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Transcranial Motor Evoked Potential Monitoring Using Propofol-Fentanyl Versus Desflurane-Dexmedetomidine Anesthesia During Spinal Cord Tumor Resection: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Patients undergoing resection of spinal cord tumours require intraoperative neuromonitoring. Transcranial electrical stimulation is used to record myogenic responses during surgery. This study aimed to compare the effect of 2 anaesthetic regimens, propofol/fentanyl versus desflurane/dexmedetomidine, on the ability to record MEPs with an amplitude of 50 µV or greater. Our secondary outcome compared intraoperative haemodynamics, recovery profile, and postoperative analgesia between the groups. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, double-blinded, open-label, single-centre, randomized controlled trial of 50 adult patients undergoing spinal cord tumour resection with TcmMEP monitoring. Patients were randomized to 2 groups: Group P (n=25) received intravenous anaesthesia with propofol and fentanyl; group D (n=25) received desflurane and dexmedetomidine. RESULTS: We recorded TcmMEP's in 80% of group P and 76% group D (95% CI: -23% to 31%, P =1.00). The time in minutes for spontaneous breathing (21.04±11.31 vs. 8.00±3.42 [8.29-,17.79, P =0.01]), extubation (31.56±17.56 vs. 10.84±3.99 [13.48-27.96; P =0.01]), emergence (33.68±18.11 vs. 10.92±4.01 [15.30-30.22, P =0.001]), discharge readiness (45.00±25.24 vs. 15.56±6.08 [19.00-39.88; P =0.001]) and requirement of first analgesia (136.6±108.04 vs. 230.8±81.33) (-148.58 to -39.82; P =0.01) was lower in group D compared with group P. Postoperative analgesia assessed using the Visual Analogue Score was lower in group D compared with group P at 12 and 24 hours. (1.68±1.18 vs. 0.64±1.31 [0.33-1.74 P =0.001]) :1.4±0.95 vs. 0.36± 0.70 (0.56-1.51; P =0.001). CONCLUSIONS: We found similar rates of successful TcMEP monitoring using desflurane-dexmedetomidine and propofol-fentanyl. Patients who received desflurane-dexmedetomidine had reduced emergence time, discharge readiness, and lower pain scores in the postoperative period.

Humans

A flipped classroom approach compared with low-interactive online learning for pediatric pain management knowledge and instructional motivation in nursing students: A randomized controlled study.

AIM: This study aimed to compare a flipped classroom approach with low-interactive online learning in terms of nursing students' questionnaire-assessed pediatric pain management knowledge and instructional motivation. BACKGROUND: Pain management in children is a critical and multidimensional nursing responsibility. However, limited curricular time and opportunities for applied learning may restrict nursing students' preparedness in this area. Structured and interactive instructional formats, such as the flipped classroom, may support knowledge acquisition and motivation in pediatric nursing education. METHODS: This study employed a parallel-group randomized controlled trial design with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Eighty-eight third-year prelicensure nursing students were randomized to either the flipped classroom group (n = 44) or the low-interactive online learning group (n = 44). Due to attrition (2 intervention, 2 control), analyses included 42 participants per group (n = 84 in total). Data were collected between February and July 2022 using the Pediatric Pain Management Knowledge Scale for Nursing Students and the Instructional Materials Motivation Survey. This study was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT07129044). RESULTS: At baseline, the groups were comparable in terms of knowledge and learning motivation. Following the intervention, the flipped classroom group demonstrated greater improvements in questionnaire-assessed pediatric pain management knowledge and instructional motivation than the low-interactive online learning group. Although scores declined from post-test to the three-month follow-up, they remained above baseline in the flipped classroom group. CONCLUSIONS: Within the context of this course, the flipped classroom approach was associated with greater improvement in questionnaire-assessed pediatric pain management knowledge and instructional motivation than low-interactive online learning. The findings should be interpreted as proximal educational outcomes rather than evidence of improved clinical competence or durable long-term effectiveness. Further studies using objective performance-based outcomes and longer follow-up periods are needed.

Humans

Optimizing smoking cessation pharmacotherapy and counseling for adult primary care patients: a factorial randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Even with the most effective smoking cessation pharmacotherapies (i.e., varenicline or combination nicotine replacement [C-NRT]), the majority of people ultimately return to smoking. This research explored how to optimize the use of varenicline and C-NRT to promote smoking cessation. METHODS: Primary care patients participated in a 2x2x2x2 factorial experiment that evaluated 4 factors: 1) Medication Type (Varenicline vs. C-NRT [patch + mini-lozenge]), 2) Preparation (pre-quit) Medication (4 Weeks vs. Standard); 3) Medication Duration (Extended [24 weeks] vs. Standard [12 weeks]); and 4) Counseling Type (Cessation Counseling [4 sessions] vs. Referral Support [2 sessions focused on use of referral resources]). This study was discontinued prior to reaching the proposed sample size (N = 608) due to pandemic-related budgetary constraints. RESULTS: Participants (N = 496) were 55% women and 45.6% Black individuals. There were no statistically significant main effects of the 4 factors on abstinence at 12, 26 or 52 weeks. There was a 3-way interaction between Medication Type, Preparation Medication, and Counseling Type (p = 0.04) predicting the primary outcome of biochemically confirmed abstinence at 52 weeks; cessation counseling vs. referral support improved varenicline quit rates when 4 weeks versus 1 week of pre-quit medication was offered. For C-NRT, counseling type did not significantly improve quit rates regardless of the use of preparation medication. CONCLUSIONS: There was no robust evidence that enhanced pre-quit or extended duration of varenicline or C-NRT increased abstinence rates. More intensive counseling may support cessation for different pharmacotherapy regimens. Given the lack of consistent findings, this research should be viewed as exploratory to guide future research.

Humans

Incidence of Cirrhosis in Fibrotic Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis: A Meta-Analysis of Placebo Arms from Randomized Clinical Trials.

BACKGROUNDS AND AIMS: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) with stage F2-F3 fibrosis represents the main target population for emerging pharmacotherapies. However, data on short-term progression to cirrhosis (F4) in this group remain limited. We aimed to evaluate the incidence of cirrhosis in placebo-treated patients with fibrotic MASH in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). METHODS: In this single-arm meta-analysis, we systematically searched PubMed and Cochrane Library from inception to December 13, 2024, for pharmacological Phase ≥ 2 RCTs reporting cirrhosis events (detected in liver biopsy or clinical signs) among patients with fibrotic MASH receiving placebo. Incidence rates were pooled using generalized linear mixed models with Clopper-Pearson confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: We identified a total of 11 RCTs, including 586 patients with fibrotic MASH. Total follow-up was 657.23 person-years (PYs), with 83 cirrhosis events reported. The pooled incidence rate was 13.09 per 100 PYs (95% CI 7.81 to 21.12, I2 = 75.6%, τ2 = 0.682). In subgroup analysis, the incidence of cirrhosis was 3.40 per 100 PYs in MASH F2 (95% CI 1.10 to 10.02, I2 = 0%, τ2 = 0) and 17.90 per 100 PYs (95% CI 10.63 to 28.55, I2 = 70.2%, τ2 = 0.561) in MASH F3, with significant differences between stages (p = 0.006). Sensitivity analyses showed consistent estimates. Most RCTs were judged to have a low risk of bias. CONCLUSIONS: This study provides stage-specific data on cirrhosis incidence in fibrotic MASH, highlighting the high short-term risk associated with MASH F3 in trial settings. These data may inform benchmarks to guide event expectations, enrichment strategies, sample size assumptions, and the interpretation of future MASH clinical trials.

Humans

Dual Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Modulates Hierarchical Functional Network Organization in Post-Stroke Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of dual transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in patients with post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) and to explore the effects on the hierarchical organization of functional brain networks, ranging from regional synchronization to inter-regional connectivity and global network topology. METHODS: In this randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial, 74 PSCI patients received conventional therapy alongside either active dual-tDCS (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;38) or sham stimulation (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;36). Active tDCS targeted the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) via anodal-left/cathodal-right nodes (2.0&#x2009;mA, 20&#x2009;min/day, 20 sessions). The primary outcome was the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Secondary outcomes included the Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE), Stroop Test (ST), Trail Making Test (TMT), Wechsler Memory Scale (WMS), and Barthel Index (BI). A subgroup of 36 participants (18 per group) underwent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) to analyze regional homogeneity (ReHo), functional connectivity (FC), and network topology. Partial correlations assessed the association between neuroimaging alterations and clinical improvements. RESULTS: The tDCS group showed significantly greater improvements in MoCA scores (tDCS: 5.74&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;2.76 vs. sham: 2.69&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;2.69; t&#x2009;=&#x2009;4.799, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001) as well as in attention and memory domains compared to the sham group. The rs-fMRI changes included increased ReHo in the right middle temporal gyrus (MTG) and the left inferior frontal gyrus (IFG), and reduced FC between the right MTG-left superior frontal gyrus and left IFG-cerebellum (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05, FWE-corrected). Additionally, small-worldness and global efficiency increased (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) with these alterations correlating with clinical recovery. Adverse events were rare and self-limiting. CONCLUSION: Dual-tDCS over bilateral DLPFC safely improves cognitive recovery in PSCI. These clinical gains are associated with rs-fMRI alterations, specifically in regional synchronization, inter-regional connectivity, and global topology, which suggest a potential biomarker for monitoring tDCS efficacy, offering a rationale for precision neuromodulation in stroke rehabilitation.

Humans

Acute and chronic effects of mixed nuts on energy metabolism in women at cardiometabolic risk: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The effect of consuming a mix of Brazilian nuts on energy metabolism has not been explored. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of acute and chronic consumption of mixed nuts on markers of energy metabolism in women with overweight/obesity. METHODS AND RESULTS: This is a randomized, controlled, and parallel clinical trial with adult women. In an acute study, participants received a beverage containing mixed nuts (30&#xa0;g of cashew nuts&#xa0;+&#xa0;15&#xa0;g of Brazil nuts) or a control beverage, and energy metabolism markers were assessed for up to 3&#xa0;h postprandially. For the chronic study, participants received 45&#xa0;g of a mix of nuts/day and a -500kcal energy-restricted diet (MNG) or only a -500kcal energy-restricted diet free of nuts (CTG) for 8 weeks, and energy metabolism was assessed before and after the intervention period. In the postprandial period, fat oxidation was higher in the MNG than in the CTG (piAUC: 47.53&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;5.78&#xa0;mg/min vs. 27.93&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;6.98&#xa0;mg/min; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.048). After 8 weeks of the intervention, fasting fat oxidation increased in the MNG (+16.0&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;7.0&#xa0;mg/min) and decreased in the CTG (-5.0&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;6.0&#xa0;mg/min), with no significant difference between groups. Other acute and chronic markers also showed no significant changes between groups. CONCLUSION: The acute consumption of mixed nuts increased postprandial fat oxidation, whereas chronic intake within an energy-restricted diet did not affect energy metabolism markers in women at cardiometabolic risk. REGISTRATION NUMBER FOR BRAZILIAN REGISTRY OF CLINICAL TRIALS: RBR-3ntxrm.

Humans

Hydrogen-rich water combined with traditional Chinese medicine compound in the treatment of kidney stones: a randomized controlled prospective clinical trial.

JOURNAL/mgres/04.03/01612956-202701000-00009/figure1/v/2026-09-13T085902Z/r/image-tiff The formation and development of kidney stones are related to abnormal urine metabolism, oxidative stress and inflammation. Hydrogen-rich water has clear efficacy in antioxidant and improving inflammatory status, while Ye-Shi-Shi-Lin-Formula is a clinically effective traditional Chinese medicine compound preparation for treating kidney stones. This randomized controlled prospective clinical trial from July 2025 to March 2026 at the Seventh People's Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine examined the effect of hydrogen-rich water and Ye-Shi-Shi-Lin-Formula on kidney stones. The included 100 patients with kidney stones were randomly divided into blank, hydrogen-rich water, hydrogen-rich water and Chinese medicine, and Chinese medicines groups. The patients received drinking hydrogen-rich water and/or Ye-Shi-Shi-Lin-Formula daily for 12 weeks. All subjects received basic treatment following the guidelines. Imaging examination, urine metabolism testing, renal function, inflammation and oxidative stress index, blood routine and liver function are used to detect the efficacy and safety of hydrogen-rich water and Ye-Shi-Shi-Lin-Formula. Results showed that the total effective rate of kidney stone treatment in blank group, Chinese medicines group, hydrogen-rich water and Chinese medicine group and hydrogen-rich water group was 28%, 76%, 80% and 32%. The Ye-Shi-Shi-Lin-Formula can partially alleviate the oxidative stress, uric acid metabolism and urinary magnesium levels of patients with kidney stone and improve the function of renal tubules. The hydrogen-rich water therapy showed only efficacy in improving glutathione reductase but the combination of hydrogen-rich water and Ye-Shi-Shi-Lin-Formula has shown superior efficacy in improving oxidative stress and related metabolic factors of blood uric acid and urine stones, as well as in renal tubular function. The results indicate that the addition of hydrogen-rich water can improve urinary metabolism and oxidative stress status in the treatment of kidney stones with Ye-Shi-Shi-Lin-Formula. The study was registered at the International Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Registry (Registration No. ITMCTR2025001446).

Humans

Exploring the dose-response relationship between prenatal exercise and postpartum depression: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

IMPORTANCE: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a hidden and widespread global public health crisis affecting millions of mothers and infants annually. Prenatal exercise is a potentially accessible nonpharmacological strategy for PPD prevention, but its optimal dose remains uncertain. OBJECTIVE: To explore the dose-response relationship between prenatal exercise and the incidence of PPD through meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). DATA SOURCES: Systematic searches were conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library using MeSH terms and keywords related to "pregnant women," "prenatal exercise," and "postpartum depression," up to June 23, 2025. STUDY SELECTION: RCTs included examined prenatal exercise interventions in pregnant women without a history of depression, with PPD incidence reported using validated depression scales (such as EPDS, CES-D). Non-RCT studies, duplicate publications, and studies with insufficient data were excluded. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Two researchers independently extracted data according to the PRISMA guidelines. A random-effects model was used to pool odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI). Linear and nonlinear dose-response models were employed to analyze and evaluate the relationship between exercise dose (measured in METs-min/week) and the incidence of PPD. MAIN OUTCOME(S) AND MEASURE(S): The primary outcome is the incidence of PPD, analyzing its relationship with prenatal exercise dose. RESULTS: Eight RCTs involving 2231 pregnant women were included. The pooled analysis showed that prenatal exercise was associated with a potential reduction in PPD incidence, although the overall effect did not reach statistical significance (OR=0.58, 95% CI [0.33, 1.02]). In dose-stratified analysis, exercise doses &#x2265;500 METs-min/week were associated with significantly lower PPD incidence (OR=0.44, 95% CI [0.24, 0.78]). Subgroup analyses suggested trends toward greater benefits among women aged &#x2265;30 years and those initiating exercise between 14 and 28 weeks of gestation; however, subgroup differences did not reach statistical significance. The linear dose-response trend did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.0533), and neither the overall spline association (p = 0.1704) nor the test for nonlinearity (p = 0.6361) was statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Prenatal exercise may be associated with a lower risk of PPD, but the overall pooled effect did not reach statistical significance. Findings concerning &#x2265;500 METs-min/week and the apparent flattening of the dose-response curve should be considered exploratory and require confirmation in larger trials.

Humans

Desmodium styracifolium Total Flavone Capsules for Urolithiasis: A Phase 3 Randomized Clinical Trial.

IMPORTANCE: No oral medication is currently approved for the management of urolithiasis. Guang Jing Qian Cao (Desmodium styracifolium total flavone capsules; hereinafter, Guang Jing), a traditional Chinese herbal extract, has shown clinical benefits for urolithiasis, but randomized clinical trials are needed to assess its effectiveness. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether Guang Jing improves stone passage rates (SPRs) compared with placebo in adults with urolithiasis. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS: This double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 randomized clinical trial was conducted at 34 sites in China from December 2017 to April 2020. Participants included adults (aged 18-70 years) with diagnosed ureteral stones. Data analysis was conducted on November 4, 2020. INTERVENTION: Participants were randomized 3:1 to receive oral Guang Jing (0.6 g) or matching placebo 3 times daily for 28 days, in addition to investigator-prescribed background medication. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: The primary outcome was SPR by day 28, confirmed by computed tomography. Secondary outcomes included SPR by day 14, stone migration rate, and stone migration distance. Between-group comparisons were performed using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel test for categorical outcomes and t tests for continuous outcomes. RESULTS: A total of 606 participants were randomly assigned to receive Guang Jing (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;458) or placebo (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;148). Their mean (SD) age was 43.0 (12.0) years, 474 (78.2%) were male, and the mean (SD) stone size was 0.6 (0.1) cm. The SPR by day 28 was significantly higher for the Guang Jing group compared with the placebo group (204 of 457 [44.6%] vs 50 of 148 [33.8%]; relative risk, 1.32 [95% CI, 1.03-1.69]; P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.03), with an absolute risk difference of 10.9 (95% CI, 2.0-19.7) percentage points. No significant between-group differences in SPR by day 14 (Guang Jing vs placebo: 133 [29.1%] vs 33 [22.3%]; P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.14) or stone migration distance (mean [SD], 29.5 [51.8] mm vs 29.7 [43.8] mm; P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.11) were observed. Adverse event rates were similar for the Guang Jing and placebo groups (88 [19.3%] vs 27 [18.2%]). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: In this randomized clinical trial, treatment with Guang Jing significantly increased the expulsion of 5- to 10-mm ureteral stones by day 28, with a favorable safety profile. These findings suggest that Guang Jing may be an additional medical expulsive therapy option for appropriately selected patients. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry Identifier: ChiCTR-IIR-17013275.

Humans

Financial incentives and social messaging for repeat SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing among the underserved: A randomized trial.

Financial incentives may influence health behavior beyond their expected monetary value, and their effectiveness may depend on how the behavior is framed. Behavioral theories of decision making suggest that individuals may value protection against small-stakes losses more than expected utility predicts, while theories of family-centered health behavior suggest that messages emphasizing benefits to family members may strengthen participation in preventive health activities. We tested these ideas in a 2&#xd7;2 factorial randomized trial involving 625 households recruited from a Federally Qualified Health Center serving low-income Latino/Hispanic communities. Participants completed repeat SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing. The trial crossed two messaging strategies (Family vs. Personal) with two incentive structures (Loss Protection vs. Lottery) that offered equivalent expected monetary value. Family Messaging emphasized protecting one's family from COVID-19, whereas Personal Messaging emphasized protecting oneself. Loss Protection allowed participants to secure an at-risk reward through repeat testing, whereas the Lottery condition offered a chance of a large reward. Repeat testing was approximately 8 percentage points higher under Family Messaging and 7 percentage points higher under Loss Protection. Baseline trust in medical providers, financial barriers to vaccination, and risk aversion were associated with initial testing, whereas household characteristics were not associated with repeat testing. Incentive design may matter beyond expected monetary value and that framing health behaviors in terms of family welfare may increase participation in repeated healthy activities. Broadly, the results support behavioral theories emphasizing loss aversion, anticipated regret, and family-centered motivations, and suggest practical approaches for improving engagement in repeat health behaviors. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV REGISTRATION NUMBER:: NCT01901624.

Adult

Comparison of Ketamine and Pregabalin on Postoperative Opioid Usage and Pain Management in Spinal Fusion: Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Spinal fusion is associated with substantial early postoperative pain and opioid exposure. Both ketamine and pregabalin are widely incorporated into Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols as opioid-sparing adjuncts. However, their comparative efficacy and safety in this specific setting remain uncertain. Our objective was to compare ketamine and pregabalin indirectly for early postoperative opioid consumption, pain, and adverse events in adults undergoing spinal fusion. METHODS: Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane Trials were searched from inception through October 2025. Eligible studies were randomized trials enrolling adults undergoing instrumented spinal fusion, randomized to perioperative ketamine, pregabalin, or control, and reported extractable 24-hour opioid consumption or pain outcomes. Continuous outcomes were pooled as mean differences in MME or VAS units, and adverse events were reported descriptively. A connected treatment network was analyzed using random-effects models. Risk of bias (RoB) was assessed with the Cochrane RoB 2 tool. RESULTS: Thirteen trials (n=879) were included: ketamine (n=210), pregabalin (n=271), and control (n=398). Six trials contributed opioid data (3 ketamine, 3 pregabalin). Using pregabalin 150 mg as reference, ketamine was associated with lower 0-24-hour opioid use (MD -56.99 mg MME; 95% CI -99.56 to -14.43). Control (MD +21.31; 95% CI -1.05 to +43.66) and pregabalin 300 mg (MD -13.22; 95% CI -40.41 to +13.96) did not significantly differ from pregabalin 150 mg. Seven trials contributed 24-hour VAS data, with control being associated with higher pain versus pregabalin 150 mg (MD +0.84; 95% CI +0.01 to +1.66), while ketamine and pregabalin 300 mg were not k significantly different. Adverse events were generally infrequent and similar to control. CONCLUSIONS: Both ketamine and pregabalin provide early opioid sparing with comparable 24-hour analgesia. Ketamine showed a larger opioid-sparing point estimate, but indirect comparisons are imprecise. Adequately powered head-to-head trials with standardized protocols and adverse event reporting are needed.

Humans

Effects of testosterone-augmented multimodal exercise intervention in spinal cord injury: a randomized controlled trial.

CONTEXT: Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to profound muscle atrophy, aerobic deconditioning, and metabolic dysfunction. Exercise-based interventions alone produce modest benefits. Whether testosterone can augment physiologic responses to exercise in this population remains untested. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate efficacy and safety of home-based intervention combining functional electrical stimulation-assisted leg cycling (FES-LC), arm ergometry (AE), and testosterone compared with FES-LC, AE plus placebo in adults with SCI. METHODS: This randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial enrolled 84 adults (76 males and 8 females) aged 19-70 years with SCI (neurologic levels C4-T12; AIS grades A-D). Participants were randomized to multimodality intervention (home-based FES-LC, AE and intramuscular testosterone undecanoate) (n = 38) or control intervention (FES-LC, AE plus placebo) (n = 46) for 16 weeks. The primary outcome was change in aerobic capacity (peak VO2) during AE cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Secondary outcomes included lean mass, hemoglobin, cardiometabolic markers, and safety. RESULTS: Mean (SD) age was 44 (13) years and time since injury was 13.9 (13) years). Between-group changes in peak VO2 were not statistically significant. Within-group improvements were larger in multimodality (&#x223c;19% increase; 0.10 L/min; 95% CI, 0.02-0.18 L/min) compared to controls (&#x223c;6% increase; 0.06 L/min; 95% CI, -0.01-0.13). The multimodality group gained significantly more lean mass (whole-body:1.84 kg, 95% CI: 0.52-3.16, P = .007; lower extremity 0.92 kg, 95% CI: 0.38-1.45, P = .001), and anemia was corrected in a greater proportion of participants. Adverse event rates were similar between groups. CONCLUSION: A home-based multimodality intervention combining FES-LC, AE, and testosterone was safe and associated with greater improvements in lean mass and hemoglobin. Although between-group differences in aerobic capacity were not statistically significant, greater within-group increases were observed in the multimodality group. These findings may inform future studies of testosterone-augmented exercise interventions for individuals living with SCI.

Humans

Impact of early nurse-led implementation of an intensive care unit diary following major trauma on quality of life: The QUALITRAU randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Survivors of major trauma often experience long-term impairments in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Intensive care unit (ICU) diaries have been proposed to reduce psychological sequelae, but evidence remains conflicting and not specific to trauma patients. OBJECTIVE: To assess whether, in patients with major trauma, a nurse-led ICU diary implemented within the first 48&#xa0;h after trauma improves HRQoL at 1&#xa0;year vs. usual care. METHODS: The QUALITRAU randomized controlled trial was conducted in three ICUs of a French tertiary hospital. Adult patients with major trauma (Injury Severity Score&#xa0;>&#xa0;15) were randomized within 48&#xa0;h of admission to receive either an ICU diary combined with usual care or usual care alone. The primary outcome was HRQoL at 12&#xa0;months, assessed with the 4 domains of the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Secondary outcomes included PTSD severity measured with the Impact of Event Scale (IES). Analyses were performed on an intention-to-treat basis. RESULTS: Between November 2014 and November 2016, 208 patients were randomized (101 intervention, 107 control), with primary outcome available for 121 (53 intervention, 68 control). Median age was 35&#xa0;years [IQR 25-51], 81% were men, and 63% had severe traumatic brain injury. At 12&#xa0;months, there were no differences between intervention and control groups in the WHOQOL-BREF domains (physical: 5.7 [IQR 4.6-11.4] vs 9.1 [IQR 4.6-13.1],P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.16; psychological: 8.0 [IQR 6.7-13.3] vs 11.3 [IQR 6.7-13.3],P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.08; social: 5.3 [IQR 4.0-14.7] vs 12.0 [IQR 4.0-14.7],P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.10; environment: 8.0 [IQR 5.5-14.5] vs 12.0 [IQR 5.5-15.5], P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.05). IES scores were also not different. CONCLUSIONS: Early implementation of nurse-led ICU diaries was not associated with improved long-term HRQoL or reduced PTSD symptoms in patients with major trauma. IMPLICATION FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE: These findings suggest that ICU diaries may need to be integrated into broader, multimodal rehabilitation strategies and may depend on factors such as timing, content, or patient characteristics.

Humans

Intravenous lidocaine reduces the propofol EC50 for loss of consciousness and intraoperative anesthetic consumption in gynecological laparoscopy: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Intravenous lidocaine reduces propofol requirements and procedure-related adverse events. OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to test whether intravenous lidocaine would reduce the effect-site concentration of propofol required to achieve loss of consciousness and decrease propofol consumption during total intravenous anesthesia in gynecological laparoscopy. METHODS: This was a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Sixty patients were randomly allocated to receive either intravenous lidocaine (1.5 mg&#xb7;kg-&#xb9; bolus) followed by continuous infusion or an equal volume of saline. Propofol was administered via target-controlled infusion starting at an effect-site concentration of 3.5 &#x3bc;g/mL. The concentration was then adjusted in steps of 0.5 &#x3bc;g/mLaccording to Dixon's up-and-down sequential method: decreased if loss of consciousness was achieved, or increased if not. Loss of consciousness was defined as loss of response to verbal commands. The median effective concentration (EC50) of propofol for inducing loss of consciousness was calculated using the Dixon's up-and-down method. General anesthesia was maintained with propofol and remifentanil, guided by state entropy (target 40-60) and surgical pleth index (target 20-50). Drug consumption was normalized to anesthesia duration and body weight. RESULTS: The estimated EC50 of propofol for inducing loss of consciousness was significantly lower in the lidocaine group than in the saline group (3.32 &#x3bc;g/mL, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): 3.04-3.59 vs. 3.89 &#x3bc;g/mL, 95% CI: 3.50-4.28). Under the study protocol, the lidocaine group also required less propofol (8.62 mg&#xb7;kg-1&#xb7;h-1, 95% CI: 8.10-9.15 vs. 9.89 mg&#xb7;kg-1&#xb7;h-1, 95% CI: 9.05-10.73) and less remifentanil (0.23 &#x3bc;g&#xb7;kg-1&#xb7;min-1, 95% CI: 0.21-0.24 vs. 0.27 &#x3bc;g&#xb7;kg-1&#xb7;min-1, 95% CI: 0.24-0.30) compared with the saline group. CONCLUSION: Intravenous lidocaine reduced the propofol EC50 for Loss of Consciousness (LOC) and decreased intraoperative propofol and remifentanil consumptions in patients undergoing gynecological laparoscopy. These findings suggest a propofol- and opioid-sparing effect of intravenous lidocaine in this setting, although confirmation in larger multicenter trials is needed.

Humans

Influence of Immediate Post-Bleaching Polishing on Enamel Color, Morphology, and Sensitivity: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the influence of polishing on enamel color change after in-office bleaching treatment on tooth morphology and sensitivity. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 50 volunteers were randomized into two groups (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;25): in-office bleaching with 35% hydrogen peroxide gel for 45&#x2009;min without polishing (GSEM) or with polishing (GP). Color analysis was performed four times, at the beginning of the starting line and immediately after the first, second, and third bleaching sessions with a spectrophotometer. A qualitative analysis of enamel morphology was performed under a scanning electron microscope. Tooth sensitivity was assessed daily using the Visual Analog Scale (&#x3b1;&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.05). RESULTS: There was no statistically significant difference (p&#x2009;>&#x2009;0.05) in tooth color change when comparing &#x394;E, &#x394;E00, and &#x394;WID between the groups. The enamel surface showed larger areas of irregularities and depressions in the GP group than in the GSEM group. There was no difference in tooth sensitivity (p&#x2009;>&#x2009;0.05) between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Polishing after whitening in the office does not change the color and sensitivity of the tooth but promotes greater changes in the morphology of the enamel, such as increased surface roughness. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Polishing immediately after teeth whitening causes greater changes in enamel surface morphology.

Humans

Efficacy and safety of add-on topiramate vs. metformin on cardiometabolic profile in patients of schizophrenia on atypical antipsychotics with metabolic syndrome: an active-controlled, rater-blinded, parallel-design randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome is common among patients with schizophrenia, but current treatment options are limited, with metformin being the most studied. While placebo-controlled studies suggest potential benefits of topiramate, comparative efficacy and safety data are lacking. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of topiramate versus metformin for treating metabolic syndrome and reducing cardiovascular risks among patients with schizophrenia. METHODS: A randomised, open-label, parallel-group clinical trial was conducted on 60 patients of schizophrenia with metabolic syndrome, randomised equally to receive either topiramate (50&#xa0;mg/day) or metformin (1000&#xa0;mg/day) for eight weeks. Primary outcome was cardiovascular risk score (QRISK3), and secondary outcomes were LDL&#x2236;HDL ratio, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), positive and negative syndrome scale (PANSS), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and clinical global impression-Schizophrenia scale (CGI-SCH) scores. RESULTS: Over the study period, QRISK3 scores improved significantly in both groups [topiramate: MD&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.61 (0.02 to 1.21), p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.04; metformin: MD&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.45 (0.07 to 0.83), p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.02], with no significant between-group difference in unadjusted analysis (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.648). However, ANCOVA adjusting for baseline QRISK3 revealed a significantly greater improvement in the topiramate group (&#x3b2; = -0.324, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.043). Metformin showed significant within-group improvements in LDL: HDL ratio and HOMA-IR; however, ANCOVA adjusting for baseline HOMA-IR showed the between-group difference remained non-significant (&#x3b2; = -1.209, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.078). Both groups showed significant improvements in PANSS and CGI-SCH scores, with no significant between-group differences in MoCA scores. A moderate correlation between the QRISK3 change, the PANSS change, and the CGI-SCH-I scores was observed in the topiramate group and the total population. Regression analysis identified PANSS change as a predictor of QRISK3 improvement. CONCLUSION: Topiramate demonstrated comparable, and on adjusted analysis superior, cardiovascular risk reduction compared to metformin, supporting its use as a viable alternative in the management of metabolic syndrome in patients with schizophrenia on atypical antipsychotics, particularly where metformin is contraindicated.

Humans

Ketamine Plus Midazolam versus Fentanyl Plus Midazolam for Sedation and Analgesia during Image-guided Procedures in Interventional Radiology: Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background Opioid-benzodiazepine regimens remain common for radiologist-administered procedural sedation despite respiratory and analgesic effectiveness concerns. Purpose To compare intraprocedural pain and patient-reported experience between ketamine/midazolam and fentanyl/midazolam during image-guided procedural sedation. Materials and Methods This randomized clinical trial was conducted at a single academic center between June 2025 and February 2026. Adults undergoing image-guided lung or bone biopsy or abscess drainage were randomized to fentanyl/midazolam or ketamine/midazolam administered by interventional radiologists. Procedures were performed using US, CT, CT fluoroscopy, or combined CT and US guidance. The primary outcome was maximum intraprocedural pain (0-10 on the Numeric Rating Scale). Secondary outcomes included sedation depth, physiologic parameters, oxygen desaturation, patient-reported experience assessed using a modified Heidelberg questionnaire, and complications. Results Among 264 randomized procedures (132 procedures per group) in 260 participants (median age, 68 years [IQR, 61-75 years]; 135 [52%] female), ketamine/midazolam resulted in lower maximum intraprocedural pain than fentanyl/midazolam (mean difference, -1.4 points [95% CI: -2.0, -0.8]; P < .001). Pain scores greater than 4 occurred less frequently with ketamine/midazolam (2.3% vs 17%; absolute difference, 14 percentage points [95% CI: 8, 21]; P < .001). Ketamine/midazolam was associated with higher nadir oxygen saturation (mean difference, +1.4% [95% CI: 0.6, 2.2]; P = .001) and fewer oxygen desaturation events below 90% (three [2.3%] vs 13 [9.8%]; absolute difference, 7.6 percentage points [95% CI: 1.9, 13.3]; P = .02). Ketamine/midazolam produced deeper sedation and higher intraprocedural systolic blood pressure. Hallucinations occurred more frequently with ketamine/midazolam (15 [11.4%] vs five [3.8%]; absolute difference, 7.6 percentage points [95% CI: 1.3, 13.9]; P = .03), though overall procedural comfort, reduced recall, and perceived adequacy of sedation were improved. Procedure-related and sedation-related complications did not differ between groups. Conclusion Radiologist-administered ketamine/midazolam during image-guided procedural sedation improved analgesia and patient-reported experience with fewer hypoxemic events and no increase in complications compared with fentanyl/midazolam. Clinical trial registration no. NCT07040163

Aged

Clinical performance of monolithic and veneered zirconia three-unit posterior FDPs: A five-year multicenter randomized controlled trial.

AIM: This randomized controlled clinical study compared monolithic, partially veneered, and fully veneered zirconia FDPs over a 5-year period with respect to survival, technical and biological complications, and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Sixty-four patients requiring three-unit posterior FDPs were randomly allocated to monolithic (MONO-FDP), partially veneered (PV-FDP), or fully veneered (FV-FDP) groups. All FDPs were fabricated from 4 mol% Y&#x2082;O&#x2083; partially stabilized zirconia (4Y-TZP). Follow-up examinations were conducted at baseline, 1, 3, and 5 years. Technical parameters were evaluated using modified USPHS criteria. Periodontal measurements (PPD, BOP, PI) and patient satisfaction were assessed at all time points. RESULTS: A total of 63 FDPs were evaluated at baseline, 57 at 3 years, and 54 at 5 years. Survival at 5 years was 94.7% for MONO-FDPs, 100% for FV-FDPs and 100% for PV-FDPs. Technical complications occurred exclusively in PV-FDP (33%) and FV-FDP (38%) groups and consisted of minor, polishable chipping; no chipping or fractures were recorded in MONO-FDPs (0%) with statistically significant difference between MONO-FDP and the other two groups (p &#x2264; 0.014). Biological parameters remained stable across all groups, with no significant differences in PPD, BOP, or PI. PV-FDPs and FV-FDPs tended to receive more favorable professional color ratings, whereas PROMs were similar among the groups. CONCLUSIONS: All three FDP designs-monolithic, partially veneered, and fully veneered-fabricated from 4Y-TZP zirconia demonstrated excellent 5-year clinical performance. Technical complications were limited to PV- and FV-FDPs and consisted of minor chipping. Biological outcomes and patient satisfaction were similar across groups. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The five-year outcomes suggest that veneered, partially veneered, and monolithic FDPs can be used with high clinical reliability; however, restorations incorporating veneering ceramic may present an elevated risk of ceramic chipping.

Humans