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PubMed2026

Rotavirus vaccine effectiveness against rotavirus and acute gastroenteritis mortality: an analysis of pooled case-control studies from the MNSSTER-V dataset.

BACKGROUND: Rotavirus accounts for an estimated 25% of diarrhoea deaths in children under 5 years globally, and more than 140 countries have included rotavirus vaccines in their routine national infant vaccination programmes. We aimed to calculate rotavirus vaccine effectiveness against rotavirus-positive and all-cause acute gastroenteritis deaths. METHODS: The Multi-National Subpopulations Study to Evaluate Rotavirus Vaccines (MNSSTER-V) dataset combines child-level data from test-negative case-control studies of rotavirus vaccine effectiveness that enrolled children under 5 years of age seeking care for acute gastroenteritis at hospitals or emergency departments in 24 countries between July 1, 2007, and Aug 24, 2023. Children were included in this study if they were: younger than 5 years, met the acute gastroenteritis case definition (had at least three episodes of diarrhoea in a 24-h period, had non-bloody and non-chronic diarrhoea, and were enrolled within 7 days of diarrhoea onset), met vaccine card quality metrics, had vaccine delivery dates if the child was reported to have received a rotavirus vaccine, and had a reported outcome of death or discharge. In-hospital acute gastroenteritis deaths were characterised, and rotavirus vaccine effectiveness against all-cause and rotavirus-positive acute gastroenteritis mortality was calculated using an unconditional logistic regression model with adjustment for national under-5 mortality strata and child's age. Vaccine effectiveness analyses against all-cause and rotavirus-positive acute gastroenteritis mortality were restricted to children aged at least 3 months who received any routine vaccines from countries reporting at least one acute gastroenteritis death. FINDINGS: From the MNSSTER-V dataset, we included 27 252 children younger than 5 years enrolled from 22 countries; outcomes of patients were not available for two countries. At least one in-hospital acute gastroenteritis death was reported from 16 countries including 21 522 children; in total, 183 all-cause acute gastroenteritis deaths and 25 rotavirus-positive deaths were reported. Among children aged at least 3 months who had received any routine vaccines, receiving at least one dose of a rotavirus vaccine had an adjusted vaccine effectiveness of 75·8% (95% CI 28·4 to 91·8; n=13 630) against rotavirus-positive acute gastroenteritis mortality and 20·8% (-47·0 to 57·3; n=20 005) against all-cause acute gastroenteritis mortality. INTERPRETATION: Rotavirus vaccines are effective in preventing rotavirus-positive acute gastroenteritis mortality. Continued efforts to improve vaccine delivery could help to reduce acute gastroenteritis mortality due to rotavirus worldwide. FUNDING: None.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Sex-stratified mortality trends in preterm birth complications in Sierra Leone: progress, persistence, and equity implications.

BACKGROUND: Preterm birth complications remain a leading cause of neonatal mortality in Sierra Leone, despite recent health system gains. Evidence on long-term sex-specific disparities in mortality due to preterm birth complications is limited, constraining equitable neonatal care planning. OBJECTIVE: To examine two‑decade trends in sex‑stratified mortality from preterm birth complications using standardized equity indicators. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective longitudinal analysis of sex-disaggregated mortality estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Health Estimates (GHE), accessed through the WHO Health Equity Assessment Toolkit (HEAT), Built-in Database Edition (Version 6.0). Mortality rates per 100,000 population were extracted for 2001, 2006, 2011, 2016, and 2021. Inequality was assessed using absolute difference (D), relative ratio (R), population attributable risk (PAR), and population attributable fraction (PAF). RESULTS: Mortality declined substantially between 2001 and 2021 for both males (85.1-49.3 per 100,000) and females (71.2-39.9 per 100,000). Male mortality remained consistently higher across all years, with relative ratios indicating approximately 20-25% excess mortality among male neonates. Absolute inequalities narrowed modestly over time, whereas relative inequalities remained largely unchanged. PAR and PAF remained close to zero throughout the study period. Wider uncertainty intervals in earlier years reflected limited empirical data availability. CONCLUSION: Although preterm mortality declined over two decades, a persistent male disadvantage remained in Sierra Leone. These findings highlight the importance of integrating sex-disaggregated equity monitoring into neonatal policies and programmes. Future research should evaluate strategies to reduce the persistent excess mortality among male neonates while sustaining overall improvements in neonatal survival and progress toward Sustainable Development Goal 3.2.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effectiveness of Wearable Digital Therapeutics in Improving Sleep Outcomes Among Individuals With Insomnia: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Wearable devices are increasingly used for sleep monitoring and as adjunctive treatment. Existing meta-analyses mostly pool composite digital therapies and rarely isolate stand-alone wearables or distinguish between objective and subjective end points. Whether stand-alone wearable interventions improve sleep outcomes in adults with insomnia, and which factors moderate treatment heterogeneity, remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of wearable digital interventions on sleep outcomes in adults with insomnia versus control strategies and explore moderators of effectiveness, including device-wearing position, intervention duration, and control type, using meta-regression. METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‑Analyses) 2020 statement and the PRISMA-S (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‑Analyses Literature Search Extension) guideline. Five electronic databases and clinical trial registries were searched from inception to May 18, 2026. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating wearable digital interventions in adults with insomnia compared with sham, waitlist, usual care, or active control conditions and had an intervention duration of at least 1 week. Study screening, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment were carried out independently by 2 reviewers. Pooled estimates were calculated using a restricted maximum likelihood random-effects model with the Hartung-Knapp-Sidik-Jonkman correction. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic, and 95% prediction intervals (PIs) were calculated for the primary analyses. The certainty of evidence was rated using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach. RESULTS: Sixteen RCTs (N=910) were included. Wearable digital interventions were associated with a significant reduction in objective sleep-onset latency (SOL; mean difference [MD] -4.52, 95% CI -8.38 to -0.67, PI -9.52 to 0.47 min) and a significant improvement in subjective sleep efficiency (SE; MD 2.00%, 95% CI 1.90%-2.11%, PI 1.85%-2.15%). Subjective total sleep time (TST) also showed a significant increase (MD 19.11, 95% CI 2.98-35.24, PI -16.20 to 54.43 minutes). Meta-regression showed that control type, intervention duration, and device location did not explain the heterogeneity of the insomnia severity index (ISI) (R²=0). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of pooled ISI estimates, and an Egger test indicated no small-study effects (P=.07). Certainty of evidence ranged from moderate to high. CONCLUSIONS: Wearable digital interventions provide selective benefits for objective SOL, subjective SE, and subjective TST in adults with insomnia, with no improvement in overall ISI. Despite statistically significant effects on several sleep parameters, wide PIs, substantial heterogeneity, and limited study numbers indicate preliminary, nonconclusive findings. Wearables should be viewed as affordable adjunctive tools requiring further validation, not substitutes for first-line cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia. Large-scale, long-term RCTs with standardized protocols and patient-level external validation are required to consolidate the evidence base.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

The impact of artificial intelligence on critical thinking and clinical reasoning in health professions education: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Critical thinking and clinical reasoning underpin healthcare professionals' ability to navigate uncertainties and deliver safe and effective care. With artificial intelligence (AI) advancement and growing adoption, AI-based educational tools are increasingly used to support these cognitive competencies' development. OBJECTIVE: To synthesize randomised and controlled clinical trials on AI-based educational tools in health professions education and examine their effects on critical thinking and clinical reasoning among health professions students. METHODS: Six electronic databases were searched from January 1, 2014 to July 28, 2025 was reviewed: PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, CINAHL, Scopus, Embase and Web of Science. Two independent reviewers performed data extraction and quality assessment using standardized JBI checklists. The GRADE approach was used to assess the certainty of evidence. Studies were pooled via random-effects meta-analyses or narrative syntheses. RESULTS: Fourteen randomised controlled trials and seven controlled clinical trials were included (n = 21). Meta-analyses revealed small to medium effect sizes for the surrogate clinical reasoning outcomes of performance-based assessment scores (SMD 0.68; 95% CI [0.38, 0.98], p-value = 0.00; I2 = 38%) and knowledge test scores (SMD 0.39; 95% CI [0.09, 0.69], p-value = 0.01; I2 = 79%). Critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills and dispositions were narratively synthesized, with majority of included studies favouring AI-based interventions but the evidence had low to very low certainty. CONCLUSION: AI-based educational interventions may improve critical thinking and clinical reasoning among health profession students, but the evidence is very uncertain. This review offers preliminary insights but does not allow identification of optimal interventions or discipline-specific recommendations due to small sample sizes and substantial intervention heterogeneity. Further research is required to draw definitive conclusions. PROTOCOL REGISTRATION: CRD42025634074.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Peripheral immune markers and choroid plexus volumes as predictors of change in depressive symptoms: Insights from the EMBARC study.

Changes in choroid plexus (ChP) volume and peripheral inflammation have been associated with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), yet their individual and combined impact on depressive symptoms is unclear. This study investigated whether baseline immune markers and ChP volumes predict changes in depressive symptoms during the 8-week treatment period among Establishing Moderators and Biosignatures of Antidepressant Response in Clinical Care (EMBARC) study participants who received either sertraline or placebo. Adults (n = 222) with MDD with peripheral blood samples were included. Circulating chemokines and cytokines were examined using a 40-plex assay. Depressive symptoms were assessed over 8 weeks using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17). Principal component analysis (PCA) was used for dimension reduction. Mixed-effects models were used to examine whether immune profiles and ChP volumes, and their interaction predicted HAMD-17, adjusting for demographic/clinical covariates and baseline depression severity. PCA identified three immune profiles. One profile, characterized by higher levels of cytokines and chemokines including IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, was associated with greater depression severity, higher BMI, age, and CRP at baseline. Higher levels of these immune markers were associated with less improvement in depressive symptoms at 8 weeks (estimate = 1.211, p = 0.018) in models adjusting for right and left ChP volume (right ChP model: estimate = 1.034, p = 0.005; left ChP model: estimate = 0.993, p = 0.007). Interactions between immune markers and ChP volumes were not significant. Future investigations are warranted to examine the relationships between immune markers and ChP volume beyond structural changes in the context of depression symptoms.

Adult↗

PubMed2026

Recurrence of peripartum cardiomyopathy in subsequent pregnancy stratified by left ventricular function: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

AIMS: Subsequent pregnancy in women with prior peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) carries a risk of relapse and adverse maternal outcomes. This meta-analysis aimed to determine the recurrence of PPCM relapse and associated maternal and foetal outcomes during subsequent pregnancy, stratified by baseline (pre-subsequent pregnancy) left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Nine databases were searched through June 2025 for cohort studies reporting subsequent pregnancy outcomes in women with prior PPCM, stratified as recovered (LVEF ≥50%) or non-recovered (LVEF <50%) groups. Outcomes included PPCM relapse, maternal mortality, LVEF during and after pregnancy, LV recovery, symptom worsening, and obstetric/neonatal events. Risk of bias was assessed with ROBINS-E, and random-effects models were used. RESULTS: Six cohort studies comprising 266 women were included (174 in recovered group and 92 in non-recovered group). Relapse occurred in both groups with no significant difference [rate ratio (RR) 0.77, 95% CI 0.50-1.19; I2 = 3%]. Maternal mortality was significantly lower in the recovered group (1.7% vs 10.9%; RR 0.27, 95% CI 0.09-0.87; I2 = 0%). Recovered group had higher mean LVEF during subsequent pregnancy (mean difference [MD] 17.0; P < .001), higher postpartum LVEF (MD 11.69; P = .005; I2 = 84%), and greater likelihood of LV recovery (RR 2.07; P = .005; I2 = 0%). No significant differences were observed in symptom worsening or obstetric/neonatal outcomes. CONCLUSION: Recovered LVEF prior to subsequent pregnancy is associated with improved maternal outcomes, yet relapse remains common. Left ventricular ejection fraction alone is insufficient for risk stratification, and individualized multidisciplinary care is essential for all women with prior PPCM.

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PubMed2026

Integrated genomic and biochemical diagnosis of a novel homozygous start-loss variant in AKR1D1 associated with neonatal cholestasis.

INTRODUCTION: Congenital bile acid synthesis defects are rare autosomal recessive disorders that typically present in early infancy with cholestasis, progressive liver dysfunction, and, in severe cases, acute liver failure. These conditions may mimic other metabolic diseases detected in newborn screening, complicating early diagnosis. The AKR1D1 gene encodes Δ4-3-oxosteroid 5β-reductase, a key enzyme in primary bile acid synthesis, and pathogenic variants cause bile acid synthesis defect type 2 (OMIM #235555). CASE DESCRIPTION: We report a 3-month-old male infant with severe neonatal cholestasis and a history of elevated tyrosine levels in newborn screening. Pregnancy was high risk and unmonitored, with birth outside a hospital. Parental consanguinity was first-degree. Early metabolic evaluation showed transient normalization of tyrosine levels, but subsequent analyses revealed recurrent hyper-tyrosinemia. Urinary organic acids showed increased 4-hydroxyphenyl metabolites, with absent succinylacetone, excluding tyrosinemia type I. Progressive cholestasis developed, accompanied by coagulopathy, hyperbilirubinemia, hyperammonemia, and markedly elevated alpha-fetoprotein. Imaging revealed no structural liver abnormalities. Clinical exome sequencing identified a novel homozygous start-loss variant in AKR1D1, likely abolishing functional enzyme production. Metabolic studies confirmed increased urinary excretion of 3-oxocholenoic acids consistent with abnormal bile acid synthesis and supporting a diagnosis of bile acid synthesis defect type 2. Oral cholic acid therapy led to stabilization and improvement in clinical and biochemical parameters. DISCUSSION/CONCLUSION: This case illustrates the diagnostic complexity of neonatal cholestasis, particularly when initial metabolic findings suggest alternative etiologies. It highlights the importance of newborn screening as a tool for broader diagnostic suspicion and the critical role of early molecular diagnosis and multidisciplinary care. Timely recognition and targeted therapy can improve outcomes, prevent liver transplantation, and enable accurate genetic counseling, especially in consanguineous families.

Humans↗

PubMed2025

Effectiveness of physical activity intervention for depression, anxiety and comorbid symptoms during the perinatal period among Chinese primiparas.

BACKGROUND: To examine the effectiveness of a physical activity (PA) programme incorporating partner support and enjoyment in preventing perinatal depression, anxiety, and comorbid anxiety and depression (CAD) among Chinese primiparas. METHODS: A total of 120 eligible primiparas were randomised into intervention or control groups. The intervention group received the 13-week PA programme and the control group received the usual care. The outcomes were depression, anxiety, and CAD assessed at baseline, post-intervention, and 6 weeks after delivery. Differences were examined using generalised linear mixed models with intention-to-treat. RESULTS: A significant group × time interaction was observed for depression score, anxiety score, anxiety incidence, and CAD incidence (all p < 0.05). However, no significant interaction was found for depression incidence. Compared to the control, the intervention substantially reduced the scores of depression (MD: -2.67 (-4.16 to -1.17); -2.63 (-4.15 to -1.11)) and anxiety (MD: -4.95 (-9.23 to -0.67); -7.33 (-11.85 to -2.82)), as well as the rates of depression (OR: 0.40 (0.18 to 0.85); 0.44 (0.21 to 0.93)) and CAD (OR: 0.35 (0.14 to 0.87); 0.26 (0.11 to 0.62)) at post-intervention and 6-week postpartum. Notably, anxiety incidence showed significant reduction only at 6-week postpartum (OR: 0.34 (0.16 to 0.74)) (all p < 0.05). Within the intervention group, no significant changes occurred in most outcomes from baseline to post-intervention and 6-week postpartum, except depression scores (MD:-1.60 (-2.79 to -0.41); -1.23 (-2.44 to -0.03); p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The PA programme (including partner support and enjoyment) may be effective in reducing perinatal depression, anxiety and CAD among primiparas.

Adult↗

PubMed2026

Cannabis and cannabinoids for the treatment of mental and substance use disorders and symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis of experimental and observational studies.

BACKGROUND: Interest in cannabinoids for mental and substance use disorders is increasing. We examined experimental and observational evidence for treating these disorders and their symptoms. METHODS: Systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO CRD42023467536). We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO to May 2025 for studies of cannabinoids in adults (≥18 years) with ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, psychosis or Tourette syndrome, or alcohol, cannabis, opioid or tobacco use disorders. Two reviewers screened, extracted and assessed quality using a risk-of-bias tool and GRADE. RESULTS: We included 82 experimental and 118 observational studies. In RCTs, cannabinoids reduced anxiety symptoms (SMD=-0.40; 95% CI: -0.57, -0.23; I²=90%) and, in one small trial, PTSD symptoms (SMD=-2.60; 95% CI: -4.58, -0.62; n=20), with trivial-to-no effect on depression (SMD=-0.20; 95% CI: -0.43, 0.04; I²=91.6%), ADHD, psychosis and Tourette syndrome. Much anxiety and depression evidence came from symptoms measured as secondary outcomes in other primary conditions. Cannabinoids worsened cannabis use disorder severity in one RCT (SMD=2.35; 95% CI: 1.49, 3.21), with no effect on craving or withdrawal; evidence for alcohol, opioid and tobacco use disorders was very limited. Observational studies suggested improvements but had high risk of bias. The only significant safety finding was increased withdrawals due to adverse events with THC (OR=2.78; 95% CI: 1.66, 4.65). Certainty was predominantly very low. DISCUSSION: The evidence base shows very low certainty, high heterogeneity and methodological limitations, and is insufficient to support cannabinoids as first-line treatment. Signals for anxiety and PTSD are limited by indirectness and low certainty; no benefit was evident for depression; THC-related safety signals warrant careful consideration.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Implementing Prolonged Exposure Therapy in a Community Substance Use Treatment Program: A Qualitative Study.

INTRODUCTION: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) commonly co-occurs with substance use disorders (SUD), yet few community-based SUD programs incorporate evidence-based trauma-focused. Prolonged exposure (PE), including its massed format (M-PE) with session frequency of 3-4 times per week, is a gold standard intervention for PTSD; however, concerns about client readiness, logistical demands and relapse risk have limited its adoption within SUD settings. This study examined staff perspectives on the feasibility and acceptability of integrating M-PE into a community-based SUD program. METHODS: Prior to launching a Hybrid Type 1 effectiveness-implementation trial (Project COMET), we conducted semi-structured virtual interviews with 15 community clinic staff: providers (n = 8), administrators (n = 2) and peer specialists (n = 5). Interviews were recorded, transcribed and analysed using a rapid qualitative analysis framework with matrix techniques to compare themes across roles. RESULTS: Four overarching themes captured staff perspectives on integrating M-PE: (Theme 1) Prior Knowledge and Experiences: Most staff were familiar with EMDR, while direct knowledge of PE/M-PE was limited. (Theme 2) Perceptions of M-PE: M-PE was widely viewed as a promising, structured intervention that fits the pacing and duration of SUD care. (Theme 3) Symptom Reduction and Client Impact: Staff anticipated improvements in PTSD and SUD symptoms through trauma-focused treatment. (Theme 4) Barriers and Constraints: Participants identified several potential implementation challenges, including logistical barriers and client readiness. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that staff generally viewed M-PE favourably but emphasised the importance of ensuring client readiness and organisational support. Enhancing feasibility and long-term sustainability may require expanded psychoeducation, targeted provider training and flexible delivery models. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06968832.

Adult↗

PubMed2026

Factors Associated With Menopause Symptoms: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Menopause, marked by hormonal decline and menstrual cessation, is associated with various symptoms. Socio-demographic and behavioural factors may influence symptom type and severity. Understanding these associations can inform better symptom management. OBJECTIVES: To identify factors associated with the presence and severity of menopausal symptoms through systematic review and meta-analysis. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched Medline, Embase, CINAHL and Cochrane for studies on demographic, behavioural, or health factors linked to vasomotor, vaginal dryness and joint symptoms in women aged 40-60. SELECTION CRITERIA: Studies reporting odds ratios or raw numbers for symptom presence or severity were included. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: Studies were combined for meta-analysis, reporting odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Quality assessment was performed to quantify the risk of bias. RESULTS: Of 9228 screened articles, 61 were meta-analysed. Compared with White women, Black women had higher odds of vasomotor symptom presence (OR 1.65, 1.41-1.94) and severity (OR 1.91, 1.10-3.29), and vaginal dryness presence (OR 1.27, 1.10-1.47), while Asian had lower vasomotor symptom presence and severity (OR 0.40, 0.22-0.72; OR 0.55, 0.53-0.56). Higher education (OR 1.31, 1.09-1.56), high income (OR 1.41, 1.01-1.97) and depression (OR 2.36, 1.51-3.70) were associated with increased presence of vasomotor symptoms. Smoking and obesity were associated with both presence (OR 1.63, 1.30-2.04 and 1.35, 1.02-1.78) and severity (OR 1.56, 1.07-2.27 and 1.42, 1.11-1.83) of vasomotor symptoms. CONCLUSION: Socio-demographic and behavioural factors, including ethnicity, education, income, smoking, obesity and depression, influence menopausal symptoms, highlighting the need for personalised care. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO number: CRD42023459154.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Respiratory-onset peripartum cardiomyopathy: a systematic review of diagnostic pitfalls and clinical outcomes.

INTRODUCTION: Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) may initially present with prominent respiratory symptoms that resemble primary pulmonary disease, particularly in late pregnancy and the early postpartum period. In clinical practice, this presentation often triggers alternative diagnostic pathways, introducing delay at a time when rapid cardiac assessment is critical. Although respiratory-dominant presentations are repeatedly described across case-based and observational reports, they have not been systematically examined as a distinct diagnostic pathway within the PPCM literature. CONTENT: This PRISMA-guided systematic review synthesized evidence relating to respiratory-onset presentations of PPCM. Major databases and registers were searched comprehensively. Following screening of 589 records and full-text assessment of 145 reports, 49 studies met inclusion criteria. Twenty studies were qualitatively prioritized for narrative synthesis using ROBIS-informed methodological appraisal. Evidence was examined across diagnostic misclassification patterns, cardiopulmonary mechanisms, differential diagnoses, investigative strategies, and acute and longitudinal management considerations. SUMMARY: Respiratory-led presentations were commonly misattributed to asthma, pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, or perioperative causes, with diagnostic delay frequently reported. Across heterogeneous study designs, cardiogenic pulmonary edema with left-ventricular systolic dysfunction emerged as a recurring unifying mechanism. Early use of echocardiography, natriuretic peptides, and targeted imaging consistently aided differentiation from primary respiratory pathology. Severe clinical deterioration was often described in the context of delayed recognition. OUTLOOK: Respiratory-onset PPCM represents a high-risk diagnostic pathway rather than a discrete disease entity. Prospective registries, standardized diagnostic algorithms, and closer integration of obstetric and cardiopulmonary care are needed to refine early recognition and improve maternal outcomes.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Sleep disturbances in children and adolescents with iron deficiency: Questionnaire-based and actigraphic findings.

OBJECTIVE: Iron deficiency (ID), without or with anemia (IDA), has been linked to restless sleep and sleep-related movement disorders in childhood, but objective correlates are incompletely defined. We aimed to describe caregiver-reported sleep disturbances, restless legs syndrome (RLS) - related symptoms, and actigraphic sleep patterns in children and adolescents with ID/IDA, and to compare these findings with available sleep-asymptomatic control datasets. We finally explored short-term changes after iron supplementation. METHODS: In this single-center pilot observational study, 31 children with ID/IDA underwent baseline clinical/laboratory assessment and caregiver-reported sleep evaluation with the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC) plus RLS-oriented items. Sixteen also completed home actigraphy, and 8 had follow-up after iron treatment prescribed in routine care. Baseline findings were compared with historical healthy control datasets without reported sleep disturbances; iron-status data were not available for the questionnaire control group; within-subject changes were explored in the follow-up subgroup. RESULTS: Compared with healthy controls, the ID/IDA cohort had higher SDSC total scores (43.97 ± 9.63 vs 34.61 ± 7.50; p < 0.001), with significant differences in the subscales difficulty in initiating and maintaining sleep (DIMS), sleep-wake transition disorders (SWTD), and sleep hyperhidrosis (SHY). Ten of 31 screened children (32.25%) had clinically plausible RLS-related symptoms and higher SWTD scores. Actigraphy showed shorter sleep duration, lower sleep efficiency, longer wake after sleep onset, and greater fragmentation. After iron treatment, parent reported restlessness improved, whereas actigraphic parameters showed only partial normalization. CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric ID/IDA was associated with caregiver-reported and actigraphic sleep disruption, characterized by restless and fragmented sleep. These findings support systematic sleep assessment in children with low iron stores and consideration of iron status in the work-up of restless or nonrestorative sleep.

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

Effectiveness and usability of artificial intelligence-powered assistive technologies in Supporting daily activities of children with cerebral palsy: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Cerebral Palsy (CP) is the main cause of motor disabilities in childhood, necessitating innovative approaches to rehabilitation and assistive technology (AT). Simultaneously, artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into devices to create more adaptive, personalized, and effective AT. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and usability of AI-powered assistive technologies designed to support daily activities and rehabilitation in children with CP. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Five databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, and IEEE Xplore, were systematically searched, and 23 articles were included in the final analysis. Articles were identified, selected, and categorized into emerging thematic areas based on the primary function and application of the technology. RESULTS: Five key thematic topics were identified: 1) AI-driven motor rehabilitation and gait training for functional mobility; 2) intelligent assessment and monitoring systems for clinical decision support; 3) AI-supported communication, social interaction, and intention recognition tools; 4) gamified and virtual reality-based interventions to enhance engagement and usability; and 5) smart assistive systems supporting daily living and independent mobility. The findings demonstrate a strong trend toward the application of AI technologies in personalized, engaging, and data-driven interventions for children with CP. However, the field is predominantly in the proof-of-concept stage, with limitations including small sample sizes, lack of long-term clinical validation, challenges in user-centered design, and usability for children with CP. CONCLUSION: AI-powered assistive technologies hold significant potential for transforming the care of children with CP by enabling highly personalized and engaging interventions. To actualize this potential, future work must realize that practical application remains challenging owing to limited clinical validation, technological integration, and usability barriers for children with CP. Future research must prioritize user-centered design and multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure that AI and robotic advancements improve the usability and quality of life for children with CP.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

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↗

PubMed2026

Skin barrier repairing and anti-aging effects evaluation of a comprehensive topical regimen incorporating niacinamide, Pro-Xylane, and panthenol after PicoWay laser: a randomized controlled study.

Pro-Xylane is a potent anti-aging ingredient; however, there is limited knowledge regarding whether a comprehensive post-procedure regimen incorporating a combination of Pro-Xylane, niacinamide, and panthenol alongside other active agents can deliver synergistic benefits for both skin barrier repair and anti-aging. This study assesses the effectiveness of the REGENMEDIC cream (anti-aging cream) and REGENMEDIC serum (anti-aging serum) in promoting skin barrier recovery and enhancing anti-aging effects following PicoWay laser treatment. A 112-day randomized controlled trial was conducted with 88 Chinese females, who were divided into two groups: the test group, using REGENMEDIC cream and Serum following PicoWay laser treatment, and the control group, using standard care regimen consisting of a standard cream. Skin barrier-repairing effects were assessed during the initial 14 days following a single use of REGENMEDIC cream, while skin elasticity, firmness, wrinkles and skin tone were evaluated over the 112-day study period after the combined use of REGENMEDIC cream and Serum. The test group exhibited lower transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and higher hydration after 14 days compared to the control group, along with a more significant reduction in skin redness. After 112-day use of REGENMEDIC cream and serum, test group showed increased skin elasticity and firmness, reduced wrinkles, and an overall improvement in skin tone and texture. Dermatologists reported excellent tolerability, with minimal adverse events. Initial application of the REGENMEDIC cream facilitated rapid skin barrier repair, while the subsequent sequential regimen incorporating the serum yielded significant long-term anti-aging benefits following PicoWay laser treatment. This study demonstrates that targeting multiple physiological pathways-specifically hydration, barrier integrity, and cellular senescence-provides a robust therapeutic option for amplifying the anti-aging outcomes of aesthetic procedures.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Harnessing Endogenous Plasticity Rather than Reprogramming of Mature Cells Will Advance Regenerative Medicine, Cancer Treatment and Rejuvenation.

The successful culture of human embryonic stem (hES) cells from inner cell mass cells of blastocyst stage 'spare' embryos in 1998, followed by induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells in 2006, which allowed somatic cells to be reprogrammed to pluripotency using the Yamanaka factors, transformed regenerative biology and inspired extensive global efforts towards developing pluripotent stem cell-based applications. However, hES and iPS cells, as well as organoids generated from them, largely retain fetal-like characteristics, which limits their relevance for clinical translation. Concurrently, the prevailing assumption published in leading journals that adult tissues lack endogenous stem cells has led to the belief that mature cells dedifferentiate and reprogram during in vivo regeneration upon chronic injury, and that the appearance of embryonic/fetal markers in diabetes, heart failure, cancer, and many other chronic disease states reflects dedifferentiation of mature cells. We suggest that the prevailing concepts of dedifferentiation and reprogramming, both in vitro and in vivo, require careful re-evaluation. Adult somatic cells possibly do not truly dedifferentiate, neither in vitro nor in vivo. Instead, tissue-resident, pluripotent, very small embryonic-like stem cells (VSELs) in multiple organs account for the observed biology. In vitro "reprogramming" responses to Yamanaka factors likely reflect selective activation and expansion of VSELs/early progenitors rather than the dedifferentiation/ reprogramming of mature adult somatic cells. Likewise, the embryonic/fetal-like signatures reported in multiple disease states including cancer reflect expansion of immature tissue-specific progenitors that arise from VSELs but fail to differentiate normally due to a damaged microenvironment in vivo. Therapeutic strategies involving transplantation of MSCs, MUSE cells, or their secreted exosomes improve disease outcomes, possibly by restoring the damaged niche that supports functional tissue repair by VSELs. Although direct evidence to support this is lacking at present, recognising the central role of VSELs/progenitors and their niche in maintaining tissue homeostasis in vivo could resolve existing roadblocks and guide more effective endogenous regenerative therapies for diseased tissues and age-related dysfunctions.

Humans↗