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The Effect of Mindfulness-Based Psychoeducation Program on Mindfulness, Self-Compassion, and Forgiveness Tendencies of Patients with Bipolar Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

This study examined the effects of a mindfulness-based psychoeducation program on mindfulness, self-compassion, and forgiveness in patients with bipolar disorder using a pretest-posttest randomized controlled experimental design. The study sample comprised of 40 patients (experimental group, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;20; control group, n&#x2009;=&#x2009;20). A mindfulness-based psychoeducation program was administered to the experimental group, while no intervention was administered to the control group. Data were collected using a personal information form, the Mindfulness Scale, the Self-Compassion Scale Short Form, and the Heartland Forgiveness Scale. The study revealed that the experimental group's mean scores on the mindfulness, self-compassion, and forgiveness scales following the intervention were significantly higher than those of the control group (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;.05). This study found that a mindfulness-based psychoeducation program increased mindfulness, self-compassion, and forgiveness in patients with bipolar disorder. The findings are limited to a small outpatient sample from a single CMHC and may not be generalizable to hospitalized patients with more severe clinical presentations. Mindfulness-based educational programs may enhance mental health, improve illness insight, support symptom management, and strengthen social functioning in individuals with bipolar disorder. The results emphasize the importance of integrating these programs into treatment processes and reveal the necessity for psychiatric nurses to actively implement mindfulness-based interventions. Psychiatric nurses should consider incorporating mindfulness-based techniques into their practice to improve the mental health of individuals with bipolar disorder, better understand the disorder, control symptoms, and improve social interactions.

Humans

Effects of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KABP051 Probiotic on Body Composition, Microbiome and Mood in Healthy Overweight Adults.

Obesity and mental health disorders are among the greatest public health challenges of the 21st century. Interestingly, an altered microbiome profile has been associated with both conditions. The aim of this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with a specific probiotic strain (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum KABP051) on body composition and gut microbiome balance, together with measures of mood state, in a population of healthy overweight subjects. Sixty healthy, moderately stressed, nondepressed and overweight or obese volunteers were supplemented for 12 weeks with probiotic (L. plantarum KABP051; 1 billion colony forming units/day) or placebo (microcrystalline cellulose). The KABP051 group experienced significantly greater improvements compared with placebo on body composition measurements, including a reduction in body weight and waist circumference, which decreased in 1.97 &#xb1; 0.77 (mean &#xb1; SE) kg and 2.15 &#xb1; 0.81 (mean &#xb1; SE) cm versus placebo at the end of the intervention (both P < .05, mixed model for repeated measures [MMRM] and post-hoc analysis). Microbiome composition improved in KABP051 group, with significant increase in the relative abundance of Lactiplantibacillus spp. versus placebo. Body fat percentage, profile of mood states fatigue, and confusion sub-scores showed a global trend toward improvement compared with placebo, with the change at 12 weeks being significant in the three measurements in post-hoc analysis (P = .015, P = .014, and P = .016, respectively). No serious adverse events were registered during the intervention period. These results suggest that a specific strain of probiotic bacteria (L. plantarum KABP051) may have both metabolic and psychobiotic effects and may be beneficial for enhancing weight loss and body composition, improving energy (less fatigue) and mood levels while embarking on a healthy lifestyle regimen. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06808061.

Humans

A Dynamic Nomogram to Predict Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) involves multiple metabolic disorders. This study aimed to identify high-risk populations for metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) in patients with MetS and to establish a dynamic predictive nomogram. METHODS: A total of 627 patients with MetS from six regions in Zhejiang Province were enrolled and categorized into MAFLD and non-MAFLD groups, then randomly assigned to training and validation sets at a ratio of 7:3. Independent predictors of MAFLD were identified using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression and multivariable logistic regression analyses. These predictors were then used to construct a dynamic nomogram. RESULTS: A total of 627 patients with MetS were included in the final analysis, of whom 77.0% (483/627) were diagnosed with MAFLD. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), total cholesterol (TC), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), MetS-defined dysglycemia, and education level as independent risk factors for MAFLD. MetS-defined dysglycemia showed the highest odds ratio (OR) for MAFLD development [OR = 1.87, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.07-3.29]. Although the number of MetS components and the metabolic syndrome score were significantly associated with MAFLD in univariate analysis, they were not independently associated with MAFLD in the multivariate model. A dynamic nomogram for predicting MAFLD risk in patients with MetS was developed and internally validated. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.834 (95% CI: 0.787-0.880) in the training set and 0.839 (95% CI: 0.771-0.899) in the validation set, indicating strong predictive performance. Bootstrap internal validation demonstrated good agreement between predicted and observed outcomes in calibration curves. Decision curve analysis further indicated favorable clinical applicability of the nomogram. CONCLUSION: BMI, WC, TC, ALT, MetS-defined dysglycemia, and education level are independent risk factors for MAFLD. A dynamic nomogram for predicting MAFLD risk in patients with MetS was successfully developed and validated.

Humans

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&#x2009;=&#x2009;15) or red light placebo (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;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&#x2009;&#xd7;&#x2009;time effect with blue light therapy leading to better Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index scores (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.021). Between-group analyses showed that at two weeks a trend toward significance was observed (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.065), while sleep quality significantly improved at five weeks compared to placebo (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.029) with a large effect size (0.896). Excessive sleepiness improved in the blue light group (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001), with a reduction in clinically relevant sleepiness from 50.0% to 6.7% (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;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

Infant Dietary Patterns and Early Childhood Weight Outcomes: A Secondary Analysis from the Starting Early Program Trial.

BACKGROUND: The Starting Early Program (StEP) promotes healthy nutrition during early life and leads to healthier child weight, but whether dietary patterns contribute to weight or mediate StEP weight outcomes has not been studied. OBJECTIVES: This secondary analysis identified infant dietary patterns in StEP, determined associations between dietary patterns and child weight outcomes, and examined whether dietary patterns mediated the relationship between StEP and child weight. METHODS: Data were from 377 mother-infant dyads in a randomized trial testing the efficacy of StEP. Dietary patterns at 10 months were identified using latent class analysis. Child weights were abstracted from medical records at 12, 24, and 36 months. Associations between infant dietary patterns and weight-for-age z-score (WFAz) and likelihood of being classified as overweight (WFA &#x2265;85th percentile) were assessed using linear and logistic multivariable regression models. Mediation was used to assess intervention effects on WFAz via impacts on infant dietary patterns. RESULTS: Four classes of infant dietary patterns were identified: Breastfed-High variety, Formula fed-High variety, Formula fed-Low variety, and Mixed fed-Low variety. Compared to the Breastfed-High variety class, infants in the Formula fed-Low variety class had higher WFAz and were more likely to be classified as overweight at 24 and 36 months. Participation in StEP increased membership in Breastfed-High variety, which mediated the association between StEP and lower WFAz at 24 months. CONCLUSIONS: Infant dietary patterns were identified, and some were associated with child overweight. StEP was associated with a dietary pattern most consistent with guidelines, which mediated intervention effects on child weight.

Humans

The Effect of Game-Based Virtual Reality Rehabilitation and Its Impact on Upper Extremity Function After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair (ARCR) often results in prolonged recovery and limited shoulder function. Conventional physical therapy rehabilitation programs require sustained patient engagement; however, adherence is frequently low. Game-based virtual reality (VR) offers an interactive and engaging environment that may enhance rehabilitation outcomes. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of a game-based VR program on the function of the upper limb in patients following ARCR. METHODS: A randomized controlled trial was conducted with patients who underwent ARCR. Participants were randomized into two groups: game-based VR or conventional rehabilitation. Outcomes were evaluated using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, pain severity by the Numerical Pain Rating Scale, range of motion measures, and muscle strength testing. Assessments were performed at baseline and at 6 weeks and 12 weeks post surgery. RESULTS: Results have shown significant within-group improvements in pain, function, range of motion, and isometric muscle strength across all time points (P < 0.05). Between-group analysis revealed greater improvements in pain, function, flexion range, and abduction and external rotation strength in the experimental group at both time points (P < 0.05). Abduction range improved significantly only at 12 weeks (P = 0.02), whereas external rotation range showed no significant difference between groups at either time point (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: The findings indicate that integrating game-based VR rehabilitation provides additional benefits over conventional therapy in improving pain and upper extremity function following ARCR. These findings support the use of VR as an effective alternative to the conventional rehabilitation for postoperative rehabilitation.

Humans

Impact of Chewing Behavior Change on Cognition and Cerebral Hemodynamics.

BACKGROUND: Impaired chewing ability is a recognized risk factor for cognitive decline in older adults, potentially due to reduced neural stimulation in cognition-related brain regions. While short-term studies have demonstrated transient increases in neural activity from chewing, the sustained cognitive and neurophysiological effects of encouraging thorough chewing habits in daily life remain unclear. OBJECTIVE: This randomized controlled trial investigated whether promoting thorough chewing during meals could improve cognitive function and cerebral hemodynamics in older adults. METHODS: Fifty participants aged 65 y or older were randomly assigned to either a 1-mo intervention group, which used a wearable device to monitor and increase chewing strokes during meals, or a control group that maintained usual chewing habits. Chewing behavior, cognitive performance (including memory and executive function via the color Stroop test), and cerebral hemodynamics in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) were measured at baseline and after 1 mo. Statistical analyses included t tests, chi-square tests, 2-way analysis of variance with post hoc tests, Pearson correlations, and generalized linear models to evaluate group differences and associations between chewing and cognitive outcomes. RESULTS: Significant time-by-group interactions were observed for memory, F(1, 48) = 6.24, P = 0.043, and hemodynamic responses in the left DLPFC, F(1, 48) = 6.19, P = 0.013. The intervention group showed increased chewing frequency (P = 0.017), improved memory performance, and reduced left DLPFC responses compared with controls. Chewing frequency was positively correlated with Stroop test scores (r = 0.53, P = 0.010) and negatively with hemodynamic changes in the left DLPFC (r = -0.30, P = 0.040). Although improvements in other cognitive outcomes and hemodynamic measures favored the intervention group, these differences did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS: Promoting intentional chewing habits for 1 mo may enhance memory-related cognitive performance and neural efficiency in the DLPFC during working memory tasks in older adults. This nonpharmacologic, low-burden strategy warrants further research with longer interventions to support cognitive health and dementia prevention. TRIAL REGISTRATION ID: UMIN000044280Knowledge Transfer Statement:This study demonstrates that promoting thorough chewing habits in older adults can improve memory and enhance neural efficiency in the brain. Encouraging intentional mastication is a simple, nonpharmacologic approach that may help maintain cognitive health and prevent dementia, providing a practical strategy for clinicians and policymakers to support healthy aging.

Humans

Systematic Review on the Effectiveness of Photobiomodulation Therapy on Enhancing Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation Outcomes after Total Knee and Hip Arthroplasty.

BACKGROUND: Total knee and hip arthroplasty (TKA/THA) effectively alleviate chronic pain and improve joint function and quality of life. However, postoperative recovery is often hindered by pain, edema, restricted range of motion (ROM), and muscle weakness, necessitating structured physical rehabilitation. Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT) has been proposed as an adjunct modality to enhance rehabilitation outcomes. This systematic review evaluates the efficacy of PBMT in reducing postoperative pain and edema as well as improving ROM and functional performance compared with placebo or standard physical therapy in post-arthroplasty patients. METHODS: A systematic search of PubMed, ProQuest, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar was conducted from inception to May 31, 2025. Only prospective controlled trials assessing PBMT effects on postoperative pain, swelling, ROM, or functional performance following TKA or THA were included. Case reports, uncontrolled studies, and trials focusing on unrelated outcomes were excluded. Article selection involved title, abstract, and full-text screening, with additional studies identified through reference lists. The review is registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251123169). RESULTS: Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs; n = 133 participants) met the inclusion criteria, three studies focused on TKA, and one study examined THA. PBMT significantly improved postoperative pain and edema reduction in three trials, while two studies demonstrated enhanced ROM and functional outcomes compared with control or placebo interventions. PEDro scores ranged from 8 to 10, indicating moderate-to-high methodological quality. CONCLUSIONS: PBMT shows promising short-term benefits in reducing postoperative pain and swelling and improving functional performance after knee or hip arthroplasty. However, due to heterogeneity in treatment parameters and limited high-quality trials, conclusive evidence remains insufficient. Future large-scale RCTs with standardized PBMT parameters and extended follow-up are warranted to confirm its clinical efficacy.

Humans

Selective Neurectomy Outcomes in Synkinesis Patients: The First 56 Consecutive Primary Cases with Minimum 1-Year Follow-Up.

INTRODUCTION: Evaluation of 1-year follow-up outcomes after selective neurectomy (SN) is essential to confirm sustained improvements in patient-reported, clinician-graded, and objective results. OBJECTIVE: To assess outcomes of SN in synkinesis, using patient-reported outcomes (VAS), clinician-graded assessments (eFACE), and objective evaluations. METHODS: Synkinesis patients who underwent SN were included in the study. Patients with less than 12 months of follow-up were excluded. Visual analog scale (VAS) was assessed as patient-reported outcomes. The Electronic Clinician-Graded Facial Function Scale (eFACE) was also assessed. Objective evaluations were carried out via Emotrics Software. RESULTS: Fifty-six primary cases were included, with a mean patient age at surgery of 33.8&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;11.0 years. Of these, 45 patients (80.3%) were female. The average duration between paralysis and surgery was 124.3&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;103.3 months. The mean duration between surgery and evaluation was 19.7&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;7.5 months (mean/SD). Preoperative and postoperative mean aggregate VAS scores were 35.5&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;19.8 and 67.7&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;16.5, respectively (p < 0.001). However, two patients (3.7%) reported worsening in moving food around in the mouth, and four patients (7.5%) reported worsening in drooling. All postoperative eFACE subscores except periocular demonstrated significant improvement (p < 0.001). Emotrics analysis demonstrated improvement in all postoperative symmetry parameters, except in the periocular region. CONCLUSIONS: SN improves patient-reported outcomes, clinician-graded assessments, and objective measurements. However, periocular outcomes remain suboptimal, and functional deficits should be carefully considered.

Humans

Visualizing the future: impact of holographic visualization on teaching minimally invasive veneer preparation: a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Minimally invasive veneer preparation in prosthodontic education requires advanced spatial understanding and psychomotor precision. Although immersive technologies are increasingly used in dental education, evidence regarding the educational effectiveness of holographic visualization in prosthodontics remains limited. This randomized controlled trial evaluated the impact of holographic visualization on preparation quality and student-reported educational outcomes during preclinical training in minimally invasive veneer preparation. METHODS: Sixty undergraduate dental students were randomly assigned to receive either conventional two-dimensional photographic visualization (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;30) or holographic three-dimensional visualization (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;30). Following a standardized calibration session and baseline preparation, participants performed a second veneer preparation after exposure to the assigned visualization modality. Preparations were independently assessed by two blinded evaluators using a predefined scoring rubric. Within-group changes were analysed using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and between-group differences were assessed using analysis of covariance adjusted for baseline performance. Student-reported outcomes were compared using Mann-Whitney U tests with false discovery rate correction. RESULTS: Both groups showed significant improvements in preparation quality from baseline to post-intervention (both p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). However, no significant between-group differences were observed (adjusted mean difference: 0.60 points; 95% confidence interval: -0.48 to 1.67; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.269). Overall student-reported outcomes were comparable between groups. Spatial understanding showed the largest between-group effect in favour of holographic visualization, although this difference was not significant after correction for multiple comparisons. Holographic visualization was highly accepted by students, and 70% supported its future integration into dental education. CONCLUSIONS: Although holographic visualization did not significantly improve immediate preparation quality compared with conventional two-dimensional photographs, it was highly accepted by students and showed the largest observed effect for perceived spatial understanding. These findings suggest that holographic visualization may primarily support spatial understanding and represent a valuable adjunct for teaching complex three-dimensional concepts in preclinical prosthodontic education. TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), DRKS00040713, prospectively registered on 22 June 2026.

Humans

Process evaluation of a nurse-led transitional care model (Cardiolotse) within a randomized controlled trial aiming to improve care coordination for patients with cardiovascular diseases in Germany.

BACKGROUND: Patients with higher age suffering from cardiovascular disease discharged from hospital are at greater risk of readmission within 30&#x2009;days. We evaluated an innovative care program providing post-discharge support and helping patients to navigate through the healthcare system. This paper reports the findings of the process evaluation of the randomized controlled trial Cardiolotse, a nurse-led transitional care model improving care coordination for patients with cardiovascular diseases in Germany. METHODS: A process evaluation, following the guidelines of the Medical Research Council (MRC) Framework, was performed. Semi-structured interviews with all relevant target groups were conducted to gain more insight about implementation processes. Questionnaires and medical records were used to explore mechanisms of impact and understand how change was produced in the intervention. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis with deductive and inductive categories. Descriptive statistics and subgroup analyses were utilized to explore quantitative data. RESULTS: Overall, the designed training programme was perceived positively by the study nurses, so called Cardiolotsen (CLs). Patients receiving support by the CLs reported positive satisfaction ratings. Interactions between CLs and patients were reported as trustworthy and reliable. A total of approximately 12,500 contacts were made over the course of the intervention. However, changes in satisfaction scores between intervention and control groups in terms of medical treatment or the interaction between medical health providers involved in the treatment could not be determined. Furthermore, data suggested reach issues with respect to office-based physicians, as regular CL contact could not be achieved with 90% of the participating general practitioners and cardiologists. CONCLUSIONS: The CLs served as an important source of support for the participating patients throughout the intervention. At regular intervals, they checked a patient's health status and their adherence to therapies after discharge. However, the process evaluation identified cross-sectoral communication and information exchange between CLs and office-based physicians as an implementation challenge. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was retrospectively registered at German Clinical Trial Register, http://www.drks.de/DRKS00020424 (Trial Registration Number DRKS00020424) on 18 June 2020.

Humans

Effects of different training modalities on lower-limb explosive power, acceleration, 20-m sprint performance, and change-of-direction ability in youth soccer players: a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Youth soccer players repeatedly perform explosive actions, short accelerations, linear sprints, decelerations, and multidirectional movements. However, the comparative effects of different structured physical-conditioning programmes remain uncertain. METHODS: Seven databases were searched from inception to 3 July 2026 using a final expanded search strategy encompassing plyometric, strength or resistance, sprint, acceleration, speed, change-of-direction, neuromuscular, multicomponent, and combined training. Randomised controlled trials involving healthy youth soccer players were eligible. Intervention arms were classified using operational, content-based node definitions. Construct-restricted primary networks and expanded sensitivity networks were analysed using frequentist random-effects network meta-analysis. Hedges' adjusted g was preferentially calculated from post-intervention or final-follow-up means, standard deviations, and sample sizes. Estimates were presented so that positive values indicated better performance. P-scores were treated as descriptive ranking summaries. Risk of bias was assessed using an adapted study-level application of the five-domain RoB 2 framework, and confidence in the evidence was assessed using CINeMA. A post hoc strict-age sensitivity analysis excluded two age-boundary studies. RESULTS: Eighty-nine studies were included in the expanded quantitative analysis, of which 74 contributed to at least one construct-restricted primary network. The primary lower-limb explosive-power, acceleration, 20-m sprint, and planned change-of-direction networks included 55, 20, 25, and 38 studies, respectively. Compared with usual soccer training, plyometric training combined with sprint and/or change-of-direction training showed favourable estimates for lower-limb explosive power (SMD 0.79, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.03), acceleration (1.19, 0.90 to 1.49), 20-m sprint performance (0.80, 0.33 to 1.28), and planned change-of-direction ability (1.46, 1.13 to 1.80). Corresponding I&#xb2; values were 34.6%, 21.8%, 65.0%, and 41.0%. Between-design inconsistency was detected in the 20-m sprint (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.0036) and change-of-direction (P&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.0007) networks. CINeMA confidence for these four comparisons was low, low, very low, and low, respectively. Expanded sensitivity networks showed substantially greater heterogeneity. The highest-ranked intervention differed across outcome domains but remained consistent within each outcome across the three analysis sets. Excluding the two age-boundary studies did not materially alter the principal estimates. CONCLUSIONS: Plyometric training combined with sprint and/or planned change-of-direction training produced favourable comparative estimates across the four performance outcomes. However, evidence for several nodes and active-versus-active comparisons was sparse, heterogeneity in programmes and outcomes was present, inconsistency was detected in some networks, and confidence in the evidence was low or very low. These limitations do not support a conclusion that any training category is universally superior. The findings should be interpreted as provisional category-level signals rather than definitive training prescriptions. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD420261347297, registered on 21 March 2026, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420261347297 .

Change-of-direction ability

Magrolimab Plus Azacitidine Versus Placebo Plus Azacitidine in Patients With Untreated Higher-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndromes: The Phase III ENHANCE Study.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the cluster of differentiation 47-targeted antibody magrolimab plus azacitidine (Magro/Aza) versus azacitidine alone in treatment-na&#xef;ve patients with higher-risk myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) in the phase III ENHANCE study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04313881). METHODS: Based on the Revised International Prognostic Scoring System, patients with intermediate- to very-high-risk MDS were randomly assigned to receive Magro (1 mg/kg on days [D]1 and 4; 15 mg/kg on D8; 30 mg/kg on D11 and D15, and then once per week for five doses, followed by 30 mg/kg maintenance doses once every 2 weeks)/Aza (75 mg/m2 daily on D1-7 or on D1-5 and 8-9 in 28-day cycles) or matched placebo plus azacitidine (Placebo/Aza). Dual primary end points were complete remission (CR) rate (per 2006 International Working Group criteria) and overall survival (OS). RESULTS: At final analysis, 539 patients were randomly assigned to Magro/Aza (n = 268) or Placebo/Aza (n = 271) arms. Baseline characteristics were generally well balanced between treatment arms. In the Magro/Aza versus Placebo/Aza arms, the CR rate was 21.3% versus 23.6% (odds ratio, 0.876 [95% CI, 0.585 to 1.312]; P = .5218), and median OS was 15.9 versus 18.6 months (hazard ratio, 1.203 [95% CI, 0.947 to 1.528]; P = .1299). Magro/Aza had a higher incidence of grade &#x2265;3 adverse events (AEs; 92.8% v 79.2%), AE-associated study drug discontinuations (24.0% v 12.1%), serious AEs (71.9% v 51.5%), and fatal AEs (15.2% v 9.8%) versus Placebo/Aza. CONCLUSION: ENHANCE did not meet the primary end points of CR rate and OS, and showed more frequent severe AEs in patients treated in the Magro/Aza arm.

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

Extending the Treatment Window for Intravenous Thrombolysis in Acute Ischemic Stroke: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Intravenous thrombolysis (IVT) is the standard treatment for acute ischemic stroke within 4.5 hours of onset. However, imaging-based selection may extend the treatment window. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of IVT administered beyond 4.5 hours after stroke onset or last known well (LKW) in patients selected based on imaging findings. METHODS: A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library was performed to identify randomized controlled trials comparing IVT with alteplase or tenecteplase (TNK) administered >4.5 hours after stroke onset/LKW vs standard care. Primary outcomes were 3-month excellent (modified Rankin Scale [mRS] 0-1) functional outcome and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). Secondary outcomes included good (mRS 0-2) functional outcome, recanalization, and 3-month mortality. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random-effects models. Subgroup analysis assessed differences between alteplase and TNK. RESULTS: Fourteen studies involving 4,944 patients were included. The mean age was 69.8 years, 58.2% were male, the median National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score was 9, and 12.3% received preplanned endovascular thrombectomy (EVT). A total of 2,492 patients received IVT in an extended time window (4.5-24 hours). Compared with standard care, extended IVT was associated with higher odds of achieving an excellent functional outcome (OR: 1.43 [95% CI 1.25-1.63]), a good functional outcome (OR: 1.25 [95% CI 1.11-1.40]), and recanalization (OR: 3.28 [95% CI 2.09-5.16]). There was no difference in 3-month mortality (OR: 1.21 [95% CI 0.95-1.53]). However, IVT increased the risk of sICH (OR: 2.51 [95% CI 1.47-4.28]). Sensitivity analysis excluding patients who received EVT showed no impact on the outcomes. TNK exhibited similar efficacy to alteplase but showed potentially lower odds of sICH (OR: 1.96, 95% CI 1.06-3.64) compared with alteplase (OR: 5.29, 95% CI 1.80-15.57); however, the subgroup difference was not significant (p = 0.11). DISCUSSION: Among patients selected based on imaging, 4.5-24 hours after stroke onset/LKW, IVT improves outcomes despite an increased risk of sICH. TNK showed similar efficacy to alteplase, with a possible lower risk of sICH; however, direct comparisons in future trials are needed.

Humans

Epilepsy Is Part of the CNS Phenotype in Classic Infantile Pompe Disease.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Enzyme replacement therapy has not only significantly improved motor outcome and survival in patients with classic infantile Pompe disease, but also revealed previously unrecognized central nervous system (CNS) involvement. In this international study, involving patients from the Netherlands, Italy, Argentina, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Taiwan, we investigated whether epilepsy should be considered part of the CNS phenotype. METHODS: We included patients with classic infantile Pompe disease, defined by the presence of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, symptom onset < 6 months of age, complete acid &#x3b1;-glucosidase (GAA) deficiency, and/or 2 severe variants in the GAA gene, who developed epilepsy. Data on epilepsy characteristics, electroencephalogram (EEG), cognitive testing, serum neurofilament light chain (NfL), and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were retrospectively collected. RESULTS: Seventeen patients from 10 centers were identified. The median follow-up duration was 13.7 years (range 3.3-19). Seven patients had deceased at the time of analysis. The median age at first seizure was 11.5 years (range 2.5-17.5). Seizure semiology was variable: six patients experienced generalized tonic-clonic seizures and 3 focal seizures with impaired consciousness only; 6 had multiple seizure types, and 7 experienced seizures during fever or infection. Seizure frequency varied considerably (in 9 occasionally, 5 monthly, 2 weekly, 1 daily). The most common EEG findings were a slowed background activity and focal epileptiform discharges, not substantially activated by sleep. Levetiracetam was most frequently used as antiseizure medication. Overall, 70% of patients became seizure-free. Serum NfL was elevated in all 6 patients in whom it was measured, and 8 of 10 patients had an intelligence quotient &#x2264;66 at onset of epilepsy. Although brain MRI was not always performed at the age of first seizure, 14 of 15 patients showed white matter abnormalities, which were extensive in 11 of 14 (score &#x2265;7/12). Brain atrophy was present in 9 cases and calcifications in 4. DISCUSSION: Our findings suggest a potential increased frequency of seizures in classic infantile Pompe disease in comparison with unaffected children, occurring predominantly after the age of 7, and that epilepsy is part of the CNS phenotype. The risk of seizures should be evaluated during follow-up in long-term survivors with classic infantile Pompe disease.

Journal Article

HSK21542 for Postoperative Analgesia in Gynecological Surgery: A Pooled Post-Hoc Analysis of Two Phase III Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Effective postoperative pain management in gynecological surgery is challenging because of complex visceral-somatic pain interactions and the adverse effects of conventional analgesics. HSK21542, a novel peripherally restricted kappa-opioid receptor (KOR) agonist that selectively targets visceral pain pathways enriched with KORs, may provide adequate analgesia without systemic adverse events. METHODS: We conducted a pooled post-hoc analysis of data from two phase III, multicenter, triple-blinded, randomized controlled trials (Study 301, HSK21542 vs placebo; Study 303, HSK21542 vs tramadol vs placebo). Eligible patients undergoing elective gynecological surgery were included. The primary outcome was the summed pain-intensity difference over 12 and 24 hours (SPID 12h and SPID 24h ). Secondary outcomes were pain-relief quality (proportion of patients relieved from severe pain with a pain numerical rating score &#x2264; 3 between 0 and 24 hours) and rescue-analgesic requirements (number of doses and time to first rescue analgesic). Adverse events were also assessed. RESULTS: A total of 370 patients were analyzed: 150 received HSK21542, 139 received a placebo, and 81 received tramadol. After inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) adjustment, baseline characteristics were well-balanced across treatment groups (all standardized mean differences [SMD] <0.1; see Table 1 for 95% CIs). HSK21542 produced greater reductions in pain intensity over 12 and 24 hours than placebo (least-squares mean differences -8.1 and -16.3 for SPID 12h and SPID 24h , respectively. Both P < .001) and no statistically significant difference was observed between HSK21542 and tramadol ( P > .05). Significantly more patients in the HSK21542 group were relieved from severe pain at 0 to 12 hours (92.7% vs 82.7%, P < .001) and required fewer rescue doses at 0 to 12 hours (0.00 [IQR 0.00-1.00] vs 1.00 [IQR 0.00-2.00], P < .001) and 0 to 24 hours (0.00 [IQR 0.00-1.00] vs 1.00 [IQR 0.00-2.00], P < .001) than those in the placebo group, whereas no significant differences with tramadol both in 0 to 12 and 0 to 24 hours. HSK21542 was also associated with significantly lower incidences of nausea (24.7% vs 66.7%) and vomiting (21.3% vs 60.5%) than tramadol. Only one case of dizziness occurred in the tramadol group. CONCLUSIONS: HSK21542 could provide adequate postoperative analgesia with few adverse events in patients undergoing gynecological surgery.

Humans

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

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

Humans