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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&#xa0;=&#xa0;21.09) were randomly assigned to either a 12-day iACT intervention group (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;46) using a self-developed mobile application or a waitlist control group (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;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)&#xa0;=&#xa0;5.95, p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001), with medium-to-large between-group effects at post-test for reducing psychological rigidity (d&#xa0;=&#xa0;-0.77, 95% CI [-1.19, -0.34]) and self-stigma (d&#xa0;=&#xa0;-0.88, 95% CI [-1.31, -0.45]). Latent growth modeling revealed a sequential mediation effect: the iACT intervention reduced psychological rigidity (&#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;-0.53, SE&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.12), which in turn reduced self-stigma (&#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.61, SE&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.09) and improved help-seeking attitudes (&#x3b2;&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.47, SE&#xa0;=&#xa0;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

Technology choice, glycemic control and patient-reported outcome measures in adults with type 1 diabetes: A randomized crossover trial comparing a smart insulin pen with an automated insulin delivery system (EBIACE-1).

AIMS: To compare glycemic outcomes and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) between smart insulin pens (SIP) and an automated insulin delivery (AID) system in adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D), and to identify individuals able to maintain near-optimal glycemic control using SIP. METHODS: EBIACE-1 was a randomized, open-label, crossover trial including 31 adults with T1D. Participants received SIP (InPen&#x2122;) and AID (MiniMed&#x2122; 780G) for 6&#xa0;months each. Co-primary outcomes were time in range (TIR 70-180 mg/dL) and HbA1c. Treatment effects were assessed using longitudinal models in intention-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analyses. Predictors of near-optimal glycemic control with SIP were evaluated using multivariable logistic regression. RESULTS: AID improved glycemic control versus SIP, with higher TIR (81&#xa0;% vs 66&#xa0;%; +15&#xa0;%, 95&#xa0;% CI 10-19; P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001) and lower HbA1c (6.9&#xa0;% [52&#xa0;mmol/mol] vs 7.3&#xa0;% [56&#xa0;mmol/mol]; -0.4&#xa0;%, 95&#xa0;% CI&#xa0;-&#xa0;0.6 to&#xa0;-&#xa0;0.3; P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001). Near-optimal glycemic control with SIP was achieved by 12 of 26 participants (46&#xa0;%). In exploratory analyses, higher baseline diabetes-related life interference was associated with a lower probability of achieving this outcome. CONCLUSIONS: AID provides superior glycemic control, although nearly half of participants achieved near-optimal control with SIP, supporting a personalized approach to technology selection.

Adult

Intensive glycemic control in adults aged 80&#xa0;years and older: A randomized trial evaluating diabetes complications and competing mortality.

AIMS: To evaluate whether intensive glycemic control reduces microvascular or macrovascular events compared with conservative glycemic targets in independently ambulatory adults aged 80&#xa0;years or older with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, randomized, open-label, single-center trial enrolling independently ambulatory adults aged&#xa0;&#x2265;&#xa0;80&#xa0;years with type 2 diabetes. Participants were assigned (1:1) to an intensive glycemic target (HbA1c&#xa0;<&#xa0;7&#xa0;%) or a conservative target (HbA1c&#xa0;<&#xa0;9&#xa0;%) and followed for 5&#xa0;years. Primary outcomes were composite microvascular and macrovascular events. Analyses were done by intention to treat. Cause-specific Cox models and Fine-Gray subdistribution hazard models were used to account for all-cause mortality as a competing event. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00850798. FINDINGS: 206 participants were randomly assigned to intensive (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;102) or conservative (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;104) treatment. At 5&#xa0;years, mean HbA1c was lower in the intensive group than in the conservative group (7&#xb7;42&#xa0;% vs 8&#xb7;21&#xa0;%; p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0&#xb7;005). Intensive therapy did not reduce microvascular events (hazard ratio [HR] 1&#xb7;24, 95&#xa0;% CI 0&#xb7;76-2&#xb7;04) or macrovascular events (HR 1&#xb7;02, 0&#xb7;36-2&#xb7;92). Competing risk analyses showed no reduction in cumulative incidence of vascular outcomes (subdistribution HR approximately 1&#xb7;0 for both). The cumulative incidence of death exceeded that of vascular events, indicating that many participants died before potential glycemic benefits could be realized. Severe hypoglycemia requiring hospitalization was more frequent with intensive therapy (7 vs 1 event). INTERPRETATION: In adults aged 80&#xa0;years or older with type 2 diabetes, intensive glycaemic control improved glycaemic levels but did not reduce vascular events and increased the risk of severe hypoglycaemia. High competing mortality substantially limits the potential long-term benefit of intensive treatment, supporting conservative and individualized glycemic targets in very old adults. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00850798.

Aged, 80 and over

King's Mill anterior-posterior and transverse versus paracervical block in operative outpatient hysteroscopy: a randomised trial.

BACKGROUND: Pain control during operative outpatient hysteroscopy remains a clinical challenge, with the paracervical block (PCB) showing inconsistent efficacy. The King's Mill Anterior-Posterior and Transverse (KAPT) block targets the Lee-Frankenhauser plexus within the uterosacral ligament complex, where the highest density of uterine and cervical sensory fibres lies. We compared the KAPT block with the PCB in operative outpatient hysteroscopy. METHODS: Single-centre, participant- and outcome assessor-blinded randomised controlled trial in a UK district general hospital. Forty-eight women undergoing operative outpatient hysteroscopy were randomised 1:1 to the KAPT block or the PCB, each delivered with 10&#x2009;ml of prilocaine. Pain was measured on a 10-point Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) during the procedure and 10&#x2009;minutes post-procedure (co-primary endpoints), and during cervical dilatation (exploratory). Analyses used the Mann-Whitney U test on an intention-to-treat basis, with Hodges-Lehmann median differences, percentile bootstrap 95% confidence intervals, and a hierarchical fixed-sequence testing strategy. RESULTS: Median intra-procedural VAS was 1 (IQR 0 to 3) with the KAPT block versus 2 (IQR 1 to 6) with the PCB (Hodges-Lehmann median difference -1.00, 95% CI -3.00 to 0.00; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.040). At 10&#x2009;minutes post-procedure, median VAS was 0 (IQR 0 to 1.25) versus 2 (IQR 0 to 3.25) (median difference -1.00, 95% CI -2.00 to 0.00; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.011). Both co-primary endpoints reached significance under hierarchical testing. Cervical dilatation pain did not differ significantly (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.146). Satisfaction was 100% in both arms; willingness to recommend was 100% (KAPT) versus 95.8% (PCB). No serious adverse events occurred. CONCLUSIONS: The KAPT block was associated with lower intra-procedural and post-procedural pain than the PCB, with effect sizes consistent with a clinically meaningful difference. These findings support the KAPT block as a superior, anatomically targeted alternative to the PCB and justify evaluation in a larger multicentre trial.Trial registration: ISRCTN15619382.

Humans

Comparison between the thoracoabdominal rebalancing (TAR) method and the slow expiratory flow acceleration (SEFA) technique in preterm newborns: protocol for a randomised controlled clinical trial.

INTRODUCTION: Preterm newborns (PTNB) present respiratory immaturity and increased susceptibility to muscle fatigue. The thoracoabdominal rebalancing (TAR) method is a physiotherapeutic intervention developed in Brazil that aims to reorganise the synergy of the thoracoabdominal muscles and reduce the effort of the respiratory muscles, a benefit that is particularly important for PTNB; however, the evidence regarding its effectiveness in this population remains inconclusive. Therefore, this study aims to compare the short-term effects of the TAR method and the slow expiratory flow acceleration (SEFA) technique in improving respiratory distress and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) in PTNB admitted to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). METHODS AND ANALYSIS: The study will be a randomised, controlled, two-arm, parallel-group, single-blind clinical trial. 68 participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two treatment groups. Group 1 will receive four handling techniques of the TAR method for 10&#x2009;min, followed by the rhinopharyngeal retrograde clearance with saline instillation (RRC+I) technique. Group 2 will receive the SEFA technique for 10&#x2009;min, also followed by RRC+I. Primary outcomes are respiratory distress and SpO2. Secondary outcomes are respiratory rate (RR), heart rate (HR), pain, behaviour and diaphragmatic excursion. Assessments will be conducted by a blinded researcher at baseline (T0), immediately after the intervention (T1) and at the 30-minute follow-up (T2). Data will be described using measures of central tendency and dispersion and absolute and relative frequencies. An intention-to-treat analysis will be performed, and intragroup and intergroup comparisons will be assessed using generalised estimating equations (GEE). ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The Research Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Health Sciences of Trairi of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Norte approved this study (number 8,055,786). The results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journal publications, scientific conferences presentations and knowledge translation to the public. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: This study was registered on Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials (ReBEC) on 9 January 2026 (RBR-3gbsyc2).

Humans

Psychological impacts of APOE genotype disclosure among Latinos in New York City: a randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Latinos face increased Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk but are underrepresented in studies of APOE genotype disclosure. We evaluated the psychological impacts of APOE disclosure in the Informaci&#xf3;n de la Enfermedad de Alzheimer para Latinos (IDEAL) study, a randomized controlled trial among Latinos in New York City. METHODS: Latino northern Manhattan residents without self-reported AD (mean age 52, 69% women, 49% college graduates) were randomized in the period August 2021 to July 2024 to receive AD risk estimates to age 85 incorporating APOE genotype, family history, and ethnicity (disclosure) or the same factors excluding APOE (non-disclosure). Bilingual genetic counselors delivered risk estimates to both groups, unmasked to randomization. Follow-up surveys were completed 6&#xa0;weeks, 9 months, and 15 months after risk delivery. Primary outcomes were impact of genetic testing in AD (IGT-AD) and Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R). Secondary outcomes were changes from baseline in depression, anxiety, and perceived AD threat. Analyses used intention-to-treat with multiple imputation. RESULTS: Disclosure (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;194) and non-disclosure (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;180) groups did not differ on IGT-AD (mean disclosure-non-disclosure difference [MD] at 6 weeks: -1.5, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.14; 9 months: -1.2, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.35; 15 months: -2.0, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.07), IES-R (MD at 6 weeks: 0.00, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.98; 9 months: 0.01, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.84; 15 months: 0.03, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.64), or change in secondary outcomes. Occurrence of disclosure-related adverse events was similar in the disclosure (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;2) and non-disclosure (N&#xa0;=&#xa0;3) groups. DISCUSSION: In this Latino cohort, APOE disclosure did not have clinically significant adverse psychological effects, addressing an important evidence gap. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04471779.

Aged

Comparative effectiveness of torsemide vs furosemide in the management of heart failure patients: Win-ratio reanalysis of the TRANSFORM-HF trial.

BACKGROUND: Loop diuretics are widely used for managing congestion in patients with heart failure (HF). The TRANSFORM-HF trial is a multicenter randomized study that enrolled heart failure patients, comparing a strategy of torsemide vs furosemide. The time-to-event analysis demonstrated neutral effects on all-cause death at 30 months and the composite of all-cause death and first rehospitalization at 12 months. We evaluated whether a hierarchical win-ratio (WR) framework integrating mortality, recurrent hospitalization, and patient-reported health status provides additional interpretive insight. METHODS: This study is a secondary analysis of the pragmatic, multicenter, open-label, randomized TRANSFORM-HF trial, conducted across 60 US hospitals that randomized 2,859 patients hospitalized with HF to torsemide or furosemide. The primary 12-month hierarchical composite outcome was defined as (1) all-cause mortality, (2) recurrent all-cause hospitalizations, and (3) lack of improvement in the Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire Clinical Summary Score (KCCQ-CSS). The primary statistical method was a WR analysis adjusting covariates via inverse probability weighting. Subgroup analyses evaluated potential heterogeneity across patient demographics and clinical characteristics. RESULTS: In the primary 12-month intention-to-treat analysis, the adjusted WR was 1.07 (95% CI, 0.98-1.16; P = .13), indicating no significant difference between torsemide and furosemide. A supplementary 30-month analysis with extended mortality follow-up yielded a similar estimate (adjusted WR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.98-1.16; P = .14); hospitalization and KCCQ-CSS components were assessed through 12 months. As-treated sensitivity analyses were consistent with the neutral primary findings. Exploratory subgroup analyses were not adjusted for multiplicity and should be considered hypothesis-generating. CONCLUSIONS: The overall WR comparison between torsemide and furosemide showed no statistically significant difference in the primary 12-month analysis. The WR framework provided an interpretive decomposition across outcome domains but did not establish superiority of either loop diuretic strategy. All findings should be considered exploratory. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03296813, https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03296813.

Aged

Vaginal Hysterectomy Versus Vaginal Assisted Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery Hysterectomy; Results of a Randomised Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To compare Vaginal Hysterectomy (VH) with Vaginal Assisted Natural Orifice Transluminal Endoscopic Surgery (NOTES) hysterectomy (VANH) as a day-care procedure. DESIGN: Single-blind, multicentre randomised controlled trial. SETTING: Two Dutch non-academic teaching hospitals. POPULATION: Women aged &#x2265;&#x2009;18&#x2009;years undergoing hysterectomy for benign indications. METHODS: Women were randomised 1:2 (VH or VANH). Primary outcome was SDD. Secondary outcomes included operative time, rate of elective salpingectomies, intraoperative blood loss, complications (Clavien-Dindo), pain scores (NRS) and analgesic use, post-operative recovery (RI-10), and quality of life (EQ-5D-5L). Analyses were performed on an intention-to-treat basis. RESULTS: A total of 113 patients were included in the analyses (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;42 VH, and n&#x2009;=&#x2009;71 VANH). SDD occurred significantly more frequently in the VANH group (87.3%) than VH group (71.4%; OR 2.76, 95% CI 1.04-7.25; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.04). VANH was associated with a significantly shorter operative time (median 55&#x2009;min versus 65&#x2009;min; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.005), less blood loss (median 50&#x2009;mL vs. 150&#x2009;mL; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001) and more often elective opportunistic salpingectomy compared to VH (100% vs. 77.4%; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.008). NRS were significantly lower in the VANH group the first hour post-operative (3 vs. 1, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). Post-operative complications (VH 9.5% vs. VANH 15.5%; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.34), readmission (VH 4.8% vs. VANH 8.5%; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.47), analgesic use, recovery, and quality of life were not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS: VANH is a safe and effective alternative to VH, offering a higher likelihood of SDD, shorter operative time, reduced blood loss, and more often an elective salpingectomy, without increased complications or differences in pain, recovery, or quality of life.

Humans

A two-center randomized clinical superiority trial of single-anastomosis sleeve ileal bypass versus sleeve gastrectomy for severe obesity: SASSY study protocol.

BACKGROUND: Single-anastomosis sleeve ileal bypass is a novel metabolic bariatric surgery intended to enhance metabolic outcomes and reduce the risk of postoperative complications. Although preliminary outcome data for single-anastomosis sleeve ileal bypass are promising, evidence from adequately powered, randomized head-to-head comparisons is scarce. This trial compares the efficacy and safety of single-anastomosis sleeve ileal bypass versus sleeve gastrectomy in patients with class II obesity (body mass index = 35.0-39.9&#x2009;kg/m&#xb2;) with at least one obesity&#x2011;related comorbidity or class III obesity (body mass index &#x2a7e;40.0&#x2009;kg/m&#xb2;). METHODS: This two-center randomized clinical superiority trial enrolls patients eligible for metabolic bariatric surgery at two specialized Norwegian centers. Included patients are randomly assigned (1:1) to either single-anastomosis sleeve ileal bypass or sleeve gastrectomy with standardized perioperative treatment and care. The primary endpoint is the between-group difference in change in body mass index from baseline to 2&#x2009;years after single-anastomosis sleeve ileal bypass versus sleeve gastrectomy. Secondary endpoints include additional weight loss outcomes, the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease, surgical and postoperative complications, obesity-related comorbidities, nutritional status, bone mineral density, gastrointestinal symptoms, quality of life, and rates of revisional and conversion surgery. All endpoints will be evaluated at 2 and 5&#x2009;years after surgery. Statistical analyses utilize linear mixed models and analysis of covariance within an intention-to-treat framework. DISCUSSION: This trial will provide high-level evidence with robust and comparative outcome data on single-anastomosis sleeve ileal bypass and sleeve gastrectomy, aiming to clarify the clinical utility of single-anastomosis sleeve ileal bypass and inform surgical practice. Findings will address gaps in medium- and long-term evidence regarding weight loss, safety, comorbidity resolution, and quality of life following single-anastomosis sleeve ileal bypass.

Humans

Efficacy of citicoline as an add-on therapy in Parkinson's disease: a randomized, double-blind trial.

BACKGROUND: Citicoline is a promising therapeutic option for improving both motor and non-motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease (PD) beyond levodopa and other standard dopaminergic treatments. OBJECTIVES: The CITIPARK study evaluated the efficacy and safety of citicoline in improving clinical outcomes and quality of life (QOL) in PD patients on dopaminergic therapies. METHODS: The randomized, double-blind, multicenter trial compared citicoline (1000&#x202f;mg/day intramuscular, two six-week cycles) with placebo for 24 weeks in PD under stable medications. The primary endpoint was change in Movement Disorder Society-Unified PD Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) total score; secondary endpoints included motor and non-motor subscores, QOL, clinical global impression (CGI) and safety. RESULTS: The study enrolled 485 participants, randomizing 474 (citicoline: 303; placebo: 171). Citicoline significantly increased the likelihood of achieving a minimal clinically important difference compared with placebo (OR 2.06, 95% CI 1.06-3.99; P&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.031) on the MDS-UDPRS total score in the modified intention-to-treat population. Among secondary outcomes, the citicoline group showed greater improvement in motor function (MDS-UPDRS III -2.97 vs -0.13; p&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.009) and a greater improvement on CGI -II and CGI-III (3.26 vs 3.59; p&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.021 and 9.30 vs 10.38; p&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.018, respectively). AEs occurred in 22.1% and 27.1% of the citicoline and placebo groups, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Citicoline was well tolerated and associated with motor benefits compared with placebo in a highly compliant population. The results suggest a role of citicoline as a safe and possibly effective supportive therapy in PD treated with concomitant dopaminergic agents.

Humans

Phentermine/Topiramate in Obese, Diabetic Uric Acid Stone Formers: An Open-Label Randomized Feasibility Trial.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to determine whether medical treatment of obesity, diabetes, and low urine pH with combination phentermine/topiramate affects uric acid (UA) kidney stone burden. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Participants with obesity, diabetes mellitus, normal renal function, urine pH < 5.8, and stone analysis &#x2265; 80% UA were block randomized (2:1 ratio) to phentermine 18.75 mg/topiramate 100 mg vs pragmatic controls for an 18-month, prospective, open-label feasibility study with dose escalation. The primary outcome was change in CT stone volume. Secondary outcomes included medication adherence; patient safety; and change in anthropometrics, laboratory studies, and body composition. RESULTS: Nineteen participants (age 62.1 &#xb1; 9.8 years; 68% male; mean BMI = 36.3 &#xb1; 2.9 kg/m2) were randomized, and 15 completed the study with 73% pill adherence and no serious adverse events. Stone volume by intention-to-treat analysis fell by 52% in the intervention group and rose by 8.6% in the control group (P = .10), with per-protocol analysis demonstrating statistically significant stone volume reduction (P = .02). At study end and compared with means of controls, the intervention group had greater weight loss (-10.2 vs +2.9 kg), reduction in hemoglobin A1c levels (-0.2 vs +0.5), lower 24-hour urine citrate (309 &#xb1; 81 vs 951 &#xb1; 782 mg), and lower UA supersaturation (0.7 &#xb1; 1.1 vs 1.8 &#xb1; 1.0), along with higher 24-hour urine pH (6.2 &#xb1; 0.5 vs 5.5 &#xb1; 0.4) and calcium phosphate supersaturation (0.9 &#xb1; 0.8 vs 0.2 &#xb1; 0.1; all P < .05). CONCLUSIONS: Among obese participants with diabetes mellitus and UA nephrolithiasis, phentermine/topiramate was well tolerated and demonstrated significant stone burden reductions by per-protocol analysis. The intervention group also had greater weight loss, higher urinary pH, and lower hemoglobin A1c and urinary citrate levels. These data provide a framework to study the impact of this novel alternative UA therapy on a wider range of patients with obesity and diabetes.

Aged

Fourteen-Day Amoxicillin- or Tetracycline-Containing Bismuth Quadruple Therapy versus 14-Day Metronidazole-Based Triple Therapy as the Treatment for Clarithromycin-Resistant Helicobacter pylori Infection: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Combination therapy comprising a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), amoxicillin, and metronidazole (PAM) is used to treat clarithromycin-resistant Helicobacter pylori in the Republic of Korea, but eradication rates are decreasing due to an increasing incidence of clarithromycin resistance. We compared PAM, bismuth compounds plus PAM (PAM-B), and the combination of PPI, bismuth compounds, metronidazole, and tetracycline (PBMT) to determine whether PAM-B can achieve an eradication rate higher than that of PAM and comparable to that of PBMT. METHODS: This prospective multicenter study enrolled patients with clarithromycin-resistant H. pylori infections in the Busan and Gyeongsangnam-do of the Republic of Korea between December 2022 and February 2024. RESULTS: In the intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis, the eradication rate was significantly lower in the PAM group (68.2%) than in the PAM-B group (84.8%, p=0.024), whereas the difference from the PBMT group (81.8%) was not significant (p=0.070). The rate remained lowest in the PAM group (75.4%) in the per-protocol (PP) analysis (PAM-B, 96.5%, p=0.001; PBMT, 94.6%, p=0.004). Eradication rates were comparable between the PAM-B and PBMT groups in both the ITT (p=0.640) and PP analyses (p=0.633). Nausea and vomiting were significantly less frequent in the PAM-B group than in the PBMT group (6.8% vs 25.0%; p=0.007). Severe adverse events were rare, and all symptoms resolved after treatment discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS: PAM-B yielded eradication rates higher than those of PAM and comparable to those of PBMT, with no significant increase in the incidence of adverse events, suggesting the potential of PAM-B as a first-line treatment for clarithromycin-resistant H. pylori infection. Further large-scale studies are needed to validate these results. Registered retrospectively with the Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS; KCT0012265).

Humans

CanDo (Canadian Donor Milk) randomised controlled trial: pasteurised human donor milk supplementation in the well-baby unit - protocol.

INTRODUCTION: Mother's milk is the gold standard for feeding newborns. Despite lactation support while in hospital, supplementation rates remain high in Canadian well-baby units at 35-50%. When supplementation is needed, the choice between formula milk and pasteurised human donor milk (donor milk) remains uncertain with a lack of clinical trials to inform this practice. This study aims to compare the effect of supplementing mother's milk with donor milk versus formula in infants at higher risk for supplementation (infants of diabetic mothers, infants born small for gestational age or with a birth weight less than 2.5&#x2009;kg and late preterm infants born between 350/7 and 366/7 weeks gestation). METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This is an ongoing, open-label, single-centre, randomised controlled trial conducted at Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada. A total of 112 infants (56 per group) will be randomised to receive donor milk or infant formula as a supplement to mother's milk during their initial hospital stay, when supplementation is deemed necessary by the family and/or healthcare team. The primary outcome is exclusive human milk feeding at 4 months of age. Secondary outcomes include any or exclusive human milk feeding at 1, 2 and 3 months; infant growth and health indicators and breastfeeding self-efficacy. Exploratory outcomes encompass infant temperament; parental mental health (assessed using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale); milk cortisol concentrations; and informal milk sharing comparing donor milk and formula supplementation. Follow-up includes monthly telephone assessments and a virtual or in-person visit at 4 months post partum. Data will be analysed using intention-to-treat principles. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The CanDo trial has received ethics approval from the Mount Sinai Hospital Research Ethics Board and the University of Toronto. Results will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations and stakeholder engagement with hospital and public health decision-makers. Findings will address a critical evidence gap regarding the use of donor milk supplementation in well-baby units and may inform future clinical practice and policy in newborn feeding. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT06315127.

Humans

Stratified medicine with eplerenone for myocardial infarction or injury and no obstructive coronary arteries: A registry-based basket trial.

BACKGROUND: Myocardial Infarction with No Obstructive Coronary Arteries (MINOCA) or Nonischemic Myocardial Injury affects approximately 1 in 9 patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome, yet evidence-based therapies are lacking. Coronary microvascular dysfunction is implicated in the pathogenesis of suspected MINOCA, but its prevalence, prognostic implications and treatment are uncertain. The objectives are, first, to assess the prevalence of coronary microvascular dysfunction in patients with suspected MINOCA and, second, to implement endotype-informed stratified medicine involving patients with coronary microvascular dysfunction to treatment with eplerenone, a cardio- and vasculo-protective mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist. METHODS: This is a prospective, registry-based, multicenter, diagnostic study and nested, randomized, controlled, open-label, blinded-endpoint (PROBE) basket trial. Up to 400 patients with clinically suspected MINOCA and one or more cardiovascular risk factors will be enrolled into a registry-based diagnostic study. Coronary microvascular function will be assessed during invasive angiography using thermodilution. Patients with an index of coronary microvascular resistance (IMR) &#x2265; 25 will be randomized 1:1 to eplerenone (25-50 mg daily for 6 months) or standard care without eplerenone (control group) (n = 150 randomized). Final endotypes will be centrally adjudicated by a panel of blinded cardiologists. The primary outcome of the diagnostic study is the proportion of patients with IMR &#x2265; 25 during index coronary angiography. Secondary outcomes include coronary flow reserve, cardiovascular MRI parameters, patient-reported outcome measures, biomarkers of myocardial fibrosis and vascular inflammation, health outcomes and health economic assessments. The primary outcome of the randomized trial is the within-individual change in NT-proBNP at baseline, 1 month, and 6 months, based on intention-to-treat. Secondary outcomes include mechanistic blood biomarkers and patient-reported outcome measures. VALUE: This registry-based randomized trial will provide novel evidence on endotype-informed secondary prevention therapy with eplerenone for suspected MINOCA.

Humans

Effect of an oral complementary medicine combination for symptomatic knee osteoarthritis: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: Many individuals use complementary medicine therapies for osteoarthritis, despite limited scientific supporting evidence. These therapies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and chondroprotective effects via different molecular pathways, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits. This trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a novel oral complementary medicine combination in adults with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis at 12 weeks. DESIGN: The 12-week, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled ATLAS trial was conducted in Australia from July 2024 to April 2025 (ACTRN12623000380695). Eligible participants were aged &#x2265;40 years with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis and radiographic Kellgren-Lawrence grade &#x2265;2. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive the complementary medicine combination, comprising a total daily dose of Boswellia serrata extract 250&#x202f;mg, pine bark extract 100&#x202f;mg, methylsulfonylmethane 1500&#x202f;mg, curcumin 500&#x202f;mg, and piperine 5&#x202f;mg, or placebo. The primary outcome was the 12-week change in knee pain (0-100&#x202f;mm visual analogue scale (VAS)). A 95% confidence interval excluding differences >18&#x202f;mm between groups was interpreted as the absence of a clinically meaningful difference. Harms were monitored weekly. RESULTS: Eighty-four participants were recruited (mean [SD], age 63.7 [8.0] years, BMI 29.0 [5.5] kg/m2), and 57% were female. At 12-weeks, both groups (intention-to-treat population: complementary medicine, n=42; placebo, n=41) showed a decrease in VAS pain (least squares means: complementary medicine 20.1&#x202f;mm vs placebo 20.3&#x202f;mm), however with no difference between groups: 0.16&#x202f;mm (95% CI -6.81 to 7.12). The safety profile of experiencing any AE was similar between groups (risk difference, -3.4% [95% CI -24.8-17.9%]); and most adverse events were mild or moderate. Four participants experienced serious adverse events, unrelated to the treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The complementary medicine combination was not superior to placebo for improving pain over 12 weeks, and the evidence does not support the use of this combination to treat people with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis.

Humans

Timing of aneurysm repair and clinical outcomes after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) causes substantial morbidity and mortality, and guidelines recommend aneurysm repair as early as feasible. However, the association between onset-to-treatment time and outcomes remains uncertain. This review synthesized evidence across multiple clinical outcomes and examined whether treatment modality modifies this association. METHODS: Searches were conducted in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and LILACS for studies comparing clinical outcomes across different onset-to-treatment windows in adults with confirmed aSAH. Findings were synthesized narratively according to the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) guideline. The review was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD420261415084). RESULTS: Twenty reports comprising 11,096 participant records were included, with likely overlap between two reports. Treatment categories ranged from <6&#xa0;h to &#x2265;15&#xa0;days. Earlier securement likely reduced pretreatment rebleeding, particularly when untreated or markedly delayed patients were included, although treated-cohort comparisons were inconsistent. More methodologically informative adjusted analyses showed no reproducible independent association between treatment timing and functional outcome or mortality. No consistent association emerged for vasospasm or related cerebral ischemia, hydrocephalus, or length of stay. Two observational studies modeled time continuously: one found a significant U-shaped mortality association with an estimated nadir at 32.6&#xa0;h, whereas the other showed a similar but non-significant adjusted pattern with an estimated nadir near 12.16&#xa0;h. These findings are highly susceptible to confounding by indication and survivor bias and do not establish benefit from treatment delay. Three studies formally tested modality-timing interaction; one found a significant mortality interaction and two did not. Additional stratified analyses showed no consistent modality-specific pattern. Certainty of evidence for the timing-mortality association was very low because of serious risk of bias, inconsistency, and imprecision. CONCLUSION: Earlier aneurysm securement remains supported for preventing pretreatment rebleeding. The independent association of treatment timing with mortality or functional outcome remains uncertain. The observed mortality patterns are hypothesis-generating and do not define a validated therapeutic window, support intentional treatment delay, or justify changing current guideline recommendations. Prospective multicenter studies using continuous-time modeling and rigorous methods to address confounding and survivor bias are needed.

Humans

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&#x2009;&#xd7;&#x2009;3 repeated-measures ANOVA on completers; mixed-effects intention-to-treat model as sensitivity analysis. RESULTS: No significant time &#xd7; group interaction was detected for any ES biomarker, including 2-AG (F(2,88)&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.17, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.844) and AEA (F(2,88)&#x2009;=&#x2009;1.20, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;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&#x2009;+&#x2009;81.6&#xa0;m at 12 weeks (F(2,78)&#x2009;=&#x2009;7.88, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;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)&#x2009;=&#x2009;2.83, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;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

Pedagogical Efficacy of LLM-Generated Synthetic Data Versus Real-World Clinical Records: A Randomized Controlled Non-Inferiority Trial.

BACKGROUND: Expert-reviewed clinical cases generated by large language models (LLMs) may supplement case resources in medical education, but their short-term educational performance relative to real-case-derived teaching materials remains uncertain. We compared immediate post-training test performance after teaching with the two types of case materials and assessed non-inferiority against a prespecified margin. METHODS: We conducted a prospective, parallel-group, randomized non-inferiority trial. Through the Wenjuanxing online platform, participants were randomized 1:1 to learn with either real-case-derived teaching cases compiled by clinicians and reviewed by experts or AI-generated clinical cases produced by Gemini 3.0 Pro from fully de-identified matched real cases and reviewed by three senior general surgery specialists with full-professor rank. The primary outcome was the total score on an independent 10-item immediate post-training test (0-10 points), with a prespecified non-inferiority margin of -0.5 points. Secondary outcomes included the training-phase performance score, learning efficiency index, single-item mental effort rating, case realism, and case-source judgment. RESULTS: A total of 403 participants were randomized, of whom 386 were included in the modified intention-to-treat analysis: 192 in the real-case group and 194 in the AI-generated case group. The mean post-training test score was 4.95 (SD, 3.35) in the real-case group and 4.61 (SD, 3.35) in the AI-generated case group. The mean difference (AI-generated minus real-case group) was -0.335 points (95% CI, -1.006 to 0.337). Because the lower bound of the confidence interval was below the prespecified non-inferiority margin of -0.5 points, non-inferiority was not demonstrated (one-sided P = 0.314). No significant between-group differences were observed in the training-phase performance score, learning efficiency index, or single-item mental effort rating. AI-generated cases received lower realism ratings for Level 3 cases. The proportion of participants with at least one high-confidence completely incorrect response was 1.6% in the real-case group and 2.1% in the AI-generated case group. CONCLUSIONS: In this short-term, text-based online case-learning setting, no statistically significant between-group difference was observed in immediate post-training test performance; however, non-inferiority of AI-generated clinical cases relative to real-case-derived teaching materials was not demonstrated.

Humans