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Changes in hippocampal functional connectivity and volume associated with cognitive improvement and decline in amnestic mild cognitive impairment following computerized cognitive training.

BACKGROUND: The hippocampus influences the outcomes of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and undergoes different changes during the cognitive decline or recovery of aMCI compared to elderly individuals with normal cognition, which may reveal disease-dependent neurodegeneration or plasticity. We first aimed to investigate the hippocampal changes associated with cognitive changes in aMCI using a combined case-control study design. METHODS: In total, 50&#x202f;aMCI individuals and 50 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited in Shenyang, China, and separately randomized into training and control groups: aMCI training group, aMCI no training group, HC training group, and HC no training group. The aMCI and HC training groups received computerized cognitive training (CCT) thrice weekly for 12 weeks. Cognitive assessments and MRI data were collected at baseline and follow-up. RESULTS: The primary outcome was significant CCT&#xd7;diagnosis interaction effect on the change in cognitive performance as measured by clock drawing test (CDT) scores (F&#x202f;=&#x202f;4.322, P&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.041); this interaction was driven by CCT specifically in aMCI (F&#x202f;=&#x202f;4.465, P&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.038). Significant CCT&#xd7;diagnosis interaction effects of right-hippocampal FC changes were observed in the bilateral precuneus/cuneus (Pvoxel<0.05) driven by CCT in aMCI (F&#x202f;=&#x202f;5.429, P&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.023), and in the left superior temporal gyrus/middle temporal gyrus (STG/MTG, Pvoxel<0.05), driven by CCT of only in HCs (F&#x202f;=&#x202f;6.587, P&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.013). A significant interaction effect of left-hippocampal FC changes were observed in the right triangular part of the inferior frontal gyrus (IFGtriang, Pvoxel<0.05), driven by CCT in aMCI and HCs (F&#x202f;=&#x202f;6.550, P&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.013; F&#x202f;=&#x202f;7.097, P&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.010). No significant interaction effect on the change in hippocampal GMV was noted (P&#x202f;>&#x202f;0.05). CONCLUSION: CCT can improve the visuospatial ability of aMCI, which is reflected by the CDT scores. CCT can alter hippocampal FC in the bilateral precuneus/cuneus, the right IFGtriang, and the left STG/MTG. The hippocampal GMV is difficult to change in both HCs and aMCI during the cognitive decline. REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR1900026849. DATE OF REGISTRATION: 24 October 2019 NAME OF TRIAL REGISTRY: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR).

Humans

HPV Testing Versus Cytology for Cervical Cancer Screening&#xa0;Among Women 50&#x2009;Years and Older: Evidence From the HPV FOCAL Randomized Controlled Trial.

Evidence on the comparative effectiveness of HPV testing versus cytology specifically in women aged &#x2265;&#x2009;50&#x2009;years who are approaching screening cessation remains limited. This analysis included 6471 women aged &#x2265;&#x2009;50 at baseline screening in the HPV FOCAL randomized clinical trial. Women were randomly allocated to receive cytology (Control Group, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;3248, 50.19%) or HPV testing (Intervention Group, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;3223, 49.81%) at baseline, with co-testing at 48-month exit. We calculated incidence rates and risk ratios for CIN2+ detection over follow-up and compared missed lesions at exit by screening method. At the 48-month exit, CIN2+ detection was lower among HPV baseline-negative women than among those in the cytology group (1.61/1000 [95% CI, 0.52-3.76] vs. 3.15/1000 [95% CI, 1.51-5.78]; risk ratio, 0.51 [95% CI, 0.11-0.91]), reflecting higher baseline detection with HPV testing and fewer prevalent lesions at exit. Even with cytology re-screening at 2&#x2009;years, 50% of CIN2+ cases were missed compared to 30% with HPV testing. After adjusting for age, education, smoking status, and lifetime sexual partners, the hazard ratio for CIN2+ comparing HPV to cytology was 0.44 (95% CI, 0.22-0.88). Among women aged &#x2265;&#x2009;50&#x2009;years, HPV primary screening was more effective than cytology at detecting CIN2+ lesions and was associated with a continued lower subsequent risk following a negative HPV test, supporting its use in cervical cancer screening programs in this age cohort.

Aged

Impact of creatine supplementation alone or combined with exercise on inflammatory and clinical outcomes in chronic musculoskeletal pain treated in the rheumatological field: a systematic review.

Creatine supplementation has demonstrated ergogenic and anabolic effects in healthy and clinical populations. However, its potential therapeutic role in individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain treated in rheumatological contexts remains unclear. The aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of creatine supplementation on pain, physical function/disability, quality of life, muscle strength, skeletal muscle mass, and inflammatory markers in people with chronic musculoskeletal pain usually treated from the rheumatological field. A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Searches were performed in MEDLINE, Web of Science, CINAHL, Scopus, and EMBASE up to July 2026. Eligible studies were randomized or nonrandomized clinical trials that provided creatine supplementation alone or in combination with exercise as a treatment compared to a control or placebo group. Eight studies (n = 189) were included, encompassing fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis. Creatine dosages varied from chronic low-dose to loading protocols (20 g/d, 2-5 g/d). Combined creatine plus resistance training may improve strength, skeletal muscle mass, and quality of life beyond exercise alone in osteoarthritis. Trials on fibromyalgia suggest an increase in muscle strength, but inconsistent effects on pain. Rheumatoid arthritis studies suggest gains in skeletal muscle mass and, in pilot studies, reduced disease activity. No major adverse events were reported. In conclusion, creatine supplementation alone may be insufficient to obtain clinical benefits, while combined with resistance exercise it could offer potential benefits for muscle strength, skeletal muscle mass and certain aspects of quality of life in these clinical conditions. However, evidence on pain and inflammation remains limited; Furthermore, the response across different clinical conditions is heterogeneous, highlighting the need for larger, high-quality trials.

Humans

Effectiveness of a digi-physical tool and working method for paediatric obesity treatment in Abu Dhabi: a non-inferiority intervention study using an external historical comparator.

BACKGROUND: Effective paediatric obesity treatment requires high intensity, scalable interventions. A digi-physical tool for paediatric obesity treatment has shown positive results in Stockholm, Sweden. This study evaluates whether the same treatment method is effective in a different cultural setting. METHODS: This non-inferiority intervention study, using an external historical comparator, included 60 consecutively recruited children aged 6-15.9 years with obesity who initiated treatment at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City in Abu Dhabi between June and December 2023. Patients were treated with Evira, a digi-physical tool and working method enabling high intensity individualized care, real-time monitoring, and interactive patient-clinician communication. The primary outcome was BMI z-score change at 26 weeks. Non-inferiority was assessed using a predefined margin of 0.10 BMI z-score, with outcomes compared to a prior published trial in Stockholm (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;107). RESULTS: A total of 112 children were included in the analysis (Abu Dhabi cohort, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;35; Stockholm cohort, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;77). The adjusted mean change in BMI z-score was -&#x2009;0.20 (95% CI: -&#x2009;0.28, -&#x2009;0.12) in the Abu Dhabi cohort and -&#x2009;0.20 (- 0.26, -&#x2009;0.14) in the Stockholm cohort (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.88). Non-inferiority was confirmed, (predefined margin 0.10 was not exceeded). A clinically significant BMI z-score reduction (&#x2265;&#x2009;0.20 units) was achieved by 45.7% of participants in Abu Dhabi and 36.4% in Stockholm (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.35). Non-retention rates at 26 weeks were 41.7% vs. 28.0%, respectively (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.07). CONCLUSIONS: The findings provide promising evidence that treatment outcomes achieved with the digi-physical treatment tool were comparable in the Abu Dhabi and Stockholm cohorts, supporting its feasibility in a second cultural and healthcare setting.

Humans

Effects of free-weight resistance training based on hexagonal barbell deadlift in older women: A 24-week randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE: This randomized controlled trial examined effects of a 24-week hexagonal barbell deadlift (HBDL)-based free-weight resistance training program on body composition, trunk muscle function, and functional performance in older women. METHODS: Thirty-two women (67.6&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;6.3&#xa0;years) were randomly assigned to an HBDL group (DG, n&#xa0;=&#xa0;16) or control group (CG, n&#xa0;=&#xa0;16). DG trained twice weekly for 24&#xa0;weeks under supervision. Primary outcomes were body composition and isokinetic trunk peak torque and average power at 60&#xb0;/s and 120&#xb0;/s. Secondary outcomes were isokinetic knee function, mobility, and maximal isotonic strength. Between-group differences after the intervention were examined by analysis of covariance (&#x3b1;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.05). RESULTS: After intervention, DG showed greater trunk lean mass (+0.4&#xa0;kg vs. -0.2&#xa0;kg, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.006) than CG, and reductions in body fat percentage (-1.4% vs. +0.3%, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.003), total fat mass (-1.1&#xa0;kg vs. +0.3&#xa0;kg, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.013), and regional fat mass (trunk, gluteal, thigh; all p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05). Trunk extensor peak torque at 60&#xb0;/s (+26.0% vs. -6.3%, p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001) and average power at 60&#xb0;/s (+38.1% vs. -7.6%, p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001) and 120&#xb0;/s (+33.2% vs. +0.1%, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.002) improved significantly. DG also showed better eyes-closed static balance and 6-min walk performance (both p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05). Whole-body lean mass and lower-limb isokinetic strength did not differ between groups. Attendance was 89.6% with no adverse events. CONCLUSION: HBDL-based free-weight resistance training is a safe, feasible, and effective strategy to improve body composition, trunk extensor function, and mobility in older women.

Humans

A New Highly Concentrated Insulin Aspart AT278 (500&#x2009;U/mL) Demonstrates Ultra-Rapid Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Properties in Type 2 Diabetes Regardless of BMI.

AIMS: To evaluate the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of a novel U500 insulin aspart formulation (AT278 [500&#x2009;U/mL]; AT278-U500) compared with standard concentration insulin aspart (InsAsp [100&#x2009;U/mL]; InsAsp-U100) and U500 human regular insulin (HumIns [500&#x2009;IU/mL]; HumIns-U500). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This single-centre, randomised, double-blind crossover 12-h euglycaemic clamp study was conducted in 41 overweight and obese people with type 2 diabetes (BMI 25.0-38.7&#x2009;kg/m2) receiving a single subcutaneous dose (0.5&#x2009;U/kg) of AT278-U500 and InsAsp-U100. HumIns-U500 was consecutively studied open label in a 24-h clamp. RESULTS: AT278-U500 exhibited a significantly faster insulin absorption than InsAsp-U100 and HumIns-U500 (t Early50%Cmax: 9&#x2009;min vs. 35&#x2009;min vs. 55&#x2009;min), leading to a significantly higher glucose-lowering effect within the first hour (AUCGIR,0-60min) compared with both InsAsp-U100 (treatment ratio 2.02 [95% CI 1.64; 2.50]) and HumIns-U500 (3.91 [2.89; 5.27]). When divided by median BMI (29.7&#x2009;kg/m2), AUCGIR,0-60min was significantly higher with AT278-U500 in both the low-BMI and high-BMI subgroup compared to InsAsp-U100. Linear regression showed a significant inverse relationship between BMI and AUCGIR,0-60min for InsAsp-U100 (slope -0.142, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.0001), whereas AT278-U500 showed no such relationship. Overall insulin exposure was similar for AT278-U500 and InsAsp-U100, while overall glucose-lowering effect was comparable across all three treatments. CONCLUSIONS: AT278-U500 maintains its ultra-rapid onset characteristics independent of BMI, representing the first ultra-rapid U500 option for prandial dosing in insulin-resistant people with type 2 diabetes requiring high-dose therapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05754424.

Humans

Webcam-Based Real-Time Visual Feedback During Baduanjin Practice in Older Adults: 6-Week Pilot Randomized Study.

BACKGROUND: Baduanjin qigong is a traditional mind-body exercise used to support balance and physical health in older adults. Age-related changes in proprioception may make accurate self-directed performance difficult without external guidance. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to explore whether webcam-based real-time visual feedback delivered during supervised laboratory sessions was associated with differences in webcam-derived 2D pose discrepancy and movement consistency during Baduanjin practice in older adults. METHODS: A total of 31 older adults were enrolled, and 28 participants with complete analyzable records were included in this complete-case dataset (feedback group, n=14; nonfeedback group, n=14). All sessions were conducted face-to-face in a supervised motion-analysis laboratory. Weekly 2D pose-discrepancy values were analyzed using a linear mixed-effects model with fixed effects for group, categorical week, and the group-by-week interaction and a participant-specific random intercept. Joint- and movement-specific participant-level 6-week means were analyzed exploratorily using Welch independent-samples t tests. Holm correction was applied across 24 exploratory contrasts (6 week-specific, 8 joint-specific, and 10 movement-specific comparisons), and Hedges g and 95% CIs were reported. Participant-specific weekly slopes and within-participant variability were additionally examined to directly assess longitudinal error drift. RESULTS: The linear mixed-effects model showed no significant group-by-week interaction (Wald &#x3c7;25=1.09; P=.96) and no significant overall week effect (Wald &#x3c7;25=6.40; P=.27). Averaged across 6 weeks, the feedback group had an estimated mean 2D pose discrepancy 1.20&#xb0; lower than the nonfeedback group (95% CI -2.38&#xb0; to -0.02&#xb0;; P=.046), although this marginal pilot finding was sensitive to an analytic approach. No week-specific contrast remained significant after Holm adjustment. Nominal right elbow, right shoulder, and right knee differences did not survive global Holm correction. Form 3 showed a lower mean discrepancy in the feedback group (mean difference -3.70&#xb0;, 95% CI -5.86&#xb0; to -1.54&#xb0;; Hedges g=-1.30; unadjusted P=.002; Holm-adjusted P=.04). Direct analyses of participant-specific slopes and within-participant SDs did not support a significant between-group difference in longitudinal error drift. CONCLUSIONS: In this small exploratory pilot study conducted under supervised laboratory conditions, the 6-week trajectories did not differ significantly between groups. A marginally lower average 2D pose discrepancy was observed in the feedback group across the 6 weeks, but no individual week- or joint-specific comparison remained significant after multiplicity adjustment. Form 3 was the only exploratory contrast that remained significant after global Holm correction. Direct longitudinal analyses did not demonstrate prevention of error drift. Larger studies using validated reference measurements, prespecified outcomes, and adequately powered longitudinal designs are required.

Humans

Efficacy of CagriSema for Reaching Anthropometric Treatment Targets and Cardiometabolic Outcomes: A Secondary, Post hoc Analysis of REDEFINE 1.

AIMS: To assess the added value of absolute anthropometric targets alongside percentage weight loss in the clinical management of obesity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The phase 3a, 68-week REDEFINE 1 trial randomised adults without diabetes with BMI &#x2265;&#x2009;30&#x2009;kg/m2, or&#x2009;&#x2265;&#x2009;27&#x2009;kg/m2 with &#x2265;&#x2009;1 obesity-related complication, to once-weekly CagriSema 2.4&#x2009;mg/2.4&#x2009;mg, semaglutide 2.4&#x2009;mg, cagrilintide 2.4&#x2009;mg, or placebo, plus lifestyle intervention. This secondary, post hoc analysis assessed the proportions of participants achieving BMI <&#x2009;27&#x2009;kg/m2 and/or WHtR <&#x2009;0.53 targets, and percentage weight loss by anthropometric target. The association between the proportion of participants maintaining or achieving normalisation of four cardiometabolic outcomes: normoglycemia (glycated haemoglobin <&#x2009;5.7% and fasting plasma glucose <&#x2009;5.6&#x2009;mmol/L); blood pressure (<&#x2009;130/80&#x2009;mmHg); triglycerides (<&#x2009;1.7&#x2009;mmol/L); lipids (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol &#x2265;&#x2009;1.3&#x2009;mmol/L [female] or &#x2265;&#x2009;1.0&#x2009;mmol/L [male]) and reaching anthropometric targets or change in body weight (%) was also assessed. RESULTS: The proportion of participants achieving both BMI <&#x2009;27&#x2009;kg/m2 and WHtR <&#x2009;0.53 targets at week 68 was 30.3%, 19.1%, 9.0%, and 3.3% in participants who received CagriSema, semaglutide, cagrilintide, or placebo respectively. Both BMI and WHtR performed similarly as indicators for all four cardiometabolic outcomes. At more stringent cut-off values, anthropometric targets were better measures than percentage weight loss. CONCLUSIONS: The proportion of participants achieving anthropometric targets was greater with CagriSema Versus other treatments. These findings support further validation of BMI and WHtR anthropometric treatment targets and indicate a potential for indicating amelioration of clinical outcomes in obesity and a greater emphasis on target-based treatment strategies.

Humans

Effectiveness of Internet-Delivered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (ICBT) in Improving Weight-Loss and Psychosocial Well-Being Among Adults With High BMI: A Systematic Review.

AIM: To examine the effectiveness of Internet-delivered Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (ICBT) in improving psychosocial well-being and promoting weight-loss in adults &#x2265;&#x2009;18&#x2009;years with BMI &#x2265;&#x2009;25&#x2009;kg/m2. BACKGROUND: Global obesity engenders significant physical and psychosocial health consequences. Second-wave ICBT focused on restructuring negative thoughts and behaviours has been explored as a potential intervention for elevated BMI and mental health concerns, but its effectiveness remains to be fully established, making further evaluation essential. METHODS AND DATA SOURCES: Eight databases were searched from inception to January 2025 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs), including participants &#x2265;&#x2009;18&#x2009;years with BMI &#x2265;&#x2009;25&#x2009;kg/m2 and second-wave ICBT evaluating BMI, weight, depression, eating behaviours, and self-esteem. This review followed PRISMA 2020. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias (ROB 2) and GRADE. Data were extracted using a modified Cochrane form. Random-effects meta-analysis calculated Standardised Mean Differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals, with subgroup analyses exploring heterogeneity. RESULTS: Nine trials with 2278 participants were included. Significant improvements were seen in BMI, weight, and depressive symptoms while self-esteem effects were small and non-significant. Compared with passive controls, ICBT showed greater improvements in BMI and weight, whereas differences versus active control were smaller and inconsistent. Face-to-face CBT demonstrated superior outcomes for depression and self-esteem. Male-tailored interventions showed greater improvements. Shorter programmes yielded larger short-term weight loss, while longer programmes supported more sustained effects. Narrative synthesis indicated improvements in emotional and external eating, with increased mindful and restrictive eating behaviours. CONCLUSION: ICBT improved weight, BMI, and depressive symptoms, with limited evidence for self-esteem. Male-tailored interventions and longer programmes may enhance sustainable outcomes. IMPACT: Future ICBT programs should integrate strategies targeting sustainable weight loss and psychosocial well-being to support long-term outcomes. NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Patients or members of the public were not involved, as this study synthesised previously published data. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024497961.

Humans

Behaviourally informed text message reminders to increase cervical screening attendance in people with severe mental illness: the OPTIMISE pilot randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: This study assessed the feasibility of both the delivery and evaluation of 'enhanced' (behaviourally informed) text message reminders containing links to existing co-designed resources supporting decision-making for people with severe mental illness (SMI) regarding attendance of cervical screening. DESIGN: A pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT). SETTING: 13 General Practice (GP) practices in London were recruited. PARTICIPANTS: GP practices identified people with SMI aged 24-64 years who were overdue cervical screening. Target sample size was 120 participants (60 per arm) based on existing guidance for pilot trials. INTERVENTION: In March 2025, participants were randomised (1:1) to receive either the enhanced (intervention) or the standard (control) SMS reminder. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES: 18 weeks later, feasibility outcomes were collected (primary outcomes) and data analysis for a definitive RCT was rehearsed (secondary outcome). RESULTS: Of the 150 participants across 13 GP practices that were randomised (n=75 per arm), 132 (88%) texts delivered (intervention n=64/75 (85%), control n=68/75 (91%)). 10 practices (76.9%) provided follow-up data for 102 participants (intervention n=50, control n=52). Five participants (intervention n=4, control n=1) attended screening within the trial period. Participant survey response rate was low (9/132 (7%), intervention n=5, control n=4). Both SMS messages were low cost, with the intervention SMS a 50% higher cost to deliver (7.5p vs 5p per SMS). Primary feasibility measures of recruitment rate of GP practices (27%), retention of GP practices (77%) and participants (100%), SMS delivery (88%) and data completeness (64%) indicated viability, although survey response rate (7%) did not. CONCLUSIONS: Achieving adequate recruitment and retention, data completeness and comparable groups is viable with some amendments, although an alternative method is required to assess fidelity. Behaviourally informed SMS reminders are feasible to deliver to people with SMI, although it is uncertain if the extra resources are accessed and used. With changes to data collection, a definitive trial could be feasible. Given the low observed cervical screening attendance, additional intervention is needed for this group. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ISRCTN12558681.

Humans

Evaluation of three Aspergillus antibody assays for screening of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis: prospective diagnostic accuracy study.

OBJECTIVES: Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) is a frequent complication of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), particularly in high-burden settings where access to reliable serological diagnostics remains limited. We evaluated the diagnostic performance of two immunochromatographic technology (ICT) lateral flow assays (LFAs) and an ELISA for CPA screening among patients with active or previously treated PTB. METHODS: In this two-year prospective multicentre diagnostic evaluation, serum from adults with prior or active PTB was tested using the Era Biology Aspergillus IgG ICT LFA, LDBio Aspergillus IgG/IgM ICT LFA, and Bordier Aspergillus fumigatus IgG ELISA. CPA diagnosis was established using a consensus composite reference standard incorporating clinical, immunological, radiological, and microbiological criteria. The Bordier ELISA was used as part of the immunological component of the consensus CPA diagnosis, with a cutoff optical density of &#x2265;1.0. Diagnostic accuracy, agreement statistics, receiver operating characteristic analysis, and latent class analysis (LCA) were performed. RESULTS: Among 340 participants, 24 (7.06%) had CPA. Proportion of participants with positive antibody tests among all tested individuals were 6.76% for LDBio ICT LFA, 20.0% for Era Biology ICT LFA, and 11.47% for Bordier ELISA. Against consensus CPA diagnosis, Bordier ELISA showed 87.50% sensitivity and 94.30% specificity, LDBio ICT LFA 58.33% sensitivity and 97.15% specificity, and Era Biology LFA 66.67% sensitivity and 83.54% specificity. LCA estimated CPA prevalence at 7.72%. LCA-derived sensitivities and specificities were 86.58% and 99.92% for LDBio ICT LFA, 83.39% and 85.31% for Era Biology LFA, and 79.10% and 94.19% for Bordier ELISA. CONCLUSIONS: The Bordier ELISA showed high sensitivity and specificity, while the LDBio ICT LFA demonstrated very high specificity with strong LCA-derived performance. These findings support the use of ELISA for laboratory diagnosis and ICT as a point-of-care screening tool for CPA in resource-limited settings. Era Biology Aspergillus IgG LFA demonstrated moderate sensitivity and acceptable diagnostic performance, indicating its potential utility as a supplementary screening assay for CPA in settings where rapid, point-of-care testing is required.

Humans

Spatially confined electrochemical strategy with DNA-assembled nanogaps for SNP detection.

Accurate detection of low-abundance single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) against a large excess of homologous wild-type sequences requires both selective molecular recognition and effective transduction of small sequence differences into measurable signals. Here, we report a spatially confined electrochemical strategy that couples sequence-selective recognition with size-dependent mass-transport gating. DNA-hybridization-driven self-assembly of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) forms a three-dimensional self-assembled electrode (3D-SAE) with a DNA-defined interparticle architecture. Competitive probes (SP/WP) convert single-base recognition into distinct molecular-size states: the SNP-associated pathway preferentially triggers a hybridization chain reaction (HCR), generating bulky AuNP-anchored HCR/methylene blue complexes (Au@HCR/MB) with reduced electrochemical accessibility through the porous 3D-SAE, whereas the wild-type pathway does not trigger HCR and maintains a high-current response from more readily accessible MB-containing species. Thus, sequence recognition is translated into a molecular-size difference and subsequently into an electrochemical signal through differential mass transport. Under buffer conditions, the platform achieved a statistically estimated detection limit of &#x223c;0.47&#x202f;fM and a quantitative range of 1&#x202f;fM-100 pM. It discriminated a 0.1% mutant abundance in a fragmented genomic-DNA background. The downstream signal-transduction chemistry is enzyme-free and isothermal. This work establishes a mechanistical recognition-size-conversion-mass-transport-gating architecture for electrochemical nucleic acid analysis.

Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide

Effects of Digital Mental Health Screening Alone and With the Online MINDBODYSTRONG CBT-Based Program on Burnout, Depression, Anxiety, Healthy Behaviors, and Suicidal Ideation in at-Risk Nurses at 3- and 6-Months Post-Intervention: An&#xa0;RCT.

BACKGROUND: Burnout and mental distress among nurses are global public health epidemics that adversely affect nurse well-being and healthcare quality. Evidence-based, scalable mental health interventions are urgently needed. AIMS: To evaluate the 3- and 6-month outcomes of a randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing a psychologically safe, digital mental health screening and referral program alone versus the same screening and referral program combined with the video-based online MINDBODYSTRONG&#xa0;(MBS) cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-based skills-building program among nurses at risk for mental distress. METHODS: 501 nurses were recruited from professional organizations and healthcare systems across the United States by email and randomized to either mental health screening and referral (standard care) or standard care plus the MBS cognitive behavioral skills-building intervention (the intervention). All study activities were conducted remotely. Follow-up surveys administered at 3- and 6-months assessed anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, burnout, healthy lifestyle beliefs, and healthy lifestyle behaviors using valid and reliable scales. RESULTS: Compared with the screening and referral only group, participants in the intervention group had greater reductions in anxiety and depression and significantly greater increases in healthy lifestyle beliefs and behaviors at 3 and 6&#x2009;months post-intervention. After controlling baseline risk, the intervention group had a lower risk of suicidal ideation than the screening and referral group at 3&#x2009;months (relative risk ratio [RRR]&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.717; 95% CI: 0.320-1.606) and 6&#x2009;months (RRR&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.329; 95% CI: 0.101-1.072). The intervention group also had a significantly lower risk of burnout at 6&#x2009;months (RRR: 0.698, 95% CI: 0.528, 0.929, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.012). Nurses who completed more MBS sessions had less suicidal ideation at 6&#x2009;months and those who completed more MBS skills-building activities had less burnout at 3 and 6&#x2009;months. LINKING ACTION TO EVIDENCE: Integrating psychologically safe mental health screening combined with the scalable online CBT-based intervention, MBS, can produce sustained improvements in burnout, mental health symptoms, including suicidality, and healthy lifestyle beliefs and behaviors among nurses experiencing mental distress.

Humans

Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Nerandomilast in Healthy Volunteers.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Nerandomilast, a preferential phosphodiesterase 4B inhibitor, is approved for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and progressive pulmonary fibrosis in some countries. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of nerandomilast in healthy volunteers through single- and multiple-rising-dose studies, and a human mass balance study evaluating absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. METHODS: Healthy participants received oral nerandomilast doses ranging from 0.02&#xa0;mg to 24&#xa0;mg in the single-rising-dose trial, 1&#xa0;mg or 6&#xa0;mg twice daily for 14 days in the multiple-rising-dose trial, and a single oral dose of 18&#xa0;mg [14C]-labeled nerandomilast in the mass balance trial. In each trial, pharmacokinetic blood samples were collected for determination of nerandomilast plasma concentrations. In the mass balance study, urine, feces, and blood samples were collected, and [14C]-radioactivity was quantified from these matrices. All pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated via noncompartmental analysis. RESULTS: Nerandomilast was rapidly absorbed postadministration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring between 0.5 and 1.25&#xa0;h postdose before declining in a multiphasic manner. Nerandomilast exposure increased dose proportionally following single- and multiple-dose administrations. Steady state was reached by day 7 after twice-daily dosing with up to 1.69-fold drug accumulation. Following a single oral dose administration of [14C]nerandomilast, 58.0% and 36.4% of radioactivity was excreted in feces and urine, respectively. Of the administered dose, 11.9% was excreted as unchanged parent compound in urine. Nerandomilast safety was acceptable across all three studies and nerandomilast was well tolerated in healthy participants. CONCLUSIONS: Nerandomilast exhibited rapid oral absorption, multiphasic elimination profile, dose-proportional exposure, and was excreted via urine and feces. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT01594515 (registered 2012-05-07), NCT01835899 (registered 2013-04-11), and NCT04771286 (registered 2021-02-23).

Humans

First Report of Fibromyxoma in a Greater Amberjack (Seriola dumerili) From Aquarium of Genoa.

In teleosts, mesenchymal tumours like fibromas are frequently observed, whereas their malignant counterparts, fibrosarcomas, occur only sporadically. In our study, an adult female greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) reared at the Aquarium of Genoa developed a slow-growing mass protruding from the ventral right side of the head. The tissue was firm and white greyish with localized cranial haemorrhaging on the external surface. Cut-section examination showed a homogeneous, dry, whitish and richly vascularized tissue layout. Tissue samples from the mass were stained with Masson's Trichrome, Alcian Blue-PAS (pH&#x2009;2.5), and Toluidine blue for differential diagnosis. Microscopically, it was characterized by alternating collagenous spindle-cell septa and hypocellular metachromatic myxoid areas positive for acidic mucopolysaccharides and glycosaminoglycans. The absence of cellular atypia, mitotic activity and necrosis confirms the diagnosis of fibromyxoma. Documenting rare tumours in aquarium fish expands comparative pathology literature and highlights public aquaria as valuable research platforms for long-term health monitoring under controlled husbandry conditions.

fibromyxoma

Efficacy and safety of once-weekly semaglutide 2&#xb7;4 mg in Chinese adults with overweight or obesity (STEP 12): a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre, phase 3b trial.

BACKGROUND: Semaglutide 2&#xb7;4 mg is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that reduces bodyweight, and provides other cardiometabolic benefits, among people with a BMI at least 30 kg/m2 or at least 27 kg/m2 and with weight-related comorbidities. This trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability, and safety of semaglutide 2&#xb7;4 mg in adults from mainland China and Taiwan with overweight or obesity according to locally defined, BMI thresholds. METHODS: This completed randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicentre, two-armed, parallel-group, phase 3b trial (STEP 12) was conducted at 19 sites across mainland China and Taiwan. Adults with a BMI of 24-<28 kg/m2 and at least one weight-related comorbidity, or a BMI of 28-<30 kg/m2, with or without type 2 diabetes, were randomly assigned (2:1) to once-weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2&#xb7;4 mg or placebo, plus lifestyle intervention, for 44 weeks. Randomisation was performed by the study sponsor using the Randomisation Trial Supplies Management System. Coprimary endpoints were percentage change in bodyweight and the proportion of participants achieving at least 5% bodyweight reduction. Safety was analysed descriptively in all participants who received the trial intervention. Missing data at week 44 were imputed with washout multiple imputation. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06041217, and is completed. FINDINGS: Between Sept 15, 2023, and May 7, 2025, of 254 screened participants, 161 (66&#xb7;5%) of 242 participants were randomly assigned to semaglutide 2&#xb7;4 mg and 81 (33&#xb7;5%) to placebo; 121 (50&#xb7;0%) participants were female, and 47 (19&#xb7;4%) participants had type 2 diabetes. Bodyweight reduction was greater with semaglutide versus placebo (-12&#xb7;1% [SE 0&#xb7;6] vs -2&#xb7;2% [0&#xb7;8]; estimated treatment difference -9&#xb7;9 percentage points [95% CI -11&#xb7;8 to -8&#xb7;0]; p<0&#xb7;0001), with a greater proportion of participants achieving at least 5% bodyweight reduction (80&#xb7;5% vs 24&#xb7;4%; odds ratio [OR] 14&#xb7;8 [95% CI 7&#xb7;4 to 29&#xb7;6]; p<0&#xb7;0001). Adverse events were reported in 141 (87&#xb7;6%) of 161 participants in the semaglutide 2&#xb7;4 mg group and 61 (75&#xb7;3%) of 81 participants in the placebo group, with gastrointestinal disorders being the most common. INTERPRETATION: Semaglutide 2&#xb7;4 mg provided a superior reduction in bodyweight versus placebo in Chinese adults with overweight or obesity. The safety profile was consistent with the known profile of semaglutide. FUNDING: Novo Nordisk A/S. TRANSLATION: For the Mandarin translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Adult

Multiscale Modeling Primer: Focus on Chromatin and Epigenetics.

A central challenge in modern biology is to understand how molecular interactions produce cellular and organismal functions across vast spatiotemporal scales. Nowhere is this challenge more apparent than in the study of chromatin, where meters of DNA compact into a micron-sized nucleus. How this polymer folds is a dynamic process, regulated by epigenetic modifications-chemical changes to DNA and histones that involve only a handful of atoms. These small changes cooperate to produce emergent, higher-order structures that define cellular identity and function. To explain this system, we must integrate static, high-resolution snapshots from techniques like cryo-EM with dynamic, lower-resolution data from microscopy and genomics. Multiscale computational models are essential tools that bridge these experimental gaps and reveal the mechanisms of emergent behavior. However, the communication divide between experimental biologists and quantitative modelers often hampers progress. This primer addresses that gap. It first introduces the fundamental biology of chromatin and epigenetics at an introductory level for non-biologists audiences. We then survey the landscape of computational approaches, from atomistic to systems-level models, and connect them to the experimental data that inform and validate them at an introductory level for non-computationalists. We argue that the next frontier will require us to build integrative models that can predict how molecular perturbations mechanistically alter cellular phenotypes, which will open a new era of chromatin-targeted therapeutics.

Chromatin Dynamics

Efficacy and Safety of Bimagrumab in Adults With Obesity and Metabolic Dysfunction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

AIMS: This study aims to systematically evaluate the efficacy of bimagrumab on body composition and glucose parameters in adults with obesity and metabolic dysfunction and its safety profile. METHODS: We searched MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library on April 20, 2026, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing bimagrumab treatment in adults with obesity, insulin resistance, or type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool (RoB 2), and meta-analyses of efficacy and safety data were conducted using R software. The Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system was used to assess the strength of evidence. The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD420261377110). RESULTS: Of the 134 retrieved records, 4 RCTs (enrolling 268 participants) were included. The included population represented a broad spectrum of metabolic dysfunction, from obesity and nondiabetic insulin resistance to established T2DM. Compared with placebo, bimagrumab treatment significantly reduced total weight (mean difference [MD] -4.85&#x2009;kg, 95% confidence interval [CI] -6.82 to -2.88), fat mass (-4.72&#x2009;kg [-8.05 to -1.40]), and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) (-0.13% [-0.23 to -0.03]) and significantly increased total lean mass (1.66&#x2009;kg [0.81 to 2.51]). However, bimagrumab led to an increase in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) concentrations of 0.47&#x2009;mmol/L [0.03 to 0.91] and significantly increased incidences of discontinuation (risk ratio [RR] 5.75 [1.61 to 20.46]), muscle spasms (RR 10.44 [4.23 to 25.75]), and diarrhoea (RR 4.91 [2.38 to 10.11]). CONCLUSION: Bimagrumab effectively reversed adverse effects on body composition in obese individuals, resulting in significant fat reduction, increased skeletal muscle mass, and improved glycemic control, suggesting that bimagrumab is a promising new target for personalized metabolic therapy.

Humans