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Complicated urinary tract infections: evolving definitions, clinical burden, and treatment landscape amid antimicrobial resistance.

INTRODUCTION: Complicated urinary tract infection (cUTI) is a common and heterogeneous infection associated with substantial morbidity, high healthcare utilization, and increasing antimicrobial resistance. Evolving definitions, increasing device use, and changing patient populations have altered its epidemiology and management. Marked variability in diagnostic criteria, clinical trial endpoints within and outside registrational settings, and treatment strategies complicates clinical decision-making and interpretation of therapeutic advances. AREAS COVERED: This review examines contemporary cUTI epidemiology, classification frameworks, and drivers of disease burden. It evaluates resistance trends and their therapeutic implications, alongside stewardship-based management strategies, including empiric antibiotic selection, intravenous-to-oral transition, treatment duration, and source control. Challenges in catheter-associated infection, recurrence, and regulatory endpoint design are discussed, together with the emerging role of novel agents targeting resistant Gram-negative pathogens. EXPERT OPINION: Rising multidrug resistance and limited oral options are reshaping cUTI management, necessitating individualized, stewardship-aligned therapy guided by illness severity and local epidemiology. Current regulatory endpoints inadequately reflect patient-centered outcomes, particularly in the context of asymptomatic bacteriuria. Expanding availability of effective oral agents may enable earlier discharge and outpatient care. Integration of rapid diagnostics and risk stratification will be essential to optimize therapy, limit resistance, and improve outcomes.

Humans

Impact of Baseline Polyneuropathy Severity on Eplontersen Efficacy in the NEURO-TTRansform Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: In the NEURO-TTRansform clinical trial (NCT04136184), eplontersen improved neuropathy impairment and quality of life (QoL) through Week 66 versus the NEURO-TTR historical placebo in patients with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis with polyneuropathy (ATTRv-PN). This analysis assessed the impact of baseline ATTRv-PN severity on eplontersen response in patients from NEURO-TTRansform. METHODS: This post hoc analysis grouped patients into tertiles by baseline Neuropathy Impairment Score (NIS): T1 (least baseline impairment: 3.5 to <&#x2009;27.5; n&#x2009;=&#x2009;67), T2 (27.5 to <&#x2009;55.0; n&#x2009;=&#x2009;67), and T3 (55.0 to <&#x2009;127.8; n&#x2009;=&#x2009;66). Outcomes assessed were neuropathy impairment (modified NIS+7 [mNIS+7] and NIS, Neuropathy Symptom and Change, Polyneuropathy Disability), QoL (Norfolk QoL-Diabetic Neuropathy), physical functioning (36-Item Short-Form Health Survey Physical Component Summary), nutritional status (modified body mass index), and serum transthyretin levels; these were compared with NEURO-TTR historical placebo. Autonomic dysfunction (Composite Autonomic Symptom Score-31), disability (Rasch-built Overall Disability Scale), and walking speed (10-Meter Walk Test) were also assessed. Final assessments were carried out following 65/66 or 81/85&#x2009;weeks of treatment. RESULTS: Mean mNIS+7 composite scores were maintained over 85&#x2009;weeks with eplontersen (changes from baseline of -4.5 [T1], -1.3 [T2], and -2.6 [T3] points). Other disease parameter scores were similarly maintained or improved with eplontersen. Patients receiving placebo experienced disease worsening across outcomes. T1 mean disease scores were typically better than in T2 and T3. INTERPRETATION: Consistent, sustained benefits of eplontersen were observed regardless of baseline ATTRv-PN severity. These findings strengthen the importance of early treatment initiation for patients with ATTRv-PN across the disease spectrum.

Humans

Multimodal Therapy With Metformin, Inositol and Dietary Restriction Improves Insulin Resistance and Endocrine Outcomes in Women With Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

INTRODUCTION: Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is a common endocrine-metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism and ovulatory dysfunction. Metformin, inositol supplementation and lifestyle modification are widely used treatments, but direct comparative evidence remains limited. Multimodal therapy combining metformin, inositol and dietary restriction produces greater metabolic and reproductive improvement than single-modality interventions. METHODS: We conducted a 12-week randomized controlled trial in 192 women aged 18-35 years diagnosed with PMOS according to Rotterdam criteria. Participants were allocated to metformin (1500-2000 mg/day), inositol (myo-inositol 2&#x2009;g plus d-chiro-inositol 50&#x2009;mg twice daily), calorie-restricted diet (1200-1500&#x2009;kcal/day), or combination therapy. Primary outcomes included changes in body mass index (BMI) and insulin resistance assessed by HOMA-IR. Secondary outcomes included testosterone, LH/FSH ratio and menstrual regularity. Analysis was performed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), with post-intervention values as dependent variables and corresponding baseline values as covariates. Categorical outcomes were compared using the Chi-square test. RESULTS: All interventions improved metabolic and endocrine parameters. Combination therapy resulted in the greatest reduction in HOMA-IR (-&#x2009;2.64, 95% CI&#x2009;-&#x2009;2.82 to -2.46, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001) and BMI (-&#x2009;2.8&#x2009;kg/m2, 95% CI&#x2009;-&#x2009;3.05 to -2.55, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). Menstrual cyclicity improved across all groups, with the highest proportion of participants reporting cycle regularisation in the combination therapy group (85.4%), compared with dietary restriction (72.9%), inositol (64.6%), and metformin (39.6%) (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). Given the short follow-up duration, these findings reflect early improvements rather than sustained normalisation. CONCLUSION: Multimodal therapy was associated with superior metabolic and reproductive outcomes compared with single-modality interventions in women with PMOS. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials. gov (NCT07380841).

Humans

Faecal Microbiota Transplantation Reduces Lesion Severity and Medication Use in Canine Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomised, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blinded Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is an established therapy for gastrointestinal disease, yet its role in canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) remains unclear. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: We hypothesised that adjunctive FMT improves clinical severity and reduces symptomatic medication use in dogs with cAD. The objective was to evaluate efficacy and safety versus placebo. ANIMALS: Forty-six client-owned dogs with naturally occurring cAD were enrolled from a referral hospital population; 40 completed the study (FMT n&#x2009;=&#x2009;20, placebo n&#x2009;=&#x2009;20). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective, randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blinded clinical trial. Dogs received daily oral lyophilised FMT capsules for 90&#x2009;days plus three monthly rectal FMT administrations (Day [D]0, D30, D60) or placebo capsules with sham handling. Concomitant symptomatic therapies were permitted. Outcomes included Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, fourth iteration (CADESI-04), pruritus Visual Analog Scale (PVAS), Medication Score (D0-90) and Owner Global Assessment of Treatment Efficacy (OGATE, D90). RESULTS: CADESI-04 scores were lower with FMT at month (M) 2 (7&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6 vs. 16&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;12; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.006) and month 3 (8&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6 vs. 15&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;12; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.020). Sustained responders (&#x2265;&#x2009;50% CADESI-04 improvement at M2 and M3) were more frequent with FMT (35% vs. 5%; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.044). In the FMT group, the medication scores were lower at M2 (16&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;10 vs. 23&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;11; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.033) and M3 (13&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;10 vs. 24&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;15; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.007) compared to placebo. PVAS decreased in both groups without between-group differences. OGATE favoured FMT (p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.028). FMT was well tolerated. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Adjunctive FMT reduced lesion severity and medication requirements, supporting its use as a safe microbiome-based add-on therapy in cAD.

Animals

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

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

Humans

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&#x2009;>&#x2009;ULN), normal (LLN&#x2009;&#x2264;&#x2009;FEV1&#x2009;&#x2264;&#x2009;ULN), and below normal (FEV1&#x2009;<&#x2009;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 (&#x2265;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&#x2009;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&#x2009;=&#x2009;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

Nonoperative Management is Associated With Similar Long-Term Patient-Reported Outcomes Compared With Surgery for Cervical Radiculopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

STUDY DESIGN: Systematic review and meta-analysis. OBJECTIVE: To compare long-term patient-reported outcomes between surgical and nonoperative management for cervical radiculopathy. SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA: Cervical radiculopathy is a common condition associated with substantial morbidity. While both surgical and nonoperative approaches are effective, it remains unclear which patients benefit most from each strategy and whether earlier operative intervention confers meaningful long-term advantage. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to January 2026 for randomized and observational studies comparing surgical and nonoperative management for cervical radiculopathy. Primary outcomes included visual analog scale (VAS) scores for neck and arm pain, neck disability index (NDI), and overall clinical success. Secondary outcomes included analgesia use and sick leave. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed using restricted maximum likelihood estimation. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2 and ROBINS-I, and certainty of evidence using GRADE. RESULTS: Eleven studies comprising 1154 patients (surgical: 522; nonoperative: 632) were included. Surgery was not associated with superior outcomes in VAS for arm pain (MD: -0.67, 95% CI: -1.59 to 0.26, P =0.12), VAS for neck pain (MD: -0.50, 95% CI: -1.38 to 0.38; P =0.19), or NDI (MD: -3.69, 95% CI: -9.63 to 2.25, P =0.16) after 12 months of treatment, nor in overall success (RR: 1.11, 95% CI: 0.93-1.34, P =0.21). No significant differences were observed in analgesia use ( P =0.54) or sick leave ( P =0.48) at last follow-up. Most studies were rated serious risk of bias and overall certainty of evidence was moderate. CONCLUSION: Evidence from this pooled analysis suggests that long-term pain, disability, and functional outcomes are comparable between patients selected for nonoperative management and those selected for surgery. These findings reflect outcomes within selected cohorts and should not be interpreted as evidence of therapeutic equivalence. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.

Humans

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 (&#x2265;18&#xa0;years) with severe OSA without insomnia. In each period, daridorexant 50&#xa0;mg or placebo was administered every evening for 5&#xa0;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 &#x2265;10 events/h and mean decrease in nocturnal SpO2 &#x2264;-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&#x2009;-3.7 events/h (one-sided 95% CI&#x2009;&#x2264;&#x2009;+4.2) and&#x2009;-&#x2009;0.12 % (one-sided 95% CI&#x2009;&#x2265;&#x2009;-0.6), respectively. Compared with placebo, daridorexant increased TST by 32.5&#xa0;min (90% CI: 6.9, 58.2), associated with shorter LPS (-10.3&#xa0;min [90% CI: -20.6, -0.02]) and a trend towards reduced WASO (-15.2&#xa0;min [-31.2, 0.9]). Four adverse events were reported (daridorexant n&#x2009;=&#x2009;3; placebo n&#x2009;=&#x2009;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&#xa0;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&#xa0;mg is safe and well-tolerated and may improve sleep in adults with severe OSA.

Humans

Effectiveness of symptom map-based education in the management of premenstrual syndrome: a randomized controlled trial.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of a symptom map-based educational intervention for the non-pharmacological management of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), with a focus on symptom reduction among women with differing baseline symptom severity. METHODS: This randomized controlled study was conducted between May and December 2024. A total of 110 women meeting diagnostic criteria for PMS were randomly assigned to an intervention group (n = 55) or a control group (n = 55) using block randomization, and 101 participants completed follow-up assessments. The intervention comprised structured education based on a PMS symptom map and evidence-based self-care strategies. Outcomes included PMS symptom severity (Premenstrual Syndrome Scale), pain intensity (Visual Analog Scale), psychological symptoms (Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21), and PMS-specific life satisfaction. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT06585475. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, women in the intervention group reported significantly lower pain (adjusted mean 4.21 vs. 6.81, p < .001) and stress levels (8.54 vs. 12.03, p < .001) at follow-up. The intervention was particularly effective in reducing PMS symptom severity and depressive symptoms among participants with higher baseline symptom burden. Improvements in PMS-specific life satisfaction were observed, with reductions in depressive symptoms contributing to this effect. CONCLUSION: A symptom map-based educational intervention is a clinically applicable, non-pharmacological approach for PMS management. This structured education appears especially beneficial for women with more severe baseline symptoms and may be integrated into routine gynecological care to support individualized symptom management.

Humans

Assessment of the safety and efficacy of sodium pentaborate pentahydrate in individuals with overweight and obesity: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 1/2 dose-finding trial.

The present study aimed to examine the short-term safety and tolerability of sodium pentaborate pentahydrate (NaB) and to explore preliminary efficacy and dose selection as secondary objectives in individuals with overweight or obesity. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 1/2 trial, conducted from July 2024 to January 2025, 177 adults with overweight or obesity were randomized, of whom 116 completed the 12-week trial. Participants received placebo or NaB at doses of 200, 400, 600, 800, or 1,000&#x2009;mg for 12&#x2009;weeks, alongside a standardized diet and exercise programme. The primary safety objective was to investigate short-term safety and tolerability through adverse events, hypoglycaemic episodes, gastrointestinal adverse events, and changes in haematological and biochemical parameters. The primary exploratory efficacy outcome was percentage change in body weight from baseline to week 12. Secondary and exploratory efficacy outcomes included body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist and hip circumferences, waist-to-hip ratio, glycaemic markers, lipid parameters, and blood pressure. Baseline characteristics were broadly similar across groups (all p&#x2009;&#x2265;&#x2009;0.05), and no major short-term safety signal was observed. Mean body weight decreased in the 400&#x2009;mg (-2.6&#x2009;kg), 600&#x2009;mg (-1.2&#x2009;kg), and 1,000&#x2009;mg groups (-3.1&#x2009;kg). Compared with placebo, the 1,000&#x2009;mg dose resulted in the largest reductions in body weight (mean difference, -2.30&#x2009;kg; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.01) and BMI (mean difference, -0.85&#x2009;kg/m2; p&#x2009;=&#x2009;0.02). The 1,000&#x2009;mg dose showed preliminary efficacy for reducing body weight and BMI over 12&#x2009;weeks compared with placebo, with no major short-term safety signal and no clinically meaningful changes in renal, hepatic, or haematological markers. All reported adverse events were mild. These short-term findings are exploratory and require confirmation in future phase 3 trials with extended follow-up to investigate long-term safety and efficacy.

Humans

Symptom assessment and health-related quality of life in children with lower urinary tract dysfunction: A retrospective cross-sectional study.

INTRODUCTION: Lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD) significantly impacts children's health-related quality of life (HRQoL), but key determinants of this impairment remain incompletely understood within a patient-centered framework. METHODS: This retrospective cross-sectional study enrolled 272 children with LUTD. Clinical symptoms were assessed using the Dysfunctional Voiding Scoring System (DVSS) and the Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS), and HRQoL via the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL&#x2122;) 4.0 Generic Core Scales. RESULTS: The mean total PedsQL score was 83.66 &#xb1; 16.07, with the School Functioning domain being the most impaired (73.75 &#xb1; 20.94). Univariate analysis identified older age (&#x2265;11 years), daytime urinary leakage, overactive bladder (OAB) symptoms, and abnormal DVSS scores as factors associated with reduced HRQoL (all P < 0.05); multivariate regression further confirmed only older age and abnormal DVSS were independent influencing factors (both P < 0.001). A significant negative correlation existed between the total DVSS score and the total PedsQL score (r = -0.390, P < 0.01), indicating that greater symptom severity predicts poorer overall HRQoL. CONCLUSION: This study indicates that in children with LUTD, the severity of voiding dysfunction (quantified by DVSS) is inversely correlated with HRQoL. Voiding dysfunction impairs multiple domains of daily functioning, including physical well-being, emotional adjustment, social interaction, and school performance. Shifting from a symptom-focused to a patient-centered care model and integrating routine HRQoL assessment into standard clinical management can optimize clinical practice for pediatric LUTD.

Humans

Clinical and endocrine correlates of genetic etiologies in severe hypospadias: Study from 34 patients.

OBJECTIVE: Hypospadias is a prevalent congenital anomaly (0.3%-1.0%); however, severe hypospadias (defined as proximal cases with the meatus at the penoscrotal junction, scrotum, or perineum) is a rare and clinically challenging entity with a multifactorial etiology. This study aimed to characterize the interrelationships among the clinical, endocrine, and genetic profiles in children with severe hypospadias. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a comprehensive analysis of 34 male patients with severe hypospadias. Preoperative hormone levels were measured using two methods: chemiluminescent immunoassay for luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone, and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry for testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), 17&#x3b1;-hydroxyprogesterone (17&#x3b1;-OHP), and other steroids. Genetic analysis was conducted via whole exome sequencing. RESULTS: The diagnostic yield of clinically relevant genetic variants (including pathogenic and likely pathogenic, and variants of uncertain significance) in our cohort was 41.2% (14/34) of patients. Patients carrying these variants exhibited a more complex phenotypic profile compared to non-carriers, including a significantly higher rate of patients with &#x2265;3 associated malformations and a greater prevalence of cryptorchidism. Furthermore, the group with clinically relevant variants showed selective elevations in adrenal-derived precursors, specifically 17&#x3b1;-OHP and DHEA. Correlation analysis revealed significant positive associations of both 17&#x3b1;-OHP levels and the T/DHT ratio with the number of associated malformations. CONCLUSION: This study reveals significant genetic heterogeneity in patients with severe hypospadias. Those carrying genetic variants was associated with more severe clinical phenotypes, while certain endocrine variations, including the elevation of adrenal-derived hormones, were also observed in this cohort.

Humans

The knee-ankle link: impact of knee varus severity on distal joint malalignment and concomitant pathologies.

BACKGROUND: Knee varus deformity is traditionally managed as an isolated joint pathology; however, persistent distal symptoms following proximal realignment suggest a more extensive kinetic chain dysfunction. The degree to which knee varus severity dictates distal malalignment and secondary pathologies remains poorly quantified in the current literature. METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines (PROSPERO: CRD420261363327). A comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library was performed from inception to April 2026. Studies examining the relationship between knee varus (HKA angle) and radiographic distal alignment or pathologies were included. Data synthesis utilized random-effects models, with prevalence analyzed via generalized linear mixed models (GLMM). RESULTS: Fourteen studies were included in the final synthesis. While pooling of continuous radiographic parameters was limited by high statistical heterogeneity in Talar Tilt (I2&#xa0;=&#xa0;96.5%), individual large-cohort data (Huang et al.) indicated that severe knee varus (HKA&#xa0;>&#xa0;10&#xb0;) was associated with increased odds of concomitant ankle osteoarthritis (OR 2.29; 95% CI 1.28-4.11) and a specific cohort prevalence of 37.1%. Furthermore, single-arm prevalence data revealed divergent trends across different study populations, with compensatory hindfoot valgus reaching 69.9% in some cohorts and rigid varus up to 63.9% in others. CONCLUSIONS: Severe genu varum is associated with distal kinetic chain alterations and concomitant ankle pathologies. However, due to the extreme heterogeneity and divergent distal adaptations observed across different cohorts, standardized knee-centric protocols may be insufficient. Further longitudinal and interventional studies are required to establish phenotype-specific rehabilitation guidelines.

Humans

Cine-derived mitral annular relaxation velocity for detection of preclinical left ventricular diastolic dysfunction.

OBJECTIVES: Imaging diastolic dysfunction in pre-clinical heart failure (HF) is challenging. We evaluated a novel cardiac MRI (CMR) biomarker, CMR e-prime (CMR-MARV), in patients at risk of HF. METHODS: In this substudy of the PARABLE trial (NCT04687111), 236 patients (71.6&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;7.7&#xa0;years, 61.6% male) fulfilling trial-defined ALVDD citeria underwent CMR with measurement of mitral annular relaxation velocity (CMR-MARV) at four mitral annular anchor points. Diastolic strain rates from FT were also assessed. Twenty-five age- and sex-matched controls were included (73.8&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;3.1&#xa0;years, 52% male). Group differences were tested with t-tests, diagnostic accuracy with ROC analysis, and predictors of diastolic dysfunction with adjusted logistic regression. RESULTS: Compared with controls, patients had significantly higher indexed maximal left atrial volume (LAVimax), LV end-diastolic and end-systolic volumes, and LV mass (all p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001). Of FT variables, only peak diastolic longitudinal velocity differed between groups (p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001). In multivariate models, CMR-MARV correlated with radial, circumferential, and longitudinal diastolic strain rates, radial and longitudinal diastolic velocities (all p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001), echocardiographic e' (r&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.20, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.007), LV mass (r&#xa0;=&#xa0;-0.18, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.008), LAVimax (r&#xa0;=&#xa0;-0.18, p&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.008), and NT-proBNP (r&#xa0;=&#xa0;-0.30, p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.0001). LAVimax and CMR-MARV were strongly independently associated with ALVDD (AUC 0.89 and 0.76, respectively; p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.0001). A combined model (LAVimax + CMR-MARV) achieved excellent discrimination (AUC 0.91, 95% CI 0.86-0.97, p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.0001). Independent predictors included LAVimax, CMR-MARV, and peak diastolic longitudinal velocity (all p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.001). CONCLUSION: CMR-MARV provides a simple cine-derived measure of longitudinal relaxation that correlates with established structural and biochemical markers of diastolic burden. Within an at-risk population, it offers incremental functional information beyond conventional parameters and may support multiparametric CMR phenotyping of preclinical diastolic dysfunction.

Aged

Comparison of short-term clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction between intraoral scanning and conventional impressions for complete-arch implant prostheses: a pilot RCT.

OBJECTIVE: To compare framework passive fit, subjective evaluations, and short-term clinical outcomes between conventional impressions (CI) and intraoral scanning (IOS) for complete-arch implant-supported fixed dental prostheses (CIFDPs). METHODS: In this randomized controlled trial, 22 patients were allocated to the CI or IOS groups. All participants received a definitive one-piece CIFDP. The primary outcome was framework passive fit, assessed using the Vision and Tactile Score (V&T score), which included framework lift-off, the single-screw test, the full-screw test, smoothness of screw insertion, and radiographic gap assessment. Secondary outcomes included operator evaluation, patient satisfaction using a visual analog scale (VAS), early implant survival, marginal bone loss (MBL), modified Plaque Index (mPII), and complications at the 6-month follow-up. RESULTS: Twenty-two patients were enrolled (CI: n = 11; IOS: n = 11), and one patient in the CI group was lost to follow-up. No statistically significant difference in the V&T score was observed between the CI and IOS groups (4.66 &#xb1; 0.17 vs. 4.65 &#xb1; 0.28; P = 0.93). The operator reported greater nervousness during the CI procedure than during IOS (21.82 &#xb1; 15.69 vs. 8.64 &#xb1; 7.47; P < 0.05). Patients in the CI group reported significantly greater discomfort, including nausea and anxiety, than those in the IOS group (P < 0.05). At the 6-month follow-up, the early implant survival rate was 100% in both groups. No significant differences were found between the groups in MBL (0.09 &#xb1; 0.09 vs. 0.06 &#xb1; 0.10 mm; P = 0.43) or mPII (0.10 &#xb1; 0.12 vs. 0.10 &#xb1; 0.28; P = 0.99). CONCLUSION: IOS and CI achieved comparable short-term clinical outcomes in patients who met the predefined inclusion criteria, including controlled implant number, spacing, and angulation. IOS provided a more favorable experience for both operators and patients. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: In complete-arch implant restorations, intraoral scanning may provide clinical outcomes comparable to those of conventional impressions while improving patient comfort.

Humans

Effects of Family-Based Intervention for Childhood Obesity on Parental and Offspring Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Childhood obesity is a global public health issue with strong familial and intergenerational transmission. However, existing syntheses often overlook the active role of parents and fail to assess outcomes beyond the child. This systematic review and meta-analysis specifically investigate the effects of family-based interventions, which position parents as active co-agents of change, on health outcomes for both children with obesity and their parents. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. Six databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) targeting children with obesity and at least one family member. Primary outcomes were children's BMI z-score and parental BMI; secondary outcomes included other adiposity measures and dietary behaviors. Outcomes for both children and parents were synthesized. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on intervention characteristics. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2, and evidence certainty was evaluated using GRADE. RESULTS: Twenty RCTs with 1740 participants were included in the meta-analysis. The interventions demonstrated a significant reduction in children's BMI z-score. Additional benefits were observed for long-term BMI z-score and percentage of total body fat. The most effective interventions commonly integrate health education, behavioral strategies, and motivational support. Subgroup analyses indicated that interventions positioning parents as active co-participants, rather than mere supporters, yielded larger effects. However, no significant effects were found on parental BMI. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates that family-based interventions can confer significant benefits for children with obesity. Their success hinges on strategically framing parents as active co-agents and integrating motivational strategies.

Humans

Definition and prevalence of residual disease in inflammatory arthritis: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To assess how residual disease (i.e., clinically relevant signs/symptoms despite achieving treatment targets) is defined in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA) or axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), and estimate the prevalence/severity of residual disease in these diseases. METHODS: Systematic review of original research in RA/PsA/axSpA. Two key residual disease components were extracted: (1) the patient's disease state (often remission/low disease activity) and (2) which residual signs/symptoms were measured, e.g. swollen joints or fatigue (indicators of residual disease). Frequencies of the disease states and indicators were described (Objective 1). Prevalence (%) and severity (absolute score on instrument, e.g. fatigue NRS) of residual disease was analysed by indicator, using random effects meta-analysis (&#x2265;4 studies) or descriptively (<4 studies) (Objective 2). RESULTS: Regarding residual disease definitions (59 studies), disease states were almost exclusively disease activity-based (>99%), but with much variation in specific instruments/thresholds. Across diseases, physician-reported (66%) and patient-reported (73%) indicators were used more often than laboratory indicators to define residual disease (46%). Especially peripheral joint counts, pain, physical function and CRP were frequently used (42-56% of studies). The prevalence of residual disease (84 studies) was notable. For example, 5-25% of RA and PsA patients in remission still had swollen joints, and up to one-third reported relevant pain or fatigue. For axSpA, evidence was limited. CONCLUSION: Residual disease definitions in RA/PsA/axSpA are based on various disease activity instruments/thresholds and indicators (signs/symptoms). Residual disease affects up to half of patients. Future research should aim for a consensus-based definition of residual disease.

Humans

Non-smoked cannabis consumption formats and Cannabis Use Disorder severity in an illicit setting: Evidence from Chile, 2020-2024.

BACKGROUND: Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) has become an increasing public health burden, particularly in Chile. Non-smoked cannabis formats and products have been independently associated with CUD but remain understudied in the region. This study compares CUD severity among individuals aged 12 to 65 in Chile who consume cannabis via edibles, vaporization or both versus those who exclusively smoke it. METHODS: We obtained secondary data from three waves of the Chilean National Survey on Drugs in the General Population (ENPG), a three-stage stratified probabilistic sampling design study conducted in 2020, 2022, and 2024. Our pooled cross-sectional sample included individuals (n = 3543) who reported cannabis use in vaped, edible, both vaped and edible or exclusively smoked format in the past 12 months. We used a partial proportional odds model to estimate the association between CUD severity and consumption formats. RESULTS: Cannabis vaping group showed higher odds of presenting at least mild CUD (OR = 6.21 [95% CI: 3.75-10.3]), as did the edible group (OR = 1.73 [95% CI: 1.08-2.78]) and both group (OR = 5.92 [95% CI: 2.72-12.87]), compared to exclusive smokers. However, only the vaped group demonstrated higher odds for all severity levels. CONCLUSION: Compared with exclusive smokers, users of vaporizers and/or edibles showed a stronger association with CUD. This association may be explained by consumption patterns and total THC exposure. Further research is needed to characterize the average THC exposure by consumption format, acknowledging contextual confounders such as the legal framework.

Humans