Search PubMedSearch

SEARCH · Search PubMed

Results for “Individuality”

Search indexed PubMed citations on genomics, clinical trials, systematic reviews and public health. Explore titles, authors and supplied subject terms, then open the PubMed record.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 451 records · Page 25Linked to original sources

Photobiomodulation as an Adjunct to Resistance Training in Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Photobiomodulation (PBM) has been proposed as an adjunct to resistance training to enhance strength adaptations; however, findings from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) remain inconsistent. This study aimed to evaluate whether adjunctive PBM improves maximal strength gains when combined with periodized resistance training in older adults. METHODS: RCTs were identified through systematic searches of PubMed, Scopus, Embase, PEDro, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, and CNKI from inception to January 2026. Eligible studies examined PBM delivered via low-level laser therapy or light-emitting diodes in combination with resistance training or other strength-oriented loading tasks. Prespecified meta-analyses were restricted to trials combining PBM with periodized resistance training that reported one-repetition maximum (1RM) outcomes; other studies were included in a narrative synthesis. RESULTS: Eleven RCTs (n = 456) were included. Five trials (PBM plus resistance training: n = 74; control: n = 72) met the criteria for meta-analysis. PBM combined with resistance training did not significantly improve maximal muscle strength compared with sham PBM (SMD = 0.26, 95% CI -0.08 to 0.59; p = 0.14; I2 = 4%). Subgroup analyses showed a nonsignificant trend favoring PBM for unilateral 1RM, with no effect for bilateral outcomes and no significant subgroup differences. Sensitivity analyses indicated that the unilateral effect was dependent on individual studies. In nonresistance training contexts, some studies reported potential benefits for fatigue-, recovery-, or function-related outcomes, particularly in frail or critically ill older adults, although findings were inconsistent. CONCLUSION: Current evidence does not demonstrate a clear additional benefit of PBM on maximal strength when combined with resistance training in older adults, although a small effect cannot be excluded. PBM may have selective value in improving recovery-related outcomes and supporting training tolerance in vulnerable populations. Larger, well-designed RCTs are needed to clarify its role.

Humans

Shared Medical Appointments for Substance Use Disorders: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Shared medical appointments (SMAs) integrate group-based clinical care with individual medical management and are increasingly used in the treatment of substance use disorders (SUDs) to improve access, engagement, and care coordination. However, their use, outcomes, and implementation in SUD care have not been systematically synthesized. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review registered with PROSPERO (CRD42025639504). MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Cochrane Central were searched from database inception through September 2025. Randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and qualitative studies examining SMAs among adults with SUDs were included. Outcomes of interest included treatment engagement and retention, substance use outcomes, mental health and patient-reported outcomes, and implementation characteristics. Study quality was assessed across quantitative and qualitative designs, and findings were synthesized descriptively. RESULTS: Fourteen studies, representing approximately 578 participants, met inclusion criteria. Twelve studies focused exclusively on opioid use disorder, 1 included both alcohol and opioid use disorders, and 1 did not specify substance type. Treatment retention was reported in 6 studies, with a median 6-month retention of 72.9%. Three studies reported reductions in substance use outcomes, and 2 reported improvements in depression or anxiety. Qualitative studies consistently described high patient satisfaction, peer support, and shared accountability. Implementation studies demonstrated feasibility across diverse outpatient settings, with substantial heterogeneity across study designs and outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: SMAs appear feasible and acceptable for addiction care and may support treatment retention and patient experience. Evidence remains heterogeneous and largely observational, highlighting the need for rigorous comparative studies to better define effectiveness and implementation.

Humans

RENOIR phase 3 rituximab-lenalidomide vs rituximab as maintenance treatment in relapsed/refractory follicular lymphoma.

Maintenance treatment in older patients with relapsed or refractory (R/R) follicular lymphoma (FL) remains an area of investigation. RENOIR was a multicenter, phase 3, open-label randomized trial conducted by the Fondazione Italiana Linfomi (FIL) in older patients with R/R FL after 1 or 2 previous therapies. Patients achieving partial response or complete response (CR) after 4 to 6 cycles of standard rituximab (R)-based chemotherapy were randomized 1:1 to maintenance with R alone (standard arm) or R plus lenalidomide (R2; experimental arm). The primary end point was 2-year progression-free survival (PFS) from randomization, with an expected hazard ratio (HR) of 0.5. A total of 152 patients (median age, 71 years) were enrolled. After induction, 129 (85%) achieved an overall response (CR, 58%) and were randomized to R (n = 65) or R2 (n = 64). At a median follow-up of 68 months, the 2-year PFS was 73% in the R2 arm and 64% in the R arm. An unplanned hypothesis-generating subgroup analysis showed a greater 2-year PFS benefit with R2 in patients aged <70 years: R2, 96% vs R, 69%. Two-year overall survival rates were similar (R2, 80% vs R, 89%). Grade 3/4 adverse events were more frequent in R2, mainly neutropenia and gastrointestinal disorders. In conclusion, the primary end point of the study was not met, and R2 maintenance did not significantly improve 2-year PFS in older patients with R/R FL, although a numerical benefit was observed. R2 showed a more favorable benefit-risk profile in patients aged <70 years, whereas in older patients careful consideration of individual tolerability is warranted. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02390869.

Humans

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

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

Humans

Sodium supplementation strategies in preterm infants: effects on growth, electrolyte balance, and exploratory evidence on neurodevelopment - a systematic review and meta-analysis.

This study evaluated the effects of sodium supplementation on growth, electrolyte balance, and neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants. A systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies were conducted using data from PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar, including randomized controlled trials and observational studies involving infants born before 37&#xa0;weeks of gestation. Twelve studies comprising more than 2,800 participants were analysed using random-effects models. Sodium supplementation was associated with improved weight gain and a significant reduction in the risk of hyponatremia (RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.28, 95% CI: 0.08-0.96). Pooled incidence estimates indicated hypernatremia (32%) and intraventricular hemorrhage (29%) among supplemented cohorts; however, substantial heterogeneity was observed, and comparative risk estimates were limited. Only one study reported long-term neurodevelopmental follow-up, suggesting potential benefit; however, the available evidence remains limited and hypothesis-generating.These findings suggest that sodium supplementation may support growth and is associated with a lower risk of hyponatremia in preterm infants; however, hypernatremia and other morbidity estimates reported here are largely descriptive frequencies within supplemented cohorts rather than comparative treatment effects, and careful, individualized therapy with close monitoring is needed to minimize potential risks.

Growth outcomes

Reliability, Device Agreement and Validity of Load-Velocity Profiles: A Systematic Review with Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: For a valid one-repetition maximum (1RM) prediction via load-velocity (LV) relationships, high reliability and accuracy must be assumed. OBJECTIVE: Since individual study results indicate ambivalent prediction, this systematic review and meta-analysis was designed to provide a updated and comprehensive overview, extending knowledge about the validity and reliability of commercially available velocity sensors in Part I and the validity and reliability of velocity-based 1RM prediction models in Part II. METHODS: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus. Validity and/or reliability studies or velocity-based 1RM prediction evaluations were included. Methodological quality was assessed using adapted COSMIN. The analysis was performed for intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), Lin's concordance correlation coefficient (CCC), and Pearson's correlation coefficient (r). The review was preregistered in PROSPERO (CRD42025634595). RESULTS: Sixty-three studies were included for sensor validity and reliability and 38 for 1RM prediction models. Part I: Velocity sensors demonstrated good-to-excellent pooled validity and device agreement (ICC&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.91-0.92 [0.83-0.97]; k&#x2009;=&#x2009;55 and 439, respectively); intra- and inter-day reliability were classified as good to excellent with ICC&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.90-0.91 [0.85-0.95] (k&#x2009;=&#x2009;228 and 608, respectively), with sensor technology moderating the results. However, substantial heterogeneity and wide ranges of study-level estimates indicated considerable variability across moderators, linear position transducer (LPT) generally showing more consistent performance than inertial measurement units (IMU). Part II: Velocity-based 1RM prediction showed ICCs&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.90 [0.83-0.94] (k&#x2009;=&#x2009;124) and ICC&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.91 [0.72-0.98] (k&#x2009;=&#x2009;9); for reliability and validity, respectively. DISCUSSION: Commercial velocity sensors generally provide high relative validity and reliability. Results varied depending on exercise complexity, intensity, sensor technology, and modeling approach. While velocity-based 1RM prediction demonstrated high average validity, large heterogeneity in lower body exercises significantly biased the results. Furthermore, the dearth of measurement error and agreement analyses prohibits final conclusions. CONCLUSION: Therefore, velocity-based monitoring and 1RM prediction require cautious interpretation, as sensor- and exercise-specific evidence remains limited.

Load&#x2013;velocity relationship

Intismeran Autogene Plus Pembrolizumab Versus Pembrolizumab Alone in High-Risk Resected Melanoma: 5-Year Update of the Randomized Phase IIb KEYNOTE-942 Study.

Intismeran autogene (intismeran; formerly V940 or mRNA-4157) is an mRNA-based individualized neoantigen therapy. We report 5-year outcomes of intismeran plus pembrolizumab from the phase IIb KEYNOTE-942 study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03897881). Eligible patients with resected stage IIIB to IV cutaneous melanoma were randomly assigned 2:1 to receive nine doses of intramuscular intismeran 1 mg once every 3 weeks plus 18 doses of intravenous pembrolizumab 200 mg once every 3 weeks or 18 doses of intravenous pembrolizumab 200 mg once every 3 weeks. The primary end point was recurrence-free survival (RFS); secondary end points included distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) and safety. Five-year analyses were descriptive. Among 157 randomly assigned patients (intismeran plus pembrolizumab, n = 107; pembrolizumab, n = 50), the median planned follow-up at data cutoff (December 15, 2025) was 60.3 (range, 50.5-76.4) months. Intismeran plus pembrolizumab continued to prolong RFS (hazard ratio [HR], 0.510 [95% CI, 0.294 to 0.887) and DMFS (HR, 0.411 [95% CI, 0.200 to 0.843]), with a favorable trend in overall survival (HR, 0.471 [95% CI, 0.165 to 1.345]) versus pembrolizumab. Safety profile continued to be manageable, with no new safety signals. Intismeran plus pembrolizumab was associated with increased T-cell receptor clonality and novel clonotypes versus pembrolizumab; greater novel clone expansion was observed in patients without versus with recurrence in the combination arm. After a 5-year follow-up, intismeran plus pembrolizumab demonstrated sustained, durable treatment benefits versus pembrolizumab alone in resected high-risk melanoma.

Humans

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

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

Humans

From premature adrenarche to adult metabolic risk and hyperandrogenism: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

CONTEXT: Idiopathic premature adrenarche (IPA) has been associated with a higher risk of metabolic and reproductive dysfunction, but long-term/adult outcomes remain incompletely known. OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship between IPA and metabolic syndrome, as well as polycystic ovarian syndrome, in premenarcheal adolescent and adult women. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies reporting outcomes in females with IPA after menarche. Databases were searched through February 2025. Primary outcomes included body mass index (BMI), insulin resistance markers, and clinical and biochemical markers of hyperandrogenism. Data were pooled using random-effects models. The GRADE approach was applied to assess the certainty of evidence. RESULTS: A total of 21 studies comprising 635 females with IPA and 307 age-matched controls were included. Compared to controls, IPA individuals showed significantly higher BMI (mean difference: 1.4; CI: 1.0-1.9), fasting insulin, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, indicating persistent insulin resistance. Markers of hyperandrogenism, including Ferriman-Gallwey score, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and Free androgenic index, were also elevated. Secondary analyses revealed higher triglycerides, lower high-density lipoprotein, increased leptin, and greater carotid intima-media thickness, supporting an early pattern of cardiometabolic risk. GRADE assessment rated most outcomes as low certainty. CONCLUSION: Women with a history of IPA are at increased risk of long-term insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism, with early signs of adverse cardiometabolic profiles. These findings support the need for long-term monitoring in this population.

Humans

Assessing the accuracy and efficiency of an electronic platform for managing childhood illnesses in rural China: A cluster randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: The Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) faces challenges in capacity building and quality control. This trial aims to assess an electronic IMCI (eIMCI) platform in improving the effectiveness and efficiency in disease classification and management by community health workers (CHWs). DESIGN: Cluster randomized controlled trial. SETTING: Rural western China. PARTICIPANTS: 24 CHWs and 72 ill children aged 2 months to 5 years (3 children per CHW). CHWs were randomly assigned to intervention or control groups. INTERVENTIONS: The intervention CHWs received online training and performed disease management using the eIMCI platform featuring integrated training modules and decision-support tools. The control group received traditional face-to-face training and used paper-based IMCI protocols. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Proportion of children correctly diagnosed or classified by CHWs, as determined by a pediatric specialist. Relative risk (RR) between groups was estimated using Poisson Generalized Linear Mixed Models incorporating a random intercept for CHW to account for clustering of children within individual CHWs and adjusting for key covariates at both the CHW and child levels. RESULTS: The intervention group (13 CHWs, 39 children) had a higher rate of correct classification (64.1%) compared to the control group (11 CHWs, 33 children) (39.4%, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.056). Multivariable regression analysis confirmed this (RR&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.1, 95% CI: 1.5-3.1; P&#x2009;<&#x2009;.001). No significant difference was found in correct treatment rates (38.5% vs. 27.3%, P&#x2009;=&#x2009;.316). Online training reduced time and costs by approximately 80%, though with a slight decrease in post-training evaluation scores. CONCLUSIONS: The eIMCI platform shows potential in enhancing IMCI implementation and significantly reducing the training burden in resource-limited settings. Trial registration: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2100042533, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=119995.

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

Relational care in community mental health: Evaluating staff experiences in Intensive Community Care Services (ICCS) vs treatment as usual.

BACKGROUND: The quality of healthcare delivery relies heavily on building strong relationships between healthcare providers (HCPs) and clients. This study presents the results of a process evaluation for a Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) examining the effectiveness of Intensive Community Care Service (ICCS) vs Treatment as Usual (TAU; inpatient or core community CAMHS). METHODS: Thirty-four semi-structured interviews were conducted with staff across various services, including 20 from ICCS and 14 other TAU services. A thematic decomposition analysis was conducted on the data, and specific themes relevant to staff experiences of young people's engagement with services and overall recovery. RESULTS: Three main themes were observed in the HCP data (1. Relational Ecologies: barriers and enablers to engagement, 2. flexibility of approach amidst systemic pressures and 3. the web of trust in the relationship-building process). HCPs highlighted the necessity of developing trust and rapport through non-clinical engagement strategies, such as informal visits and personalised interactions. HCPs emphasised that without trust, treatment effectiveness diminishes, necessitating a tailored approach rather than a one-size-fits-all model. The flexibility in duration of treatment and methods of engagement was noted as crucial in accommodating individual client needs and fostering an open, trusting environment necessary for long-term recovery. CONCLUSION: The findings highlight the vital importance of relational care models, especially ICCS, in addressing the complex needs of Children and Young People (CYP). Flexible, family-centred approaches improve trust, engagement, and long-term recovery outcomes. Recommendations include tackling systemic barriers and expanding relational care models within CAMHS to meet increasing mental health demands effectively. Further research should investigate scalable strategies for integrating these insights into wider mental health service frameworks.

Humans

Application of musculoskeletal ultrasound in postoperative rehabilitation assessment and monitoring after rotator cuff repair: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: The development of rehabilitation protocols after rotator cuff repair has long lacked objective benchmarks. Traditional time&#x2011;based regimens are limited by considerable inter&#x2011;individual variability and an increased risk of re&#x2011;tear. Musculoskeletal ultrasound allows dynamic assessment of tendon healing and muscle morphology, yet evidence for directly linking its use to rehabilitation decisions remains scarce. OBJECTIVE: To systematically synthesize the evidence on the use of musculoskeletal ultrasound monitoring to inform rehabilitation decision&#x2011;making after rotator cuff repair. METHODS: Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta&#x2011;Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we searched PubMed, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), and Wanfang Data from January 2020 to April 2026. Original studies were included if they involved patients who had undergone rotator cuff repair, used musculoskeletal ultrasound (including gray&#x2011;scale ultrasound, elastography, etc.) to evaluate the rotator cuff tendons or shoulder muscles, and reported at least one parameter related to rehabilitation decision-making or functional outcomes. RESULTS: Eleven studies were included. Shear wave velocity (SWV), cross&#x2011;sectional area (CSA), and echo intensity (EI) were the most frequently reported ultrasound parameters. Available evidence indicated that SWV increased progressively after surgery, with an overall increase of approximately 22% to 25% from one week to 12 months postoperatively. This dynamic trajectory may serve as a reference baseline for judging rehabilitation progress. An abnormally elevated SWV in the early postoperative period was associated with an increased risk of re&#x2011;tear, suggesting that a more conservative rehabilitation strategy should be adopted. Tendon stiffness measured at 12 weeks after surgery independently predicted long&#x2011;term return to sport. Regarding muscle parameters, changes in CSA and EI were positively correlated with shoulder function scores, and the combination of these two parameters effectively identified patients with rehabilitation bottlenecks. CONCLUSION: Musculoskeletal ultrasound parameters are associated with the initiation of active movement, adjustment of exercise load, prediction of return&#x2011;to&#x2011;sport prognosis, and identification of retear risk. Among these, SWV shows particular promise as an objective monitoring parameter for supporting rehabilitation assessment after rotator cuff repair. Future randomized controlled trials are needed to determine whether ultrasound-informed assessment can improve rehabilitation outcomes compared with traditional time-based regimens, and to establish standardized measurement protocols and clinically applicable reference values. Key findings of this review are summarized in S1 File.

Humans

Timing of carbetocin administration in vaginal deliveries: a double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to compare the efficacy of administering carbetocin before vs. after placental delivery in preventing postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) in low-risk vaginal deliveries. METHODS: The randomized controlled trial was conducted at Kartal City Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey. A total of 160 primiparous women with uncomplicated pregnancies who underwent vaginal delivery were enrolled. Participants were randomly assigned to receive 100&#x202f;&#x3bc;g of carbetocin either before or after placental delivery. The primary outcome was the incidence of PPH. Secondary outcomes included the need for additional uterotonics, manual removal of the placenta with consequent antibiotic administration, blood transfusions, maternal adverse events, and changes in hemoglobin levels at baseline and 24&#x202f;h postpartum. RESULTS: The incidence of PPH was significantly lower in the carbetocin-before group than in the carbetocin-after group (p=0.015). The carbetocin-before group had a significantly lower mean hemoglobin drop compared to the carbetocin-after group (p<0.001). The need for additional uterotonics was significantly higher in the carbetocin-after group (p<0.001). Manual placenta removal and the need for antibiotics were more frequent in the carbetocin-before group (p=0.017). No significant differences in adverse maternal events were observed between the groups. CONCLUSIONS: Administering carbetocin before placental delivery significantly reduces the incidence of PPH, blood loss, and the need for additional uterotonics. However, the increased rate of manual placenta removal necessitates individualized risk-benefit assessment; pre-placental administration may be most advantageous in women at elevated risk for PPH, in whom the hemorrhagic benefit outweighs the risks associated with manual extraction.

Humans

Health risk assessment of inorganic arsenic: an umbrella review.

Inorganic arsenic (iAs) is a toxic environmental pollutant linked to serious health risks, prompting global regulatory efforts. This study identifies major health conditions associated with iAs exposure using text network analysis, and assesses health risk assessments through an umbrella review and dose-response analysis. It synthesizes previous systematic reviews to offer a broader perspective on iAs-related health effects. An optimized text network analysis-based search strategy was applied across multiple databases to identify relevant systematic reviews. An umbrella review framework was employed to synthesize and reinterpret findings across systematic reviews. The methodological quality of included systematic reviews was assessed using the A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews 2 tool. Extracted data on study characteristics, exposure levels, and risk estimates were analyzed to evaluate the dose-response relationship between iAs exposure and health outcomes. From 922 systematic reviews, 36 were included and categorized into 10 health condition groups. For example, seven SRs found a significant dose-response relationship between iAs and bladder cancer, with one systematic review reporting relative risks of 2.70, 4.20, and 5.80 at 10, 50, and 150&#x202f;&#xb5;g/L, respectively. Individual study analysis further showed that each 10&#x202f;&#xb5;g/L increase in iAs raised bladder cancer risk by 3.11&#x202f;% (p=0.003). iAs exposure is associated with hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and adverse fetal outcomes. Dose-dependent increases in bladder cancer, lung cancer, and hypertension risks were observed. These findings support more precise health risk assessments and regulatory strategies.

Humans

Skeletal Muscles Do Not Compete for Growth: Activating Additional Muscle Mass Does Not Compromise Changes in Muscle Size.

Kataoka, R, Yamada, Y, Hammert, WB, Sallberg, RW, Kang, A, Song, JS, Kassiano, W, Metcalf, EE, and Loenneke, JP. Skeletal muscles do not compete for growth: Activating additional muscle mass does not compromise changes in muscle size. J Strength Cond Res 40(9): 1043-1049, 2026-This study investigated whether the magnitude of muscle size and strength differed based on the amount of muscle recruited during training sessions. One hundred five untrained individuals were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: low-load unilateral elbow flexion exercise (a) to failure (LL-Failure, n = 36), (b) to failure and low-load knee extension exercise to failure (LL-Failure + Legs, n = 33), or (c) a time-matched nonexercise control (CON, n = 36). Training groups completed 18 supervised sessions over 6 weeks (2 sets at 30% 1 repetition maximum [1RM] to failure). LL-Failure + Legs group performed 4 additional sets of knee extension exercise in each leg (20-30 RM). Muscle thickness on the anterior upper arm (60 and 70% sites) and elbow flexor 1RM strength of the trained arm were measured at pretesting and posttesting. Changes were compared using the ANCOVA function of Bayes Factors for Informative Hypotheses (prevalues as the covariate). Specific hypotheses were evaluated by comparing Bayes factors and the posterior probabilities between models. Six weeks of training led to increases in muscle size and strength. However, performing additional leg exercise did not attenuate the muscle growth in the anterior upper arm (0.19 cm) compared with performing only arm exercise to failure (0.18 cm). Changes in 1RM strength also did not differ between training groups (0.32 and 0.25 kg for LL-Failure and LL-Failure + Legs, respectively). Overall, there was no evidence for competition of adaptations in muscle size and strength under uncontrolled nutritional conditions. Whether greater training volume or limited nutrient intake induces a competition for resources warrants further investigation.

Humans

Effects of intradialytic nutrition on dialysis adequacy and fatigue in hemodialysis patients: a randomized crossover study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess intradialytic nutrition's effects on dialysis adequacy and fatigue in maintenance hemodialysis patients. METHODS: A randomized, two-period, two-sequence, self-controlled crossover trial was conducted in two outpatient hemodialysis centers in T&#xfc;rkiye. Thirty-six patients were randomized; 32 completed both periods. The participants received standardized intradialytic nutrition in one period and no food intake during the control period. Dialysis adequacy was evaluated using the urea reduction ratio and single-pool Kt/V. Intradialytic blood pressure was recorded during dialysis sessions, and fatigue severity was measured using the Piper Fatigue Scale at the end of each period. RESULTS: No significant differences were observed in dialysis adequacy or fatigue scores between the two periods. Intradialytic nutrition was associated with greater reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, particularly during the second hour of dialysis. No clinically relevant adverse events occurred. CONCLUSION: Intradialytic nutrition did not compromise dialysis adequacy or worsen fatigue severity but was associated with increased intradialytic blood pressure reductions. Individualized clinical decisions and careful hemodynamic monitoring are warranted when implementing intradialytic nutritional interventions. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT07687498.

Humans

A Web-Based, Pedometer-Mediated Intervention Increases Amount and Intensity of Physical Activity in COPD: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

INTRODUCTION: Ground-based walking training is an aerobic exercise used in supervised pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). Physical activity (PA) interventions typically promote step counts, but it is unclear whether community-based walking intensity can be targeted as aerobic exercise. This randomized controlled trial evaluated a web-based, pedometer-mediated PA intervention designed to increase walking amount and intensity. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Participants with COPD who had never enrolled in PR were randomized 1:1 to control or intervention. The intervention included individualized step-count goals, iterative feedback, educational content, and an online community forum. The Fitbit Inspire Heart Rate objectively monitored daily step counts. Participants were instructed to achieve step-count goals with as many steps of moderate-intensity as possible guided by a modified Borg rating of 4-5 for dyspnea. The primary outcome was change in PA measured as average daily step count at 12&#xa0;weeks. Aerobic intensity was assessed by the Rapid Assessment of PA Questionnaire which uses self-reported moderate or vigorous PA to categorize responders as underactive or active. Linear mixed-effects models (PROC MIXED, SAS v9.4), adjusting for group, time, group*time, FEV1%predicted, enrollment season, and study modality (eg, in-person, virtual, hybrid), assessed between-group change. RESULTS: Participants (57 intervention, 52 control) were 97% male, mean age 73&#xb1;7 years, and baseline FEV1 73&#xb1;23% predicted. Baseline daily steps were 4,222&#xb1;1,929 (intervention) and 4,851&#xb1;2,637 (control). Intervention participants increased average daily steps by 1,410 steps/day more than controls (p=0.005). The intervention group showed greater transitions from underactive to active intensity (between-group: p=0.025), with 20 (41%) moving to active status (within-group: p=0.001). CONCLUSION: Technology-mediated community-based walking increased PA amount and intensity. These findings support further evaluation of this intervention as a potential option for ground-based walking training with objective measurement of exercise intensity.

Humans