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Diet and sleep among college student populations: a systematic review.

College students are at-risk for both poor diet and poor sleep. We aimed to systematically review the evidence regarding associations between diet and sleep health within this population. A comprehensive electronic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO from the earliest possible date through February 6, 2026. A total of 57 studies representing 44 countries were retained; most were cross-sectional. There were 22 studies that examined dietary patterns in relation to sleep, generally showing that healthier diet patterns, including the Mediterranean Diet, were related to better sleep quality. Among 20 studies that examined individual foods or nutrients, there was evidence that fruits, vegetables, dairy, protein, and lower intake of sugar-sweetened beverages were linked to better sleep health, although some findings were mixed. Finally, 15 studies related meal timing to sleep quality, showing that breakfast skipping and later last meals were associated with poor sleep health. Overall, these studies reveal robust cross-sectional associations between diet and sleep among college students, but more longitudinal studies and randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate directionality. Moreover, a key direction for future study is consideration of sleep and nutrition situated within the unique contexts of college settings and academic schedules.

Humans

A flipped classroom approach compared with low-interactive online learning for pediatric pain management knowledge and instructional motivation in nursing students: A randomized controlled study.

AIM: This study aimed to compare a flipped classroom approach with low-interactive online learning in terms of nursing students' questionnaire-assessed pediatric pain management knowledge and instructional motivation. BACKGROUND: Pain management in children is a critical and multidimensional nursing responsibility. However, limited curricular time and opportunities for applied learning may restrict nursing students' preparedness in this area. Structured and interactive instructional formats, such as the flipped classroom, may support knowledge acquisition and motivation in pediatric nursing education. METHODS: This study employed a parallel-group randomized controlled trial design with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Eighty-eight third-year prelicensure nursing students were randomized to either the flipped classroom group (n = 44) or the low-interactive online learning group (n = 44). Due to attrition (2 intervention, 2 control), analyses included 42 participants per group (n = 84 in total). Data were collected between February and July 2022 using the Pediatric Pain Management Knowledge Scale for Nursing Students and the Instructional Materials Motivation Survey. This study was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (Identifier: NCT07129044). RESULTS: At baseline, the groups were comparable in terms of knowledge and learning motivation. Following the intervention, the flipped classroom group demonstrated greater improvements in questionnaire-assessed pediatric pain management knowledge and instructional motivation than the low-interactive online learning group. Although scores declined from post-test to the three-month follow-up, they remained above baseline in the flipped classroom group. CONCLUSIONS: Within the context of this course, the flipped classroom approach was associated with greater improvement in questionnaire-assessed pediatric pain management knowledge and instructional motivation than low-interactive online learning. The findings should be interpreted as proximal educational outcomes rather than evidence of improved clinical competence or durable long-term effectiveness. Further studies using objective performance-based outcomes and longer follow-up periods are needed.

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 = 107). RESULTS: A total of 112 children were included in the analysis (Abu Dhabi cohort, n = 35; Stockholm cohort, n = 77). The adjusted mean change in BMI z-score was - 0.20 (95% CI: - 0.28, - 0.12) in the Abu Dhabi cohort and - 0.20 (- 0.26, - 0.14) in the Stockholm cohort (p = 0.88). Non-inferiority was confirmed, (predefined margin 0.10 was not exceeded). A clinically significant BMI z-score reduction (≥ 0.20 units) was achieved by 45.7% of participants in Abu Dhabi and 36.4% in Stockholm (p = 0.35). Non-retention rates at 26 weeks were 41.7% vs. 28.0%, respectively (p = 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

Worldwide prevalence of haemorrhoids: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Haemorrhoidal disease (HD) is one of the most common anorectal disorders globally, significantly impacting individuals' quality of life and productivity. Despite its importance, global prevalence remains unclear due to limited population-specific studies. This study aimed to systematically assess the global prevalence of HD through a systematic review and meta-analysis. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis by searching PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar up to March 31, 2025, without language restrictions. Studies reporting prevalence of haemorrhoids in general, clinical, or high-risk populations were included. Exclusion criteria comprised studies lacking total sample size, focusing on other anorectal conditions, or using duplicate or insufficient data. Four independent reviewers extracted and appraised study quality using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. The primary outcome was pooled point prevalence of HD, analyzed using a random-effects model with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251045600). RESULTS: From 6,312 records, 150 studies (210 datasets) comprising 8,960,338 individuals were included. The global pooled point prevalence was 25.92% (95% CI: 22.62-29.22). Lifetime prevalence was 27.19% (95% CI: 14.77-39.60), and one-year prevalence was 21.65% (95% CI: 14.33-28.97). Prevalence was higher in women (27.33%, 95% CI: 21.84-32.82) than in men, and highest in the African region 28.07% (95% CI: 15.34-40.79). Invasive diagnostic methods (28.05%, 95% CI: 23.86-32.26) yielded higher prevalence estimates than non-invasive methods. Also, factors showing associations with HD in unadjusted analyses include older age, obesity, pregnancy, diabetes, family history, constipation, and hypertension. CONCLUSION: HD remains a prevalent condition globally, with minor variation across regions. The burden is consistent regardless of socioeconomic context. Diagnostic method and population characteristics influence prevalence estimates. These findings underscore the importance of targeted prevention and early intervention strategies, especially for at-risk groups.

Humans

Disparities in guideline-adherent cardiovascular preventive care for people with diabetes: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Clinical practice guidelines offer guidance on delaying the progression of cardiovascular disease in people living with diabetes. We sought to determine whether guideline-recommended cardiovascular preventive care for people living with diabetes differs according to sociodemographic indicators, globally. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review of studies that compared the sociodemographic characteristics of people diagnosed with type 1 or 2 diabetes who received cardiovascular preventive care as recommended by guidelines to those who did not. Sociodemographic predictors were defined by PROGRESS+ (an equity framework). We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and APA PsychInfo from 2010 to January 21, 2026. Studies were screened independently by two people. One person assessed the risk of bias and extracted data, and another verified. We pooled results using a random-effects model and assessed the certainty of evidence using GRADE. RESULTS: Twenty-five studies were included. Meta-analyses showed female, Black, and Hispanic individuals had slightly lower odds of receiving guideline-recommended prescriptions for lipid-lowering medication compared to Male, and White individuals, respectively (OR:0.89, 95%CI:0.79,1.00, moderate certainty; OR:0.78, 95%CI:0.74,0.81, high certainty; OR:0.86, 95%CI:0.59,1.26, low certainty). Individuals aged 18-45 years had moderately lower odds (OR:0.33, 95%CI:0.19,0.57, moderate certainty), no observed association for Asian individuals. Asian individuals had moderately lower odds of antihypertensive medication prescription (OR:0.42, 95%CI:0.38,0.46, high certainty). Evidence suggests likely no association between HbA1c testing and sex/gender or between sex/gender and lipid panel testing. CONCLUSIONS: Some disparities in guideline-recommended cardiovascular preventive care among people living with diabetes were found. These results are consistent with previous reviews and highlight the need to ensure guidelines consider equity and with improved dissemination.

Humans

Effectiveness of tobacco cessation interventions delivered in clinical settings in South Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Despite the burden of tobacco use, access to cessation support in South Asia remains scarce. OBJECTIVE: This review evaluates the effectiveness of tobacco cessation interventions delivered in clinical settings in South Asia. METHODS: Five relevant databases were searched from inception to February 2025. Eligibility criteria included randomized and non-randomized studies evaluating behavioral, pharmacotherapy, and multicomponent interventions delivered in clinical settings in South Asia. Data on study setting and design, participant information, intervention, comparator, and outcomes were extracted. Meta-analyses using random-effect models were conducted where possible. Certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE. RESULTS: Thirty-seven studies were included (22 randomized and 15 non-randomized). Interventions involved pharmacotherapy (n = 6; 16.2%), nicotine replacement therapy (n = 7; 18.9%), behavioral counseling (n = 12; 32.4%), or combined/multicomponent interventions (n = 12; 32.4%). Most studies were conducted in India (n = 26; 70.3%), followed by Pakistan (n = 6; 16.2%), Nepal (n = 3; 8.1%), and two studies (5.4%) were multi-country in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Pooled analyses demonstrated higher quit rates among intervention versus control for continuous abstinence at 0-3 months (RR: 1.21, 95%CI: 1.06 to 1.37) and >3 months (RR: 1.68, 95%CI: 1.1.4 to 2.47), and for point abstinence at >3 months post-intervention (RR: 2.03, 95%CI:1.35 to 3.08). Heterogeneity was high for all analyses (I2 range: 94% to 97%). Combined behavioral and pharmacotherapy interventions were most effective (RR: 1.70, 95%CI: 0.98 to 2.92), although not statistically significant (p = 0.06). CONCLUSION: Tobacco cessation interventions delivered in clinical settings in South Asia are effective, particularly when combining behavioral support with pharmacotherapy. However, evidence is limited by methodological weaknesses.

Humans

Short-term aerobic exercise as an adjunct treatment for depression in acute geriatric psychiatry: Results of a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: This randomized controlled trial examined whether short-term aerobic exercise provided additional clinical benefit over an active control in older inpatients with depression in geriatric psychiatry. METHODS: 100 patients (mean age 76&#xa0;years) were randomized to 2-week supervised aerobic ergometer training (intervention group, IG) or a flexibility program (control group, CG), both delivered in addition to treatment as usual (TAU). Adherence, training exposure and adverse events were recorded to assess feasibility. The primary outcome was clinical improvement measured with the Clinical Global Impression of Change (CGI). Secondary outcomes included depressive symptom severity assessed by the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) and clinician-rated Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAMD), physical activity, 6-min walk test (6MWT) performance, and fluoxetine-equivalent antidepressant dose (FLX). RESULTS: Thirty-nine participants attended at least 80% of sessions, with lower adherence in the IG. Weekly training duration differed between groups (74.0&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;31.9 vs. 95.0&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;25.3&#xa0;min/week, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;.003). CGI did not differ between groups (IG: MD -0.31, 95% CI -0.67 to 0.05; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;.069). Depressive symptom severity decreased over time in both groups (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;.001), without significant between-group differences for HAMD (MD -0.22, 95% CI -2.55 to 2.12) or BDI-II (MD -0.62, 95% CI -3.68 to 2.45). 6MWT and FLX increased over time (both p&#xa0;<&#xa0;.001), without group differences (6MWT: MD -1.08&#xa0;m, 95% CI -20.04 to 17.89; FLX: MD 5.69&#xa0;mg/day, 95% CI -2.40 to 13.77). CONCLUSION: Short-term aerobic exercise was deliverable, but showed no additional clinical benefit over low-intensity flexibility during TAU. Further research should determine dose, duration and adherence for clinically relevant effects.

Humans

Psychological Capital and Perceived Stress in Nurses: The Mediating Role of Need for Recovery and Recovery Experiences.

AIM: To examine whether recovery experiences and need for recovery mediate the association between psychological capital and perceived stress in nurses. DESIGN: Cross-sectional online survey. METHODS: A total of 184 nurses currently practicing in France completed an anonymous online questionnaire administered in January 2023. Participants completed the French versions of the Psychological Capital Questionnaire, the Recovery Experience Scale, the Need for Recovery Scale, and the Perceived Stress Scale. Two mediation models were estimated using ordinary least squares regression with percentile bootstrap inference for the indirect effects. RESULTS: Psychological capital was positively associated with recovery experiences and negatively associated with need for recovery. Need for recovery was strongly and positively associated with perceived stress, while psychological capital showed no direct association with perceived stress. The indirect effect of psychological capital on perceived stress through need for recovery was statistically detectable, whereas a complementary indirect effect through recovery experiences was in the expected direction but did not meet the bootstrap criterion for statistical significance. CONCLUSION: In this cross-sectional sample, psychological capital was associated with lower perceived stress primarily through its association with reduced need for recovery rather than through a direct association with stress. Interventions intended to protect nurse well-being should therefore be conceived as combining individual resource-building with organizational architectures that enable effective recovery. IMPLICATION FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Psychological capital should be seen as one element in integrated interventions rather than a stand-alone solution to nursing stress. Brief recovery-focused interventions for nurses need to be combined with scheduling practices and organizational policies that protect rest and make recovery feasible, a configuration that appears more promising than psychological capital training alone. REPORTING METHOD: The study followed the STROBE Statement for the reporting of cross-sectional studies. NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: This study focused on nurses as study participants. No patient or public stakeholder was involved in the design, conduct, or interpretation of the research, since the research question concerns occupational psychological resources rather than clinical practice or care delivery.

Humans

Global epidemiology of diabetes and prediabetes in lean or non-obese patients with NAFLD: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: The presence of diabetes increases the risk of adverse outcomes of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) even in those with lean or non-obese NAFLD. However, the epidemiological data regarding the prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes in lean or non-obese NAFLD populations remain limited. We assessed the global epidemiology of diabetes and prediabetes in lean or non-obese patients with NAFLD. METHODS: Published studies were searched in PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases from the inception of the databases to October 2024. The pooled global prevalence of diabetes or prediabetes in patients with NAFLD was evaluated using random-effects meta-analysis. Subgroup meta-analysis and meta-regression were used to investigate potential sources of heterogeneity. RESULTS: A total of 54 studies involving 146,714 patients with non-obese or lean NAFLD were included. The pooled global prevalence of diabetes among patients with lean or non-obese NAFLD was 15.6% (95% CI 10.8%-22.7%). Studies from South America reported the highest prevalence (41.3%, CI 39.1%-43.5%). Meta-regression models showed that geographic region and mean age (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) were associated with the were associated with the prevalence of diabetes, jointly accounting for 51.61% of the heterogeneity. The global prevalence of prediabetes among patients with lean or non-obese NAFLD was 22.9% (95% CI 12.5%-41.9%) with the highest prevalence reported in studies from Europe (34.4%, CI 23.0%-51.4%). Meta-regression models showed that geographic region and country (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) were associated with the prevalence of prediabetes, jointly accounting for 73.65% of the heterogeneity. CONCLUSION: The pooled global prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes were 15.6% and 22.9% in lean or non-obese patients with NAFLD, respectively. These findings suggest the importance of diabetes screening in these patients.

Humans

Effects of antidepressant administration on physical performance and perceived exertion in athletes: systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Antidepressants are commonly prescribed in athletes with depressive disorders, yet their potential effects on physical performance and perceived exertion remain unclear, and existing evidence is limited and inconsistent. AIM: This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effects of antidepressant use on objective physical performance and perceived exertion in athletes. METHOD: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and SPORTDiscus through March 2025. Eligible studies were randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published in English that enrolled elite, competitive, or recreational athletes; compared antidepressant administration with placebo or no treatment; and reported at least one objective or subjective performance-related outcome. Meta-analyses were performed using random-effects models, and pooled mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. This systematic review and meta-analysis was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251123740). RESULTS: Ten crossover RCTs involving 99 male athletes were included. Interventions included a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (reboxetine), a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (bupropion), and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (fluoxetine or paroxetine). Acute antidepressant administration was associated with a small increase in rating of perceived exertion (RPE; mean difference 0.52 points on the Borg 6-20 scale, 95% CI 0.01-1.04; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). No significant overall effects were observed for time-trial performance, mean power output, heart rate or blood lactate. However, subgroup analyses showed that reboxetine significantly impaired time-trial performance (mean difference 3.62&#xa0;min, 95% CI 0.18-7.06; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05) and reduced mean power output (mean difference&#x2009;-&#x2009;19.97 W, 95% CI&#x2009;-&#x2009;36.87 to&#x2009;-&#x2009;3.06; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). CONCLUSION: Short-term antidepressant administration in athletes was associated with a small increase in perceived exertion, without consistent impairment in objective physical performance. As the current evidence derives exclusively from male athletes and acute exposure, further research should clarify its relevance to female athletes and to longer-term antidepressant treatment in athletes with depressive disorders.

Humans

Patient expectations assessed before randomisation and after the first treatment session, and their associations with pain outcome at 3 months in patients with tennis elbow: a secondary analysis of a randomised controlled feasibility trial in Norwegian secondary care.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate patients' expectations of pain improvement before randomisation (T1) and after the first treatment (T2), and to examine how expectations at these two time points were associated with pain outcome measured at 3&#x2009;months (T3). DESIGN: Exploratory secondary analyses of a three-arm, randomised controlled feasibility trial in patients with tennis elbow comparing heavy slow resistance training, shock wave therapy and advice (1:1:1). SETTING: Outpatient clinic at Oslo University Hospital. PARTICIPANTS: Adults with lateral epicondylalgia, commonly known as tennis elbow. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Expected pain was rated on a Numeric Rating Scale (NRS, 0-10) at T1 and T2. Present pain (NRS, 0-10) was reported at 3&#x2009;months (T3). Changes in expectations from T1 to T2 were summarised descriptively. Univariable linear regressions assessed associations between T3 pain and expectations at T1 and T2, treatment group and baseline factors. Explained variance was quantified by R2. Multivariable models including demographics and baseline pain were evaluated via adjusted R2. RESULTS: Fifty-four participants were included. In the shock wave group, nine (47%) came to expect greater improvement from T1 to T2; by contrast, in the advice group, seven (41%) expected less improvement. Expectations at T1 were not associated with T3 pain, whereas expectations at T2 were positively associated with T3 pain (b=0.61, 95%&#x2009;CI 0.33 to 0.89, p<0.01, R2=0.27), suggesting that higher expected pain at T2 was associated with higher reported pain at T3. Adding education and baseline pain increased explained variance modestly (R2 from 0.27 to 0.32). CONCLUSION: In this study, expectations measured after randomisation and one treatment session were associated with pain at 3&#x2009;months for patients with tennis elbow. Larger, prospectively designed studies should investigate how postrandomisation expectations relate to clinical outcomes in non-blinded musculoskeletal trials. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT04803825.

Humans

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

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

Animals

Global molecular and serological evidence of dengue and chikungunya infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis of 158,608 tested participants.

INTRODUCTION: Dengue virus (DENV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV) are Aedes-borne arboviruses with overlapping clinical manifestations, shared vectors, and substantial diagnostic challenges in co-endemic settings. This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized published evidence on molecular detection, serological positivity, and DENV-CHIKV dual positivity/co-infection in human clinical, surveillance, and community-based study populations. CONTENT: Following PRISMA 2020 guidance, five bibliographic databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar) and supplementary grey-literature/preprint sources were searched for English-language studies published from 1 January 1980 to 31 December 2024. No prospective PROSPERO or OSF protocol registration was available. Eligible records reported extractable numerators and denominators for DENV and/or CHIKV in humans using recognized molecular or serological assays. A total of 196 studies comprising 158,608 tested or suspected participants were included in the extraction table. The pooled CHIKV estimate was 14.0&#x202f;% (95&#x202f;% CI: 12.0-16.4; I2=97.5&#x202f;%), with molecular and serological estimates of 9.8 and 15.7&#x202f;%, respectively. The pooled DENV estimate was 13.8&#x202f;% (95&#x202f;% CI: 10.9-17.3; I2=99.0&#x202f;%), with molecular and serological estimates of 13.1&#x202f;% (95&#x202f;% CI: 7.9-21.0) and 14.3&#x202f;% (95&#x202f;% CI: 10.2-19.8), respectively. DENV-CHIKV dual positivity/co-infection was 52.9&#x202f;% (95&#x202f;% CI: 48.7-57.1) among studies that tested and reported both outcomes. Country-level estimates varied widely and should be interpreted as summaries of available studies rather than nationally representative burden estimates. Funnel-plot asymmetry was statistically significant in DENV analyses but not in the overall CHIKV analysis. SUMMARY: Available evidence indicates extensive but highly heterogeneous DENV and CHIKV positivity across selected clinical and surveillance populations. The pooled estimates should be interpreted cautiously because of substantial between-study heterogeneity, diagnostic variability, outbreak-period sampling, and uneven geographic representation. OUTLOOK: The findings support integrated arboviral surveillance, multiplex diagnostics, and vector-control preparedness in co-endemic regions.

Humans

The effect of dietetic counseling combined with digital tools intervention on hemodynamic markers in Greek adults: The GATEKEEPER Study.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Hypertension is a leading cardiovascular risk factor with substantial global impact on morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. While lifestyle interventions remain central to management, mHealth technologies offer promising adjunctive support, though their clinical effectiveness remains uncertain. This study evaluated whether combining dietetic counseling with digital tools improves hemodynamic markers in adults aged &#x2265;55 years with increased cardiometabolic risk. METHODS AND RESULTS: This 3-month RCT (NCT05031299) included 954 adults with at least one metabolic syndrome risk factor, allocated 1:1:1 to Standard Care (dietetic counseling), Platform (counseling plus web-based platform), or Platform&#xa0;+&#xa0;Devices (counseling plus platform plus wearables). Outcomes included anthropometrics, lifestyle characteristics, blood pressure, pulse pressure, and estimated pulse wave velocity, analyzed using linear mixed-effects models adjusted for age and sex. All groups improved over 3 months. Waist circumference decreased by -6.29, -4.92, and -4.69&#xa0;cm across Standard Care, Platform, and Platform&#xa0;+&#xa0;Devices groups respectively, and systolic blood pressure declined by -4.84 to -7.15&#xa0;mmHg across groups. The Platform&#xa0;+&#xa0;Devices group showed greater increases in physical activity (94.62 MET-min/week; 95% CI 66.49 to 122.76) and greater reductions in pulse pressure (-3.90&#xa0;mmHg; -6.58 to -1.22) versus Standard Care. Weight loss was associated with lower odds of hypertension (OR 0.4; 95% CI 0.2-0.7), greater likelihood of hypertension reversal (OR 3.6; 1.2-10.3), and higher probability of achieving normal pulse pressure (OR 1.8; 1.1-3.1). CONCLUSIONS: Dietary lifestyle intervention improved cardiometabolic outcomes, with limited added benefit from digital tools. Weight loss was the primary driver of hemodynamic improvement.

Aged

Remotely Supervised, Home-Based Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Major Depressive Disorder: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Major depressive disorder affects over 280 million people worldwide, and access to effective treatment remains limited. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive option, and portable devices now allow for home-based delivery under varying degrees of remote supervision. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze the efficacy, safety, feasibility, and acceptability of home-based and remotely supervised tDCS for depressive disorders. METHODS: Following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) 2020 and PRISMA-S (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses literature search extension) guidelines, we searched MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane databases, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform up to July 2025, with backward and forward citation searching. Two reviewers independently screened records, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias (version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials, Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for observational studies, and Critical Appraisal Skills Programme for qualitative studies) and certainty of evidence (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation; GRADE). RESULTS: This review included 12 distinct studies (16 reports), of which 6 (50%) were randomized sham-controlled trials forming the meta-analytic pool. Active home-based tDCS produced a small, statistically significant improvement over sham (pooled Hedges g=0.36, 95% CI 0.06-0.66; P=.03; I2=34.3%). The effect was not robust to removal of the single largest positive trial (omitting the one study from 2025: g=0.39, 95% CI -0.12 to 0.91), and trial-level results were mixed: the 2 largest trials (one unsupervised [n=210] and one self-administered [n=141]) were negative on their primary depression outcomes, whereas the largest real-time supervised trial (n=174) was positive (between-group 95% CI 0.51-4.01; P=.01). This estimate was concordant in direction with an independent peer-reviewed meta-analysis of overlapping trials, which reported a pooled Montgomery-&#xc5;sberg Depression Rating Scale reduction (weighted mean difference -2.74, 95% CI -4.19 to -1.29) and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale reduction (weighted mean difference -2.24, 95% CI -4.16 to -1.49), attenuating to nonsignificance (P>.05) in major depressive disorder without comorbid cognitive impairment. The pooled effect fell at or near the minimal clinically important difference. GRADE certainty was moderate. Adverse events were predominantly mild: one pilot study was terminated early for skin lesions, and one nonfatal suicide attempt occurred in an unsupervised trial. CONCLUSIONS: Home-based and remotely supervised tDCS produces a small, statistically significant but clinically modest antidepressant effect that is sensitive to the inclusion of the largest positive trial, with the 2 largest trials being negative. The available controlled evidence does not establish supervision intensity as a determinant of efficacy. Current data are insufficient to recommend routine clinical adoption; adequately powered trials with standardized supervision and longer follow-up are needed.

Humans

Exploring China's Clean Air Act and associated cardiovascular disease risk: a prospective, quasi-experimental, and causal inference modelling study.

BACKGROUND: Substantial improvements in air quality have been recorded following the implementation of China's Clean Air Act (CCAA) in 2013. However, the association between CCAA implementation and individual-level cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk remains unclear. We aimed to examine the long-term association between CCAA implementation and individual-level predicted CVD risk. METHODS: In this prospective, quasi-experimental study, we used data from the China Kadoorie Biobank, a prospective cohort study that recruited participants from five urban and five rural areas across China between 2004 and 2008, with three resurveys conducted after the baseline survey (in 2008, 2013-14, and 2020-21). We included 34&#x2009;862 individuals (mean age 51&#xb7;3 years) who participated in at least one resurvey and had no history of CVD at baseline. Participants were classified into intervention (n=25&#x2009;497) and control (n=9365) groups based on the local government's targets for particulate matter reduction. We estimated the 10-year risk of incident CVD morbidity or mortality using a validated risk prediction model. We used a difference-in-difference model to assess the long-term association between CCAA implementation and predicted risk, with adjustments made for regional confounders and individual-level characteristics, including demographics, lifestyle factors, medical history, and indoor air pollution exposure. The relationship between changes in long-term exposure to PM2&#xb7;5, PM10, and O3 and predicted risk after CCAA implementation was analysed using a linear model. The estimated risk differences associated with air pollutant changes were estimated based on the magnitude of changes and their corresponding effect sizes. FINDINGS: After the CCAA was implemented, PM2&#xb7;5 and PM10 concentrations declined in both groups, but O3 concentrations increased. The intervention group showed a 3&#xb7;95% (95% CI 3&#xb7;18-4&#xb7;72%) lower increase in predicted risk than the control group, with larger estimated differences under stricter enforcement. Between 2013 and 2021, each 10 &#x3bc;g/m3 change in PM2&#xb7;5 concentration was positively associated with a 1&#xb7;80 (1&#xb7;34-2&#xb7;27) percentage point change in predicted CVD risk, whereas each 10 &#x3bc;g/m3 change in PM10 concentration was associated with a 1&#xb7;24 (0&#xb7;84-1&#xb7;63) percentage point change and each 10 &#x3bc;g/m3 change in O3 concentration with a 0&#xb7;58 (0&#xb7;33-0&#xb7;83) percentage point change. Overall, the observed changes in air pollutants during the study period were associated with an average 6&#xb7;6 percentage point reduction in predicted CVD risk. INTERPRETATION: The CCAA and improved air quality were associated with a slower increase in predicted CVD risk, supporting the necessity for stricter, multipollutant air quality policies to maximise public health benefits. FUNDING: National Natural Science Foundation of China, Kadoorie Charitable Foundation, Noncommunicable Chronic Diseases-National Science and Technology Major Project, National Key R&D Program of China, Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, and UK Wellcome Trust.

Journal Article

Prevalence and risk factors of nutritional anaemia among adolescents in India: a systematic review with meta-analysis of prevalence.

BACKGROUND: Nutritional anaemia is a major public health concern among adolescents in India, threatening physical growth, cognitive development, and future maternal health. This systematic review with meta-analysis of prevalence aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of nutritional anaemia among Indian adolescents aged 10-19&#x2009;years and identify key associated risk factors. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus up to February 2025. Data were extracted on study design, setting, diagnostic methods, prevalence, and risk factors. Quality was assessed with a modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. A random-effects meta-analysis estimated pooled prevalence, with subgroup analyses by state and gender, and pooled odds ratios for risk factors. RESULTS: Forty-five studies encompassing diverse Indian regions and 159,979 adolescents were included. The pooled prevalence of nutritional anaemia was 56% (95% CI: 49%-63%), with higher rates among girls (62%) than boys (39%). Iron deficiency (OR 2.38-4.68), other micronutrient deficiencies, low socioeconomic status, poor dietary diversity, female gender, and inadequate supplementation were consistently associated with higher anaemia risk. CONCLUSION: Nutritional anaemia impacts more than half of Indian adolescents, with notable regional and gender differences. Its complex nutritional, socioeconomic, and behavioural causes demand targeted, context-specific interventions to enhance adolescent health nationwide.

Humans

A risk-need-responsivity (RNR)-informed systematic review of needs during the pretrial period.

OBJECTIVE: Pretrial risk assessments are becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Despite the importance of assessing and intervening around "needs" in the risk-need-responsivity model, few pretrial risk assessments include comprehensive assessment of needs. We aim to provide a systematic review of the prevalence of and predictive utility of needs within the pretrial population. HYPOTHESES: There were no hypotheses given the nature of the study. METHOD: We conducted searches for articles in the EBSCO, ProQuest, and Google Scholar databases using key words related to 11 needs domains: antisocial personality, procriminal attitudes, procriminal associates, substance use, family/marital relationships, school/work, prosocial recreational activities, self-esteem, housing, mental health, and physical health. We identified 215 articles that reported on the prevalence of needs or explored their predictive associations with pretrial misconduct outcomes in adult populations. RESULTS: Overall, we find few comprehensive investigations of needs in the pretrial domain, apart from substance use. Variation in methodology and operationalization contributes to wide variability in prevalence estimates. We found only 15 articles that examined predictive associations between pretrial needs and outcomes, which were limited to investigations of behavioral health, employment, and housing needs. Substance use and housing needs emerged as the only consistent predictors of pretrial misconduct. CONCLUSIONS: Researchers should more directly assess the prevalence and predictive utility of needs within the pretrial period to bolster the evidence base for including these factors in pretrial risk assessments. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).

Humans