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Impaired toilet training and bladder and bowel dysfunction in children with developmental coordination disorder - an underreported issue.

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE: Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) face significant, yet often overlooked, challenges beyond motor impairments, including difficulties with toilet training and bladder and bowel dysfunctions (BBD). This study aims to explore whether children with DCD exhibit greater difficulties in these areas compared to typically developing children (TDC). METHOD: This cross-sectional case-control study included 84 children aged 5-8 years (42 DCD, 42 TDC), matched by school-grade and sex (33 boys and 9 girls per group). Parents completed the Vancouver Symptom Score for Dysfunctional Elimination Syndrome (VSSDES) to assess BBD symptoms, the Dutch DCD-questionnaire (DCD-Q) to evaluate motor coordination, and additional questions regarding toilet training, elimination diagnosis, and co-occurring conditions. Correlations and exploratory group differences were analysed. RESULTS: Parents of children with DCD reported significantly more toilet training difficulties than parents of controls (p < 0.001), including persistent accidents (47.6% vs. 9.5%), prolonged training (45.2% vs. 4.8%), and difficulties recognizing urination urgency (40.5% vs. 2.4%). The parental report of delayed attainment of bowel and bladder control (p < 0.05) and BBD rates (p < 0.001) was also significantly higher in children with DCD. Exploratory analyses indicated that the prevalence of these outcomes was not significantly different between children with DCD with and without co-occurring ADHD or autism, suggesting a possible primary association with DCD. Additionally, across both children with DCD and TDC, poorer motor skills were associated with more BBD symptoms (r = -0.474, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Children with DCD have a higher prevalence of toilet training difficulties and BBD compared to TDC, potentially affecting their psychosocial well-being. Greater awareness is crucial for timely and targeted care. Notably, the study's design, directly comparing children diagnosed with DCD to matched TDC, provides new insights into the prevalence of elimination difficulties in this population.

Humans

Could the preoperative urethral curve be used to predict immediate urinary continence following Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy? A retrospective multi-center study.

PURPOSE: Immediate urinary continence (UC) recovery following Retzius-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RS-RARP) remains highly variable, highlighting the need for reliable preoperative prediction. We aimed to develop and validate models to identify patients likely to achieve immediate UC recovery following RS-RARP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 580 prostate cancer patients who underwent RS-RARP from four medical centers were assigned to a training set (n=348), an internal validation set (n=103) and an external validation set (n=129). Independent predictors were identified through univariate analysis and LASSO regression. A nomogram was constructed using multivariate logistic regression. Its performance was evaluated with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis. RESULTS: Immediate UC recovery was observed in 84.5% (294/348) of patients in the training cohort, 80.6% (83/103) in the internal validation cohort, and 81.4% (105/129) in the external validation cohort, respectively. Multivariate analysis identified membranous urethral length (MUL) (OR=1.23, P=0.029) and urethral curvature (OR=2.84, P<0.001) as independent predictors, while prostate volume (PV) (OR=0.84, P <0.001) as a protective factor. The nomogram integrating MUL, PV, and urethral curvature demonstrated superior predictive accuracy, with an AUC of 0.87 (95% CI, 0.83-0.91) in the training cohort. The bootstrap-corrected calibration slope was 0.96, and the Brier score was 0.08.&#xa0;Calibration curves and decision curve analysis confirmed the predictive accuracy and clinical utility of the nomogram. CONCLUSIONS: Our study introduces a novel quantitative method for assessing urethral curvature. The mpMRI-based model, integrating urethral curvature and prostate spatial configuration, offers enhanced predictive accuracy for postoperative immediate UC recovery.

Humans

Faecal Microbiota Transplantation Reduces Lesion Severity and Medication Use in Canine Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomised, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blinded Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an established therapy for gastrointestinal disease, yet its role in canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) remains unclear. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: We hypothesised that adjunctive FMT improves clinical severity and reduces symptomatic medication use in dogs with cAD. The objective was to evaluate efficacy and safety versus placebo. ANIMALS: Forty-six client-owned dogs with naturally occurring cAD were enrolled from a referral hospital population; 40 completed the study (FMT n&#x2009;=&#x2009;20, placebo n&#x2009;=&#x2009;20). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective, randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blinded clinical trial. Dogs received daily oral lyophilised FMT capsules for 90&#x2009;days plus three monthly rectal FMT administrations (Day [D]0, D30, D60) or placebo capsules with sham handling. Concomitant symptomatic therapies were permitted. Outcomes included Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, fourth iteration (CADESI-04), pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS), Medication Score (D0-90) and Owner Global Assessment of Treatment Efficacy (OGATE, D90). RESULTS: CADESI-04 scores were lower with FMT at month (M) 2 (7&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6 vs. 16&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;12; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.006) and month 3 (8&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6 vs. 15&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;12; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.020). Sustained responders (&#x2265;&#x2009;50% CADESI-04 improvement at M2 and M3) were more frequent with FMT (35% vs. 5%; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.044). In the FMT group, the medication scores were lower at M2 (16&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;10 vs. 23&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;11; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.033) and M3 (13&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;10 vs. 24&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;15; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.007) compared to placebo. PVAS decreased in both groups without between-group differences. OGATE favoured FMT (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.028). FMT was well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Adjunctive FMT reduced lesion severity and medication requirements, supporting its use as a safe microbiome-based add-on therapy in cAD.

Animals

Single-center experience with isolated male epispadias: Outcomes of Thiersch-Duplay and modified Cantwell-Ransley repairs by anatomical subtype.

BACKGROUND: Isolated male epispadias (IME) is a rare congenital malformation. Surgical repair aims to improve urinary function, correct penile curvature, reconstruct the urethra and glans, and preserve future sexual function. Because available series are small, the influence of anatomical subtype and operative technique on outcome remains incompletely defined. OBJECTIVE: To report single-center outcomes of Thiersch-Duplay and modified Cantwell-Ransley repairs for IME, with attention to anatomical subtype, complications, and age-appropriate continence outcomes. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed boys with IME who underwent primary urethral reconstruction in my hospital, Capital Medical University, from May 2005 to June 2024. Data were locked on 30 June 2024. Primary outcomes were postoperative complications graded by the Clavien-Dindo system and urinary continence at last follow-up in patients aged 5 years or older. Secondary outcomes included improvement of preoperative incontinence, ICIQ score, subsequent bladder neck reconstruction, penile appearance/residual curvature when documented, and patient/parent-reported sexual function. RESULTS: Sixty-seven patients were included: 35 underwent modified Cantwell-Ransley repair and 32 underwent Thiersch-Duplay repair. The cohort included 26 glanular (38.8%), 23 penile (34.3%), and 18 penopubic (26.9%) cases. Median age at surgery was 28 months in both groups. Median age at last follow-up was 92.8 months (IQR 63.9-108.4) after modified Cantwell-Ransley repair and 137.9 months (IQR 77.9-172.6) after Thiersch-Duplay repair (P = 0.011). Procedure distribution differed by meatal location (P = 0.036), although penopubic cases were treated with both procedures. Total complications occurred in 5/35 and 5/32 patients, respectively. Formal continence analysis included 26 modified Cantwell-Ransley patients and 27 Thiersch-Duplay patients aged 5 years or older. Postoperative urinary incontinence persisted in 14/26 (53.8%) and 12/27 (44.4%), respectively. Among age-eligible patients with preoperative incontinence, any improvement was documented in 13/20 (65.0%) and 14/17 (82.4%), and complete remission occurred in 6/20 (30.0%) and 5/17 (29.4%), respectively. Three patients, all with penopubic epispadias treated with Thiersch-Duplay repair, subsequently underwent bladder neck reconstruction for persistent incontinence. Erectile function data were available in 37/67 patients (55.2%). CONCLUSIONS: In this large single-center retrospective cohort, Thiersch-Duplay and modified Cantwell-Ransley repairs had comparable overall complication rates. Continence and reoperation patterns were strongly influenced by anatomical subtype, with penopubic epispadias representing the highest-risk group. These findings support individualized, anatomy-conscious operative planning and prospective evaluation of standardized selection criteria, rather than a single prescriptive algorithm. CLINICAL/TRANSLATIONAL IMPLICATION: This series supports standardized reporting of anatomical subtype, age-appropriate continence outcomes, and graded complications when counseling families and comparing outcomes across centers. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

Humans

Dynamics and virulence of Enterobacteriaceae reservoirs harboring blaCTX-M group 1 in community wastewater.

UNLABELLED: Extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)-producing bacteria are ubiquitous and can cause serious infections. Here, we examined untreated community wastewater influent as a reservoir for blaCTX-M group 1 organisms and their virulence potential. Raw influent samples (n = 268) were collected from four wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) representing dense urban populations. We observed that blaCTX-M group 1 levels were high at all WWTPs and only ~1-2 log10 lower and not correlated to common human-specific microbiome fecal markers, Lachno3 and HF183, indicating a lack of connection to human fecal inputs. Concentrations of blaCTX-M group 1 genes and markers for presumptive host organisms Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were influenced by travel time and season. Amplicon sequencing revealed high diversity of blaCTX-M group 1-9 genes, with 63% belonging to group 1. Selective culture and 16S rRNA gene sequencing showed blaCTX-M group 1 isolates were 26% E. coli, 26% K. pneumoniae, 40% other Enterobacteriaceae, and 8% Aeromonas. Overall, E. coli averaged 3.6E7 cells/L, with 3% of all E. coli found to contain blaCTX-M group 1. Whole-genome sequencing of blaCTX-M group 1 E. coli from wastewater revealed resistance and virulence gene profiles similar to clinical isolates and distinct from other wastewater ESBL-resistant and non-resistant E. coli. Interpretation of wastewater data needs to consider both the existence of environmental reservoirs that contain potentially pathogenic organisms and the strong influence the dynamics of the conveyance system can have on final concentrations measured at the WWTP. IMPORTANCE: The CTX-M enzyme family is highly abundant in nosocomial, community, and environmental settings and is leading to treatment of infections with carbapenem antibiotics, a last-line therapeutic option. The progressive increase of the clinically relevant blaCTX-M group 1 resistance genes in the human population warrants investigation, particularly to understand the establishment and dynamics of environmental reservoirs. This study utilized molecular and culture methods to gain insight into the possible origin, abundance, and dynamics of blaCTX-M group 1 genes in untreated wastewater influent samples. We found extremely high levels of these genes, with Escherichia coli as a major host organism that closely resembled clinical strains, suggesting they are seeded and propagate in sewer pipe systems. The significance of our research is in developing approaches to monitor antimicrobial resistance reservoirs in community wastewater, which could shed light on global burdens and potential transmission cycles and indicate increasing inputs of clinically relevant strains originating from human populations.

E. coli

Gut microbiota and metabolic alterations in participants with flatulence identify Faecalibacterium prausnitzii as a key microbial target for clinical intervention.

Flatulence is closely associated with gut dysbiosis, yet the characteristic microbial signatures, metabolic alterations, and actionable intervention targets remain unclear. This limited mechanistic understanding has hindered the development of precise microbiota-based strategies for managing flatulence. Here, we found that participants with flatulence exhibited marked shifts in gut microbial functions and fecal metabolic profiles compared with healthy controls, characterized by enhanced abnormal fermentation, enrichment of oxidative stress-related functions, elevated low-grade inflammatory signatures, and reduced anti-inflammatory and mucosal-protective metabolic features. Faecalibacterium prausnitzii was significantly negatively associated with the high-gas-producing phenotype. In vitro replenishment experiments further validated the role of F. prausnitzii in reducing gas production, promoting butyrate generation, and remodeling butyrate-associated microbial communities. Based on microbial interaction analysis, we identified Bifidobacterium longum CCFM1319 as a candidate strain for targeting F. prausnitzii. In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, supplementation with B. longum CCFM1319 significantly increased intestinal F. prausnitzii abundance and improved flatulence-related symptoms. Collectively, these findings reveal the microbiota and metabolic dysbiosis underlying flatulence, highlight the key regulatory role of F. prausnitzii, and lays the foundation for targeted microbiota-based intervention strategies for flatulence.

Humans

Comparative analysis of gut microbiota in yaks under different feeding management strategies during cold seasons.

Yaks (Bos grunniens) are crucial for the livelihoods of pastoral communities in cold regions, where feed scarcity during the cold season poses challenges to their health and productivity, underscoring the necessity of understanding how dietary management influences the gut microbiota. In this study, 24 yak steers matched for body weight and health status were randomly allocated to four groups: natural grazing or indoor feeding with roughage-to-concentrate ratios of 50:50, 70:30, or 90:10. Fecal samples were collected for 16S rDNA sequencing and subsequent functional prediction of the microbiota. The results showed that Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were the dominant phyla across all groups, and UCG-005 and Rikenellaceae_RC9_gut_group were the predominant genera. Concentrate supplementation during the cold season significantly enhanced microbial richness and diversity, with the 70:30 ratio exerting the most pronounced beneficial effects on microbiota structure and key taxa enrichment. These findings highlight the critical role of dietary management in shaping the yak gut microbiota during cold seasons and suggest that the 70:30 ratio optimally improves microbial community structure, thereby promoting yak health and productivity under harsh climatic conditions. Future research should explore the long-term implications of such dietary strategies.

Animals

Dealcoholized muscadine wine improved skin elasticity and oxidative stress biomarkers without affecting gut microbiome in women over 40 in a randomized controlled trial.

Muscadine wine has a unique polyphenol profile distinct from that of common wine, and limited research exists on its health benefits. This study aimed to investigate the effects of intake of dealcoholized muscadine wine (DMW) on skin health, oxidative stress, inflammatory biomarkers, and the gut microbiome. Seventeen healthy women were randomly assigned to consume 300&#xa0;mL of DMW or a placebo daily for 6&#xa0;weeks, separated by a 3-week washout period, in a randomized, single-blinded, crossover design. Skin health parameters were measured on the face and forearm. Oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers were assessed in plasma. Fecal bacterial DNA was sequenced using shotgun sequencing. DMW did not affect UVB-induced erythema compared to placebo. However, it significantly decreased transepidermal water loss and increased facial gross elasticity. Skin elasticity significantly improved on the forearm, whereas other skin parameters were not affected. DMW significantly decreased plasma levels of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and advanced glycation end products compared with placebo. However, the abundance, diversity, and functions of the gut microbiome were not affected. Polyphenol-rich DMW administered for six weeks improved certain skin health parameters and reduced oxidative and inflammatory stress, without affecting the gut microbiome in healthy women.

Humans

Care Experience Disparities in Individuals With Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms: Systematic Review and Content Analysis.

OBJECTIVES: In this study, we aimed to characterize the landscape of the literature and describe lower urinary tract symptom (LUTS) care experiences using the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality's (AHRQ's) patient experience framework, describe the characteristics of the studies, and identify critical knowledge gaps. METHODS: We performed a systematic search of MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Scopus of peer-reviewed publications from 1995 to 2024. The search terms were related to LUTSs, drivers of healthcare inequities, and the domains of the AHRQ. We then performed a content analysis of the included studies. RESULTS: Of the 4597 articles reviewed, we included 11 studies in the analysis. The most studied LUTS was urinary incontinence (10/11, 91%). Of the included studies, six were comparative, and most (4/6, 66.7%) found worse care experience in patients with limited English proficiency and low socioeconomic status. When examining the studies using the care experience framework of the AHRQ, the most frequently evaluated domains of care experience were communication with clinicians (8/11, 73%) and access to care (8/11, 73%). For communication with clinicians, language barriers (3/11, 27%) and symptom minimization by clinicians (3/11, 27%) were common, especially among patients with limited English proficiency and of older age, respectively. In regard to access to care, concerns about healthcare costs (5/11, 45%) and patients' fear or embarrassment about accessing LUTS care (4/11, 36%) were commonly occurring themes, especially among racially minoritized groups. CONCLUSIONS: The findings of this systematic review demonstrated that patients with limited English proficiency, older age, low socioeconomic status, and racially minoritized backgrounds have poor LUTS care experiences.

Humans

Ginkgo biloba versus desmopressin in treatment of children with monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis: A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) compared with Desmopressin and their combination in children with monosymptomatic nocturnal enuresis (MNE). METHODS: In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, 398 children aged 5-14 years with MNE were assigned to four groups: placebo, GBE (60 mg daily), Desmopressin (0.2 mg daily), or GBE plus Desmopressin for 3 months. Primary outcomes included the number of wet nights per week. Secondary outcomes assessed sleep quality using the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC), arousal by the Disorders of Arousal (DA) score, and quality-of-life using the Pediatric Incontinence Questionnaire (PinQ). RESULTS: After 3 months, the combination group demonstrated the greatest improvement in wet nights (median 0 [IQR 0-2]) compared to GBE (6 [0.5-6.5]) and Desmopressin (2 [0-6]) (p < 0.001). Full response rates (&#x2265;90% reduction in wet nights) were highest with combination therapy (88.3%), followed by Desmopressin (46.5%), GBE (24.8%), and placebo (9.5%) (p < 0.001). GBE-containing groups showed significantly increased DA and SDSC scores, indicating enhanced arousal and lighter sleep. Quality-of-life (PinQ) score decreased in all treatment groups denoting improvement, with the best outcomes observed in the combination arm. Adverse effects were mild and comparable across groups, and serum sodium levels remained stable. CONCLUSION: GBE is a safe and effective novel therapy for MNE, improving sleep arousal and symptom control. Its combination with Desmopressin offers superior efficacy, better quality of life, and lower relapse rates than either agent alone.

Humans

Gut microbial diversity at baseline conditions the clinical, microbiome, and metabolic response to paraprobiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LRCC5282 in overweight adults.

The gut microbiota is increasingly recognized as a target for obesity management; however, whether baseline gut microbial diversity conditions responsiveness to microbiota-targeted interventions remains unclear. We aimed to investigate whether baseline gut microbial diversity is associated with responsiveness to a paraprobiotic derived from Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LRCC5282 (LP5282-P) in overweight adults. In a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter trial of 120 overweight adults, LP5282-P produced no significant between-group differences in any clinical outcome across the overall per-protocol population. However, in the low-diversity subgroup, LP5282-P was associated with significant reductions in body weight, body mass index, and circulating leptin levels. These clinical changes were accompanied by compositional shifts in the gut microbiota, including higher relative abundances of Christensenellaceae, Faecalibacterium, and Alistipes. Fecal metabolite profiles showed elevated acetate and butyrate concentrations and altered bile acid composition. Within the low-diversity subgroup, changes in the relative abundances of Akkermansia and Eubacterium were inversely correlated with changes in body weight, body fat mass, and leptin levels. In contrast, the high-diversity subgroup exhibited no consistent response across the outcome domains examined. Overall, baseline gut microbial diversity was associated with differential responsiveness to LP5282-P, supporting its potential use as a stratification variable in future microbiota-targeted intervention trials. Further studies integrating direct measures of microbial activity and host response are warranted to elucidate the biological pathways underlying this diversity-dependent responsiveness. Trial registration: Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS), KCT0008119.

Humans

The gut microbiota-obesity axis in the pathogenesis and prognosis of breast cancer.

BACKGROUND: Breast cancer (BC) remains a major global health concern, accounting for 11.7% of all cancer cases and ranking as the second leading cause of female cancer-related deaths worldwide. Increasing evidence highlights the interplay between&#xa0;gut microbiota (GM) dysbiosis and obesity-associated metabolic dysfunction in BC progression. This review aims to elucidate&#xa0;the role of GM in obese patients with BC. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Web of Science databases for publications from July 2015 to January 2025. Search terms combined BC, GM, obesity, dysbiosis, immunity, and microbiome. Article selection prioritized studies investigating microbial alterations in BC patients, mechanistic links between obesity and cancer progression, and GM-targeted interventions. Both original studies and authoritative reviews were included, supplemented by manual reference screening. DISCUSSION: Obesity may trigger systemic inflammation, altered adipokine secretion, and disrupted steroid hormone metabolism via gut-derived &#x3b2;-glucuronidase activity, thereby exacerbating BC occurrence and recurrence. GM dysbiosis-driven metabolites such as branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) can activate oncogenic signaling pathways and immunosuppressive myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), fostering tumor immune evasion. Conversely, dietary interventions, probiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) can alleviate dysbiosis, strengthen gut barriers, and restore anti-tumor immunity, improving chemotherapy response and reducing recurrence. However, challenges persist in deciphering BC subtype-related microbial signatures and optimizing microbiota-targeted therapies. CONCLUSION: Future longitudinal studies are needed to clarify causal relationships, validate microbial biomarkers, and translate preclinical findings into clinical applications. Addressing the gut-breast axis may offer transformative potential for precision oncology in obesity-driven BC.

Humans

In vitro EVALUATION OF Beauveria bassiana ISOLATES AGAINST GASTROINTESTINAL NEMATODES FROM GOATS.

Biological control has emerged as a promising alternative for the control of gastrointestinal nematodes in small ruminants. However, additional information is still needed on the nematicidal portencial of Beauveria bassiana and on the early interaction between fungal conidia and infective larvae. In this study, six B. bassiana isolates (LCMS19-LCMS24) were evaluated in vitro using a coproculture assay with fecal samples from naturally infected goats. Larval recovery was compared with that of an untreated control to estimate the percentage reduction in third-stage larvae (L3). The most effective isolate was subsequently examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to characterize its interaction with L3. All isolates reduced L3 recovery compared with the control, although their efficacy differed. LCMS21 showed the greatest reduction in L3 recovery and differed significantly from the other treatments. SEM revealed extensive adhesion of LCMS21 conidia to the L3 cuticle, in the anterior and median regions. However, no clear evidence of conidial germination, germ tube formation, cuticle penetration, or hyphal development was observed after 48 or 72 h. These results indicate that B. bassiana isolates differ in their in vitro activity against gastrointestinal nematodes and identify LCMS21 as the most promising isolate among those tested. The ultrastructural observations support an early fungus-larva interaction, but they do not allow the nematicidal effect to be attributed to adhesion. Further studies are needed to clarify the mechanisms involved and to evaluate the potencial application of this isolate in integrated parasite control programs.

Beauveria bassiana

Linked-color imaging with computer-aided detection and the proximal adenoma miss rate: a randomized tandem trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Linked-color imaging (LCI) aids the detection and characterization of lesions. Computer-aided detection (CADe) systems have been introduced to improve lesion detection during colonoscopy. Although several studies have been reported regarding LCI, few have investigated the combination of LCI and CADe. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of LCI with CADe colonoscopy compared to conventional white-light colonoscopy. METHODS: A single-center, randomized tandem trial was conducted. Participants referred for first-time colonoscopy after fecal immunochemical test (FIT)-positive, asymptomatic screening, or surveillance colonoscopy were randomized (1:1) to undergo CADe-assisted colonoscopy of LCI or white-light imaging (WLI) in the right side of the colon. The primary outcome was adenoma miss rate (AMR) in the right side of the colon. Secondary outcomes included polyp miss rate (PMR), diminutive adenoma miss rate (dAMR), sessile serrated lesion miss rate (SSLMR), advanced adenoma miss rate, advanced neoplasia miss rate, flat-type lesion miss rate (FMR), and the differences in miss rates based on expertise. RESULTS: Among 232 randomized participants, 209 were analyzed (LCI/CADe: 102; WLI: 107). AMR (WLI: 39% vs LCI/CADe: 20%; P = .001), PMR (42% vs 18%; P < .001), and dAMR (42% vs 21%; P = .003) were significantly lower in the LCI/CADe arm, particularly among experts. SSLMR (46% vs 0%), advanced AMR (30% vs 0%), advanced neoplasia miss rate (25% vs 0%), and FMR (27% vs 5.6%) were lower in LCI/CADe, although without statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: Compared to conventional colonoscopy, LCI with CADe colonoscopy resulted in a statistically significant decrease, especially in AMR. (UMIN 000050685).

Humans

First identification and molecular subtyping of Blastocystis spp. in donkeys in Aksaray province, T&#xfc;rkiye.

Blastocystis is a common intestinal protist worldwide that can infect humans and animals. Although its molecular epidemiology in T&#xfc;rkiye is mostly focused primarily on humans and livestock, equids have received limited attention despite their traditional roles and frequent contact with humans and other animals in rural environments. This study aimed to determine the molecular prevalence and subtype (ST) distribution of Blastocystis spp. in donkeys in Aksaray Province, providing the first molecular data on donkeys in T&#xfc;rkiye. A total of 182 fresh fecal samples were collected from donkeys in nine villages within Aksaray province. Genomic DNA was extracted, and the small subunit ribosomal RNA (SSU rRNA) gene fragment of Blastocystis spp. was amplified via PCR analysis. Positive isolates were sequenced bidirectionally for identification and subsequent phylogenetic analysis of Blastocystis in donkeys. The overall molecular prevalence of Blastocystis spp. in donkeys was 4.4% (8/182). The infection rate was higher in young donkeys (under 3&#xa0;years old; 8.33%) than in adults (3&#xa0;years or older; 2.46%). However, this difference was not statistically significant. Sequence analysis of the positive PCR products revealed the presence of one known livestock-specific subtype, ST10. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the ST10 isolates characterized in this study clustered with isolates identified from different hosts. This study provides the first molecular data on Blastocystis presence in donkeys in T&#xfc;rkiye. The exclusive detection of ST10 suggests potential cross-species transmission, likely facilitated by the traditional practice of co-housing donkeys with other animals in confined barns. These findings indicate that donkeys may contribute to Blastocystis transmission, underscoring the importance of a "One Health" approach in future epidemiological surveillance.

Animals

Efficacy and safety of thulium fiber laser versus conventional holmium:YAG laser in anatomical endoscopic enucleation of the prostate: a systematic review and pairwise meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Anatomical endoscopic enucleation is an established treatment for benign prostatic obstruction. Whether thulium fiber laser enucleation (ThuFLEP) improves outcomes over conventional holmium:YAG laser enucleation (HoLEP) remains uncertain. We compared the efficacy and safety of ThuFLEP versus non-MOSES-modulated HoLEP. METHODS: We performed a PRISMA-compliant systematic review and pairwise meta-analysis of randomised and comparative cohort studies comparing ThuFLEP and conventional HoLEP in adult men. Six databases were searched. Outcomes included International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), IPSS quality-of-life score, maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), post-void residual volume, hospital stay, and complications. Risk of bias and certainty of evidence were assessed with RoB 2/ROBINS-I and GRADE. RESULTS: Seven non-overlapping comparative populations in eight publications included 3,509 patients. ThuFLEP was associated with a small statistically significant reduction in IPSS at 3&#xa0;months (mean difference [MD] -1.04 points, 95% confidence interval [CI] -1.81 to -0.28) of uncertain clinical relevance. Qmax differences were small and directionally inconsistent across follow-up (favouring HoLEP at 3&#xa0;months and ThuFLEP at 6 and 12&#xa0;months) and derived mainly from retrospective cohorts, with neutral randomised subgroups. Stress and urge urinary incontinence were less frequent overall (RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.96, and RR 0.39, 95% CI 0.22 to 0.68), but both estimates depended on one large registry cohort and were not robust to its exclusion. Most other complications and hospital stay showed no clear between-group difference. Limitations include few studies per outcome, heterogeneity, sparse safety events, inconsistent prostate-specific antigen reporting, and mostly low/very low certainty evidence. CONCLUSION: ThuFLEP and conventional HoLEP are clinically comparable with no definitive superiority of either laser. Platform selection should be individualised according to surgeon expertise, institutional resources, and patient characteristics. Future trials should standardise cost-effectiveness outcomes and investigate whether the distinct laser-tissue interactions impact adenoma clearance, PSA reduction, enucleation completeness, and long-term durability.

Humans

Aquablation/AquaBeam Waterjet Therapy for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Three-Year Functional and Ejaculatory Outcomes in a Multicenter Real-World Italian Cohort.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the 3-year functional outcomes of Aquablation/AquaBeam waterjet therapy for bladder outlet obstruction secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), with particular attention to urinary symptoms, quality of life, continence, ejaculatory function, and complications. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained multicenter database including 218 consecutive men who underwent Aquablation/AquaBeam for symptomatic BPH between January 2019 and January 2022 at three referral centers. Functional outcomes assessed preoperatively and during follow-up included International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), IPSS quality-of-life item (IPSS-QoL), maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax), post-void residual urine (PVR), continence, and ejaculatory function. Median follow-up was 36&#x2009;months. Ejaculatory preservation was evaluated only in patients with preserved antegrade ejaculation at baseline. RESULTS: Median age was 61&#x2009;years (IQR 57-66), median prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was 2.52&#x2009;ng/mL (IQR 0.40-21.60), and median prostate volume was 55&#x2009;mL (IQR 40-73). Median operative time was 56&#x2009;min, while median catheterization time and length of hospital stay were both 48&#x2009;h. Functional improvements were evident from the 3-month follow-up and remained stable through 36&#x2009;months. At 36&#x2009;months, median IPSS improved to 5 and median Qmax to 18&#x2009;mL/s. Median PSA changed modestly from 2.52&#x2009;ng/mL at baseline to 2.75&#x2009;ng/mL at 36&#x2009;months. No cases of de novo urinary incontinence were observed throughout follow-up. Among patients with preserved antegrade ejaculation at baseline, 87% maintained antegrade ejaculation at 36&#x2009;months. Most postoperative complications were minor (Clavien-Dindo grade I-II, 20.2%). One grade III rectal injury occurred (0.5%). Median hemoglobin decreased from 15.2&#x2009;g/dL preoperatively to 14.0&#x2009;g/dL before hospital discharge, and two patients required blood transfusion. During the 36-month follow-up, no surgical retreatment was required, whereas 11 patients (5.0%) received temporary medical retreatment. CONCLUSION: In this multicenter real-world cohort, Aquablation/AquaBeam was safe and effective over 3&#x2009;years, providing durable improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms and quality of life while preserving continence and antegrade ejaculation in most patients. These findings support Aquablation/AquaBeam as a valuable minimally invasive surgical option for selected men with BPH, particularly those who prioritize preservation of ejaculatory function. Longer-term and comparative studies are warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION: 48281.

Humans

Hot vs cold knife for endoscopic ablation of posterior urethral valves: a systematic review by the EAU-YAU paediatric urology working group.

INTRODUCTION: Posterior urethral valves (PUV) are the most frequent cause of congenital lower urinary tract obstruction in males. Despite early surgical ablation, up to 22% of patients develop chronic kidney disease and 11% progress to end-stage renal disease. Multiple endoscopic modalities have been described for valve ablation but the optimal technique remains uncertain. This systematic review aims to determine whether cold or hot knife ablation provides superior effectiveness for primary endoscopic treatment of PUV in a single surgical session. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed and Embase databases was conducted to identify studies comparing cold and hot knife techniques for endoscopic ablation of PUV in children, covering all publications up to December 2025. The review was performed in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines and was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (ID CRD420251180556). Original studies including patients <18 years who underwent primary valve ablation with postoperative cystoscopy or VCUG and &#x2265;6 months of follow-up were included. Quality assessment was done using RoB 2.0 for randomized trials and MINORS for observational studies. RESULTS: A total of 1581 studies were identified, of which 26 met the inclusion criteria, comprising one randomized controlled trial, five prospective, and 20 retrospective studies constituting a sum of 1725 paediatric patients. The overall methodological quality of included studies was moderate, with marked heterogeneity in design, follow-up duration, and outcome reporting, limiting direct comparisons across series. Thus statistical analysis was not possible. Of these, 829 (48.1%) underwent cold valve ablation and 896 (51.9%) underwent hot ablation techniques. Within the cold group, most patients were treated with a cold knife (80.2%), followed by balloon dilatation (7%), the Mohan valvotome (6.5%), cold hook (5%), and, rarely, a modified venous valvulotome (1.3%). Among hot techniques, 32.8% of procedures were performed by electro-fulguration with a resectoscope, 29.4% using a Bugbee electrode, 23.8% with a hook electrode and 14% with laser-based systems. Follow-up ranged from 6 months to 22 years across studies. Single-session success rates for valve ablation ranged from 22% to 100% in the cold resection group and from 71.4% to 100% in the hot resection group. Reintervention for residual valves was reported in 0%-78% of cold cases and in 0%-28.6% of hot resections. Urethral stricture rates ranged from 0% to 11.1% after cold incision and from 0% to 23.8% after hot techniques. Reporting of postoperative outcomes such as urinary tract infection, incontinence, bladder dysfunction, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) resolution, hydronephrosis improvement, and renal function varied widely among studies and was assessed using different methodologies. CONCLUSIONS: Both cold and hot ablation techniques for PUV achieved high single-session success rates and low complication rates. Cold resection appeared slightly safer, although this finding should be interpreted cautiously given the heterogeneity and observational nature of the available data.

Humans