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PubMed2026

Effect of Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy on Male Sexual Function: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Obesity negatively impacts male sexual function and fertility through hormonal imbalances, endothelial dysfunction, and psychosocial factors. Metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) constitutes an effective intervention; however, procedure-stratified changes in male reproductive parameters after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and sleeve gastrectomy (SG) remain incompletely synthesized. METHODOLOGY: A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science was conducted in November 2024. Sexual function, testosterone levels, and semen quality were included. Risk of bias was assessed using MINORS criteria. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed separately for each surgical modality, with heterogeneity quantified via I2 statistics. RESULTS: Twenty-one studies comprising 848 patients were included. Meta-analysis of pre-post data demonstrated that both RYGB and SG were independently associated with improvements in sex hormone-binding globulin and testosterone levels. In studies examining SG, significant improvements were observed in erectile function (SMD: 1.38, 95% CI: 0.66-2.10, p = 0.0002) and sperm concentration (SMD: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.56-1.26, p < 0.00001). Studies evaluating RYGB did not demonstrate statistically significant changes in erectile function (SMD: 0.62, 95% CI: -0.06 to 1.30, p = 0.07) or sperm concentration (SMD: -0.01, 95% CI: -0.45 to 0.42, p = 0.95). CONCLUSION: The meta-analytical findings suggest beneficial effects of both RYGB and SG on male hormonal parameters. Studies of SG demonstrated significant improvements in erectile function and sperm concentration. However, direct comparative analyses between the two procedures were not performed, precluding definitive conclusions regarding their relative efficacy. Future research necessitates head-to-head comparisons with standardized reproductive endpoints and extended follow-up periods.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Exercise-induced chronic adaptations and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α) in patients with depression: A systematic review and exploratory meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND: Depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide. Although exercise has been shown to alleviate depressive symptoms, potentially by affecting the body's inflammatory response, evidence in this area remains inconsistent. This study synthesized the most recent evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the relationship between exercise-induced chronic adaptations and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in patients with depression. METHODS: Eligible RCTs were identified from six electronic databases. Effect sizes were pooled using mean differences (MDs) and standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Two independent researchers assessed the certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) guidelines. RESULTS: The review included 21 RCTs involving 1572 participants, six of which were included in the meta-analysis. No evidence of efficacy was observed for the chronic effects of exercise on the levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β) (MD = -0.01, 95% CI [-0.06, 0.04], p = 0.79), interleukin-6 (IL-6) (SMD = -0.30, 95% CI [-0.64, 0.04], p = 0.08), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (SMD = -0.18, 95% CI [-0.50, 0.14], p = 0.27) in patients with depression. However, the pooled results for certain markers were not robust. The certainty of evidence for each outcome was very low owing to inconsistency, indirectness, and imprecision. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence for exercise improving pro-inflammatory cytokine levels in patients with depression during the chronic phase remains exploratory and uncertain. Well-designed, adequately powered studies incorporating a broader range of immune biomarkers and dynamic multi-time-point assessments are urgently needed to determine whether exercise-induced chronic adaptations can modulate inflammatory pathways in depression.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

The effects of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in the psychological and physical health of cancer patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: No prior systematic review has specifically evaluated the efficacy of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT) in improving both psychological and physical outcomes among cancer populations. This study aims to assess MBCT's effects on cancer patients' mental and physical health. METHOD: Following PRISMA guidelines and with PROSPERO registration (CRD42023453581), we systematically searched PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase, and Web of Science for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were searched up to June 2026. Eligible trials enrolled adults (≥ 18 years) with any cancer type/stage, compared MBCT delivered per standard manual against non-MBCT controls, and reported at least one validated measure of distress, depression, or anxiety; secondary outcomes included fatigue, quality of life, and mindfulness skills. Two reviewers independently selected studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane tool; random-effects meta-analyses were performed in Stata 16. RESULTS: 11 RCTs comprising 1122 participants (mean age 54.8 years; 91% female) were included. MBCT produced large, significant reductions in psychological distress (SMD = -0.81, 95% CI-1.27 to-0.40), depression (SMD = -0.95, 95% CI -1.40 to-0.49), and anxiety (SMD = -0.86, 95% CI -1.22 to-0.51). It also markedly decreased fatigue (SMD = -0.83, 95% CI-1.10 to-0.56), improved quality of life (SMD = 0.56, 95% CI 0.22-0.88), and enhanced mindfulness skills (SMD = 0.76, 95% CI 0.59-0.92). CONCLUSIONS: This meta-analysis is the first to exclusively synthesize RCT evidence of standardized MBCT in cancer care, demonstrating significant dual benefits for emotional and physical well-being while providing strong support for integrating MBCT into comprehensive oncology rehabilitation.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Unravelling bioanalytical innovations, degradation processes, and impurity landscapes of VEGFR inhibitors.

From pre-formulation studies to clinical trials, VEGFR-targeted small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) require rigorous analytical standards. Bioanalysis, stability-indicating studies, and impurity profiling are used to examine chromatographic advances for VEGFR-targeted TKIs like sunitinib, pazopanib, axitinib, sorafenib, cabozantinib, vandetanib, apatinib, lenvatinib, nintedanib, and regorafenib. An LC-MS/MS and UPLC-MS/MS routinely show sub ng/mL performance, as shown by LLOQs (0.2 ng/mL) for sunitinib and axitinib, 1 ng/mL for pazopanib, 5-7 ng/mL for sorafenib, 0.5-1.5 ng/mL for regorafenib metabolic products, and 0.1-0.5 ng/mL for lenvatinib. These approaches are used for pharmacokinetics and therapeutic drug monitoring due to their good correlation coefficient of 0.1-10,000 ng/mL, accuracy of 95%-108%, and precision of 15% RSD. UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS distinguishes degradants and metabolites during forced degradation studies, enabling structural elucidation following ICH M7 risk evaluation protocol. HPTLC/MLC offers fast, sensitive screenings, while RP-HPLC/DAD or HPLC-UV offer reliable, cost-effective routine quality-control solutions with LOD/LOQ in the μg/mL range and linearity of 10-240 μg/mL. This review lists the structures and CAS numbers of ten VEGFR-2 TKI degradants and metabolites, as well as pharmacopeial impurities in SMILES forms. It will be useful for future method development and regulatory applications. To ensure VEGFR-targeted TKI quality, safety, and therapeutic efficacy, LC-MS/MS for trace quantification and HRMS for structure elucidation provide a robust, future-oriented framework. To improve VEGFR-targeted TKI quality, safety, and regulatory compliance, analytical development should focus on HRMS-based impurity characterization, AI-assisted degradation prediction, green chromatography, and harmonized bioanalytical validation.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effect of intraoperative 40-hz gamma-frequency auditory stimulation on postoperative delirium in older adults undergoing major surgery: a randomized clinical trial protocol.

INTRODUCTION: Postoperative delirium (POD) is a common and clinically significant complication among older adults undergoing major surgery under general anesthesia. Gamma-frequency (40-Hz) auditory stimulation has demonstrated potential neuroprotective and cognition-enhancing effects, suggesting a plausible role in perioperative delirium prevention. However, direct clinical evidence supporting intraoperative 40-Hz auditory stimulation in reducing POD remains limited, warranting rigorous evaluation in a randomized trial. PATIENTS AND METHODS: This prospective, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial will enroll 550 older adults scheduled for major noncardiac, nonneurosurgical surgery under general anesthesia. Participants will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to either the active stimulation group, receiving intraoperative 40-Hz gamma-frequency auditory stimulation delivered via headphones for 2 h following successful anesthesia induction, or the sham stimulation group, wearing headphones without active auditory output. The primary outcome is the incidence of POD on postoperative day 1 though 3, assessed using the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) or the CAM for the ICU (CAM-ICU). Secondary outcomes include POD severity, sleep quality, pain scores, analgesic consumption, the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), rescue antiemetic use, duration of post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) stay, length of hospital stay, quality of postoperative recovery, incidence of perioperative adverse events; postoperative morbidity, health-related quality of life, and all-cause 30-day mortality. DISCUSSION: This trial will determine whether intraoperative 40-Hz gamma-frequency auditory stimulation reduces the incidence of POD among older adults undergoing major surgery under general anesthesia. If efficacious, this noninvasive intervention could constitute a feasible perioperative strategy to mitigate delirium risk and enhance postoperative recovery. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2500115156).

Humans↗

PubMed2026

ENLIGHTENme: Translating the Benefits of Self-Administered Daytime Light Supplementation to Older Adults in the Real World.

Controlled studies have demonstrated that light supplementation benefits circadian entrainment, sleep and mood. Translating these findings into effective, real-world usage of light supplementation is, however, challenging because naturalistic and supplemental light exposure are shaped by personal habits and environmental light conditions. Bridging this translation gap is especially critical for older adults, given the reduced ocular light sensitivity associated with natural ageing, which exacerbates low daytime indoor light exposure in urban housing. We therefore set out to investigate the determinants of self-directed light supplementation in this population, and what the real-world feasibility and efficacy of daytime light supplementation is. We recruited 202 participants (63-92 years; 139 females) to our interventional, prospective, randomised study in three major EU cities at different latitudes (Amsterdam, Bologna, Tartu). Participants underwent a 2-week baseline assessment of light exposure, rest-activity patterns and sleep through wearables and daily diaries. Participants were then randomised to either 12 weeks of self-implemented indoor light supplementation using a lamp placed in their most frequently used room (> 8000 melanopic EDI, N = 98) or a no-intervention group. A subsequent 2-week reassessment showed that greater naturalistic light exposure was associated with increased daytime activity, consolidated wakefulness, better subjective sleep quality, and reduced metabolic disorder incidence. Individuals with lower naturalistic light exposure self-initiated earlier and longer indoor light supplementation across seasons, in which supplementation onset before 10:00 was associated with greater daytime activity and lower rest-activity fragmentation. These results confirm that this simple, non-pharmacological, and low-cost intervention has broad potential to support healthy ageing in urban settings.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Protocol for project FIERCE: A randomized controlled trial to evaluate a positive emotion-focused meditation intervention for physicians with elevated stress.

INTRODUCTION: Nearly 80% of healthcare providers experience adverse psychological symptoms (e.g., depression, burnout, sleep disturbance) stemming from workplace stressors. Elevated levels of stress have been associated with unfavorable occupational, patient, and provider-related outcomes, imposing a heavy burden on a strained system. Given the impact of stress on both employee and patient health, effective interventions are urgently needed to reduce distress and promote well-being among healthcare professionals. Mindfulness-based interventions show promise for addressing these challenges. We developed a six-week, remotely delivered mindfulness intervention, the Building Emotional Strength Training (BEST) program, based on the Buddhist Four Immeasurables practice to cultivate the distinct emotional qualities of loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity. The present study aims to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a Four Immeasurables-based mindfulness intervention on perceived stress (primary outcome), burnout, depressive symptoms, and inflammatory biomarkers, while enhancing psychological well-being and sleep quality (secondary outcomes) in physicians. We will also investigate potential mediators of intervention effects, including compassion, positive affect, equanimity, and mindfulness. METHOD: We will enroll 90 full-time physicians in a remote, two-arm randomized controlled trial with 1:1 allocation to either the meditation intervention or waitlist control. Participants will complete self-report questionnaires and provide blood samples at baseline, mid-course, and post-intervention to assess outcomes and mediators. DISCUSSION: The project aims to advance the study of mindfulness-based interventions that reduce distress and promote well-being through practices that cultivate prosocial and altruistic feelings toward oneself and others. While mindfulness interventions have gained considerable interest, none have specifically drawn from the Four Immeasurables practice to target loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity. This novel investigation could expand our understanding of practices that foster kindness and compassion to reduce distress in an at-risk population. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT07283744, registered on 2025/10/14. The Open Science Framework, registered on 2026/06/26.

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PubMed2026

Flap Versus Tunneling for Horizontal Ridge Augmentation With FDBA and i-PRF: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

AIM: This study evaluated the efficacy of conventional flap and tunneling techniques for horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation using freeze-dried bone allograft (FDBA) particles combined with injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-five patients were randomly allocated to one of three groups (n = 15 each): conventional flap (CF), tunneling with membrane (TM), or tunneling without membrane (TnM). Preoperative ridge width was measured via cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). All augmentation procedures incorporated FDBA and i-PRF; an absorbable collagen membrane was applied in the CF and TM groups. Follow-up assessments, including CBCT imaging and histomorphometric analysis, were conducted 6 months postoperatively. For normally distributed data, ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test and paired samples t-test were applied. Non-normally distributed data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. RESULTS: Statistical analysis was performed on 43 patients. All groups demonstrated an increase in ridge width after 6 months. At the 2 mm level, the mean width gain was 1.28 mm (95% CI: 0.17 to 2.40) in the TM group, 2.85 mm (95% CI: 1.80 to 3.89) in the TnM group, and 1.95 mm (95% CI: 1.07 to 2.83) in the CF group. However, statistical analysis revealed no significant intergroup variation (p > 0.05). Histomorphometric assessments similarly demonstrated comparable outcomes across all groups, with no statistically significant differences observed (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, the tunneling technique, regardless of membrane use, appears to be a clinically viable alternative to the conventional flap method for horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation. However, further studies with longer follow-up periods are required to substantiate these findings. TRIAL REGISTRATION: irct.behdasht.gov.ir identifier: IRCT 20101204005305N21.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Blue light therapy delivered through light glasses improves sleep quality and daytime sleepiness in Parkinson's disease: A randomized trial.

BackgroundSleep disturbances, including excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and fragmented nocturnal sleep, are common in Parkinson's disease (PD) and significantly reduce quality of life. This pilot study evaluated the efficacy of a novel approach using blue light, delivered via dedicated glasses with integrated LED lights, to improve sleep and non-motor symptoms.MethodsRandomised, placebo-controlled, single-blind pilot study with a 2-week light intervention. Participants were assessed at baseline, two weeks, and five weeks. The study was designed to evaluate between- and within-group changes. Participants were randomly allocated to receive blue light therapy (n = 15) or red light placebo (n = 15), delivered via LED-integrated glasses for one hour, twice daily, given for a 2-week period. Primary outcome was improvement in sleep quality, assessed via the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Secondary outcomes included diary-based sleep outcomes, excessive daytime sleepiness, mood, anxiety, and motor symptoms.ResultsThere was a significant group × time effect with blue light therapy leading to better Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores (p = 0.021). Between-group analyses showed that at two weeks a trend toward significance was observed (p = 0.065), while sleep quality significantly improved at five weeks compared to placebo (p = 0.029) with a large effect size (0.896). Excessive sleepiness improved in the blue light group (p < 0.001), with a reduction in clinically relevant sleepiness from 50.0% to 6.7% (p = 0.005).ConclusionsBlue light therapy delivered through dedicated glasses appeared to show an improvement in sleep quality and daytime sleepiness in individuals with PD. Blue light therapy offers a promising alternative to traditional light therapy utilising lower light intensities and eliminating the need for light boxes.

Aged↗

PubMed2026

Educational interventions to improve medical students' bad news communication skills: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review aimed to both determine whether educational interventions improve medical students' ability and/or confidence in Bad News Communication (BNC), as well as assess the relative efficacy of instructional formats. METHODS: Performed according to the PRISMA guidelines, four databases were searched for articles describing education-based interventions to improve medical student's BNC ability and/or confidence, published in English between 2001 and 2024. Data on students' self-reported or observer-assessed level of competence/ability in BNC (primary outcome), and students' self-assessed confidence in BNC skills (secondary outcomes), were analysed. Meta regression explained the influence of several categorical moderators on heterogeneity in relation to intervention effects on competence/ability. RESULTS: 27 studies met the criteria for inclusion in the systematic review and 17 studies for the meta-analysis. Interventions described in controlled studies were associated with a moderate and significant increase in BNC ability (13 data sets; standardized mean difference [SMD] = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.52 - 1.66). Interventions detailed in pre-post design studies were associated with a significant increase in BNC ability (20 data sets; SMD = 0.92, 95% CI = 0.52 - 1.32), and student confidence/comfort in their BNC skills (12 data sets; SMD = 1.16, 95% CI = 0.57 - 1.75). Subgroup analysis demonstrated better skills/competence outcomes in studies that included simulation-based training (SBT). CONCLUSIONS: Educational interventions improve the BNC ability and confidence of medical students. Interventions should include an SBT element as this leads to greater improvements in BNC ability. Further research is needed to determine to what extent these interventions translate to positive patient outcomes. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Diverse educational programme, especially those including simulation-based training, are effective in improving BNC skills, although the longetivity of these improvements is at present unclear. Therefore, we recommend that refresher courses or practice opportunities should be scheduled throughout students' medical education to ensure retention of BNC skills.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in functional motor disorders: A systematic review of effects and targets.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and potential mechanistic implications of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in adults with functional motor disorders (FMD), focusing on possible phenotype-specific responses and stimulation protocols. METHODS: Seven databases were searched from inception to July 2026. Randomised and non-randomised interventional studies were included. Risk of bias and evidence certainty were assessed using PEDro, RoB 2, JBI tools, and GRADE. Because of substantial clinical and methodological heterogeneity, findings were synthesised qualitatively. RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included. The primary motor cortex was targeted in 11 studies. Functional tremor showed the most consistent evidence with inhibitory stimulation: one small sham-controlled trial found a significant group-by-time effect on tremor severity (p = 0.007), while an uncontrolled prospective series reported 40 % reduction in postural tremor amplitude (p = 0.05). Evidence for functional weakness was conflicting: excitatory M1 stimulation increased objective strength by 25 % versus 10 % with sham (p = 0.004), whereas the largest inhibitory sham-controlled trial found no benefit (p = 0.80). No severe adverse events were reported, but safety reporting was incomplete. GRADE certainty was moderate for tremor and very low for all other outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence is insufficient to establish the efficacy of rTMS in FMD or to recommend phenotype-specific protocols. Preliminary findings support further investigation of inhibitory stimulation for functional tremor, whereas evidence for excitatory stimulation in functional weakness remains uncertain. SIGNIFICANCE: The possible interaction between phenotype and stimulation direction is hypothesis-generating. rTMS should currently be considered an experimental, context-sensitive adjunct within multidisciplinary care, pending adequately powered phenotype-stratified sham-controlled trials. Prospero Registration Number: CRD420251250969.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Awake Craniotomy for Eloquent Region Glioblastoma Classified by Tumor Location-A Retrospective and Prospective Cohort Study.

INTRODUCTION: The efficacy of awake craniotomy (AC) with intraoperative mapping for glioblastoma (GBM) in eloquent regions remains debated. This study aims to evaluate functional and survival outcomes of GBM patients undergoing AC stratified by tumor locations. METHODS: A combined retrospective (2015-2023, n = 114: 43 AC vs. 71 standard craniotomy) and prospective cohort (2023-2025, n = 28: 13 AC vs. 15 standard craniotomy) of GBM patients with motor/language-eloquent tumors was analyzed. Tumors were classified into motor subtypes (I: precentral gyrus; II: premotor/supplementary motor; III: internal capsule posterior limb; IV: other) and language subtypes (I: Broca's/precentral; II: postcentral/supramarginal gyrus; III: Wernicke's; IV: insular; V: other). Outcomes included extent of resection (EOR), postoperative motor/language recovery, overall survival (OS), and progression-free survival (PFS). RESULTS: The retrospective cohort demonstrated that AC has advantages in functional preservation across various motor/language subtypes. However, AC was associated with significantly deteriorated survival outcomes specifically in precentral gyrus GBMs. A prospective cohort study, enrolling only precentral gyrus GBMs for validation, yielded results consistent with the retrospective findings: worsened OS and PFS (OS: HR = 3.223, p = 0.0450; PFS: HR = 2.374, p = 0.0476); reduced EOR (AC: 74.3% ± 5.3%; standard craniotomy: 86.9% ± 12.3%, p = 0.0470); and better motor recovery. CONCLUSIONS: Functional preservation and survival outcomes of AC in GBM exhibited subtype-specific correlations with tumor locations. AC with intraoperative mapping effectively preserves neurological function in GBM patients. However, for tumors involving the precentral gyrus, the AC approach carries greater risks than benefits and should be considered with caution. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Strategic Intervention on Preserving Motor Function During Awake Craniotomy: NCT05143788. Strategic Intervention on Preserving Language Function During Awake Craniotomy: NCT05143775.

Adult↗

PubMed2026

Adductor Canal Block and Local Anesthetic Versus Local Anesthetic Alone in ACL Reconstruction: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Effective postoperative analgesia is crucial for early recovery after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Local infiltration analgesia (LIA) and adductor canal block (ACB) are common regional techniques, but their combined efficacy remains unclear. PURPOSE: To compare the effectiveness of LIA alone versus LIA combined with ACB in patients undergoing ACLR, with primary outcomes including postoperative opioid consumption and quadriceps function. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. METHODS: A double-blind randomized controlled trial enrolled 100 patients undergoing ACLR under general anesthesia. Patients were randomized into 2 groups: LIA + sham (saline injection) (n = 50) and LIA + ACB (n = 50). The primary outcome was postoperative opioid consumption in the first 24 hours. Secondary outcomes included visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, quadriceps function assessed by straight leg raise (SLR) at 3 hours, Quality of Recovery-15 (QoR-15) score, and Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) at 1 week. Statistical analysis was performed using t tests and chi-square tests with a P value <.05 considered significant. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in 24-hour opioid consumption between the LIA + ACB and LIA-only groups (P = .109). Similarly, VAS pain scores at 24 hours postoperatively showed no significant differences between the groups (P = .0804). Early functional recovery, assessed by SLR performance at 3 hours, was equivalent between groups (P = .6711). Additionally, QoR-15 scores on postoperative day 1 and KOOS values at 1 week demonstrated no significant differences (P = .6486 and P = .9054, respectively). Intraoperative opioid consumption was not different between the groups (P = .127). CONCLUSION: These findings indicate that the addition of ACB to LIA does not yield postoperative analgesic in ACLR. Consequently, LIA alone suffices for routine ACLR, potentially enabling clinicians to optimize perioperative workflows without incurring the additional time, financial burden, and resources associated with routine ACB administration. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov; NCT04721119.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Virtual reality physical education and adolescents' exercise interest and physical fitness: An explanatory sequential mixed-methods randomized trial with exploratory pathway analysis.

Traditional physical education (PE) faces declining student interest and limited fitness gains. Virtual reality (VR) offers immersive, gamified experiences, but evidence regarding its effectiveness and explanatory pathways remains limited. This explanatory sequential mixed-methods randomized trial assigned 360 adolescents (aged 13-16) from three middle schools to either VR-supported PE (n = 180) or conventional PE (n = 180) for 12 weeks, with a 4-week follow-up. Outcomes included exercise interest (validated scale), physical fitness (coordination via MABC-2, cardiorespiratory endurance via the 20-m shuttle run, explosive power via the standing long jump, and speed via the 10-m sprint), and accelerometer-measured physical activity. The qualitative component involved 38 unique students: 32 completed individual semi-structured interviews, and six additional students participated only in focus groups. Three-level linear mixed-effects models and exploratory structural equation modeling were used. The VR group showed significantly greater improvements in exercise interest (d = 0.78), coordination (d = 0.62), cardiorespiratory endurance (d = 0.55), and speed (d = 0.48) than the control group (all p < 0.001), but not in explosive power (d = 0.12, p = 0.148). Effects were partially retained at follow-up (interest d = 0.65, coordination d = 0.48, endurance d = 0.42, and speed d = 0.30), a pattern not fully consistent with a purely novelty-driven explanation. Exploratory mediation identified exercise interest as a statistically compatible explanatory pathway (indirect effect = 0.34, 95% CI [0.22, 0.46]), although the timing of measurement precludes causal interpretation. Qualitative findings contextualized these results by highlighting immersion, feedback, self-efficacy, and perceived transfer. VR-supported PE may enhance adolescents' exercise interest and selected fitness dimensions, but its limited effect on explosive power and possible novelty contribution indicate that it should complement, rather than replace, conventional PE. Longer-term studies are needed.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Choice of Anesthesia in Microelectrode Recording-guided Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery for Parkinson's Disease (CHAMPION): A Noninferiority Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease is often performed under conscious sedation or general anesthesia. However, anesthetic agents may influence intraoperative microelectrode recording, and the optimal anesthesia method for microelectrode recording remains unclear. This study compared general anesthesia and conscious sedation in preserving microelectrode recording signal intensity during deep brain stimulation. METHODS: In this prospective, noninferiority randomized controlled trial, patients with Parkinson's disease (United Kingdom Brain Bank criteria) undergoing elective bilateral surgery were randomized 1:1 to the conscious sedation or the general anesthesia group. During surgery, a desflurane anesthetic titrated against the quality of the electrophysiologic signal was applied in the general anesthesia group, whereas patients in the conscious sedation group received dexmedetomidine anesthesia. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with high-quality microelectrode recording (normalized root mean square greater than 2.0), assessed postoperatively off-line. Secondary outcomes included operation and recording duration, 6-month clinical efficacy, and complication rates. RESULTS: Of 188 randomized patients (94 general anesthesia, 93 conscious sedation), desflurane anesthesia was noninferior for high normalized root mean square proportion (89.4% vs . 90.3%; difference, -0.96%; 95% CI, -9.62 to 7.70). The general anesthesia group had shorter operative time (difference, -9.07 min; 95% CI, -13.99 to -4.14; P < 0.001). At 6 months, changes in Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale score (difference, -2.50; 95% CI, -7.20 to 2.20; P = 0.297), levodopa equivalent daily dose (difference, -58.4 mg; 95% CI, -133.56 to 16.75; P = 0.128), and complication rates (general anesthesia: 10.9% vs . conscious sedation: 8.9%; P = 0.655) were comparable between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: General anesthesia is noninferior to conscious sedation for microelectrode-guided subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation, providing equivalent signal intensity and clinical outcomes while improving procedural efficiency, supporting its use as a valid clinical option.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Autologous bone grafts versus alloplastic implants for orbital floor reconstruction: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: The choice of reconstructive material for orbital floor fractures remains a subject of debate. While autologous bone has historically been considered the "gold standard," alloplastic implants offer potential advantages in reducing surgical morbidity. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the safety and efficacy of autologous bone grafts versus alloplastic implants in orbital floor reconstruction. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD420251140583). Electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library) were searched from inception to August 2025. Randomized controlled trials and comparative cohort studies evaluating functional outcomes (diplopia, enophthalmos) and complications (ectropion, infection, malposition) were included. Data were synthesized using a random-effects model, with risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) calculated. RESULTS: Twenty studies comprising 2,119 patients were included. Alloplastic implants demonstrated statistically significant superiority in periocular safety, with a reduced risk of postoperative ectropion compared to autologous grafts (RR = 2.245; p = 0.020). In an exploratory sensitivity analysis excluding one outlier study, autologous grafts were associated with a significantly higher risk of implant malposition (RR = 2.074; p = 0.004). Autologous reconstruction was associated with a strong trend toward increased postoperative pain (p = 0.052) and inherent donor-site morbidity. No statistically significant differences were observed regarding infection (p = 0.402), enophthalmos (p = 0.201), or diplopia (p = 0.221). CONCLUSION: Alloplastic implants were associated with a lower risk of ectropion and implant malposition, with functional outcomes statistically comparable to autologous bone. Given the elimination of donor-site morbidity, alloplastic biomaterials represent a safe and effective alternative for orbital floor reconstruction; however, the predominance of retrospective, heterogeneous studies in the current evidence base means these findings should inform, rather than replace, individualized surgical decision-making pending further high-quality randomized trials.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Evaluating a culturally adapted question prompt list to improve end-of-life communication among indonesian migrant caregivers: A randomized controlled trial with qualitative insights.

OBJECTIVE: Indonesian caregivers serve as essential providers of end-of-life (EOL) care in Taiwan. But often face communication challenges due to language, cultural, and hierarchical barriers. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a culturally adapted Question Prompt List (QPL). METHODS: This study employed a two-arm randomized controlled trial design supplemented with qualitative interviews. The study was conducted in a hospice ward and home care setting within a medical center in Taiwan. A total of sixty Indonesian caregivers were recruited and randomly assigned to either the intervention group (n = 30) or the control group (n = 30). The intervention group received routine end-of-life (EOL) education along with a culturally adapted Question Prompt List (QPL), which consisted of 37 items covering domains including the dying process, emotional support, communication, symptom management, and care decision-making. The control group received routine EOL education. Outcome measures included caregiving preparedness, communication self-efficacy, satisfaction, and question-asking behavior. In addition, semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight participants, and the data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. RESULTS: Analysis of covariance revealed no statistically significant between-group differences in caregiving preparedness (F = 1.58, p = .215 [-0.41, 0.44]) or communication selfefficacy (F = 0.83, p = .366 [-0.44, 0.79]). However, communication satisfaction was significantly higher in the intervention group (F = 4.19, p < .05 [0.04, 0.44]). The number of questions asked was also significantly higher in the intervention group (t = -4.35, p < .001 [-5.41, -1.98]). Thematic analysis of qualitative data identified 4 themes and 14 subthemes, illustrating how the QPL reduced anxiety, clarified care needs, and improved confidence. CONCLUSIONS: A culturally adapted QPL can enhance communication engagement and satisfaction among migrant caregivers. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: Integrating culturally tailored QPLs into caregiver education and palliative care practice may promote more inclusive and effective communication.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Internet-based acceptance and commitment therapy (iACT) improves professional psychological help-seeking attitudes: A randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Professional psychological help-seeking attitudes are crucial for addressing mental health challenges, yet the mechanisms underlying their improvement through internet-based interventions remain poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: This randomized controlled trial aimed to (1) evaluate the efficacy of Internet-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (iACT) in enhancing professional help-seeking attitudes, and (2) elucidate the longitudinal mediating roles of psychological rigidity and self-stigma. METHODS: A total of 91 male participants (Mean Age = 21.09) were randomly assigned to either a 12-day iACT intervention group (n = 46) using a self-developed mobile application or a waitlist control group (n = 45). Psychological flexibility, rigidity, self-stigma, and help-seeking attitudes were measured at four time points: baseline, mid-intervention (Day 6), post-intervention (Day 12), and 1-month follow-up. Data were analyzed using repeated-measures ANOVA and latent growth modeling. RESULTS: Intention-to-treat analysis revealed the iACT group showed greater improvements in help-seeking attitudes than controls (F (3,87) = 5.95, p < 0.001), with medium-to-large between-group effects at post-test for reducing psychological rigidity (d = -0.77, 95% CI [-1.19, -0.34]) and self-stigma (d = -0.88, 95% CI [-1.31, -0.45]). Latent growth modeling revealed a sequential mediation effect: the iACT intervention reduced psychological rigidity (β = -0.53, SE = 0.12), which in turn reduced self-stigma (β = 0.61, SE = 0.09) and improved help-seeking attitudes (β = 0.47, SE = 0.08). CONCLUSION: This study provides the first evidence that a self-guided iACT mobile intervention can effectively enhance professional help-seeking attitudes by reducing psychological rigidity, which in turn alleviates self-stigma. The developed app offers a scalable solution to overcoming stigma-related barriers to mental health care.

Humans↗