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Hysteroscopic platelet-rich plasma and medically assisted reproduction outcomes: a systematic review and SWOT analysis.

BACKGROUND: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been proposed as an adjuvant treatment in reproductive medicine. While most evidence refers to blind intrauterine instillation, subendometrial administration under hysteroscopic guidance allows targeted delivery under direct visualisation. This systematic review aimed to synthesise the available evidence on hysteroscopic PRP administration and its impact on clinical medically assisted reproduction (MAR) outcomes. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted from inception to December 2025 across major databases. Studies were included if they evaluated hysteroscopic PRP administration in women undergoing MAR, comparing reproductive outcomes between treated and control groups. RESULTS: Out of 142 records, 3 studies met the inclusion criteria. Study populations were heterogeneous and included women with refractory thin endometrium and/or a history of implantation failure. Hysteroscopic PRP administration protocols varied in timing, technique, and dosage. In a prospective case-control study, hysteroscopic intraendometrial PRP injection at a depth of 2-3 mm in the four uterine walls, using an ovum aspiration needle, on days 11-13 of the cycle prior to euploid frozen embryo transfer (ET), was associated with higher implantation (IR), clinical pregnancy (CPR), and live birth rates (LBR) compared with standard therapy. Conversely, no significant differences in CPR, miscarriage rate, or LBR were observed in an observational study evaluating a single intraendometrial PRP injection (35-40 mL, 2-3 mm depth), administered via endoscopic needle on days 6-8 of the menstrual cycle preceding frozen ET, alone or after electrical impulse therapy. A randomised controlled trial in women undergoing intrauterine insemination reported a significant improvement in CPR following hysteroscopic subendometrial PRP instillation in the four uterine walls (1.0 mL each). CONCLUSIONS: Current literature on hysteroscopic PRP administration in reproductive medicine is limited, and robust conclusions cannot yet be drawn. Well-designed randomised controlled trials with standardised protocols are needed to clarify its clinical role.

Humans

A comparative systematic review of pharmacist education systems and pharmacy service quality in ASEAN-5: Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Singapore.

BACKGROUND: The global transition toward patient-centered pharmaceutical care has exposed structural disparities in ASEAN pharmacy workforce training and deployment. This review examines four research questions: how pharmacy education systems and accreditation standards differ across Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, and Singapore (collectively, the ASEAN-5); the extent to which pre-registration education influences clinical service scope and professional confidence; how education reform and regulatory change have shaped pharmacist clinical roles; and what barriers and enablers exist for regional qualification harmonization. METHODS: A systematic literature review following PRISMA 2020 was conducted. Searches of PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus, supplemented by grey literature, were completed in May 2026. Of 78 unique records screened, 46 studies published between 2005 and 2026 met inclusion criteria. Quality appraisal used an adapted Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool; synthesis employed narrative thematic analysis. RESULTS: The five countries represent four structurally distinct pharmacy education architectures: Thailand's standardized six-year Doctor of Pharmacy with dual specialization tracks; four-year Bachelor of Pharmacy programmes in Malaysia and the Philippines with institutional variation; Indonesia's clinically underdeveloped system despite rapid expansion; and Singapore's four-year Bachelor of Pharmacy followed by a nationally mandated one-year pre-registration pathway. Evidence links deeper clinical training to broader practice scope, higher confidence, and improved patient outcomes. Reform produced uneven results: Thailand's PharmD transition improved clinical recognition but exposed deployment paradoxes; Singapore achieved the strongest training-to-practice alignment; Indonesia's health insurance reforms were not absorbed by an underprepared workforce; the Philippines lacks a national competency framework. No binding mutual recognition arrangement was identified; divergent qualification structures, incompatible accreditation systems, and an asymmetric evidence base remain the primary barriers. DISCUSSION: These findings indicate that clinical service scope is bounded less by national policy ambition than by the depth and clinical orientation of the pre-registration education that precedes it, and that credentialing reforms which outpace a health system's capacity to absorb new clinical roles, or the reverse, do not by themselves translate into expanded practice. CONCLUSIONS: Pharmacy education across the ASEAN-5 remains nationally distinct and clinically uneven. Clinical service scope is directly bounded by pre-registration education quality. No country has fully closed the education-practice gap. Regional harmonization requires national-level educational reform as a prerequisite.

Humans

A multi-center, open-labelled, randomized controlled extended phase III non-inferiority clinical trial to evaluate the immunogenicity and tolerability of poliomyelitis vaccine (Vero cells), inactivated, Sabin strains administered with or without routine infant vaccines.

BACKGROUND: Oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) has been reported to cause vaccine-derived poliovirus and vaccine-associated paralytic poliomyelitis, and the limited global supply of conventional IPV has led many countries to rely on fractional-dose IPV regimens alongside OPV. The current study aims to assess the sIPV safety and immunogenicity when given concurrently with or in a staggered manner with routine immunization. METHODS: A multi-country, multi-center, open-label, randomized controlled, extended phase III non-inferiority clinical trial was conducted with 1442 healthy infants aged 6-8 weeks from Bangladesh and Pakistan enrolled and randomized into four groups, i.e., co-administration group 1 (group C1), co-administration group 2 (group C2), staggered administration group 1 (group S1) and staggered administration group 2 (group S2). Antibody levels were determined using the collected sera for immunogenicity evaluation. The difference in seroconversion rates between the coadministration group and the staggered administration group is compared using the Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel χ2 (CMH-χ2) test, stratified by study site. Non-inferiority is concluded if the lower bound of the 95% confidence interval (CI) for the rate difference (coadministration group minus staggered administration group) is greater than -10%. The trial was registered prior to patient enrollment at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05850364), and the protocol and statistical analysis plan are available at https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05850364. The trial is closed to new participants. FINDINGS: The post-vaccination seroconversion rates for PV I were 90.3% (306/339) in group C1 and 87.0% (261/300) in group S1, for PV II, 91.7% (311/339) in group C1 and 91.3% (274/300) in group S1 and for PV III, 86.4% (293/339) in group C1 and 92.3% (277/300) in group S1. Among adverse reactions (ARs) reported within 7 days of vaccination, the incidence was similarly high in both the co-administration and staggered vaccination groups (92.8% vs. 95.5%). INTERPRETATION: Our results demonstrated favorable safety and immunogenicity of co-administration of sIPV with other routine infant vaccines according to a 3-dose primary immunization schedule.

Humans

Surgical management of jugular foramen meningiomas: a function-prioritized perioperative workflow.

OBJECTIVE: Jugular foramen meningiomas are challenging because of their deep, neurovascularly crowded location and multicompartment extension; hyperostosis and rigid dural attachment further narrow the corridor and increase the risk of lower cranial nerve morbidity, causing dysphagia and airway complications that may rarely require tracheostomy. This study aimed to describe a contemporary function-first workflow integrating compartment-based anatomy, venous sinus status, preoperative embolization, and continuous vagus nerve monitoring and its relation to clinically actionable recovery endpoints. METHODS: The authors retrospectively reviewed 26 consecutive patients who underwent primary surgery for jugular foramen meningiomas (2014-2025). Tumors were classified as intradural + intrajugular (IJ) or intradural + intrajugular + extracranial extension (IJE). Retrosigmoid, suprajugular, or transjugular approaches were selected by tumor extension and sigmoid-jugular venous status. Selective embolization and continuous vagus nerve monitoring were used when feasible. Outcomes included extubation timing, time to oral intake, 1-year swallowing/voice severity, extent of resection, and salvage stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for progression/regrowth. RESULTS: Twenty tumors were IJ and 6 were IJE. Selective embolization was performed in 16 patients (62%) without complications. Continuous vagus nerve monitoring was implemented in 16 patients (62%); lower preservation rates showed an exploratory association with worse 1-year swallowing. All patients were extubated immediately after surgery. Oral intake began by postoperative day ≤ 7 in 20 patients (77%); only 1 required > 14 days before resuming oral intake. At 1 year, swallowing and hoarseness remained worse in 54% and 46% of patients, respectively, but almost all cases were mild; the same patient had moderate dysphagia/hoarseness, and none required tracheostomy, gastrostomy, long-term tube feeding, or phonosurgery. Simpson grade IV comprised 69% of cases but predominantly reflected intrajugular/extracranial residual rather than persistent intradural disease. No patient without preoperative facial nerve palsy developed new palsy; serviceable hearing was preserved in 70%, and 38% with preoperative nonserviceable hearing improved to serviceable hearing. During a median 55.6-month follow-up, 3 patients (12%) underwent salvage SRS for regrowth; none required reoperation. CONCLUSIONS: A function-first workflow guided by anatomical compartment extension and intraoperative monitoring can support rapid recovery and durable functional independence in jugular foramen meningiomas. The IJE phenotype identifies a higher-risk subgroup for delayed oral intake and postoperative subjective dysphagia/hoarseness, while continuous vagus nerve monitoring may provide actionable insights to calibrate surgical aggressiveness and support function-prioritized acceptance of intrajugular/extracranial residual with close surveillance and salvage SRS when needed.

Humans

Transcriptomic responses of gill and intestinal tissues in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) to bacterial infection following sequential nanoimmersion and hydrogel-based multivalent vaccination.

Bacterial pathogens, including Flavobacterium oreochromis, Aeromonas veronii, Streptococcus agalactiae, and Edwardsiella tarda, represent major infectious threats to Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). A multivalent vaccination strategy integrating cationic nanoemulsion immersion with oral hydrogel boosters was developed to investigate tissue-specific immune responses at the transcriptomic level. Gill tissues were collected following immersion challenge and intestinal tissues following intraperitoneal injection challenge, reflecting the physiologically relevant infection biology of each pathogen and the mechanistic rationale of each delivery platform. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) generated high-quality datasets (mapping rate > 81.64%) with strong concordance to quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) validation (r = 0.83). Comparative transcriptomic analysis revealed distinct yet complementary immune signatures between tissues. Gill transcriptomes were enriched in phagosome, focal adhesion, extracellular matrix-receptor interaction (ECM-receptor interaction), and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathways, accompanied by increased expression of major histocompatibility complex class I/II (MHC class I/II), mannose receptor, αVβ3 integrin, and calnexin, indicating innate activation, enhanced phagocytic capacity, epithelial barrier reinforcement, and adaptive immune coordination. Intestinal transcriptomes showed predominant enrichment of adaptive immune pathways, including the intestinal immune network for immunoglobulin (Ig) production, Forkhead box O (FoxO) signaling, and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling, with increased expression of T-cell receptor (TCR), inducible T-cell co-stimulator ligand (ICOS-L), C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4), and polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR), reflecting T and B cell coordination, lymphocyte trafficking, and mucosal immunoglobulin transport, alongside innate engagement through phagosome pathway enrichment. Shared upregulation of MHC class II, B-cell receptor (BCR) signaling, integrin alpha M (ITGAM), and immunoglobulin-associated components across both tissues suggests coordinated mucosal immune activation through a conserved immune module, warranting direct experimental validation. Collectively, these findings provide transcriptomic evidence that this vaccination strategy elicits an integrated, tissue-specialized immune response, advancing mechanistic understanding of gill and intestinal immunity in vaccine-induced protection of teleost fish.

Animals

Multi-omics reveals that burdock seed aglycone alleviates renal fibrosis by restoring mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation function.

Renal fibrosis (RF), a common pathological process driving chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression to end-stage renal failure, is closely associated with oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Arctigenin (ATG), the main active component of burdock seed, exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic activities, but its mechanisms in RF treatment remain unclear. Here, we performed integrated transcriptomic and proteomic analyses to identify key targets and pathways of ATG in a unilateral ureteral obstruction-induced rat RF model. Multi-omics enrichment analysis revealed that NDUFS8 and NDUFS2 were the core targets of ATG, with the OXPHOS pathway as the central intersecting pathway. Our results suggest that ATG exerts anti-renal fibrosis effects by targeting the OXPHOS pathway to inhibit excessive reactive oxygen species production and oxidative stress. SIGNIFICANCE: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) continues to impose an escalating global health and socioeconomic burden, while renal fibrosis (RF), as the convergent pathological endpoint of virtually all progressive nephropathies, remains the principal determinant of irreversible renal failure and adverse clinical outcomes. Despite extensive efforts to develop antifibrotic therapies, effective clinical interventions remain elusive, largely due to the complex and multifactorial nature of RF pathogenesis. In this study, we employed an integrated multi-omics framework encompassing transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics to systematically decipher the antifibrotic mechanism of arctigenin (ATG), a bioactive natural compound derived from traditional Chinese medicine. Our findings identify mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation as the pivotal regulatory axis underlying the renoprotective effects of ATG and further establish key catalytic subunits of mitochondrial complex I as its direct molecular targets. Mechanistically, ATG not only restores complex I activity and reprograms mitochondrial energy metabolism but also preserves the intracellular stability and localization of these subunits, thereby preventing their aberrant release-mediated inflammatory activation and disrupting the self-perpetuating cycle linking metabolic dysfunction, inflammation, and fibrosis progression. Beyond revealing a previously unrecognized dual mechanism integrating metabolic and inflammatory regulation, this study provides compelling evidence that mitochondrial dysfunction is not merely a secondary consequence of tissue injury but a fundamental driver of fibrotic remodeling. Importantly, our work highlights the translational potential of natural product-based mitochondrial interventions for CKD treatment and supports a broader conceptual shift toward metabolism-centered therapeutic strategies for chronic fibrotic diseases. Given the central role of mitochondrial dysfunction across multiple organs, these findings may also have far-reaching implications for the treatment of systemic fibrosis-related disorders beyond the kidney.

Animals

The impact of acute sleep fragmentation on muscle blood flow responses to handgrip exercise.

Sleep fragmentation is reported to impair resting vascular function. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that acute sleep fragmentation would impair muscle blood flow during exercise. Twenty adults (10 females and 10 males) participated in a randomized crossover study that included one night of habitual sleep and one night of fragmented sleep. Sleep was assessed at home using wrist actigraphy. Arousals from sleep were increased by an audio alarm sounding every 30 min. The morning following each sleep condition, participants performed single handgrip contractions and rhythmic handgrip exercise at 15%, 30%, and 45% MVC. Forearm blood flow (FBF) was measured using Doppler ultrasound. Nightly awakenings and wake after sleep onset significantly increased by 18% and 43%, respectively, after fragmented sleep, leading to lower sleep duration (P < 0.001). Peak FBF and total hyperemic responses following single contractions were similar between sleep conditions (all P > 0.05). During rhythmic handgrip exercise, brachial artery dilation was reduced after fragmented sleep (main effect: 5.5 &#xb1; 4.8 vs. 3.3 &#xb1; 3.7%; P = 0.01), leading to a lower FBF response to rhythmic exercise (main effect: 122 &#xb1; 58 vs. 110 &#xb1; 56 mL/min; P = 0.04). Endothelial sensitivity to shear rate was similar between sleep conditions (habitual vs. fragmented: 0.039 &#xb1; 0.024 vs. 0.042 &#xb1; 0.031%/s-1; P = 0.77). In summary, acute sleep fragmentation decreases skeletal muscle blood flow during exercise. This finding suggests that blunted oxygen delivery may be a contributing factor for exercise performance deficits after disturbed sleep.NEW & NOTEWORTHY We demonstrate that one night of fragmented sleep decreases steady-state blood flow and vascular conductance during low- to moderate-intensity handgrip exercise. This impairment was not due to an impaired rapid vasodilation to single contractions nor altered endothelial sensitivity to shear rate as these variables were unchanged after acute sleep fragmentation. These results reveal a negative impact of disrupted sleep on the steady-state muscle vasodilatory response to rhythmic contractions.

Humans

Emergence of Babesia naoakii infection in Indonesian domestic cattle, a new host record in water buffaloes, and characterization of complete mitochondrial protein-coding genes.

Babesia (B.) naoakii, previously referred to as Babesia sp. Mymensingh, is a recently characterized tick-borne haemoprotozoan parasite of cattle. In Indonesia, we first reported its presence in 2022 from clinically affected cattle in Central Java. To investigate the wider epidemiology of this neglected ruminant-associated Babesia species, we surveyed apparently healthy cattle (Bos indicus) and water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) across three districts of Java, Indonesia. A PCR assay targeting the B. naoakii-specific apical membrane antigen 1 (ama1) gene detected the parasite occurrence in 34.39% of assessed cattle (87/253; 95% CI: 28.80-40.44%) and 30.77% of water buffaloes (12/39; 95% CI: 18.47-46.52%). These results represent the first record of B. naoakii infection in water buffaloes in the country and confirm that the parasite circulates in subclinically infected bovine hosts. To characterise this apicomplexan parasite further at the molecular level, we assembled in full length the three mitochondrial protein-coding genes (PCGs): cytochrome c oxidase subunits 1 (cox1) and 3 (cox3), as well as cytochrome b (cytb). These genes were reconstructed by next-generation sequencing of blood DNA collected during the acute haemolytic-phase of B. naoakii infection, from calves that subsequently succumbed to the disease in the endemic area. Phylogenetic analyses of the concatenated amino-acid sequences of cox1, cox3, and cytb placed the Indonesian isolates within a well-supported monophyletic clade, distinct from all previously characterised ruminant-associated Babesia species and sister to the Babesia bigemina/Babesia ovata lineage. This placement confirmed species identity and reinforced the genetic distinctiveness of B. naoakii in Indonesia. Notably, although B. naoakii circulates in peripheral blood and mirrors the diagnostic behaviour of the mild pathogen B. bigemina, its clinical impact more closely resembles that of the severe pathogenic B. bovis, particularly in young animals. This diagnostic-clinical discordance highlights the need for B. naoakii-specific molecular surveillance and species-level differentiation in regions of co-endemicity. Given the high prevalence in subclinically B. naoakii-infected adults, the documented severity of babesiosis in calves, and the potential for substantial economic losses, broader epidemiological investigations and species-specific control measures for B. naoakii are urgently performed. The same holds true for future epizootiological investigations of underdiagnosed B. naoakii-infections possibly circulating in Indonesian endemic ruminant bovids such as the banteng (Bos javanicus), the lowland anoa (Bubalus depressicornis) and the tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis).

Animals

Substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions among adolescents and young adults in North America: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions are common among adolescents and young adults and represent an important clinical and public health concern in North America. Trauma exposure, psychiatric symptoms, and social adversity frequently co-occur with substance-related problems in this population. This systematic review aimed to synthesize evidence on prevalence patterns, associated clinical and psychosocial factors, and care-related implications described in the literature on adolescents and young adults with substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions. METHODS: This systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines and was preregistered in PROSPERO (CRD42024581685). A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase, PsycINFO, and Google Scholar. Eligible studies examined adolescents and young adults (&#x2264;&#x2009;25 years) in North America. A combination of subject headings, keywords, and synonyms for the concepts "adolescents," "young adults," "substance use disorders," and "co-occurring mental health conditions" was used. Of 1,882 records identified, 29 studies met the inclusion criteria. Given the heterogeneity of the literature, findings were synthesized narratively. RESULTS: The included studies showed heterogeneity in population, setting, denominator, and ascertainment method. Across the literature, depressive, anxiety-related, trauma-related, and externalizing mental health presentations were frequently reported alongside substance-related problems in adolescents and young adults. Trauma exposure, adverse childhood experiences, and broader social adversity were also commonly reported in association with substance-related problems across studies. Care-related implications were more limited and were largely derived as future directions mentioned across studies rather than direct evaluations of youth-specific service models. CONCLUSION: Co-occurring mental health and substance-related problems were frequently reported among adolescents and young adults in high-risk and service-engaged populations in North America. Trauma and social adversity were prominent across the reviewed literature, while direct evidence for evaluated, integrated, youth-specific care models remains limited. These findings support the relevance of developmentally appropriate, integrated, and trauma-informed approaches to care and highlight the need for further research directly evaluating improved service delivery models for this population. CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.

Humans

Effects of digital health-based exercise interventions on older adults with sarcopenia: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia, the progressive loss of muscle mass and function, impairs independence in older adults. Digital health exercise interventions are scalable solutions for older adults with sarcopenia. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize the evidence on their efficacy in populations with clinically diagnosed sarcopenia and identify influential intervention characteristics associated with treatment outcomes. METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, CNKI, and Wanfang on May 20, 2026, with no date restrictions. We included randomized controlled trials involving adults aged &#x2265;60 with sarcopenia receiving digital exercise interventions. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias; analyses were performed using R and Review Manager. RESULTS: Fourteen trials (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;927) were included. Digital interventions showed potential improvements in muscle mass (MD&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.25, 95%CI:0.03-0.46, 95% PI:-0.36 to 0.85), muscle strength (MD&#xa0;=&#xa0;2.14, 95% CI:1.18-3.11, P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001), balance ability (SMD&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.31, 95% CI:0.12-0.51, P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.001), walking performance (SMD&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.55, 95% CI:0.21-0.89, 95% PI:-0.70 to 1.79), and physical function (SMD&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.89, 95% CI:0.08-1.71, 95% PI:-2.33 to 4.12), but not quality of life (SMD&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.08, 95% CI:-0.19 to 0.35, P&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.53). Exploratory subgroup analyses suggested that factors such as supervision, program duration, and measurement tools may influence outcomes; however, formal tests for subgroup differences were generally non-significant, and consistent patterns across all metrics were not observed. CONCLUSION: Digital exercise interventions show potential for managing sarcopenia in older adults, though the very low to moderate certainty of evidence indicates that true effects may differ substantially from observed estimates. This review explores potential roles of intervention design, supervision, and multimodal delivery. Future research should adopt rigorous designs and longer follow-up to validate results and enhance clinical application. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD420251135174.

Humans

Psychological impacts of APOE genotype disclosure among Latinos in New York City: a randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Latinos face increased Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk but are underrepresented in studies of APOE genotype disclosure. We evaluated the psychological impacts of APOE disclosure in the Informaci&#xf3;n de la Enfermedad de Alzheimer para Latinos (IDEAL) study, a randomized controlled trial among Latinos in New York City. METHODS: Latino northern Manhattan residents without self-reported AD (mean age 52, 69% women, 49% college graduates) were randomized in the period August 2021 to July 2024 to receive AD risk estimates to age 85 incorporating APOE genotype, family history, and ethnicity (disclosure) or the same factors excluding APOE (non-disclosure). Bilingual genetic counselors delivered risk estimates to both groups, unmasked to randomization. Follow-up surveys were completed 6&#xa0;weeks, 9 months, and 15 months after risk delivery. Primary outcomes were impact of genetic testing in AD (IGT-AD) and Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). Secondary outcomes were changes from baseline in depression, anxiety, and perceived AD threat. Analyses used intention-to-treat with multiple imputation. RESULTS: Disclosure (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;194) and non-disclosure (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;180) groups did not differ on IGT-AD (mean disclosure-non-disclosure difference [MD] at 6 weeks: -1.5, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.14; 9 months: -1.2, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.35; 15 months: -2.0, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.07), IES-R (MD at 6 weeks: 0.00, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.98; 9 months: 0.01, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.84; 15 months: 0.03, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.64), or change in secondary outcomes. Occurrence of disclosure-related adverse events was similar in the disclosure (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;2) and non-disclosure (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;3) groups. DISCUSSION: In this Latino cohort, APOE disclosure did not have clinically significant adverse psychological effects, addressing an important evidence gap. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04471779.

Aged

Multi-centre randomised controlled feasibility trial with embedded process evaluation of a samba percussion intervention for people living with Parkinson's disease: a protocol for the Sparky Samba trial.

INTRODUCTION: Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder, its principal symptom being deterioration of motor function. Current treatment options are limited to symptom management but there is evidence that physical activity can provide motor benefits. More recently there is evidence to suggest that rhythmic auditory stimulation may improve gait and balance in PD. Sparky Samba is a community initiative in South Wales, UK, founded by a person living with PD. Sessions incorporate the following samba rhythms from a trained facilitator and are held weekly in a community setting. METHODS: The Sparky Samba trial is a multi-site, non-blinded, randomised controlled feasibility trial of Sparky Samba compared with activity as usual. A total of 60 people with PD will be randomised 1:1 to take part in a local Sparky Samba group for 12 weeks or continue their normal activities for the same length of time. The primary outcome is feasibility defined by recruitment, retention, data completeness and intervention adherence. Secondary outcomes relating to motor function, cognition, well-being and self-efficacy will also be assessed at baseline and at 12 weeks. Additionally, we will conduct a process evaluation to understand contextual mechanisms surrounding Sparky Samba. This will be achieved through qualitative interviews and structured participant questionnaires following individual trial completion and through structured questionnaires with intervention delivery staff, supplemented with qualitative interviews. ANALYSIS: Feasibility outcomes will be assessed according to pre-defined criteria. For secondary outcomes, means and standard deviations (or medians and IQRs) will be calculated by arm, alongside 95% CIs for change from baseline to 12-week follow-up. Qualitative data will be subject to thematic analysis using NVivo software. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study received a favourable ethical opinion from the North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee in April 2025 (REC reference 25/NS/0037). Study results will be disseminated through the peer-review literature, the ISRCTN registry and directly to participants, which will be facilitated by the study's public and patient involvement steering group. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ISRCTN11861663.

Humans

Selective monitoring of trace-level catechin and myricetin in herbal and aqueous matrices using magnetic MIP-DSPME: Optimization via design of experiments.

A novel dispersive solid-phase microextraction approach utilizing a magnetic molecularly imprinted polymer (MMIP) integrated with HPLC-UV detection was developed for the concurrent quantification of catechin and myricetin in herbal extracts and aqueous samples. The sorbent was engineered as a core-shell nanocomposite, consisting of a selective polymer layer deposited onto Fe3O4@SiO2-APTMS magnetic nanoparticles. Dual-template imprinting using catechin and myricetin generated complementary binding cavities within the polymer framework. Experimental variables influencing extraction were systematically screened and subsequently optimized. A Plackett-Burman design was first applied to identify the most influential factors, with pH and sorption time identified as the dominant variables. These parameters were subsequently fine-tuned using a central composite design, and the optimization process was completed in only 30 experimental runs. The sorption characteristics of the imprinted sorbent (MMIP) were compared with those of its non-imprinted counterpart (MNIP). The MMIP demonstrated markedly higher maximum binding capacities (Qmax), reaching 119.3&#xa0;mg&#xa0;g-1 for myricetin and 112.1&#xa0;mg&#xa0;g-1 for catechin, whereas the corresponding values for the MNIP were 32.55 and 32.08&#xa0;mg&#xa0;g-1, respectively. Moreover, the affinity constants (KL&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.760-0.950&#xa0;L&#xa0;mg-1) were approximately 2.3-fold higher for the MMIP, confirming its stronger and more selective interactions with the target analytes. The selectivity coefficients for the targeted flavonoids relative to structurally related compounds, including ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, melatonin, and curcumin, exceeded 3.5 for the MMIP, whereas the corresponding values for the MNIP were close to 1.1, demonstrating the high molecular recognition capability of the imprinted sorbent. Method validation demonstrated limits of detection (LODs) of 0.33-0.59&#xa0;ng&#xa0;mL-1 and limits of quantification (LOQs) of 1.10-1.96&#xa0;ng&#xa0;mL-1, and excellent linearity over the concentration range of 5.0-5500&#xa0;ng&#xa0;mL-1 (R2&#xa0;>&#xa0;0.998). The method achieved recoveries of 93.96% to 105.69% with RSDs below 5.5%, while the preconcentration factors ranged from 209 to 229. Furthermore, the sorbent retained more than 95% of its extraction efficiency after four consecutive reuse cycles and more than 80% after six cycles, demonstrating excellent stability and reusability. The proposed method was successfully applied to the analysis of six medicinal plant extracts and water samples, showing negligible matrix interference and superior sensitivity, selectivity, and operational simplicity compared with conventional solid-phase extraction methods.

Flavonoids

Pairwise Comparative Safety and Effectiveness of Anti-TNF Blockers, Vedolizumab, and Ustekinumab During Pregnancy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

PURPOSE: Biologic therapies, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers, vedolizumab (VDZ), and ustekinumab (UST), are generally considered safe during pregnancy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), though comparative data remain limited. This meta-analysis examines their safety and effectiveness. METHODS: A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane, and Web of Science was conducted through July 2025. Eligible studies reported maternal or neonatal outcomes in pregnant IBD patients treated with biologics. Studies were pooled using a random-effects model to calculate risk ratios (RRs) with 95% confidence intervals. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2. Primary outcomes were preterm birth and disease activity; secondary outcomes included pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. RESULTS: Nine observational studies (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;6,054) were included. Compared to TNF blockers, VDZ was associated with a higher risk of preterm delivery (RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.35, 95% CI 1.04-1.75, I2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0%) and active disease (RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.55, 95% CI 1.01-2.40, I2&#x2009;=&#x2009;50%). UST was associated with a higher risk of active disease (RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.30, 95% CI 1.06-1.60, I2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0%) and congenital anomalies (RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.08, 95% CI 1.30-3.32, I2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0%) compared to TNF blockers. Compared to UST, VDZ was linked to increased risks of preterm birth (RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.60, 95% CI 1.03-6.57, I2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0%) and low birth weight (RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.38, 95% CI 1.01-5.60, I2&#x2009;=&#x2009;0%). No significant differences were observed for live births, abortions, hospitalizations, or neonatal infections. CONCLUSION: TNF blockers showed a favorable safety and effectiveness profile, VDZ and UST performed broadly similar, and all three biological classes appeared compatible with safe use in pregnancy to maintain effective disease control. Observed differences reflect that VDZ and UST cohorts likely had longer disease duration, prior biologic exposure, and more active disease. The results of this meta-analysis support the continuation of biologic therapy for disease control in pregnant patients with IBD. Treatment decisions should be individualized and tailored to each patient's clinical context.

Female

Optimized AAV5-RPGR ORF15 Gene Therapy Rescues Photoreceptor Structure and Function in X-Linked Retinitis Pigmentosa Mouse Model.

PURPOSE: To develop and evaluate an rAAV5-based gene therapy vector expressing an optimized human RPGR ORF15 transgene (rAAV5-RPGR) for the treatment of X-linked retinitis pigmentosa caused by RPGR mutations, addressing the challenges of cloning the unstable wild-type ORF15 sequence. DESIGN: This was a prospective experimental study. SUBJECTS: This was an animal study. METHODS: An optimized RPGR ORF15 sequence was designed to eliminate problematic secondary structures and cryptic splice sites. In vitro expression was validated in HEK 293T and photoreceptor-like 661 W cells. A complete Rpgr knockout mouse model (Rpgr-knockout [KO]) was generated and characterized phenotypically. Therapeutic efficacy was assessed in Rpgr-KO mice via subretinal injection of rAAV5-RPGR at low (1 &#xd7; 10&#x2079; vg/eye), medium (3 &#xd7; 10&#x2079; vg/eye), or high (1 &#xd7; 10&#xb9;&#x2070; vg/eye) doses. Structural and functional outcomes were evaluated at 12- and 14-month postinjection. Short-term safety was assessed in rabbits 1 month after subretinal injection. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Level of RPGR protein expression and Protein isoform profile (elimination of truncated isoforms), Cellular localization of transgene expression and Dose-dependence of expression, outer nuclear layer thickness, and electroretinography parameters. RESULTS: (1) The optimized vector increased RPGR protein expression 3.3-fold in vitro compared to wild-type and eliminated truncated isoforms. (2) Subretinal delivery of rAAV5-RPGR in mice demonstrated dose-dependent transgene expression localized correctly to photoreceptor inner segments. (3) In Rpgr-KO mice, high-dose treatment significantly preserved outer nuclear layer thickness at the injection site (42% greater than controls at 14 months, P < .01) and central retina (P < .05), reduced aberrant rhodopsin mislocalization (P < .01), and partially restored retinal function. ERG showed significantly improved scotopic a-wave (&#x2265;100 vs <90 &#xb5;V in controls at 10 cd&#xb7;s/m&#xb2;) and photopic b-wave amplitudes (49-66 vs 31-46 &#xb5;V at 30 cd&#xb7;s/m&#xb2;) in treated mice. (4) No vector-related toxicity was observed in rabbits. CONCLUSIONS: rAAV5-RPGR mediated efficiently, targeted expression of optimized RPGR-ORF15, significantly preserved photoreceptor structure and function in a severe X-linked retinitis pigmentosa mouse model, and demonstrated a favorable safety profile. This study provides preclinical proof-of-concept for RPGR-targeted gene replacement therapy.

Animals

Effect of Local Anesthetic Solution at Different Temperatures for Epidural Labor Analgesia on Intrapartum Fever: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Whether heating local anesthetic solutions to core body temperature (37&#xb0;C) for epidural labor analgesia reduces intrapartum fever incidence remains undefined in the current literature. METHODS: This double-blind randomized controlled trial (RCT) enrolled 220 nulliparous parturients (18-35 years, American Society of Anesthesiologists [ASA] physical status II, term singleton pregnancy). Participants were randomized to receive epidural labor analgesia with 0.075% ropivacaine + 0.5 &#xb5;g/mL sufentanil at 37&#xb0;C (warmed group) or 22&#xb0;C (room-temperature group). Epidurals were placed at L3-L4 with a test dose of 3 mL of 1.5% lidocaine at room temperature, followed by programmed bolus epidural analgesia (initial 10 mL, 10 mL/h) and patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) 5 mL (30-minute lockout). Tympanic temperature was measured every 30 minutes from epidural initiation to delivery, defining intrapartum fever as &#x2265;38&#xb0;C. The primary outcome was fever incidence, on which the power analysis was based, and also maximum temperature and shivering. Secondary outcomes comprised analgesia onset, block level, labor durations, neonatal Apgar scores, umbilical cord blood pH and BE, and maternal adverse events. RESULTS: A total of 220 parturients were included (warmed group, n = 110; room-temperature group, n = 110). The warmed group had a lower intrapartum fever incidence (15.5% [17/110] vs 30.9% [34/110], relative risk [RR] 0.5 [95% confidence interval {CI}, 0.298-0.840]; P = .007); however, the reduction of 49.8% did not reach the preset clinically meaningful difference of 60% reduction proposed in the power analysis. The maximum body temperature was also lower in the warmed group: median (interquartile range [IQR]) 37.4 (IQR, 37.2-37.7) &#xb0;C vs 37.6 (IQR, 37.3-38.0) &#xb0;C, median difference -0.2 (95% CI, -0.3 to -0.1) &#xb0;C ( P = .006). Shivering incidence was not different between groups (10.9% [12/110] vs 14.5% [16/110]; P = .418). No statistically significant differences were observed between groups in any of the secondary outcomes assessed, including block characteristics, local anesthetic consumption, labor duration, neonatal outcomes, and maternal adverse events. CONCLUSION: Although we found a 50% reduction in the incidence of temperature rise using warmed (37&#xb0;C) local anesthetics for epidural labor analgesia, this did not reach our preset threshold of 60% reduction.

Humans

Community-tailored One Health educational intervention to enhance knowledge and practices for zoonotic disease prevention in rural Thailand: A protocol for a prospective cluster randomised controlled Trial in Chanthaburi, Thailand (Saan Suk trial).

BACKGROUND: Zoonotic infectious disease risk arises at human-animal-environment interfaces where pathogen spillover can occur. Rural communities living in biodiverse settings may experience frequent contact with wildlife and shared environments through livelihoods, food practices, and economic activities. Reducing spillover risk and strengthening pandemic prevention requires both structural and individual-level change. Community-based interventions that promote awareness, risk perception, self-efficacy, pro-environmental behaviour, and safe coexistence with wildlife may support prevention by shifting behavioural determinants of zoonotic disease risk. The Saan Suk intervention was co-developed with rural communities in Thailand using a Human-Centred Design approach and is grounded in the Health Belief Model and One Health principles. The intervention is intended to be feasible, acceptable, and deliverable through Thailand's established Village Health Volunteer (VHV) system. METHODS: This protocol describes a parallel-arm, cluster-randomised controlled superiority trial that will be conducted during July - October 2026, in Chanthaburi Province, Thailand. 24 villages will be equally randomised to the Saan Suk intervention or the current practice (control). In intervention villages, trained VHVs will deliver, once a week over four weeks, a multimodal One Health educational intervention designed to improve knowledge of zoonotic spillover, promote protective behaviours, reduce risky wildlife-related contacts, and support respectful coexistence with wildlife. Trained outcome assessment teams will conduct structured interviews with 42 adult participants per village, yielding a total sample size of 1,008 participants. The sample size was calculated for the primary outcome, accounting for clustering, with 90% power to detect a medium effect size (6 points on the 0-100 knowledge scale) at a significance level of 0.05, accounting for a design effect with an ICC of 0.028. The primary outcome is knowledge of zoonotic spillover, transmission pathways, risk factors, protective and risky behaviours, and safe coexistence with wildlife. Secondary outcomes include attitudes, self-efficacy, preventive and risky behaviours, and reported contacts with major local reservoir hosts. A structured questionnaire was developed, expert-reviewed, and piloted for the outcome assessment. Outcomes will be analysed using mixed-effects regression models with random effects for village and adjustment for relevant pre-specified confounders. Primary analyses will follow the intention-to-treat principle. DISCUSSION: This trial will evaluate whether a co-designed, VHV-delivered One Health educational programme can improve knowledge of zoonotic disease prevention and behavioural determinants in rural communities living in close contact with wildlife and shared ecosystems. If effective and feasible, Saan Suk could inform integration into routine VHV training and community-based zoonotic disease and pandemic prevention strategies. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The Saan Suk trial is registered with the German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS). Registration ID: DRKS00038582; date of registration: 11 May 2026.

Zoonoses

Effects of time-restricted eating on markers of glucose metabolism and regulation in individuals with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effects of time-restricted eating (TRE) on glucose metabolism and regulation in individuals with prediabetes (fasting blood glucose of 5.6-6.9 mmol/l or HbA1c of 39-47 mmol/mol [5.7-6.4%]) or type 2 diabetes (fasting blood glucose &#x2265;7 mmol/l or HbA1c &#x2265;48 mmol/mol [6.5%]). METHODS: A literature search was performed in MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL from inception to 5 August 2025. Moreover, forward and backward citation searches were performed. Eligible studies were RCTs in adults with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, lasting &#x2265;2 weeks, reporting markers of glucose metabolism and regulation, comparing TRE (&#x2264;12 h eating window) with a non-time-restricted control diet. Studies involving pregnancy, other fasting regimens, or non-peer-reviewed publications were excluded. Data were pooled as weighted mean differences with 95% CIs using random-effects generic inverse variance models in Cochrane Review Manager Web, and results are presented as forest plots. The certainty of evidence was defined using Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations methodology, and risk of bias was estimated by using the Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomised trials (RoB 2). RESULTS: Out of 2043 records identified through the database search, as well as 1249 from forward and backward citation searches, ten RCTs including 599 participants were included. The mean length of the studies was 4 months, and the eating windows ranged from 4 to 10 h per day. The pooled meta-analysis showed no overall effect of TRE on HbA1c (-3.33 mmol/mol; 95% CI -6.87, 0.20 (-0.30% points; -0.63, 0.02); p=0.06, moderate certainty). Nevertheless, following stratification by subgroups, TRE resulted in a reduction in HbA1c of 0.93 mmol/mol (-1.70, -0.17 [-0.09% points; -0.16, -0.02]; p=0.02) in individuals with prediabetes but not in individuals with type 2 diabetes (-4.68 mmol/mol; -10.08, 0.72 (-0.43% points; -0.92, 0.07); p=0.09). TRE reduced fasting blood glucose in the pooled analysis (-0.30 mmol/l; -0.53, -0.07; p<0.01, moderate certainty) as well as in the subgroup analyses in individuals with prediabetes (-0.14 mmol/l; -0.27, -0.01; p=0.03) and with type 2 diabetes (-0.48 mmol/l; -0.78, -0.17; p<0.01). Moreover, TRE lowered body weight by 1.6 kg (-2.2, -1.0; p<0.001) in the pooled analysis. The evidence was limited by imprecision arising from wide confidence intervals in some of the included studies, which may be due to small sample sizes. Lastly, the effects of TRE on markers of insulin sensitivity, beta cell function and continuous glucose monitoring measurements were inconclusive. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: Moderate-certainty evidence indicates that TRE reduces fasting blood glucose but not HbA1c. The subgroup analyses revealed that TRE improved HbA1c and fasting glucose in individuals with prediabetes and improved fasting glucose in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Future large-scale studies should investigate long-term effects of TRE in prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD42024523591 FUNDING: This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sectors. Three authors (JS, A-DT, THA) are employed at Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, a public hospital and research institution under the Capital Region of Denmark, partly funded by a grant from the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

Humans