cancer Incidence in Five Continents Plus, Global Burden of Disease, World Bank and the United Nations. Individuals diagnosed with vaginal cancer. The study collected data on vaginal cancer from the specified sources. The age-standardised rate (ASR) of vaginal cancer was calculated for different regions and age groups. Multivariable and univariable linear regression analyses were performed to examine the associations between risk factors and the incidence of vaginal cancer. Trend analysis was conducted using joinpoint regression analysis, and the average annual percentage change (AAPC) was calculated to quantify the temporal trend. The main outcome measures of the study were the incidence of vaginal cancer, risk factors associated with the disease and the trend of its incidence over time. There were 17 908 newly reported cases of vaginal cancer (ASR = 0.36, 95% CI 0.30-0.44) in 2020, with the highest ASRs reported in South-Central Asia and Southern Africa. Risk factors associated with a higher incidence of vaginal cancer included a higher prevalence of unsafe sex and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. The temporal trend showed an overall rising incidence globally, with Iceland (AAPC = 29.56, 95% CI 12.12-49.71), Chile (AAPC = 22.83, 95% CI 13.20-33.27), Bahrain (AAPC = 22.05, 95% CI 10.83-34.40) and the UK (AAPC = 1.40, 95% CI 0.41-2.39) demonstrating the most significant rising trends. The significant regional disparities and risk factors associated with vaginal cancer underscore the necessity for targeted interventions and education, particularly in regions with a lower human development index (HDI) and a higher prevalence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The increasing incidence trend emphasises the need for enhanced HPV vaccination rates to prevent the development of vaginal cancer.

Global burden, risk factors, and temporal trends of ureteral cancer: a comprehensive analysis of cancer registries

BackgroundUreteral cancer is a rare cancer. This study aimed to provide an up-to-date and comprehensive analysis on the global trends of ureteral cancer incidence and its association with lifestyle and metabolic risk factors.MethodsThe incidence of ureteral cancer was estimated from the Cancer Incidence in Five Continents Plus and Global Cancer Observatory databases. We analyzed the (1) global incidence of ureteral cancer by region, country, sex, and age group by age-standardized rates (ASR); (2) associated risk factors on a population level by univariable linear regression with logarithm transformation; and (3) incidence trend of ureteral cancer by sex and age group in different countries by Average Annual Percentage Change (AAPC).ResultsThe global age-standardized rate of ureteral cancer incidence in 2022 was 22.3 per 10,000,000 people. Regions with higher human development index (HDI), such as Europe, Northern America, and East Asia, were found to have a higher incidence of ureteral cancer. Higher HDI and gross domestic product (GDP) and a higher prevalence of smoking, alcohol drinking, physical inactivity, unhealthy dietary, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and lipid disorder were associated with higher incidence of ureteral cancer. An overall increasing trend of ureteral cancer incidence was observed for the past decade, especially among the female population.ConclusionsAlthough ureteral cancer was relatively rare, the number of cases reported was rising over the world. The rising trends among females were more evident compared with the other subgroups, especially in European countries. Further studies could be conducted to examine the reasons behind these epidemiological changes and confirm the relationship with the risk factors identified.

What is the Association of the Subsections of the Oswestry Disability Index and Overall Improvement Two Years after Lumbar Surgery for Degenerative Lumbar Spondylolisthesis?

Retrospective review of a prospective cohort study. To identify the association between Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) subsections and overall improvement 2 years after lumbar surgery for degenerative lumbar spondylolisthesis (DLS). DLS often necessitates lumbar surgery. The ODI is a trusted measure for patient-reported outcomes (PROMs) in assessing spinal disorder outcomes. Surgeons utilize the ODI for baseline functional assessment and post-surgery progress tracking. However, it remains uncertain if and how each subsection influences overall ODI improvement. This retrospective cohort study analyzed patients who underwent lumbar surgery for DLS between 2016 and 2018. Preoperative and 2-year postoperative ODI assessments were conducted. The study analyzed postoperative subsection scores and defined ODI improvement as ODIpreop-ODIpostop >0. Univariate linear regression was applied, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis determined cut-offs for subsection changes and postoperative target values to achieve overall ODI improvement. 265 patients (60% female, mean age 67±8y) with a baseline ODI of 50±6 and a postoperative ODI of 20±7 were included. ODI improvement was noted in 91% (242 patients). Achieving a postoperative target score of ≤2 in subsections correlated with overall ODI improvement. Walking had the highest predictive value for overall ODI improvement (AUC 0.91, sensitivity 79%, specificity 91%). Pain intensity (AUC 0.90, sensitivity 86%, specificity 83%) and changing degree of pain (AUC 0.87, sensitivity 86%, specificity 74%) were also highly predictive. Sleeping had the lowest predictability (AUC 0.79, sensitivity 84%, specificity 65%). Except for sleeping, all subsections had a Youden-index >50%. These findings demonstrate how the different ODI subsections associate with overall improvement post-lumbar surgery for DLS. This understanding is crucial for refining preoperative education, addressing particular disabilities, and evaluating surgical efficacy. Additionally, it shows that surgical treatment does not affect all subsections equally.

Relationship between facility type and bulk tank milk bacteriology, udder health, udder hygiene, and milk production on Vermont organic dairy farms

The primary objective of this cross-sectional observational study was to determine whether bulk tank milk quality, udder health, udder hygiene and milk production outcomes were associated with facility type on organic dairies. A secondary objective was to identify other management-related risk factors associated with bulk tank milk quality, udder health, udder hygiene, and milk production on organic dairy herds in Vermont. We aimed to enroll 40 farms, to compare herds using the 2 most common systems (freestalls, tiestalls) for housing organic dairy cattle in the state with those using a bedded pack during the non-grazing season (typically November-May). Two general styles of bedded packs were observed: cultivated bedded packs and untilled deep bedded packs. Due to the limited number of herds using bedded packs to house lactating dairy cattle in Vermont, we combined untilled and cultivated bedded packs to describe udder hygiene, milk quality, and udder health on these loose-housing systems deeply-bedded with organic material. The study was completed on 21 farms (5 bedded packs, 6 freestalls, 10 tiestalls) before interruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Data captured from Dairy Herd Improvement Association records from the test closest to the date of the farm visit included average somatic cell score (SCS), standardized 150-d milk (pounds), % cows with current high SCS (SCS ≥ 4.0), % cows with newly elevated SCS (previous SCS < 4.0 to current ≥ 4.0), and % cows with chronically elevated SCS (SCS ≥ 4.0 last 2 tests). Multivariable linear regression models were used to describe outcomes by facility type, but suffered from limited statistical power due to small group sample sizes. Unconditional comparisons failed to find statistically significant differences between farms grouped by facility type in metrics captured from Dairy Herd Improvement Association test data, bulk tank milk somatic cell count (BTSCC) and aerobic culture data, or udder hygiene scores. A secondary analysis was conducted using univariate linear regression to identify associations between herd management factors and outcomes for all 21 farms combined. Although not all differences found were statistically significant in this secondary analysis combining all farms, numeric differences that may be biologically important are reported showing farms with deeper bedding had a lower BTSCC, lower newly elevated SCS, lower chronically elevated SCS, lower elevated current SCS, lower average SCS, and better udder hygiene metrics. Farms with lower mean udder hygiene scores had numerically lower chronically elevated SCS, lower elevated current SCS, and lower average SCS. We could not reject the null hypothesis that milk quality and udder health outcomes did not differ by facility type, and this does not preclude the existence of biological differences in these outcomes between facility types. The current study provides insight on factors affecting bulk tank milk quality, udder health and hygiene measures on organic dairy farms in Vermont. Bedded packs may be a viable option for confinement housing during the winter non-grazing season for pasture-based herds interested in a loose-housing system in the Northeastern US, but more research such as longitudinal studies with a larger sample size is needed to test this hypothesis.

CP-01. FATIGUE IN PATIENTS WITH HYPOTHALAMIC SYNDROME – A CROSS-SECTIONAL ANALYSIS IN THE GERMAN CHILDHOOD-ONSET CRANIOPHARYNGIOMA COHORT

Abstract BACKGROUND Patients with tumors of the sellar region are at risk of developing hypothalamic syndrome. Survivors experience fatigue and excessive daytime sleepiness even years after tumor treatment. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to determine the severity of fatigue in patients with and without hypothalamic syndrome. METHODS Patients diagnosed with CP or pilocytic astrocytoma were recruited from the KRANIOPHARYNGEOM 2000/2007/Registry 2019 studies and included in this analysis. Eligibility criteria were regular participation in outpatient after-care, one completed Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory-20 (MFI-20) questionnaire and complete medical records on criteria for hypothalamic syndrome. With univariable and multivariable linear regression, the relation of hypothalamic syndrome and levels of fatigue symptoms (MFI-20 sum score) were assessed. MFI-20 scores were compared to sex- and age-matched reference values from a German normative population using paired t-test. RESULTS Data on 46 patients, with a median age of 20 years, was available for this analysis of which 28 (61%) patients presented with hypothalamic syndrome. After adjustment for age and sex, patients with hypothalamic syndrome reported higher scores in the physical (= 3.61 [95% CI: 1.38–5.85]), mental (= 2.80 [95% CI: 0.28–5.32]) and sum MFI-20 (= 12.02 [95% CI: 2.93–21.10]) domain than patients without hypothalamic syndrome. Compared to reference values from a general German population, all patients reported higher mean scores in each fatigue domain. Regardless of the level of daytime sleepiness in patients with hypothalamic syndrome, the reported fatigue scores were high. Daytime sleepiness did not correlate with fatigue. CONCLUSIONS Fatigue symptoms are present in patients with CP. However, patients with hypothalamic syndrome are more affected in mental, physical and overall fatigue. It is crucial in clinical practice, to distinguish between sleep disorders and fatigue and to target patients with hypothalamic syndrome.

Transparency and reproducibility in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study

BackgroundTransparency can build trust in the scientific process, but scientific findings can be undermined by poor and obscure data use and reporting practices. The purpose of this work is to report how data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study has been used to date, and to provide practical recommendations on how to improve the transparency and reproducibility of findings. MethodsArticles published from 2017 to 2023 that used ABCD Study data were reviewed using more than 30 data extraction items to gather information on data use practices. Total frequencies were reported for each extraction item, along with computation of a Level of Completeness (LOC) score that represented overall endorsement of extraction items. Univariate linear regression models were used to examine the correlation between LOC scores and individual extraction items. Post hoc analysis included examination of whether LOC scores were correlated with the logged 2-year journal impact factor. ResultsThere were 549 full-length articles included in the main analysis. Analytic scripts were shared in 30 % of full-length articles. The number of participants excluded due to missing data was reported in 60 % of articles, and information on missing data for individual variables (e.g., household income) was provided in 38 % of articles. A table describing the analytic sample was included in 83 % of articles. A race and/or ethnicity variable was included in 78 % of reviewed articles, while its inclusion was justified in only 41 % of these articles. LOC scores were highly correlated with extraction items related to examination of missing data. A bottom 10 % of LOC score was significantly correlated with a lower logged journal impact factor when compared to the top 10 % of LOC scores (β=-0.77, 95 % −1.02, −0.51; p-value < 0.0001). ConclusionThese findings highlight opportunities for improvement in future papers using ABCD Study data to readily adapt analytic practices for better transparency and reproducibility efforts. A list of recommendations is provided to facilitate adherence in future research.

Nocturnal urination is associated with the presence of higher ventilatory chemosensitivity in patients with obstructive sleep apnea

PurposeChemosensitivity is an essential part of the pathophysiological mechanisms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This study aims to use the rebreathing method to assess hypercapnic ventilatory response (HCVR) and analyze the association between chemosensitivity and certain symptoms in patients with OSA.MethodsA total of 104 male patients with diagnosed OSA were enrolled. The HCVR was assessed using rebreathing methods under hypoxia exposure to reflect the overall chemosensitivity. Univariate and multivariate linear regression were used to explore the association with chemosensitivity. Participants were enrolled in the cluster analysis using certain symptoms, basic characteristics, and polysomnographic indices.ResultsAt similar baseline values, the high chemosensitivity group (n = 39) demonstrated more severe levels of OSA and nocturnal hypoxia than the low chemosensitivity group (n = 65). After screening the possible associated factors, nocturnal urination, rather than OSA severity, was found to be positively associated with the level of chemosensitivity. Cluster analysis revealed three distinct groups: Cluster 1 (n = 32, 34.0%) held younger, obese individuals with nocturnal urination, elevated chemosensitivity level, and very severe OSA; Cluster 2 (41, 43.6%) included middle-aged overweighted patients with nocturnal urination, increased chemosensitivity level, but moderate-severe OSA; and Cluster 3 (n = 21, 22.3%) contained middle-aged overweighted patients without nocturnal urination, with a lowered chemosensitivity level and only moderate OSA.ConclusionThe presence of nocturnal urination in male patients with OSA may be a sign of higher levels of ventilatory chemosensitivity, requiring early therapy efforts independent of AHI levels.

Cardiac repolarisation indices are associated with oxygen consumption during maximal exercise test in highly-trained cross-country skiers

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to test the vectorelectrocardiographic T-wave characteristics for their associations with oxygen consumption (VO2) and physical performance during a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) in highly trained cross-country skiers. Male highly trained cross-country skiers (n = 30) performed the maximal CPET on the bicycle ergospirometric “Oxycon Pro” system with simultaneous oxygen consumption (VO2) and electrocardiogram recording. The measurements were done at rest; the stage preceding anaerobic threshold (preAnT); peak load; and recovery. The anaerobic threshold was estimated by respiratory exchange ratio. Physical performance was estimated by maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max/kg). VECG characteristics were calculated using Kors transformation procedure. During the test, the magnitudes of T-vector, Tx and Ty components decreased until preAnT, then stayed relatively stable until peak load, and reversed during recovery. In univariate linear regression analysis, T-vector amplitude and Tx, Ty and Tz magnitudes were associated with VO2/kg during the test (p < 0.010). The baseline T-vector characteristics were not associated with physical performance. At the preAnT stage, Tx and T-vector amplitude were associated with VO2max/kg (RC 12.70, 95% CI 0.68–24.73, p = 0.039 and RC 10.64, 95% CI 1.62–19.67, p = 0.023, respectively).