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PubMed2026

Psychedelic-induced hypomania and mania: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Serotonergic psychedelics are increasingly investigated as treatments for affective disorders. Concerns persist regarding their potential to induce hypomania or mania, particularly in individuals with bipolar spectrum vulnerability. Whether these substances precipitate transient mood switches or contribute to persistent bipolar illness or diagnostic transition remains unclear. We conducted a systematic review of human studies examining manic or hypomanic symptoms following exposure to serotonergic psychedelics (psilocybin, LSD, mescaline, DMT/ayahuasca) or MDMA (CRD420251160656). Databases and trial registries were searched through January 26, 2026. Eligible designs included randomized and non-randomized clinical studies, registry-based cohorts, cross-sectional surveys, and longitudinal observational studies. Outcomes included dysphoria/euphoria, manic or hypomanic symptoms and transition to bipolar disorder. Risk of bias was assessed using ROBINS-I, ROB2 or NIH tools. Twenty-three studies met inclusion criteria, four contributing to meta-analysis. Rates of psychedelic-associated dysphoria/euphoria, hypomania or mania ranged from 5.8% in controlled trials of psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy for major depressive disorders to 30% in naturalistic studies of individuals with bipolar disorder. When present, manic symptoms were typically acute and self-limited. Observational studies identified higher risks among individuals with bipolar I disorder, familial vulnerability, polysubstance use, and unsupervised or illegal use. Registry-based cohorts examining diagnostic transitions showed a prevalence of subsequent transition to bipolar disorder of 4% (95% CI 2-8%; N = 7478; I² = 32.1%), with little evidence for a hallucinogen-specific signal. Overall, serotonergic psychedelics appear to pose a low but clinically meaningful relative risk of transient mood-related symptoms in susceptible individuals while remaining relatively safe in controlled clinical settings. Long-term outcomes and repeated exposure remain insufficiently studied, underscoring the need for rigorous longitudinal research.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Norgestrel drives mitochondrial collapse and plasma membrane impairment in Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas) sperm by triggering premature acrosome reaction.

The toxic mechanisms of norgestrel (NGT), an emerging marine pollutant, on the sperm from externally fertilized invertebrates remain elusive. This study employed an integrated physiological and multi-omics framework to elucidate how NGT (10 and 1000 ng/L) disrupts acrosome reaction (AR) signaling machinery, thereby impairing the functional integrity of Pacific oyster (Crassostrea gigas, also known as Magallana gigas) sperm. Exposure to NGT triggered a significant, dose-dependent premature AR, characterized by elevated acrosin activity and a loss of acrosomal integrity. Multi-omics integration supports a model in which this premature exocytosis is linked to signaling disturbances, including disruption of calcium signaling and reduced transcript abundance of calmodulin (CaM) and the primary recognition protein zonadhesin (Zan). This signaling interference induced an premature AR, subsequently driving a cascade of bioenergetic and structural failures. At the mitochondrial level, NGT induced abnormal mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening and elevated the transcript levels of antioxidant defense genes (e.g., peroxiredoxin-5, PRDX5). These alterations indicate the occurrence of mitochondrial collapse. Concurrently, scanning electron microscopy verified localized plasma membrane wrinkling and pore formation in sperm. In addition, NGT exposure decreased the transcript abundance of cytoskeleton-related genes, including solute carrier family 26 member 6 (SLC26A6), actin (ACT), and tubulin polymerization promoting protein family member 3 (TPPP3). These molecular changes further disrupted membrane phospholipid homeostasis, as represented by altered glycerophospholipid metabolism. At the same time, cumulative cellular stress was associated with decreased transcript abundance of cytoprotective factors (e.g., baculoviral IAP repeat-containing proteins, birc2) and changes in apoptosis-related genes consistent with activation of a caspase-8-mediated apoptotic programme. In conclusion, NGT, as a representative synthetic progestin, exerts reproductive toxicity by interfering with signaling mediators to induce premature AR, which subsequently exhausts metabolic energy and triggers plasma membrane impairment. These findings provide a critical mechanistic basis for the aquatic ecological risk assessment of synthetic progestins.

Animals↗

PubMed2026

Novelty seeking and rapid symptom improvement across active and sham accelerated iTBS conditions: A pooled individual-patient data analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Major depressive disorder (MDD) is highly prevalent and often treatment-resistant. Accelerated intermittent theta burst stimulation (aiTBS) is a promising intervention for treatment-resistant depression (TRD), though outcomes vary. Personality traits have been examined in relation to rTMS outcomes, yet their role in aiTBS remains underexplored. This pooled individual-patient-data analysis of two randomized, sham-controlled trials examined associations between baseline Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI) traits and one-week symptom change, and whether they differed by condition. METHODS: The left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was targeted for 20 sessions over 4 days. Personality was assessed with the TCI, depression severity with the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-17). TCI-symptom-change associations were examined with a robust linear mixed-effects model, adjusting for age, gender, repeated measurements, and study membership. RESULTS: 104 participants were included (M/F 45/59; mean age 40.9 ± 12.7; active/sham 50/54). The model yielded a Time × Novelty Seeking interaction (β = -1.70, p = 0.021): higher baseline Novelty Seeking was associated with faster symptom reduction, without a between-arm difference. However, the interaction did not survive Holm correction across 14 trait-interaction tests (adjusted p = 0.294) and is therefore exploratory. No other interaction reached the uncorrected threshold. CONCLUSIONS: Higher baseline Novelty Seeking showed a nominal association with faster symptom reduction, without a difference between active and sham conditions. Because it did not survive multiplicity correction and was not reproduced in within-arm analyses, it is preliminary and may reflect contextual or nonspecific processes. Independent replication is required before temperament assessment can be clinically informative.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Targeting cortico-striatal-amygdalar networks via theta-band frontoparietal synchronization in opioid use disorder: a randomized tACS-fMRI Trial.

Theta-band oscillation is integral to fronto-parietal connectivity in the executive control network and its top-down regulation on subcortical areas. External frontoparietal synchronization using theta-frequency transcranial alternating current (tACS) is a technology to potentially engage this network. In this pre-registered, triple-blind, sham-controlled trial (NCT03907644), we tested this intervention targeting the right frontoparietal network in people with opioid use disorder (OUD) to measure network engagement and behavioral outcomes. Sixty male participants with OUD were randomized to receive 20 min of active or sham 6 Hz tACS (HD electrodes over F4 and P4). Structural, resting-state, task-based fMRI drug cue reactivity, and repeated cue-induced craving assessments were collected immediately before and after stimulation. Pre-registered outcome measures were analyzed using time × group interaction models to examine (1) modulation of drug cue-related brain activity, (2) changes in craving, (3) alterations in functional connectivity, and (4) relationship between electric field, neural responses, and craving behavior. (1) A significant Time × Group interaction revealed decreased post-stimulation opioid cue-related activity in the active group relative to sham, involving key nodes in reward processing (ventral striatum, amygdala and ventral tegmental area) (FWE corrected α = 0.05) (2) subjective craving did not differ significantly between groups (3) Group by time generalized psychophysiological interaction analyses showed increased right frontoparietal network engagement (β = 2.63, p= 0.0308) following stimulation, and increased top-down inhibitory regulation of frontoparietal network on right ventral striatum (β = 1.99, p= 0.037) and left medial amygdala (β = 1.97, p= 0.039) (4) Electric field strength in the right frontal/parietal node predicted frontoparietal network engagement in the active group (r = 0.43, p= 0.02). Together, these findings demonstrate that theta-band frontoparietal tACS can modulate activity and task-dependent coupling within cortical-subcortical circuits in OUD, supporting network-targeted neuromodulation as a potential intervention for addiction.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

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

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

Humans↗

PubMed2026

The impact of supernormal lung function on mortality risk in adults with and without sleep-disordered breathing.

BACKGROUND: In the general population, supernormal lung function is associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality. RESEARCH QUESTION: It remains unclear whether sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) affects this relationship. METHODS: This cohort analysis included 4,839 adults. Lung function was categorised as supernormal (FEV1 > ULN), normal (LLN ≤ FEV1 ≤ ULN), and below normal (FEV1 < LLN). SDB severity was classified using apnoea-hypopnoea index categories: no SDB (<5 events/hour), mild SDB (5-<15 events/hour), moderate SDB (15-<30 events/hour), and severe SDB (≥30 events/hour). The association between lung function and all-cause mortality was assessed using Cox proportional hazards models with subgroup analyses according to SDB severity and formal testing for interaction. Analyses were repeated using FVC-defined lung function groups as an alternative definition of supernormal lung function. RESULTS: Among the included participants, 4,068 (84.1%) had normal lung function, 369 (7.6%) had supernormal lung function, and 402 (8.3%) had below normal lung function. During 52 421.5 person-years of follow-up (median 11.72 years; IQR, 10.46-12.56), 1,188 deaths occurred. Compared with the normal lung function group, the supernormal lung function group had a lower prevalence of baseline hypertension and cardiovascular disease. The association between lung function and all-cause mortality varied across SDB severity strata (P for interaction = 0.034). A lower mortality risk associated with supernormal lung function was observed in participants without SDB (HR: 0.24, 95% CI: 0.06-0.97), whereas this association was not statistically significant in the mild, moderate, or severe SDB strata. Below normal lung function was generally associated with an increased all-cause mortality risk. Sensitivity analyses using FVC-defined lung function groups yielded broadly consistent findings. CONCLUSION: Supernormal lung function was associated with lower all-cause mortality primarily among individuals without SDB. These findings underscore the importance of considering SDB severity when assessing the health implications of lung function.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effects of an internet-based combined exercise and cognitive-behavioral therapy intervention on endocannabinoid system biomarkers and physical fitness in adults with mild-to-moderate depression: a SONRIE randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: This SONRIE randomized controlled trial (NCT05849792) examined the effects of a 12-week combined physical exercise and internet-based cognitive-behavioral therapy (iCBT) intervention on endocannabinoid system (ES) biomarkers and physical fitness in adults with mild-to-moderate depression. METHODS: Eighty adults were randomly assigned 1:1 to an intervention (IG) or control (CG) group. Outcomes included nine ES biomarkers (2-arachidonoylglycerol, 2-AG; anandamide, AEA; seven analogues) and physical fitness, including cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF; 6-minute walking test) and muscular strength. Measurements were taken at baseline, post-intervention and 8-week follow-up. Primary analysis performed 2 × 3 repeated-measures ANOVA on completers; mixed-effects intention-to-treat model as sensitivity analysis. RESULTS: No significant time × group interaction was detected for any ES biomarker, including 2-AG (F(2,88) = 0.17, p = 0.844) and AEA (F(2,88) = 1.20, p = 0.306); both groups showed comparable within-group decreases in 2-AG, 2-LG and 2-OG. The intervention significantly improved CRF [between-group difference + 81.6 m at 12 weeks (F(2,78) = 7.88, p = 0.001)], exceeding the established minimal clinically important difference. None of the exploratory muscular fitness outcomes reached statistical significance; the arm curl test showed a borderline non-significant interaction (F(2,78) = 2.83, p = 0.065). CONCLUSION: A 12-week internet-based combined exercise and iCBT intervention significantly improved CRF in adults with mild-to-moderate depression. We did not find evidence of an intervention-specific effect on plasma ES biomarkers. These findings support the inclusion of internet-delivered exercise and psychological interventions in comprehensive treatment strategies for depression. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05849792 (registered 6 May 2023).

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Nerve injury in revision total elbow arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Revision total elbow arthroplasty (TEA) is technically demanding and carries a substantial risk of postoperative neurological complications because of scarring, altered anatomy, implant removal, and repeated humeral and ulnar exposure. The incidence, nerve distribution, and recovery profile of nerve injury after revision TEA remain incompletely defined. This study aimed to systematically review the literature to define the incidence, recovery profile, and risk factors for nerve injury after revision TEA. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was performed in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidance. Thirteen retrospective case series were included, comprising 282 revision TEAs in 271 patients. Random-effects meta-analysis of proportions was undertaken where the data permitted. The primary outcome was postoperative nerve injury following revision TEA. Secondary outcomes included nerve type, recovery, secondary nerve-related procedures, infection, triceps insufficiency, metallosis, periprosthetic fracture, and re-revision. RESULTS: The pooled incidence of postoperative nerve injury was 22.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 16.3 to 29.6; I2 = 34.6%). The crude incidence was 60 of 282 revisions (21.3%, 95% CI 16.6 to 26.5). The ulnar nerve was involved in 66.7% of all nerve injuries, the radial nerve in 31.7%, and the median nerve in 1.7%. No significant difference in pooled nerve-injury incidence was identified between studies published before 2010 and those published from 2010 onwards (22.9% vs. 21.4%, P = .837). Recovery reporting was heterogeneous; among injuries with numerically extractable outcomes, 85.4% improved partially or completely (95% CI 72.2 to 93.9). Secondary nerve-related procedures were reported in 7 studies. Pooled complication estimates were 10.2% for infection, 13.6% for triceps insufficiency, 25.5% for metallosis, 15.9% for periprosthetic fracture, and 14.0% for re-revision. CONCLUSIONS: Postoperative nerve injury is a common and clinically important complication of revision TEA, affecting approximately 1 in 5 cases. The ulnar nerve is most frequently involved, although radial nerve injury accounts for a substantial proportion of cases. Many neuropathies improve during follow-up, but persistent deficits and the need for secondary nerve-related procedures are not uncommon. Future studies should adopt standardized neurological definitions and reporting to improve comparability and guide preventive surgical strategies.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Role of routine surveillance stress testing in patients with or without imaging-guided or physiology-guided PCI.

OBJECTIVE: The optimal follow-up strategy for high-risk patients who underwent imaging-guided or physiology-guided percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains uncertain. We investigated whether routine surveillance stress testing after PCI provides clinical benefit when the procedure is guided by intravascular ultrasonography (IVUS) or fractional flow reserve (FFR). METHODS: In the Pragmatic Trial Comparing Symptom-Oriented vs Routine Stress Testing in High-Risk Patients Undergoing PCI randomised trial, 1706 high-risk patients who underwent PCI were assigned to either routine functional testing at 1 year or standard care alone. In this prespecified subgroup analysis, patients were subsequently categorised according to whether IVUS or FFR was used at the index procedure. The primary outcome was a composite of death, myocardial infarction or hospitalisation for unstable angina over 2 years. RESULTS: Among the randomised population, 74% underwent IVUS-guided intervention and 36% underwent FFR-guided intervention. At 2 years, rates of the primary outcome were similar between routine testing and standard care both in patients treated with IVUS guidance (5.3% vs 6.7%; HR 0.79; 95% CI 0.50 to 1.24) and without IVUS guidance (5.7% vs 3.8%; HR 1.52; 95% CI 0.63 to 3.68; interaction p=0.21). Comparable results were observed in patients with FFR guidance (2.6% vs 3.9%; HR 0.65; 95% CI 0.26 to 1.58) and without FFR guidance (7.0% vs 7.1%; HR 0.99; 95% CI 0.63 to 1.55; interaction p=0.59). Routine functional testing was consistently associated with higher use of invasive coronary angiography and repeat revascularisation, without improvement in clinical outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Among high-risk patients who underwent PCI, routine surveillance stress testing did not reduce the risk of death, myocardial infarction or unstable angina, regardless of the use of IVUS or FFR at the index procedure. Routine functional testing increased downstream invasive procedures without clinical benefit. These findings support guideline recommendations against routine surveillance testing after PCI. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT03217877.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Phase-resolved functional lung MRI detects single-dose and sustained bronchodilator responses in COPD in a randomized crossover trial.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effects of tiotropium/olodaterol (T/O) on phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI parameters in hyperinflated chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients and examine correlations with conventional cardiopulmonary and hyperpolarized 129Xe MRI measures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective subanalysis of a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover trial with open-label extension. Thirty-two patients with moderate-to-severe COPD (61.5 ± 7.7 years; 17 men); 30 completed the MRI extension at 1.5 T. PREFUL analysis yielded regional ventilation (RVent), flow-volume loop correlation metric (FVL-CM), normalized perfusion (QN), ventilation defect percentage (VDP), perfusion defect percentage (QDP), V/Q match metrics (VQM), and pulmonary pulse wave velocity (PWV; post-hoc parameter). Linear mixed-effects models tested treatment effects; correlations were evaluated with Spearman's rank and bootstrap 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs). RESULTS: PREFUL parameters improved after T/O single dose (SD) versus placebo, including improvements in FVL-CM by 4.1 percentage points (pp; 95% CI: 1.0 to 7.3 pp) and QN by 0.4 pp (95% CI: 0.2 to 0.6 pp) and reductions in VDP and QDP, with parallel gains in VQM(Non-Defect) (p < 0.05). PWV decreased after multiple doses (-0.87 m/s, 95% CI: -1.26 to -0.48 m/s). PREFUL MRI baseline values showed significant correlations with pulmonary function tests, cardiac, dynamic contrast-enhanced and 129Xe MRI. SD treatment-induced absolute changes in VDP(FVL-CM) correlated with reductions in residual volume (ρ = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.64). Further correlations were observed between PREFUL MRI and ¹²⁹Xe-derived VDP, apparent diffusion coefficient, and compartment ratios. CONCLUSION: PREFUL MRI sensitively captured immediate SD T/O-induced improvements in V/Q parameters and dose-dependent PWV responses after sustained bronchodilation. KEY POINTS: Question Can phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI sensitively capture immediate single-dose and sustain multi-dose effects of tiotropium/olodaterol on ventilation-perfusion and vascular function in COPD patients? Findings Tiotropium/olodaterol improved PREFUL MRI-derived ventilation, perfusion, and V/Q matching parameters after a single dose, with sustained pulmonary vascular improvements after repeated dosing. Clinical relevance PREFUL MRI detected immediate and sustained functional improvements after tiotropium/olodaterol and showed significant correlations with cardiopulmonary tests and hyperpolarized ¹²⁹Xe MRI, supporting its role as a sensitive, radiation-free tool for monitoring COPD treatment response.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effects of continuous isomaltulose-containing gummy intake on interstitial glucose and salivary hormones during an 18-hole golf round: a randomized, double-blind controlled pilot study.

BACKGROUND: Golf is a prolonged, moderate-intensity sport requiring sustained physiological stability to manage cumulative stress and maintain performance. Although carbohydrate intake is commonly used to reduce fatigue, rapidly absorbed sugar-induced rapid blood glucose fluctuations may induce volatile arousal and latent metabolic stress. Isomaltulose, a slow-digesting disaccharide, provides a steadier glucose supply compared with sucrose. This exploratory pilot study examined the effects of isomaltulose intake on physiological stress markers, glycemic dynamics, and subjective responses during a competitive 18-hole golf round. METHODS: Twenty-three male collegiate golfers were randomized to either the isomaltulose group (ISO; n = 12) or the sucrose group (CON; n = 11) in a double-blind controlled trial. Participants consumed gummies containing isomaltulose or sucrose immediately after each hole (12.1 g carbohydrate per hole; total carbohydrate intake: 217.5 g). Primary outcomes were salivary stress markers [cortisol, testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS)] levels. Secondary outcomes included interstitial glucose concentration measured via continuous glucose monitoring, subjective assessments (i.e. sleepiness, relaxation, and concentration), and golf performance (18-hole score). Between-group comparisons at each time point were conducted using planned Welch's t-tests. RESULTS: No significant between-group differences were observed for 18-hole score (p = 0.38) or mean interstitial glucose concentration (p = 0.20). However, exploratory analyses revealed distinct hormonal variations; salivary DHEAS and testosterone levels were higher in the ISO group during the latter half of the round (p < 0.05), whereas both declined in the CON group. Regarding glycemic variability, the ISO group demonstrated a more stable glucose profile with a medium effect size for lower standard deviation (ISO: 14.7 ± 1.9 vs. CON: 16.7 ± 4.6 mg/dL; d = 0.58), although this difference was not significant. Conversely, subjective outcomes diverged; the CON group reported significantly greater subjective arousal (wakefulness and relaxation) (p < 0.01) relative to the ISO group. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, continuous intake of isomaltulose-containing gummies during an 18-hole golf round was associated with differences in selected physiological markers, including DHEAS and testosterone concentrations. However, these findings were not accompanied by improvements in objective golf performance outcomes compared with sucrose-containing gummies. Isomaltulose may influence glycemic dynamics and hormonal responses during prolonged golf play; however, the practical significance of these effects remains exploratory. Further studies with larger sample sizes and appropriate repeated-measures frameworks are needed to determine whether such physiological changes translate into meaningful performance or recovery benefits.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Soft Tissue Volume Augmentation at Single Implant Sites Applying Collagen Matrices or Connective Tissue Grafts: 10-Year Follow-Up of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

AIM: To compare up to 10 years clinical, profilometric and patient-reported outcomes of implant sites previously augmented using a volume-stable collagen matrix (VCMX) or connective tissue graft (SCTG) in the aesthetic zone. METHODS: The original non-inferiority randomized controlled trial (RCT) enrolled 20 patients who received soft tissue volume augmentation with VCMX or SCTG at single implant sites. Clinical assessments and standardized measurements were performed at baseline after crown insertion and at 6 months, 1, 3, 5, 7.5, and 10 years. The primary outcome was mucosal thickness. Secondary outcomes included marginal bone levels (MBL), probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque control record, Pink Aesthetic Score (PES), OHIP-14 and buccal profilometric changes. Group comparisons were performed using mixed-effects and generalized estimating equation (GEE) models, which account for within-patient correlations due to repeated measurements and allow inclusion of all available data without requiring imputation for missing observations. RESULTS: Of the 20 originally enrolled patients, 10 (5 in the SCTG group and 5 in the VCMX group) were available for re-examination at 10 years. The adjusted between-group difference in mucosal thickness was -0.02 mm (95% CI -0.99 to 0.96). As the lower bound of the confidence interval remained above the prespecified non-inferiority margin of -1 mm, non-inferiority of VCMX was shown. Buccal contour changes were comparable during the early follow-up, while a trend toward a greater long-term contour decrease was observed in group VCMX (-0.31 mm [95% CI, -0.65 to 0.03]; p = 0.07). Mean PES values were 10.6 in the SCTG group and 9.6 in the VCMX group, with no significant between-group differences (p = 0.45). Both groups revealed high levels of oral health-related quality of life, with low median OHIP-14 scores (SCTG, 0.0; VCMX, 1.0; p = 0.26). CONCLUSION: These preliminary long-term findings showed no clinically relevant differences between SCTG and VCMX in terms of clinical, profilometric and patient-reported outcomes. While SCTG remains the reference standard, VCMX represents a less invasive alternative but with a slight tendency toward greater long-term contour reduction. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Volume-stable collagen matrices serve as a viable alternative to autogenous connective tissue grafts for peri-implant soft tissue volume augmentation, particularly in patients seeking a reduced morbidity, without compromising long-term clinical or aesthetic outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00017484.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Daridorexant in severe obstructive sleep apnea: effects on sleep-disordered breathing and sleep.

STUDY OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effect of daridorexant on nighttime respiratory function and sleep in adults with severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) without insomnia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, two-period, crossover trial was conducted at a single sleep center in 16 adults (≥18 years) with severe OSA without insomnia. In each period, daridorexant 50 mg or placebo was administered every evening for 5 days. Primary and secondary endpoints were the treatment differences (daridorexant-placebo) for apnea/hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen saturation (SpO2) during total sleep time (TST), respectively, after last dosing. A mean increase in AHI ≥10 events/h and mean decrease in nocturnal SpO2 ≤-2% were the minimum changes considered to be clinically meaningful negative effects. Other endpoints included TST, latency to persistent sleep (LPS), and wake after sleep onset (WASO). RESULTS: Mean baseline AHI was 51.2 events/h (range 30.8, 82.2) and mean SpO2 during TST was 92.1% (range 88.5, 94.3). No clinically meaningful effect of daridorexant on AHI or SpO2 during TST was detected. Treatment differences were -3.7 events/h (one-sided 95% CI ≤ +4.2) and - 0.12 % (one-sided 95% CI ≥ -0.6), respectively. Compared with placebo, daridorexant increased TST by 32.5 min (90% CI: 6.9, 58.2), associated with shorter LPS (-10.3 min [90% CI: -20.6, -0.02]) and a trend towards reduced WASO (-15.2 min [-31.2, 0.9]). Four adverse events were reported (daridorexant n = 3; placebo n = 1), all of mild intensity and none related to respiratory function. CONCLUSION: Short-term treatment with daridorexant does not impair sleep-disordered breathing and may improve sleep in patients with severe OSA. CLINICAL TRIAL: ClinicalTrials.gov, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05458193, NCT05458193. Statement of Significance Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is highly prevalent and associated, in 30%-50% of cases, with insomnia-related symptoms, yet the safety of insomnia medications in OSA remains unclear. Daridorexant, a dual orexin receptor antagonist for the treatment of adults with insomnia disorder, previously showed no negative effect on sleep-disordered breathing in participants with mild/moderate OSA. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial evaluates daridorexant 50 mg (maximum therapeutic dose) in participants with severe OSA without insomnia. Repeated dosing (5 nights) did not impair nighttime respiratory function, as assessed by apnea/hypopnea index and nocturnal oxygen saturation. Moreover, improvements in sleep characteristics were observed with daridorexant, extending evidence that daridorexant 50 mg is safe and well-tolerated and may improve sleep in adults with severe OSA.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Relationship between participant-reported outcomes, residual beta cell function and metabolic parameters in youth with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: Clinical trials of interventions to preserve beta cell function in new-onset type 1 diabetes frequently employ participant-reported outcome measures (PROMs). However, the expected changes in PROMs scores immediately following diagnosis and their association with residual beta cell function, metabolic markers and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) are unclear. METHODS: Repeated PROMs including Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory diabetes module (PedsQL) and hypoglycaemia fear survey (HFS) were recorded from participants aged 10-18 years with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes and their parents in two clinical trials: CLOuD (N=97, hybrid closed loop [HCL] vs multiple daily injections [MDI]) and USTEKID (N=72, ustekinumab immunotherapy vs placebo). Scores were compared with serial mixed meal-stimulated C-peptide levels (AUC C-peptide), HbA1c and CGM data. RESULTS: PedsQL and HFS scores for children/adolescents and their parents showed wide variation between individuals but did not change substantially within individuals over the first 48 months from diagnosis. Baseline scores were highly predictive of scores at 12-48 months (p<0.001). PedsQL scores were higher (better) in those reported by children/adolescents than by their parents (p<0.01). In contrast, HFS scores were higher in parents than children (p<0.001), indicating more fear. Strong correlations were observed between child and parent scores (p<0.001). No significant improvement in these scores was detected following intervention (ustekinumab or HCL). Meta-analysis revealed modest but statistically significant associations between HbA1c and PedsQL (β(std)=-0.11; 95% CI -0.20, -0.03) and HFS (β(std)=0.11; 95% CI 0.00, 0.21), and between CGM time in range and PedsQL (β(std)=0.14; 95% CI 0.03, 0.26) but not HFS (β(std)=-0.05; 95% CI -0.16, 0.06). Beta cell function (AUC C-peptide) was strongly associated with HbA1c (β(std)=-0.29; 95% CI -0.39, -0.20) and CGM time in range (β(std)=0.41; 95% CI 0.30, 0.52). Higher beta cell function showed a trend towards better PedsQL (β(std)=0.11; 95% CI -0.03, 0.25) and lower HFS (β(std)=-0.05; 95% CI -0.17, 0.07) but this did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: PedsQL and HFS scores changed little during the first 48 months after diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. These scores showed modest but statistically significant associations with measures of glucose management (HbA1c and CGM time in range), whereas the relationships with residual beta cell function (C-peptide) were weaker and did not reach significance. The modest size of these effects suggests current PROMs capture only limited aspects of the clinical benefit associated with beta cell preservation. Future research should incorporate psychometric instruments that are specifically adapted for young people using modern diabetes technologies and undergoing disease-modifying therapy, to ensure outcomes are meaningfully represented in early-stage type 1 diabetes trials.

Adolescent↗

PubMed2026

Acute mild cold exposure with shivering reduces 24 h glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes but not prediabetes.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: Repeated cold exposure with shivering has been proposed as a potential strategy to enhance glucose metabolism by increasing energy expenditure and substrate utilisation. However, acute effects/benefits of cold-induced shivering on glucose homeostasis in metabolically compromised individuals are unknown. Here, we aimed to determine whether cold exposure at two different intensities improves 24 h glucose homeostasis in individuals with prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. METHODS: In a randomised crossover trial conducted in the South Limburg/Maastricht region of the Netherlands, men and postmenopausal women with prediabetes (n=12) and stable type 2 diabetes (n=12), aged 40-75 years, body mass index ≥27 and ≤35 kg/m2, non-smoking and sedentary, underwent two whole-body cold exposure sessions using a water-perfused suit. Session order was randomised using an online randomisation tool (randomizer.org); participants were masked to the cold exposure intensity received, but investigators were not. Sessions were designed to elicit ~1.5-fold (mild, 15°C) and ~2.5-fold (moderate, 4°C) increases in resting metabolic rate (RMR). Continuous glucose monitoring assessed interstitial glucose concentrations over 24 h periods before and after each intervention, with controlled diet and activity. Shivering was confirmed via indirect calorimetry and electromyography. RESULTS: In both study groups and periods, RMR increased significantly vs baseline (p<0.001 for all). In prediabetes, the increase in the final 1 h of cold was 1.53 × RMR in mild and 1.94 × RMR in moderate cold. In type 2 diabetes, the increase was 1.57 × RMR and 2.09 × RMR in the final 1 h of mild and moderate cold, respectively. In prediabetes, neither mild nor moderate cold exposure altered mean 24 h glucose levels. In contrast, after mild cold exposure the type 2 diabetes group exhibited a significant reduction in mean 24 h glucose levels (-0.6 ± 0.5 mmol/l, p=0.003) and fasting glucose (-0.6 ± 0.8 mmol/l, p=0.019), as well as an increase in time in normal range (+8.8 ± 10.3%, p=0.013) and reduced time in hyperglycaemia (-10.9 ± 12.9%, p=0.014). Moderate cold did not significantly affect any of the glucose outcomes in type 2 diabetes. Baseline fasting glucose, age and ALT levels were predictors of the glucose-lowering response, suggesting greater benefits in individuals who have higher baseline glucose levels, are younger and/or have more optimal liver health, i.e. lower ALT. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: Acute mild cold exposure with shivering reduced 24 h glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. No changes were observed in prediabetes. The observed effects appear to depend on baseline metabolic status rather than acute substrate utilisation during cold exposure. These findings support the potential of cold exposure as an adjunct non-pharmacological therapy for type 2 diabetes, although further mechanistic studies and validation in larger cohorts are warranted. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05576025 FUNDING: Dutch Organisation for Knowledge and Innovation in Health, Healthcare and Well-being (ZonMw): 09120012010062.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effects of six weeks of guanidinoacetic acid supplementation with and without creatine monohydrate on cognitive function and markers of health in healthy adults.

BACKGROUND: Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) supplementation has been reported to increase brain creatine content more effectively than creatine monohydrate (CrM). However, the effects on cognitive function are unclear. PURPOSE: The purpose of this proof-of-concept exploratory clinical trial was to determine whether GAA supplementation with and without CrM affects cognitive function and/or markers of health. METHODS: In a double-blind, randomized, and counterbalanced manner, 58 healthy and active adults (33 females, 35.5 ± 14 years, 76.2 ± 14 kg) ingested a PLA (PLA, 2 × 6 g/d maltodextrin), GAA (2 × 1 g/d) + PLA (2 × 5 g/d), or GAA (2 × 1 g/d) + CrM (2 × 5 g/d) for six weeks. The participants donated fasting blood samples and completed a battery of tests and questionnaires assessing various aspects of function, mood, stress, sleep quality, and markers of health at baseline and after six weeks of supplementation. Data were analyzed using General Linear Model (GLM) multivariate and univariate with repeated measures, and mean changes from baseline with 95% confidence intervals, and Chi-squared analysis, and considered significant when the probability of error was 0.05 or less, and approaching significance (p > 0.05-p < 0.10). RESULTS: GAA supplementation tended to improve overall reaction time (-241.8 ms [-533, 50], p = 0.10) while significant interaction effects were observed in overall reaction time (p = 0.031-330 ms [-629, -31]) and YES reaction time (-290 ms [-484, -96], p = 0.004) while recalled correct reaction time (-178 ms [-374, 21], p = 0.078) and recalled correct YES (7.4 % [-1, 15.8], p = 0.084) approached significance compared to PLA. Limited to no effects were observed on the Delayed Picture Recognition Task Test, Digit Vigilance Task Test, Corsi Block Task Test, or Stroop Color-Word Task Test. The amount of time engaged in moderate physical activity was significantly greater (p < 0.05) in the GAA group compared to PLA. Participants in the GAA group reported a lower frequency of controlling irritations (p = 0.036), and feeling like difficulties are mounting (p = 0.053) on the Perceived Stress Scale. Some positive and potentially undesirable effects were observed in sleep quality assessments. The quality of life assessment revealed that participants in the GAA group reported less frequent feelings of being worn out (p = 0.068) and that their health was excellent (p = 0.092) while those in the GAA + CrM group reported more frequent limitations when bending, kneeling, or stooping (p = 0.053), more often feeling full of life (p = 0.081), and less frequency in feeling downhearted and depressed (p = 0.066). No clinically meaningful changes were observed in blood markers or self-reported side effects among the groups. CONCLUSION: Dietary supplementation with GAA (2 g/d) and the combination of CrM (10 g/d + GAA 2 g/d) for six weeks improved delayed verbal episodic recognition memory and retrieval speed and some measures of perceived stress, sleep quality, and quality of life. However, most cognitive tests were not affected, particularly when comparing the GAA to the PLA group; there were some inconsistencies in the findings, and several differences only approached significance. Additional research is needed before conclusions can be drawn. Clinical trial registration: ISRCTN68542582.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Neurological effects of encapsulated dexamethasone sodium phosphate in children aged 6-9 years with ataxia telangiectasia (NEAT): a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial.

BACKGROUND: Ataxia telangiectasia is a rare, multisystem disorder with progressive cerebellar neurodegeneration and no approved treatments. The efficacy of corticosteroids, including erythrocyte encapsulated dexamethasone sodium phosphate (eDSP), which have been studied for two decades in this disease, has not yet been proven in randomised trials. We aimed to investigate the safety and efficacy of eDSP in children aged 6-9 years with ataxia telangiectasia. METHODS: NEAT was a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 3 study, conducted at 20 sites across nine countries (Denmark, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, Spain, Switzerland, UK, and USA). Eligible participants were children aged 6 years or older weighing at least 15 kg, with a genetic diagnosis of ataxia telangiectasia and presence of neurological symptoms. Participants were randomly assigned (1:1) to the eDSP or placebo group via an independent interactive web response system and were stratified by age (6-9 years or ≥10 years), sex, and region (USA vs other countries). All participants, investigators, sponsors, and raters were masked to treatment assignments. eDSP was given intravenously every 21-30 days for six doses. All randomly assigned participants were included in the intention-to-treat (ITT) and safety populations; the primary and secondary efficacy analyses were conducted in participants aged 6-9 years in the ITT population. The primary efficacy endpoint was the change in Rescored Modified International Cooperative Ataxia Rating Scale (RmICARS) score between baseline and month 6, and a mixed-model-repeated-measures analysis was used. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT06193200, and is completed. FINDINGS: Between June 24, 2024, and Dec 17, 2025, we screened 125 participants for eligibility, of whom 105 (84%) were randomly assigned to the eDSP group (n=51 [49%]) or the placebo group (n=54 [51%]) and received at least one dose of treatment. The mean age was 8·5 years (SD 1·9) in the eDSP group and 8·6 years (2·3) in the placebo group (overall age range 6-17 years). In the eDSP group, 24 (47%) of 51 participants were girls and 27 (53%) were boys and, in the placebo group, 26 (48%) of 54 were girls and 28 (52%) were boys. Of ITT participants aged 6-9 years, 38 (95%) of 40 in the eDSP group and 41 (95%) of 43 in the placebo group completed the study. Compared with the placebo group, no significant differences were identified in change in RmICARS score from baseline to 6 months in participants aged 6-9 years: least squares mean difference -1·30 (95% CI -2·77 to 0·18; p=0·085). Adverse events were reported in 47 (92%) of 51 participants in the eDSP group and in 50 (93%) of 54 participants in the placebo group. The most common treatment-emergent adverse events were vomiting, pyrexia, pruritus, nasopharyngitis, cough, headache, and fatigue. There were no reports of treatment-related serious adverse events or deaths. Safety laboratory parameters did not identify adverse effects on growth, metabolism, bone mineral density, or endocrine function in any of the treatment groups. INTERPRETATION: The primary efficacy endpoint was not achieved, because the effect of eDSP on neurological symptoms did not reach statistical significance. The favourable safety profile of eDSP, previously described in a large study of children with ataxia telangiectasia, was confirmed in this trial. The eDSP programme, comprising two randomised studies and treating the largest cohort of patients with ataxia telangiectasia to date, underscores the need for rigorously designed trials of sufficient duration to detect sustained clinical benefit. FUNDING: Quince Therapeutics.

Humans↗