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Assessing the effects of non-invasive transcranial electrical stimulation (tACS and tDCS) on electrophysiological sleep parameters - a systematic review.

Transcranial electrical stimulation (tES), including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), is considered a safe method to modulate cortical activity and endogenous brain oscillations. Given the therapeutic potential of tES across various clinical conditions and the central role of sleep in restoration and memory consolidation, numerous studies have investigated its effects on sleep and sleep-related parameters, yielding inconsistent results. This systematic review provides an up-to-date synthesis of 51 studies assessing the impact of tES on objectively measured electrophysiological sleep outcomes in both healthy individuals and clinical populations. The reviewed studies demonstrate heterogeneous effects, reflecting substantial variability in study designs. Nonetheless, consistent trends emerge, including reduced NREM1 and increases in total sleep time, NREM2, and NREM3 following tES. Moreover, slow-oscillatory tES increased slow-wave power during sleep. Here we show that tES, particularly slow-oscillatory tES, may positively influence sleep architecture and continuity by modulating endogenous brain oscillations. However, due to heterogeneous stimulation protocols, inconsistent findings, the limited number of significant effects and substantial risk of bias the current evidence remains inconclusive. Well-designed, large-scale trials targeting specific sleep outcomes are needed to clarify the therapeutic potential of tES.

Humans

Clinical Efficacy and Learning Curve of Far-Lateral Approach (FLA) in Uni-Portal Non-Coaxial Spinal Endoscopic Surgery (UNSES) in the Treatment of Lumbar Degenerative Diseases: A Prospective Study.

BACKGROUND: Uniportal non-coaxial spinal endoscopic surgery (UNSES) via far-lateral approach (FLA) is an innovative minimally invasive procedure for lumbar degenerative diseases, particularly far-lateral disc herniation and foraminal stenosis. However, complex lateral lumbar anatomy and strict endoscope-instrument coordination create a distinct learning curve that may compromise early surgical efficiency and safety. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety, quantify the learning curve, and to provide clinical guidance for the standardized promotion and application of this technology. METHODS: A total of 40 consecutive patients with lumbar degenerative diseases who underwent UNSES via FLA by a single surgeon between January 2025 and December 2025 were included. All data were analyzed using SPSS 26.0 statistical software (IBM, USA). Primary outcomes included operation time, blood loss, fluoroscopy frequency, and intraoperative complication rate. Secondary outcomes were VAS, ODI, and modified Macnab criteria at 1, 3, and 6&#x2009;months postoperatively. The learning curve and the inflection point of the learning curve was determined using cumulative sum (CUSUM) analysis. The differences in clinical indicators between early and proficient stage were compared. RESULT: Operation time, blood loss, and fluoroscopy times decreased significantly with case accumulation (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). CUSUM identified an inflection point at the 16th case, after which operation time stabilized at (55.3&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;8.6) min, much shorter than the early phase (89.5&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;10.3) min (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). Before the 16th case, the curve was in an upward trend; after the 16th case, the curve tended to be flat, indicating the proficiency stage. Postoperative VAS and ODI improved significantly than those before surgery at each follow-up time (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.05). There was no significant difference in postoperative VAS score and ODI between the two groups at each follow-up time point (p&#x2009;>&#x2009;0.05). The total complication rate was 12.5% (5/40), were cured by conservative treatment. The total excellent-good rate was 90.0% (36/40). L5/S1 and Bertolotti's syndrome were independent factors affecting the learning curve. CONCLUSION: UNSES via FLA is a safe and effective minimally invasive technique for treating complex lumbar degenerative diseases. It has a certain learning curve, and the inflection point is about the 16th case. After mastering the key techniques such as anatomical positioning, endoscopic manipulation and hemostasis, the surgeon can gradually reach the proficiency stage, with significantly improved surgical efficiency and clinical efficacy, and controllable complications. This study provides a theoretical basis for the clinical training and technology promotion of UNSES via FLA.

Humans

The efficacy of non-invasive brain stimulation interventions in obsessive-compulsive disorder management: A network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) has been widely used as an alternative treatment for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). However, the most effective NIBS parameters are unclear. To compare the efficacy of NIBS in OCD. We conducted a systematic review and network meta-analyses (NMA) to combine direct and indirect comparisons of NIBS.Systematic searches were conducted in Cochrane CENTRAL, EMBASE, PubMed, and Web of Science from inception to June 20, 2025. Forty-two randomized sham-controlled trials (n = 1456) were included. All statistical analyses were conducted with R statistical software. Bayesian NMAs mainly using the BUGSnet package and gemtc package. Five NIBS protocols produced statistically significant reductions in Yale-Brown Obsessive Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) scores compared with sham stimulation: high-frequency rTMS over the FzFCz (Hf-rTMS-FzFCz; MD -11.77, 95% CrI -20.62 to -3.09), low-frequency rTMS over F3F4 (Lf-rTMS-F3F4; MD -9.93, 95% CrI -18.07 to -1.65), low-frequency rTMS over FCz (Lf-rTMS-FCz; MD -3.25, 95% CrI -6.06 to -0.40), high-frequency deep TMS over FzFC (Hf-dTMS-FzFC; MD -6.48, 95% CrI -12.32 to -0.50), and 2 mA anodal tDCS over F3 with cathodal over Fp2 (MD -9.34, 95% CrI -16.01 to -3.03).For secondary outcomes, high-frequency deep rTMS over FzFCz produced the largest reduction both in depressive symptoms (SMD -1.24, 95% CrI -1.92 to -0.55) and anxiety scores (SMD -1.88, 95% CrI -2.62 to -1.11), but had no effect on Clinical Global Impression-Severity (CGI-S) scores.Specific NIBS protocols are safe and effective adjunctive treatments for OCD, with promising yet inconclusive improvements in comorbid depressive symptoms. Further high-quality, head-to-head trials are needed.

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

Corticosteroids as adjunctive therapy to standard treatment in Kawasaki disease: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

UNLABELLED: Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute systemic vasculitis and the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children in developed countries. While IVIG plus aspirin remains standard treatment, 10-20% of patients are IVIG-resistant and face an elevated risk of coronary artery abnormalities. Corticosteroids have been explored as adjunctive therapy, though evidence on their benefit remains inconsistent. To assess the efficacy and safety of adjunctive corticosteroids in Kawasaki disease across key clinical outcomes.&#xa0;This PRISMA 2020-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis included RCTs identified through database searches up to April 2026. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane RoB 2.0. Data were pooled using random-effects models to estimate risk ratios (RRs) and mean differences (MDs) with 95% CIs. Subgroup analyses, leave-one-out sensitivity analyses, and GRADE certainty appraisal were also performed.&#xa0;Eight studies (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;4106) were included. No significant differences were found in coronary artery abnormalities (CAA) within 1&#xa0;month (RR 0.49, 95% CI 0.17-1.42), after 1&#xa0;month (RR 0.81, 95% CI 0.43-1.55), fever duration (MD&#x2009;-&#x2009;1.75, 95% CI&#x2009;-&#x2009;3.71 to 0.21), or adverse events (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.57-2.07). Hospital stay was modestly shorter with corticosteroids (MD&#x2009;-&#x2009;0.99, 95% CI&#x2009;-&#x2009;1.86 to&#x2009;-&#x2009;0.11). Exploratory subgroup analyses suggested potential benefits with prednisolone-based and prolonged corticosteroid regimens for selected outcomes; however, these findings should be interpreted cautiously given multiple subgroup comparisons. Overall certainty of evidence was very low. CONCLUSION: &#xa0;Adjunctive corticosteroids did not significantly improve major outcomes in KD. Prednisolone-based regimens showed some promise, but high-quality trials are still needed before any firm conclusions can be drawn. WHAT IS KNOWN: &#x2022; Corticosteroids have been studied as adjunctive therapy for Kawasaki disease, but their effects on coronary outcomes and other clinical outcomes remain inconsistent. WHAT IS NEW: &#x2022; This meta-analysis found no significant improvement in major outcomes with adjunctive corticosteroids, although prednisolone-based and prolonged regimens may provide benefits for selected outcomes.

Humans

Late hiatal hernia after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass: a systematic review.

Obesity is a global public health issue. This condition is linked to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and hiatal hernia (HH), both of which are exacerbated by increased intra-abdominal pressure. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is one of the most widely performed techniques for treating obesity and is considered a versatile option suitable for most patients. The development of a symptomatic HH and pouch migration can lead to various symptoms and complications. PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central were searched for studies with late HH after RYGB. We pooled outcomes for symptom resolution. Secondary outcomes were recurrence rate and operation characteristics (mesh use, cruroplasty, gastropexy, reoperation, length of stay, and operative time). A meta-analysis could not be conducted due to significant heterogeneity in HH. HH following RYGB presents with GERD (39-93.6%), obstructive symptoms (29%-88%), and abdominal pain (28.6%-71%). Diagnostic methods include endoscopy, computed tomography scans, and upper gastrointestinal series. Surgical management varies, with primary cruroplasty being the most common approach, sometimes incorporating mesh or fundoplication. Postoperative symptom resolution rates range from 42.9% to 100%, with HH recurrence occurring in 5%-6.54% of cases. Follow-up durations varied, showing improvement in most patients, though some continued to experience reflux and dysphagia HH contributes to obstructive and reflux symptoms, with contrast-enhanced imaging offering the highest diagnostic accuracy. Bioabsorbable mesh may reduce recurrence, highlighting the need for long-term monitoring.

Humans

Bempedoic Acid and First and Recurrent Limb Outcomes in Statin-Intolerant Patients With Peripheral Artery Disease: Insights From the CLEAR Outcomes Trial.

BACKGROUND: Patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) are at high risk of major adverse limb events (MALE) and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Recently, bempedoic acid was shown to reduce MACE in primary and secondary prevention patients. Whether bempedoic acid reduces the risk of MALE in patients with PAD is unknown. METHODS: CLEAR Outcomes (Cholesterol Lowering via Bempedoic Acid [ETC1002], an ACL-Inhibiting Regimen) randomized 13&#x2009;970 patients to bempedoic acid 180 mg or placebo from December 22, 2016, to August 14, 2019. The trial primary end point was MACE-4, defined as death resulting from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or coronary revascularization. A clinical history of PAD was reported by investigators at baseline. Two blinded vascular medicine specialists independently adjudicated MALE, including adverse events indicating worsening PAD symptoms leading to revascularization, chronic limb-threatening ischemia, and acute limb ischemia. Outcomes were assessed as time to first event and total (including recurrent) events with a negative binomial approach. RESULTS: A total of 1624 of the enrolled patients (mean&#xb1;SD age, 63.9&#xb1;9.9 years; 915 [56.3%] female) had PAD at baseline. In patients with PAD in the placebo group, 69 (8.3%) had MALE over a median of 40.6 months, with rate of recurrent events of 4.0%/y. Bempedoic acid reduced the risk of MALE by 36% (hazard ratio, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.44-0.93]; P=0.018). Bempedoic acid reduced total MALE by 45% (relative risk, 0.55 [95% CI, 0.35-0.85]; P=0.007). First MACE-4 or MALE was reduced overall by 13% (hazard ratio, 0.87 [95% CI, 0.80-0.95]) with consistent effects with PAD (hazard ratio, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.64-1.04]) and without PAD (hazard ratio, 0.87 [95% CI, 0.79-0.86]; Pinteraction=NS) but not statistically significant within the PAD subgroup alone. Total MACE-4 or MALE was reduced (relative risk, 0.81 [95% CI, 0.73-0.90]) overall with consistent effects in PAD (relative risk, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.54-0.95]) and without PAD (relative risk, 0.82 [95% CI, 0.73-0.92]; Pinteraction=NS). CONCLUSIONS: Patients with PAD are at high risk of MALE and MACE. Bempedoic acid reduces both MACE and MALE in patients with atherosclerotic vascular disease, with notable absolute benefits in patients with PAD. These findings support (1) the importance of lowering low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in patients with PAD to reduce overall vascular risk and (2) the benefits of bempedoic acid in this population.

Humans

SBUF-SMUF: On the path to the optimum hemofiltration technique in pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass: A randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Hemofiltration during pediatric cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is essential to mitigate hemodilution, inflammatory responses, and postoperative complications. Conventional ultrafiltration (CUF) is widely practiced, but novel methods such as subzero balanced ultrafiltration combined with simple modified ultrafiltration (SBUF-SMUF) may offer superior outcomes. OBJECTIVE: To compare the clinical efficacy and safety of CUF versus SBUF-SMUF in pediatric patients undergoing open-heart surgery. METHODS: In this prospective randomized, outcome-assessor-blinded clinical trial, 80 pediatric patients with congenital heart disease were allocated to either CUF (n = 40) or SBUF-SMUF (n = 40) during CPB. Baseline demographics, intraoperative characteristics, fluid balance, blood product utilization, and postoperative outcomes were assessed. Statistical analysis was conducted using independent t-tests, Chi-square tests, and Fisher's exact tests. Statistical significance was defined as a two-tailed p-Value of less than 0.05. RESULTS: Demographic and preoperative variables were comparable between groups. Mean fluid balance was significantly positive in the CUF group (+192.1 &#xb1; 178.8 mL) but negative in the SBUF-SMUF group (-105.0 &#xb1; 78.9 mL, p < 0.001). The SBUF-SMUF group required significantly less intraoperative PRBC (141.7 &#xb1; 70.2 vs. 261.0 &#xb1; 68.8 mL, p < 0.001) and postoperative FFP transfusion (2% vs. 10%, p = 0.020). Post-bypass hematocrit levels were higher (31.2% vs. 27.3%, p = 0.001) and extubation occurred earlier in the SBUF-SMUF group (1.05 &#xb1; 1.03 vs. 2.27 &#xb1; 2.37 days, p = 0.006). No significant differences were observed in potassium levels or incidence of acute kidney injury. CONCLUSION: The SBUF-SMUF technique is safe, effective, and superior to CUF in optimizing fluid balance, reducing blood product utilization, and facilitating earlier extubation in pediatric cardiac surgery. No additional risk of oliguria or electrolyte imbalance was observed compared to CUF. Its simplicity and reproducibility support its consideration as a standard approach in pediatric CPB.

Humans

F-URS with FANS versus mPCNL for 2-3&#x2009;cm UUTS: a RCT with a subgroup analysis of 2-2.5&#x2009;cm stones.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of flexible ureteroscopy (f-URS) with a flexible and navigable suction ureteral access sheath (FANS) compared with mini-percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mPCNL) in the treatment of 2-3&#x2009;cm upper urinary tract stones (UUTS), with a prespecified subgroup analysis for stones &#x2265;2 to <2.5&#x2009;cm. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial enrolled 326 patients with 2-3&#x2009;cm UUTS between June 2023 and December 2025. Patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to undergo either f-URS with FANS or mPCNL. A prespecified subgroup analysis was conducted for stones measuring &#x2265;2 to <2.5&#x2009;cm. The primary outcomes were the immediate and 1-month stone-free rate (SFR). Secondary outcomes included the operative duration, decrease in haemoglobin, hospital stay, and complication rate. RESULTS: The baseline characteristics were comparable between the two groups. In the overall 2-3&#x2009;cm cohort, the FANS group achieved immediate and 1-month SFRs comparable to those of the mPCNL group. Although the operative time was longer in the FANS group, it was associated with significantly less haemoglobin loss and a shorter hospital stay, with no significant difference in infection-related complications. Notably, in the subgroup of stones &#x2265;2 to <2.5&#x2009;cm, the FANS group demonstrated a non-inferior SFR at both time points, and the operative time was not significantly longer than that of the mPCNL group. CONCLUSION: For 2-3&#x2009;cm UUTS, f-URS with FANS offers a SFR comparable to that of mPCNL, along with the advantages of reduced blood loss and shorter hospitalization. In the &#x2265;2 to <2.5&#x2009;cm subgroup, FANS shows comprehensive benefits over mPCNL. These findings support FANS as an effective alternative to mPCNL for 2-3&#x2009;cm stones and a potentially preferred option for stones measuring 2-2.5&#x2009;cm.

Humans

Effects of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation over the right primary motor cortex on a sequential motor finger tapping task in developmental stuttering.

INTRODUCTION: This study investigates the impact of anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on non-speech sequential motor practice in adults who stutter (AWS), compared to non-stuttering controls (ANS). Recent research has explored the effects of tDCS on speech fluency in stuttering. However, its effect on non-speech motor tasks has not yet been studied. METHODS: 20 AWS and 30 ANS right-handed participants were randomly assigned to anodal or sham tDCS conditions, performing a sequential finger tapping task. We targeted over the right primary motor cortex, stimulating at 2&#x202f;mA for 20&#x202f;min. Sequence duration and reaction time were analyzed. RESULTS: AWS analysis revealed that the anodal condition had significantly slower reaction times in the second half of the task compared to sham. For sequence durations, AWS in the anodal condition had slower overall sequence durations than the sham condition. However, there were no block-by-block differences in sequence duration. When comparing AWS and ANS, no significant differences were observed for sequence duration. However, there were significant differences in reaction time between AWS and ANS, specifically in earlier blocks. Additionally, there was no significant Group &#xd7;&#x202f;Condition interaction. DISCUSSION: The findings suggest that anodal stimulation impeded finger sequencing in AWS, showing overall slower sequence durations and a diminishing effect on reaction times in the second half of the experiment, suggesting anodal tDCS may interact uniquely with the neural mechanisms in stuttering. Future studies should explore the effects of anodal tDCS on non-speech motor tasks to gain a broader understanding of its impact on motor control and motor learning.

Humans

Treatment of Established Groin Lymphatic Complications After Arterial Surgery: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: To systematically review the effectiveness and safety of interventions for established groin lymphatic complications after arterial vascular surgery. METHODS: PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL were searched from inception to May 28, 2025. This review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251061708) and conducted according to PRISMA, PRISMA-S, and Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) guidance. Eligible studies included adults with established groin lymphorrhea/lymphocutaneous fistula or seroma/lymphocele after arterial exposure in the common femoral or iliofemoral region. Prophylactic studies were excluded. Two reviewers independently screened studies and assessed full texts. Prespecified outcomes were resolution, time to resolution, length of stay, surgical site infection, wound complications, reintervention, and recurrence. Owing to substantial heterogeneity, meta-analysis was not performed. RESULTS: Eighteen retrospective single-center studies were included; no randomized trials were identified. Reported strategy-family totals were operative control (n = 240, including 55 dye-assisted cases), intranodal lymphangiography with glue embolization (n = 39), intracavitary or chemical instillation (n = 52), negative-pressure wound therapy (n = 20), radiotherapy (n = 206), and drainage or aspiration alone (n = 7). One additional cohort compared nonsurgical with surgical management. Definitions, follow-up windows, and statistical reporting were inconsistent, and arm-level denominators were frequently incomplete. Risk of bias was serious to critical across the evidence base, mainly because of retrospective design, confounding by indication, treatment-selection bias, inconsistent outcome definitions, and incomplete reporting. Using GRADE principles, certainty of evidence was very low across strategies and phenotypes. Across study arms, conduit-directed approaches for external leak and cavity-directed approaches for encapsulated collections often achieved control, but valid comparative inference was not possible. CONCLUSION: Evidence is limited to small retrospective series with heterogeneous definitions, serious to critical risk of bias, and very low certainty. Reliable comparisons between interventions cannot currently be made. Standardized phenotype-specific definitions and outcome reporting are needed to support prospective studies and future trials.

Humans

A single session of high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation does not modulate effects of knee two-point discrimination training or sensorimotor function in healthy adults: Double-blind randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Benefits of sensory-training interventions on sensorimotor outcomes are inconsistent, and it is unclear whether transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can enhance proprioception, which is fundamental to neuromuscular control. Existing evidence is dominated by upper-limb studies, so transferability to the knee is unclear. This study investigated whether a single session of anodal high-definition (HD)-tDCS, alone or combined with brief two-point discrimination (TPD) training, enhances knee sensorimotor function and performance in healthy adults. METHODS: In a double-blind randomised-controlled trial, 57 healthy participants received (1) 20-min, 1&#xa0;mA anodal HD-tDCS over the knee primary somatosensory (S1) map or sham stimulation, and (2) 15-min knee TPD training or no training. Knee somatosensory, sensorimotor, and functional performance measures were assessed pre- and immediately post-intervention. Three-way mixed-design ANOVAs, equivalence testing (smallest effect size of interest &#x3b7;2&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.02), Bayes factors, and linear mixed-effects models quantified effects. RESULTS: HD-tDCS, TPD training, and their sequential combination had no effect on any outcome measure (p&#xa0;&#x2265;&#xa0;0.05; &#x3b7;2&#xa0;&#x2264;&#xa0;0.015). Confidence intervals spanned equivalence bounds, and equivalence testing results were non-significant (p&#xa0;&#x2265;&#xa0;0.05). Bayes factors (<0.33) showed moderate evidence for the null (no effect). Mixed-effects modelling attributed &#x2264;8% of total variance to intervention fixed effects, with the remainder captured by participant-level random effects. CONCLUSION: A single 20-minute session of 1&#xa0;mA HD-tDCS, with or without brief TPD training, does not acutely modify knee somatosensory, sensorimotor, or functional performance in healthy adults. Existing evidence at the hand may not translate to the lower limb. Future work should investigate higher-dose, multi-session, task-concurrent, or network-targeted strategies in clinical populations.

Humans

Robot-assisted bladder diverticulectomy in adults: a systematic review and pooled analysis of perioperative and functional outcomes.

Robot-assisted bladder diverticulectomy (RABD) is used for symptomatic acquired bladder diverticula, but evidence is dispersed across small single-centre series and the only dedicated systematic review dates from 2010. We reviewed contemporary perioperative and functional outcomes of RABD. Following a protocol registered on the Open Science Framework ( https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/54CFT ), PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Scopus and Web of Science were searched from inception to 30 August 2026 (initial search June 2026, re-run and broadened for this version), following PRISMA 2020. Eligible studies were original series of five or more adults undergoing robot-assisted bladder diverticulectomy reporting extractable outcomes. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted data and appraised risk of bias with the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for case series, with third-reviewer adjudication. Binary outcomes were pooled as proportions with Wilson 95% confidence intervals (CI); continuous outcomes were summarised as patient-number-weighted descriptive values, because mixed median/mean reporting and clinical heterogeneity precluded a formal pooled-effect meta-analysis. Twelve studies (146 patients) were included and all outcomes were extracted from the full-text reports. A transperitoneal route was used throughout. There were no conversions to open surgery (0/129; 95% CI 0-2.9%). Major complications (Clavien-Dindo&#x2009;&#x2265;&#x2009;III) occurred in 3.0% (4/135; 95% CI 1.2-7.4%). Patient-number-weighted descriptive values (combining study-level medians and means, and therefore not a pooled mean) were: operative time 163 min, blood loss 99 mL, length of stay 3.6 days and catheter duration 7.7 days. Symptom scores and post-void residual improved in every reporting series, significantly in five. The single non-randomised comparison with open surgery reported fewer major complications after RABD (5% [1/20] vs. 50% [3/6], p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.007), but the open arm comprised only six patients and this finding should not be regarded as comparative evidence. Across these series, RABD was feasible with low reported short-term morbidity in selected patients: no conversions to open surgery were recorded in the studies reporting conversion status, the major-complication rate was low, and symptom scores and post-void residual improved in every series that measured them. A minority of patients had an incidentally detected intradiverticular tumour; oncological outcomes were not an endpoint of this review. Evidence remains limited by small, heterogeneous, mostly retrospective series, so these findings should be read as descriptive; prospective comparative data are warranted.

Humans

Structured robotic colorectal training in a non-tertiary NHS hospital: a 502-case consecutive cohort implementation study.

Robotic-assisted colorectal surgery has expanded rapidly across NHS practice in the UK. Structured unit-wide training pathways are essential for safe technology adoption, yet published outcome data from non-tertiary hospitals remain limited. This study describes the implementation and feasibility of a unit-wide robotic colorectal program at a high-volume non-tertiary hospital, reporting outcomes across 502 consecutive resections performed by eight consultant surgeons and presenting these in the context of nationally published benchmarks. A retrospective cohort study of 502 consecutive robotic colorectal resections performed at York Teaching Hospital between May 2022 and December 2025. Eight consultant surgeons (A-H) participated in a structured four-phase training pathway incorporating simulation training, proctored cases, complexity-based case progression, and formal credentialing. Primary outcomes were 30-day mortality, unplanned return to theatre (RTT), and anastomotic leak (AL). Anastomotic leak was calculated using only patients who underwent anastomosis as the denominator. Procedure-stratified and individual surgeon outcomes with 95% confidence intervals were reported. Risk-adjusted cumulative sum (RA-CUSUM) analysis was performed to evaluate learning curves. Outcomes are presented descriptively alongside nationally published reference data; no formal statistical comparison against national benchmarks was performed. 502 robotic colorectal resections were performed. Mean patient age was 70.0 &#xb1; 11.3&#xa0;years; 58.4% were male. Median ASA grade was III. The indication was malignancy in 89.2% of cases. Length of stay was non-normally distributed and is therefore reported using median and interquartile range in the revised analysis. Key outcomes: - 30-day mortality: 1.0% (5/502; 95% CI 0.4-2.3%) - Unplanned return to theatre (RTT): 5.2% (26/502; 95% CI 3.6-7.5%) - Anastomotic leak (AL): 3.3% (15/450; 95% CI 2.0-5.5%; denominator = patients with anastomosis) - 30-day unplanned readmission: 5.0% (25/502; 95% CI 3.4-7.2%) - Conversion to open surgery: 3.6% (18/502; 95% CI 2.3-5.6%) - Lymph node yield &#x2265;12: 91.3% of cancer resections - R0 resection rate: 95.1% of cancer resections All primary outcomes fell within or below the published reference ranges used for descriptive context. RA-CUSUM trajectories were heterogeneous: no surgeon crossed the predefined upper control limit, but several curves showed later upward movement. Accordingly, the analysis is interpreted as safety surveillance rather than evidence of uniform performance improvement. RA-CUSUM monitoring showed that no surgeon crossed the predefined upper control limit; however, heterogeneous trajectories precluded a claim of uniform performance improvement.

Humans

Premeal insulin administration lowers postprandial blood glucose and increases myocardial microvascular blood flow in people with type 1 diabetes: a randomised, crossover clinical trial.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: We aimed to evaluate whether prandial insulin timing affects vascular function in people with type 1 diabetes. Our hypothesis was that premeal insulin administration would lead to greater myocardial microvascular blood flow (MBF) via blunting postprandial hyperglycaemia. METHODS: People with type 1 diabetes between 18 and 35 years of age with BMI <30 kg/m2 underwent two protocols with a 1:1 randomised crossover design wherein prandial insulin was injected either 15 min before or 15 min after meal intake began. To provide a physiological comparison, age-, sex- and BMI-matched control participants completed one study where they consumed the same meal but received no exogenous insulin. Glucose, insulin, vascular function (including ultrasound measures of myocardial and skeletal muscle microvascular perfusion, aortic stiffness, brachial artery endothelial function) and biomarkers of systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction were assessed at baseline and then 2 h after meal ingestion within each protocol. The primary outcome was change in myocardial MBF within each protocol. Study personnel assessing outcomes were masked to group assignment. RESULTS: Eighteen people with type 1 diabetes and 18 matched control participants were analysed within each protocol. Glucose area under the curve was significantly greater (p=0.015) in the postmeal insulin study compared with the premeal insulin study in participants with type 1 diabetes. Myocardial microvascular flow velocity significantly increased (p=0.031) with premeal insulin administration in people with type 1 diabetes and this consequently led to greater myocardial MBF (p=0.044). There were no changes in myocardial MBF within the other protocols. Changes in vital signs were similar between all protocols. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: Appropriately timed premeal insulin led to lower postprandial blood glucose along with increased myocardial MBF in people with type 1 diabetes. Further work is needed to determine the underlying aetiology of these changes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04730882.

Humans

Impact of adenosine in controlled aortic root reperfusion on clinical outcomes among patients undergoing valvular heart surgery.

BACKGROUND: Adenosine is a vital medication in cardiac surgery, particularly in valvular heart procedures. While its use has been linked to improved postoperative cardiac function in some studies, there remains significant uncertainty regarding the adenosine usage in aortic reperfusion phase. This lack of consensus poses challenges for surgeons, perfusionists, and anesthesiologists alike. This study aims to explore the impact of adenosine on clinical outcomes in patients undergoing valvular heart surgery. METHOD: This prospective randomized controlled trial was conducted over a three-month period. Sixty patients undergoing valvular heart surgery were enrolled using a continuous sampling method and randomly allocated into two equal groups of 30 patients each. The intervention group received adenosine-enriched aortic root reperfusion immediately prior to aortic declamping, while the control group underwent standard warm blood aortic root reperfusion. Both groups were matched for demographic and clinical characteristics to ensure comparability. RESULTS: Results indicated no significant differences in mean cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, aortic cross-clamping duration, or mechanical ventilation between the intervention and control groups. However, the intervention group that received adenosine had a higher rate of antiarrhythmic agent usage in the operating room (P&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.05). Inotropic agent usage was similar in both groups during surgery and in the ICU. Additionally, laboratory parameters on the first day of ICU admission were comparable between groups. CONCLUSION: Results in the control group showed more favorable outcomes in terms of anti-arrhythmic drug usage, electroshock application, and arrhythmia prevalence. This study showed advantages for the standard warm blood aortic root reperfusion technique in managing post-operative cardiac rhythm disturbances, in comparison with the trial group.

Humans

Zinc status following different bariatric procedures: systematic review and meta-analysis.

INTRODUCTION: This study evaluated perioperative changes in serum zinc levels following different bariatric procedures and provided evidence-based recommendations for postoperative monitoring and supplementation. METHODS: PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science and CNKI were systematically searched from inception to July 2025. Eligible studies compared pre- and postoperative serum zinc levels in individuals with obesity undergoing bariatric surgery. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS), and the certainty of evidence was graded using the GRADE approach. Pooled analyses were conducted with StataSE 17.0. RESULTS: Twelve studies including 2,529 participants were analysed, with overall quality rated as high. Compared with baseline, pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs) in serum zinc at 3&#x2009;months, 6&#x2009;months, 1&#x2009;year, and 2&#x2009;years postoperatively were -0.12 (95% CI: -0.27 to 0.04, I2&#xa0;= 57.9%, &#x3c4;2 = 0.0265, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.149), -0.36 (95% CI: -0.58 to -0.14, I2&#xa0;= 82.2%, &#x3c4;2 = 0.1043, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.001), -0.35 (95% CI: -0.53 to -0.16, I2&#xa0;= 81.9%, &#x3c4;2 = 0.0769, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.001), and -0.36 (95% CI: -0.95 to 0.24, I2&#xa0;= 97.2%, &#x3c4;2 = 0.3515, p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.240), respectively. Subgroup analysis showed no significant changes at 3&#x2009;months across procedures. However, zinc levels significantly decreased at 6 and 12&#x2009;months after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and mini-gastric bypass (MGB), but not after sleeve gastrectomy (SG). At 2&#x2009;years, no significant reduction was observed in any group. The certainty of evidence for zinc changes was rated as moderate. CONCLUSION: Serum zinc levels decline significantly during the first postoperative year, particularly after RYGB and MGB, while SG shows minimal impact. Routine zinc monitoring and individualized supplementation are recommended within the first year after surgery to prevent deficiency-related complications. REGISTRATION: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251138846.

Humans

Modulating sentence comprehension in people with aphasia through anodal tDCS: A double-blind randomized cross-over study.

This double-blind randomized cross-over study investigated the effects of perilesional anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (AtDCS) combined with speech-language therapy on sentence comprehension in eight individuals with chronic nonfluent agrammatic aphasia. The behavioral therapy consisted of an intensive comprehension treatment including drilling in sentence-to-picture matching and Mapping Therapy. Each participant underwent both the anodal tDCS and sham stimulation conditions (five received sham first followed by real stimulation, and the remaining three the reverse sequence), with each condition paired with the same behavioral treatment and separated by a four-month washout period. Stimulation was applied over the perilesional area (left BA6) for 20&#x202f;min during daily 40-min therapy sessions over four consecutive weeks. Sentence comprehension was assessed with the RiComprendo battery and functional communication with the Communicative Effectiveness Index (CETI). Data were analyzed using paired t-tests, Bayesian analyses, and linear mixed-effects models to control for baseline performance and individual variability. Both stimulation conditions produced significant pre-to-post improvements in sentence comprehension, particularly for syntactically complex structures such as passives and center-embedded object relatives. However, gains were overall greater following AtDCS, as reflected in larger effect sizes, stronger Bayes factors, and a significant treatment effect in the mixed-effects models. Only the AtDCS condition yielded significant improvements in self-perceived comprehension abilities on the CETI. These findings suggest that AtDCS over perilesional cortical areas may boost the effects of traditional language therapy on sentence comprehension, supporting its feasibility and potential as an adjuvant intervention in post-stroke aphasia rehabilitation.

Humans