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PubMed2026

Flap Versus Tunneling for Horizontal Ridge Augmentation With FDBA and i-PRF: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

AIM: This study evaluated the efficacy of conventional flap and tunneling techniques for horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation using freeze-dried bone allograft (FDBA) particles combined with injectable platelet-rich fibrin (i-PRF). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-five patients were randomly allocated to one of three groups (n = 15 each): conventional flap (CF), tunneling with membrane (TM), or tunneling without membrane (TnM). Preoperative ridge width was measured via cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). All augmentation procedures incorporated FDBA and i-PRF; an absorbable collagen membrane was applied in the CF and TM groups. Follow-up assessments, including CBCT imaging and histomorphometric analysis, were conducted 6 months postoperatively. For normally distributed data, ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test and paired samples t-test were applied. Non-normally distributed data were analyzed using Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. RESULTS: Statistical analysis was performed on 43 patients. All groups demonstrated an increase in ridge width after 6 months. At the 2 mm level, the mean width gain was 1.28 mm (95% CI: 0.17 to 2.40) in the TM group, 2.85 mm (95% CI: 1.80 to 3.89) in the TnM group, and 1.95 mm (95% CI: 1.07 to 2.83) in the CF group. However, statistical analysis revealed no significant intergroup variation (p > 0.05). Histomorphometric assessments similarly demonstrated comparable outcomes across all groups, with no statistically significant differences observed (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of this study, the tunneling technique, regardless of membrane use, appears to be a clinically viable alternative to the conventional flap method for horizontal alveolar ridge augmentation. However, further studies with longer follow-up periods are required to substantiate these findings. TRIAL REGISTRATION: irct.behdasht.gov.ir identifier: IRCT 20101204005305N21.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

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↗

PubMed2026

Comparison between measured and synthesized posterior lead electrocardiograms during percutaneous coronary intervention-induced myocardial ischemia.

BACKGROUND: Posterior/inferolateral myocardial ischemia is frequently underrecognized on standard 12‑lead electrocardiography (ECG). Synthesized posterior leads derived from the standard 12‑lead ECG have been proposed as an alternative to directly measured posterior leads; however, their accuracy under controlled ischemic conditions has not been fully validated. METHODS: We prospectively enrolled 26 consecutive patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in whom simultaneously recorded measured and synthesized posterior lead ECGs (V7-V9) were obtained during balloon-induced myocardial ischemia. ST-segment deviation was measured at the ST junction (STJ), 40 ms (ST1), and 80 ms (ST2) thereafter. Agreement between measured and synthesized posterior leads was assessed using Pearson correlation and Bland-Altman analyses. As an exploratory patient-level analysis, diagnostic performance was compared with reciprocal anterior ST-segment depression (V1-V4). RESULTS: Strong correlations were observed between measured and synthesized posterior lead ST-segment deviations (V7: r = 0.89; V8: r = 0.86; V9: r = 0.83; all P < 0.001). Bland-Altman analysis demonstrated minimal systematic bias (within ±0.004 mV) and narrow limits of agreement. Synthesized posterior leads showed higher diagnostic performance than reciprocal anterior ST-segment depression (AUC 0.917 vs. 0.708), although the difference was not statistically significant (DeLong test, P = 0.197). Using a 0.05 mV threshold, synthesized posterior leads demonstrated 83.3% sensitivity, 100% specificity, and 96.2% overall accuracy. CONCLUSIONS: Synthesized posterior leads closely reproduced measured posterior lead ST-segment deviations during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)-induced myocardial ischemia, supporting the technical validity of posterior lead reconstruction. Larger prospective studies are warranted to determine whether synthesized posterior leads provide incremental diagnostic value beyond careful interpretation of the standard 12‑lead ECG.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Age-related macular degeneration associated with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist use: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are increasingly prescribed for diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular risk reduction. However, their ocular safety profile, particularly regarding age-related macular degeneration (AMD), remains uncertain. This systematic review evaluates the association between GLP-1 RA use and the incidence or progression of AMD including both nonexudative and neovascular subtypes. METHODS: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251183938). MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, Web of Science, and PubMed were searched from inception through 2025 for observational studies and randomized trials evaluating AMD outcomes among adults exposed to GLP-1 RAs. Comparators included nonuse, placebo, or alternative metabolic therapies. Risk of bias was assessed using Risk of Bias in Non-Randomized Studies of Interventions and certainty of evidence using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation framework. Due to heterogeneity of outcome definitions, results were synthesized qualitatively. RESULTS: Eight observational studies encompassing 91 408 to 600 816 participants were included. GLP-1 RA use was associated with a reduced incidence of nonexudative AMD across diabetic and nondiabetic populations, with relative risk reductions varying substantially by population, comparator, and follow-up duration. Findings for neovascular AMD were heterogeneous: most studies reported neutral or protective associations, whereas one population-based cohort of older adults with diabetes observed an increased risk (adjusted hazard ratio 2.21, 95% CI 1.65-2.96), with low absolute event rates. Overall risk of bias was moderate to high, and certainty of evidence for all outcomes was very low. CONCLUSIONS: Current evidence does not demonstrate a consistent increase in AMD risk associated with GLP-1 RA therapy and may be associated with a lower incidence of nonexudative AMD, although the certainty of evidence is very low and noncausal explanations cannot be excluded. Prospective studies with standardized endpoints are needed to clarify causal relationships.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Safety and efficacy of distal versus conventional radial artery cannulation for invasive blood pressure monitoring: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

To compare the safety and effectiveness of distal radial artery (DRA) versus conventional radial artery (CRA) catheterization for invasive arterial blood pressure monitoring. This meta-analysis followed PRISMA guidelines. Randomized controlled trials published up to December 30, 2025 were systematically searched in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, and SinoMed. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias. Meta-analyses were conducted using Review Manager 5.4 and Stata 18.0, and evidence quality was evaluated with the GRADE system. 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 1,790 participants were included. For the primary outcomes, compared with CRA, DRA was associated with lower incidences of haematoma (RR = 0.42, 95% CI: 0.24-0.73), catheter blockage (RR = 0.33, 95% CI: 0.14-0.81), and bleeding (RR = 0.25, 95% CI: 0.11-0.59), but a longer catheter insertion time (MD = 26.89, 95% CI: 5.28-48.50). For the secondary outcomes, DRA was associated with a shorter haemostasis time and reduced waveform instability, with no significant differences in first-attempt success rate or pain scores. Subgroup analysis showed a higher first-attempt success rate in patients aged ≤ 65 years (RR = 1.14, 95% CI: 1.02-1.28). DRA catheterization for invasive arterial blood pressure monitoring appears to be associated with fewer complications and more stable arterial waveform acquisition than CRA catheterization, despite a longer insertion time. DRA may represent a feasible alternative in surgical and intensive care settings; however, further high-quality studies are needed to confirm its long-term safety and generalizability.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Comparison of Keverprazan-based versus esomeprazole-based dual therapy for initial treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection: a prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Keverprazan offers a new perspective for Helicobacter pylori eradication. This study compared 14-day keverprazan-amoxicillin therapy with esomeprazole-amoxicillin therapy to explore a superior treatment strategy. METHODS: This was a prospective, open-label, multicenter, randomized controlled trial in adult patients with treatment-naive H. pylori infection. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either 14-day of KA therapy (Keverprazan 20 mg b.i.d plus amoxicillin 1 g t.i.d) or 14-day of EA therapy (Esomeprazole 40 mg b.i.d plus amoxicillin 1 g t.i.d). The primary outcome was the H. pylori eradication rate. Secondary outcomes were the incidence of adverse events and patient adherence. RESULTS: A total of 264 patients were enrolled in the study. In the intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis, the eradication rates for the 14-day KA group and the 14-day EA group were 87.9% and 80.3%, respectively (p = 0.092); in the modified intention-to-treat (mITT) analysis, the eradication rates were 92.1% and 86.2%, respectively (p = 0.135); and in the per-protocol (PP) analysis, the eradication rates were 93.5% and 88.3%, respectively (p = 0.155). Non-inferiority was confirmed between the two groups (all p < 0.001). Adverse events and patient adherence were similar between the two groups. CONCLUSION: For treatment-naive H. pylori infection, the 14-day KA therapy is non-inferior to EA therapy. Given its good tolerability, pharmacogenomic independence, and potent acid suppression, KA is a rational first-line alternative to EA in the Chinese population.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Comparison of opioid-free versus opioid-based total intravenous anaesthesia in elderly patients undergoing short-duration surgery: a randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Older adults who undergo short-duration surgery are vulnerable to opioid-related complications. It is uncertain whether an opioid-free total intravenous anaesthesia (OFA) can reduce these events. We aimed to determine whether OFA reduces the incidence of major postoperative adverse events compared with standard opioid-based total intravenous anaesthesia (OBA). PATIENTS AND METHODS: This single-center randomized clinical trial was conducted in China. From May to August 2025, 400 patients aged ≥60 years undergoing elective, short-duration surgery (anticipated duration of less than 90 min) were randomized 1:1 to receive either OFA (n = 200) or OBA (n = 200). The primary outcome was a composite of postoperative hypoxemia, delirium, or nausea and vomiting (PONV) within 48 h. RESULTS: A total of 400 randomized patients (mean [SD] age, 69.5 [7.0] years; 125 [31.3%] women). The primary composite outcome occurred in 50 patients (25.0%) in the OFA group and 87 patients (43.5%) in the OBA group (adjusted odds ratio, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.25 to 0.62; p < .001). Among the OFA group had a lower incidence of hypoxemia (15.0% vs 32.0%) and PONV (8.0% vs 16.0%). Intraoperative hemodynamic stability was greater in the OFA group. However, the OFA group had a higher incidence of intraoperative bradycardia (10.0% vs 3.0%; p = .005) and longer extubation times (mean, 9.5 vs 7.2 min; p < .001). CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that OFA is a viable alternative to opioid-based anesthesia for improving postoperative outcomes by reducing the incidence of hypoxemia and PONV in this population, while warranting careful management of its associated side effects. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2500102550.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Major cardiovascular event risk of advanced therapies in inflammatory bowel diseases: systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Patients with chronic immune-mediated disorders (IMIDs), including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease. While advanced therapies show cardioprotective effects in other IMIDs, their impact on major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in IBD remains unclear. We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies evaluating MACE risk with advanced therapies in IBD. METHODS: Systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials identified 43 studies (36 RCTs, including 9 long-term follow-up (LTF) studies, and 7 observational studies) published between 2002 and 2024. Primary analyses estimated odds ratios (OR) for MACE comparing advanced therapy to placebo, with secondary analyses stratifying studies by drug class and length of follow-up. Sensitivity analyses were conducted using alternative methods to account for zero-event data. RESULTS: Placebo-controlled RCTs showed a nonsignificant trend toward reduced MACE risk (OR 0.60; 95% CI 0.24-1.51), with similar findings across sensitivity analyses accounting for sparse and zero-event data. Class-specific trends suggested lower MACE risk with IL-12/IL-23 inhibitors (OR 0.35; 95% CI 0.05-2.21), JAK inhibitors (OR 0.57; 95% CI 0.16-2.06), and a potential increase with Anti-TNF agents (OR: 3.04; 95% CI 0.31-29.47), though none reached statistical significance. LTF studies showed consistent findings. Observational studies suggested lower MACE risk with Anti-TNF therapies (OR 0.29; 95% CI 0.21-0.40), but not with IL-12/IL-23 (OR 4.41; 95% CI 0.49-39.28) or JAK inhibitors (OR 1.57; 95% CI 0.86-2.84). CONCLUSION: Advanced therapies did not demonstrate a clear increase or decrease in cardiovascular risk in IBD. The discrepancies between RCTs and observational studies underscore the urgent need for rigorous-designed observational research with long-term follow-up to evaluate the real-world impact of advanced therapies on MACE risk.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Phenotypic and transcriptomic characterization of biallelic RNU2-2 developmental and epileptic encephalopathy.

OBJECTIVE: A significant proportion of individuals with suspected genetic developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEEs) remain unsolved following whole genome sequencing (WGS). Here we describe biallelic RNU2-2 variants causing a recently reported, severe, recessive DEE. METHODS: We screened individuals who have received WGS analyses at the Genomic Medicine Centre Karolinska for Rare Diseases for biallelic RNU2-2 variants. Deep phenotyping was performed through reviewing entire medical histories and phenotypic traits were transcribed to their corresponding Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO) term. HPO terms were used to generate pairwise phenotypic similarity scores and assess for significantly shared phenotype enrichment in the RNU2-2 sub-cohort. RNA sequencing analyses were performed in fibroblast and blood tissues to compare splicing events between RNU2-2 individuals and two independent control groups. RESULTS: We identified 14 individuals from nine families with 12 ultra-rare biallelic RNU2-2 variants clustering in the conserved 5' domains. Genotype data from 13 of 14 individuals has been reported previously as part of a larger cohort. All individuals presented with a highly concordant, severe DEE, characterized by severe to profound intellectual disability, inability to walk or communicate, hyperkinesia, and refractory seizures. Infantile spasms and tonic seizures were the predominant seizure types and a Lennox-Gastaut syndrome-like phenotype was common. These individuals had a significantly similar phenotypic signature when compared with 703 individuals with complex pediatric epilepsies (two-sided Monte Carlo permutation test, p = .005). RNA sequencing analyses showed aberrant splicing, with the most pronounced effects in fibroblast tissues in mutually exclusive exon and alternate 3' splice-site events, which were not detectable in blood. SIGNIFICANCE: We present deep phenotyping data and transcriptomic analyses that provide support for rare, 5' clustering biallelic RNU2-2 variants causing this novel, severe DEE. We propose an RNA sequencing methodology on fibroblast tissue for future validation of RNU2-2 variants.

autosomal recessive disease↗

PubMed2026

Contrast Heat-Cold Versus Thermoneutral Showering in Trained Combat Sport Athletes: A Randomized Field Trial of Recovery Outcomes.

Contrast heat-cold showering is popular for recovery, but multisystem evidence and persistence after cessation remain unclear. To evaluate whether a 4-week post-training contrast heat-cold shower intervention produces an integrated recovery profile across four domains (autonomic, endocrine, perceptual, and microvascular) rather than testing a single isolated physiological pathway, across baseline (T0), post-intervention (T1), and 2-week wash-out (T2). Sixty combat-sport athletes were randomized to contrast showers (10 min alternating warm 38-40°C and cold 13-15°C) or an active thermoneutral-shower comparator (10 min, 32-34°C) after training for 4 weeks. Primary analyses were per-protocol (≥ 75% compliance; n = 57), with intention-to-treat sensitivity analyses. Outcomes were Total Quality Recovery (TQR), morning salivary cortisol (two mornings averaged), resting HRV, and post-occlusive reactive hyperemia (PORH). From T0 to T1, favorable between-group changes were observed for resting HR (ΔΔ -2.10 bpm, 95% CI -2.24 to -1.96; g -0.65; p < 0.001), lnRMSSD (ΔΔ 0.123 log units, 95% CI 0.108 to 0.137; g 0.74; p < 0.001), with similar T1 effects for RMSSD and SDNN, and TQR (ΔΔ 0.61 points, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.95; g 0.80; p < 0.001). These T1 autonomic and perceptual changes were not maintained at T2 (all T2-T0 ΔΔ p > 0.05). Cortisol and PORH-derived outcomes showed no statistically clear between-group differences at T1 or T2 (all p > 0.05). Compared with thermoneutral showering, 4 weeks of post-training contrast heat-cold showering produced short-term favorable between-group changes in autonomic regulation and perceived recovery, but not in morning cortisol or PORH-derived microvascular reactivity. These effects were not maintained after wash-out; therefore, causal attribution to the shower intervention alone and claims of persistent physiological adaptation should be made cautiously. Trial registration: ISRCTN15418049.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

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

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

Humans↗

PubMed2026

F-URS with FANS versus mPCNL for 2-3 cm UUTS: a RCT with a subgroup analysis of 2-2.5 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 cm upper urinary tract stones (UUTS), with a prespecified subgroup analysis for stones ≥2 to <2.5 cm. METHODS: This randomized controlled trial enrolled 326 patients with 2-3 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 ≥2 to <2.5 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 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 ≥2 to <2.5 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 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 ≥2 to <2.5 cm subgroup, FANS shows comprehensive benefits over mPCNL. These findings support FANS as an effective alternative to mPCNL for 2-3 cm stones and a potentially preferred option for stones measuring 2-2.5 cm.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Exploring the Diagnostic Utility of Ferumoxytol for Brachial Plexus MR Neurography.

Background Ferumoxytol has been described as an alternative contrast agent for vascular suppression in MR neurography (MRN), but its diagnostic utility in patients has yet to be evaluated. Purpose To evaluate the impact of ferumoxytol on vascular suppression, nerve conspicuity, and evaluation of nerve abnormalities at three-dimensional (3D) brachial plexus MRN, compared with noncontrast and gadolinium-enhanced MRN, in participants with suspected Parsonage-Turner syndrome (PTS) or thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). Materials and Methods This prospective study included participants who underwent 3D MRN with and/or without gadolinium chelate for clinical suspicion of PTS or TOS and subsequently underwent 3D MRN with ferumoxytol (within 3 months of the clinical examination). Two musculoskeletal radiologists qualitatively evaluated 3D short-tau inversion-recovery fast spin-echo scans for the degree of vascular suppression, nerve conspicuity, and presence of nerve abnormalities. Wilcoxon signed-rank or McNemar tests were used for comparing noncontrast and gadolinium-enhanced scans with ferumoxytol-enhanced scans. Results This study included 18 participants (mean age, 42 years ± 15.2 [SD]; 10 men). Ferumoxytol-enhanced scans demonstrated improved vascular suppression compared with both noncontrast scans (both raters, P < .001) and gadolinium-enhanced scans (both P = .04). For rater 2, ferumoxytol-enhanced acquisitions demonstrated improved conspicuity of several nerve segments relative to the noncontrast scan, including segments of the suprascapular (P = .01), axillary (P = .02), and long thoracic nerves (P = .004). The distribution of scores for these nerve segments for rater 1 also favored ferumoxytol-enhanced versus noncontrast scans, but the differences were not statistically significant (all P ≥ .06). There was no evidence of a difference in nerve conspicuity between ferumoxytol-enhanced and gadolinium-enhanced scans (P ≥ .17 for all nerve segments) and also no evidence of discrepancies in abnormal nerve findings between the acquisitions (all P ≥ .48). Conclusion Ferumoxytol improved vascular suppression compared with noncontrast and gadolinium-enhanced 3D short-tau inversion-recovery fast spin-echo sequences in brachial plexus MRN, enhancing the conspicuity of several nerve branches versus noncontrast scans, with similar detection of abnormal nerve findings. © RSNA, 2026 Supplemental material is available for this article.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Optimising Exercise Prescription: A Meta-Analysis Examining the Dose Response of Exercise Duration on Cardiorespiratory Fitness Following HIIT and MICT.

BACKGROUND: High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is often promoted as a time-efficient alternative to moderate-intensity continuous training (MICT) for improving cardiorespiratory fitness, yet the duration of HIIT sessions varies considerably across studies. OBJECTIVE: We aimed to characterise the dose-response relationship between exercise session duration and the improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness for HIIT and MICT. METHODS: A dose-response meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials comparing exercise duration in HIIT and MICT, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42022335590). Effect sizes were calculated using a random-effects meta-analysis. The primary outcome was maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max). Secondary outcomes included blood pressure, lipid profiles, glucose metabolism markers and body composition measures. A one-stage random-effects dose-response meta-analysis was performed to examine the relationship between exercise duration and adaptations. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar; eligibility criteria for selecting studies were randomised controlled trials in humans, published in English and exercise interventions lasting at least 4 weeks. RESULTS: We identified 69 randomised controlled trials (2387 participants). High-intensity interval training elicited greater improvements in VO2max than MICT (d = 0.38, 95% confidence interval 0.27-0.49, p < 0.001). High-intensity interval training demonstrated a non-linear dose-response relationship between exercise session duration and VO2max, with 80% of maximal effect (changes in VO2max = 3.45 mL/kg/min) achieved with only ~11 min/session (95% confidence interval 9.5-40.2). Moderate-intensity interval training showed a linear dose-response relationship between exercise session duration and VO2max, requiring ~52 min/session to achieve 80% of the maximal observed effect (95% confidence interval 30.4-55.8). The dose-response relationship was consistent across populations. High-intensity interval training and MICT had comparable effects in improving cardiometabolic risk factors. CONCLUSIONS: High-intensity interval training demonstrated a non-linear dose response, with 80% of maximal effect on VO2max in ~11 min/session, whilst MICT required four to five times longer to reach similar responses. The different types of training had comparable effects on cardiometabolic risk factors.

Journal Article↗

PubMed2026

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

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

Humans↗

PubMed2026

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 ml of prilocaine. Pain was measured on a 10-point Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) during the procedure and 10 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 = 0.040). At 10 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 = 0.011). Both co-primary endpoints reached significance under hierarchical testing. Cervical dilatation pain did not differ significantly (p = 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↗

PubMed2026

Use of indocyanine green fluorescence versus patent blue V dye for sentinel lymph node biopsy in early breast cancer, a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is standard for axillary staging in early breast cancer. While the combination of radioisotope and blue dye (e.g., patent blue V, PBV) remains the standard, it has limitations including logistics, variable identification rate (IR), and allergic potential. Indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence is a promising alternative, but high-quality comparative evidence is needed. METHODS: This was a single-center, prospective, randomized controlled trial. Forty patients with early-stage, node-negative breast cancer were allocated to SLNB using either ICG (n = 20) or PBV (n = 20). All patients subsequently underwent completion level I-II axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) as the pathological reference standard for diagnostic performance assessment. Primary outcome was sentinel lymph node (SLN) IR. Secondary outcomes included detection time, number of SLNs retrieved, false-negative rate (FNR), and safety. RESULTS: Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups. The SLN IR was significantly higher with ICG (100% [20/20]) than with PBV (75% [15/20], p = 0.047). ICG was associated with a significantly shorter median detection time (14.5 vs. 24.0 min, p < 0.001) and retrieved more SLNs (mean: 3.6 vs. 2.4, p = 0.002). Most critically, ICG demonstrated 100% sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value (NPV), and overall diagnostic accuracy, with a 0% FNR. In contrast, PBV achieved a sensitivity of 75%, an overall diagnostic accuracy of 90%, and an FNR of 25%. No ICG-related adverse events occurred. PBV caused skin discoloration in 75% of patients and one (5%) allergic reaction. CONCLUSION: ICG fluorescence achieved a higher SLN IR, shorter detection time, higher sensitivity, lower FNR, and fewer tracer-related adverse events than PBV as a single tracer for SLNB in patients with early-stage breast cancer. These findings suggest that ICG is a promising standalone tracer when radioisotope mapping is unavailable. Larger multicenter studies are required before widespread adoption can be recommended.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

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 ≥ 18 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 = 42 VH, and n = 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 = 0.04). VANH was associated with a significantly shorter operative time (median 55 min versus 65 min; p = 0.005), less blood loss (median 50 mL vs. 150 mL; p < 0.001) and more often elective opportunistic salpingectomy compared to VH (100% vs. 77.4%; p = 0.008). NRS were significantly lower in the VANH group the first hour post-operative (3 vs. 1, p < 0.001). Post-operative complications (VH 9.5% vs. VANH 15.5%; p = 0.34), readmission (VH 4.8% vs. VANH 8.5%; p = 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↗