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PubMed2026

EffectS of Lifestyle Interventions in Older PEople With Obesity (Effective SLOPE): a Systematic Review With Network Meta-Analyses.

BACKGROUND/AIM: We conducted a systematic review with network meta-analyses (NMA) summarizing the effects and safety of lifestyle interventions containing nutrition (NUT; e.g., calorie restriction), exercise (EX; e.g., aerobic/resistance exercise) and behavior change interventions (BCI; e.g., behavioral therapy) on physical function, body composition, quality of life, psychosocial outcomes, health and adverse events in community-dwelling older adults with obesity. METHODS: We used the methodology proposed by Cochrane and searched six databases and one trial registry for eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs; intervention duration ≥ 12 weeks) up to May 2022 with a full new search in MEDLINE and a re-assessment of previously identified eligible trial registry entries in October 2025. Random-effects NMA ((standardized) mean difference ((S)MD), 95% confidence intervals) were conducted if possible. RESULTS: We included 72 RCTs (n = 6716) for descriptive summaries and 54 RCTs (n = 4249) for NMA. NUT+EX+BCI improved physical function (performance batteries) compared to control (SMD 3.37 [1.76;4.97]; high certainty of evidence). NUT+EX+BCI may reduce body (MD -8.69 [-13.14;-4.25]) and fat mass (MD -6.58 [-10.44;-2.73]) while not negatively affecting fat-free mass (MD -1.38 [-3.52;0.76]) or bone mineral density (MD -0.01 [-0.05;0.02]) (evidence very uncertain). Other interventions (single/combined) may also be effective; however, effects were often imprecise. For psychosocial outcomes, quality of life, and health events, data were insufficient or too heterogeneous to derive clear results. CONCLUSION: The evidence suggests that NUT+EX+BCI interventions are most suitable for the management of obesity in older adults. Nevertheless, further RCTs-especially in frail populations and on patient-relevant outcomes-are needed.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Unravelling Ovarian Cancer: an analysis of the Influence of LRP1 and PAI1 Genetic Variations.

To assess the potential association between LRP1 (rs715948) and PAI1 (rs2227631, rs1799889) gene variation and ovarian cancer (OC) susceptibility. This study evaluated the genotypic and allelic distributions of LRP1 gene and PAI1 gene variants using Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) analysis in 134 °C patients and 134 healthy controls. LRP1 (rs715948) showed a significant association with OC risk. The TC genotype was (OR = 3.7823, 95% CI: 2.1732-6.5825, p < 0.0001), and the CC genotype has (OR = 2.1613, 95% CI: 1.0054-4.6459, p = 0.0484). The C allele was significantly more frequent in cases (46%) than controls (32%) (OR = 1.7684, 95% CI: 1.2443-2.5133, p = 0.0015). For PAI1 (rs2227631), AG and GG genotypes showed no significant association (p = 0.3519 and p = 0.1165, respectively). PAI1 (rs1799889) AG genotype was (OR = 5.855, 95% CI: 2.4663-13.9027, p < 0.0001), while GG genotype showed no significance (p = 0.1025). The dominant model of LRP1, (TC + CC) and C alleles, were significantly more frequent in OC cases, indicating a potential risk factor. In contrast, the dominant models (AG + GG) and G alleles of PAI1 (rs2227631, rs1799889) showed no significance with OC susceptibility. Genetic variation in LRP1 (rs715948) significantly associated with increased OC risk, particularly the TC and CC genotypes and C allele. The C allele of this gene is key markers linked to higher OC susceptibility. Whereas in PAI1 (rs2227631, rs1799889), dominant models (AG + GG) show no significance, association suggesting a less prominent role in OC susceptibility. These findings highlight LRP1 as a potential genetic biomarker for OC risk assessment, while the role of PAI1 variants warrants further investigation in larger sample size.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Transvalvular Flow Rate is Associated With Mortality Rate and Lifetime Loss in Aortic Valve Stenosis: A Meta-Analysis of Reconstructed Time-to-Event Data.

Low-flow states are associated with adverse outcomes in aortic stenosis (AS), but the prognostic value of transvalvular flow rate (TFR) has not been consistently established across studies. This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis of reconstructed time-to-event data was performed in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses. PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library were searched for studies (published by November 14, 2025) comparing low versus normal TFR in AS. Data were collected from Kaplan-Meier curves. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality. Survival was assessed using pooled Kaplan-Meier curves, Cox regression, flexible parametric survival models, and restricted mean survival time (RMST) analysis. A total of 9 studies including 6,494 patients were analyzed; 2,575 (39.7%) had low TFR. At 8 years of follow-up, estimated survival was 34.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 24.7% to 47%) in the low-TFR group and 63% (95% CI 58.9% to 67.4%) in the normal-TFR group. Low TFR was associated with higher all-cause mortality (hazard ratio 1.59, 95% CI 1.45 to 1.74, p < 0.001). We observed a progressively greater hazard over time, with the hazard ratio approaching 1.9 by 8 years. At 8 years, RMST in the normal-TFR group was 7.37 years (95% CI 7.21 to 7.53 years) versus 5.07 years (95% CI 4.91 to 5.23 years) in the low-TFR group, representing a lifetime loss of 2.3 years in the low-TFR group (ΔRMST -2.30 years, 95% CI -2.53 to -2.07 years, p < 0.001). In patients with AS, low TFR is associated with significantly higher mortality and lifetime loss. These findings support TFR as a clinically meaningful marker for risk stratification in AS.

Aortic Valve Stenosis↗

PubMed2026

Prevalence and pattern of psychological symptoms in form of dental fear and anxiety in children and adolescents with traumatic dental injuries: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the level and pattern of dental fear and anxiety (DFA) amongst children and adolescents with traumatic dental injuries (TDI) and, where available, to compare these outcomes with non-traumatised controls. METHODS: An a priori protocol was developed and registered in PROSPERO (CRD420261329946). A comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Scopus on 3 March 2026, with additional grey literature, citation, and reference searching. No language or time restrictions were applied. Observational clinical studies assessing DFA in individuals with TDI using validated tools were included. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist. Certainty of evidence was evaluated using the GRADE approach. RESULTS: A total of 2885 records were identified, of which 4 cross-sectional studies met the inclusion criteria after screening. Studies were conducted in Croatia and Kosovo and included paediatric populations. Sample sizes ranged from 147 to 505 participants. Different validated scales (CFSS-DS, CDAS, S-DAI) were used to assess DFA. Overall, children with TDI demonstrated predominantly low levels of dental fear and anxiety across assessment tools. However, findings were inconsistent, with some studies reporting lower or similar anxiety levels in TDI patients compared to controls. Risk of bias was moderate or high in three of the four studies, and the overall certainty of evidence was rated as low to very low due to methodological limitations, heterogeneity, and imprecision. CONCLUSION: The limited available evidence suggests that children and adolescents with TDI do not consistently present with higher levels of dental fear and anxiety than non-traumatised controls. These findings indicate that TDI does not inherently cause DFA, underscoring the critical role of empathetic behaviour support in mitigating post-traumatic dental fear. However, the evidence is based on a small number of regionally concentrated cross-sectional studies with low to very low certainty. Future prospective studies using standardised TDI classifications, validated DFA instruments, and clearly defined assessment time points are needed.

Dental anxiety↗

PubMed2026

Evaluation of pilocarpine effects on sweat proteome.

BACKGROUND: Sweat is increasingly recognized as a valuable, non-invasive biofluid for biomarker discovery, yet its composition depends on the stimulation method. This study aimed to determine how pharmacological induction with pilocarpine compares to physiologically induced sweat through exercise in shaping the sweat proteome. RESULTS: We analyzed thermoregulatory sweat from exercise, pilocarpine-induced sweat, and combined pilocarpine plus exercise sweat. Total protein concentrations were similar across conditions, but pilocarpine markedly increased proteomic diversity, with combined pilocarpine plus exercise sweat showing the highest number of identifications. The core sweat proteome remained stable, while pilocarpine selectively enriched low-abundance proteins involved in vesicular trafficking, cytoskeletal remodelling, and metabolism. Proteins linked to the canonical M3-Gq-PLC-Ca2+ pathway, including AQP5, CALML5, and CLIC1, were consistently enriched, confirming cholinergic activation. Pilocarpine-induced sweat also contained plasma-derived and immune-related proteins, reflecting enhanced secretion and reduced ductal reabsorption. CONCLUSIONS: Exercise yields a physiologically relevant but less complex proteome, pilocarpine-induced sweat produces a pharmacologically enriched yet biased profile, and combined pilocarpine plus exercise sweat maximizes protein detection at the expense of interpretability. These findings highlight the critical impact of stimulation paradigm on sweat proteomics and provide a reference framework for biomarker research. SIGNIFICANCE: This study employed LC-MS/MS to systematically characterize eccrine sweat and delineate how stimulation paradigms-exercise, pilocarpine, and their combination-shape its proteomic landscape. By demonstrating that pharmacological induction profoundly alters protein diversity and composition compared to physiologically induced sweat, these findings establish a critical benchmark for sweat-based biomarker research and highlight the need for paradigm-aware sampling strategies in clinical and translational contexts. Nonetheless, several methodological constraints warrant consideration: the limited sample size (five individuals per group), the exclusive inclusion of women under combined oral contraceptive treatment (21 active pills followed by 7 pill-free days), which restricts extrapolation to naturally cycling women, and the focus on healthy young adults (18-25 years), limiting generalizability to older or clinically heterogeneous populations. Despite these limitations, this work provides a foundational framework for optimizing sweat collection protocols and advancing precision approaches in non-invasive diagnostics.

Pilocarpine↗

PubMed2026

Conduction System Pacing Versus Right Ventricular Pacing in Patients With Atrioventricular Block and Anticipated High Pacing Burden.

Right ventricular pacing (RVP) in patients with atrioventricular (AV) block and high anticipated pacing burden is associated with pacing-induced cardiomyopathy (PICM) in approximately 12% to 20% of patients, whereas conduction system pacing (CSP) preserves more physiologic ventricular activation and may mitigate these consequences; the totality of contemporary randomized evidence has not been systematically pooled. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing CSP with RVP in patients with AV block or anticipated high ventricular pacing burden and a minimum 6-month follow-up, with co-primary outcomes of PICM incidence and change in left ventricular ejection fraction (ΔLVEF) and secondary outcomes of heart failure hospitalization (HFH), all-cause mortality, composite clinical endpoint, and paced QRS duration (PROSPERO CRD420261400227); random-effects meta-analysis used DerSimonian-Laird estimation. Five RCTs (LBBP-FAVOUR, CSPACE, Prague CSP, PACE-HF, STAY; N = 806) met inclusion criteria. CSP significantly reduced PICM (hazard ratio [HR] 0.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.18 to 0.48; p <0.001; I² = 0%; k = 4), was associated with greater LVEF preservation (pooled mean difference [MD] +4.41%, 95% CI +1.82 to +6.99; p = 0.001; I² = 87%; k = 5), and reduced HFH (HR 0.24, 95% CI 0.12 to 0.48; p <0.001; I² = 0%; k = 5). CSP shortened paced QRS duration (MD -27.5 ms, 95% CI -32.6 to -22.5; p <0.001; k = 5). All-cause mortality was numerically lower with CSP but did not reach significance (HR 0.57, 95% CI 0.29 to 1.12; p = 0.10; k = 4). In a prespecified sensitivity analysis restricting to multicenter trials with N ≥ 150, all findings were concordant with the primary analysis. In conclusion, CSP substantially reduces PICM, preserves LVEF, and reduces HFH compared with RVP in patients with AV block and anticipated high pacing burden, supporting its consideration as the preferred pacing strategy in appropriately selected patients.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Tele-Oncology in the Post-Pandemic Era: Clinical Integration, Access Disparities and Medico-Legal Accountability.

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW: Tele-health has evolved from a marginal tool confined to rural populations and selected follow-up programs into a structurally integrated component of modern cancer care. Prior to COVID-19, its adoption was constrained by regulatory fragmentation, non-uniform reimbursement, and licensure barriers. This narrative review evaluates the evolutionary integration of tele-health in oncology post-COVID-19, examines digital disparities across patient populations, and addresses the medico-legal implications of this integration, with the objective of providing a comprehensive and clinically actionable framework for the governance of virtual oncology care. RECENT FINDINGS: The pandemic acted as a global catalyst, driving telehealth to over 50% of oncology outpatient encounters in some settings, before stabilising post-pandemic at approximately 10-20% of consultations within hybrid care models. Evidence supports meaningful clinical benefits - improved access to specialist services, reduced travel burden, and sustained continuity of care - with outcomes comparable to in-person care in postoperative follow-up, symptom monitoring, and survivorship. However, persistent disparities in device availability, connectivity, and digital literacy disproportionately affect older, rural, and socioeconomically disadvantaged patients, raising the risk that geographic inequalities are replaced by technological ones. From a medico-legal standpoint, the remote modality does not modify the applicable standard of care, yet restricted physical examination and reliance on patient-reported data introduce risks of diagnostic delay and incomplete clinical assessment, with direct implications for professional liability, data protection under HIPAA and GDPR, cross-border licensure, and multi-party accountability across physicians, institutions, and technology providers. Tele-oncology has become a permanent structural feature of modern cancer care, offering demonstrable benefits in access, continuity, and patient satisfaction. Yet its integration has been uneven, its governance remains fragmented, and its medico-legal landscape is still evolving. Realising the full potential of virtual oncology care - equitably and safely - requires coherent regulatory frameworks, sustained investment in digital infrastructure, and explicit attention to the populations at greatest risk of being left behind.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

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↗

PubMed2026

Use of Wearable Sensors in Angelman Syndrome: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Wearable sensors are a promising method for collecting clinical trial outcome data for people with Angelman syndrome (AS). However, there has yet to be a systematic probe into the ways in which wearable sensors have been successfully used in AS. The current study aims to provide a quantitative summary of wearable sensors used in AS, including contexts of use and psychometric properties, and to present key narrative highlights. METHOD: Literature searches were performed in three electronic databases: APA PsycInfo, PubMed and Web of Science Core Collection. Data items were categorized into four categories: sample characteristics, study methodological details, wearable sensor characteristics and psychometric properties assessed. Sample characteristics included sample size, age, biological sex, race/ethnicity and cognitive/developmental functioning. Study methodological details were subdivided into study design and setting. Wearable sensor characteristics included sensor type, placement site, means of attachment, assessed construct and sensor-related data loss. Psychometric properties assessed included reliability and validity of sensor-derived data. RESULTS: We identified 16 articles through our systematic review. Wearable sensors were used to study sleep (n = 10, 62.5%), language (n = 2, 12.5%), gait (n = 2, 12.5%), caregiver proximity (n = 1, 6.3%), EEG power (n = 1, 6.3%), and arousal (n = 1, 6.3%) in AS through actigraphs, vocalization recorders, inertial sensors, radio-frequency identification watches, wireless EEG caps, and functional near-infrared spectroscopy caps, respectively. Findings from these studies broadly indicate that wearable sensors are feasible, reliable and valid for assessing a range of behaviours relevant to AS. CONCLUSIONS: Wearable sensors are a promising solution to enhance assessments in AS. However, with the small extant literature characterized by small sample sizes and restricted focus on a few relevant features in AS, there remains ample opportunities to explore the use of wearable sensors in people with AS. Additional studies will better inform clinical decision-making and ultimately improve the lives of people with AS and their families.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effects of digital health-based exercise interventions on older adults with sarcopenia: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia, the progressive loss of muscle mass and function, impairs independence in older adults. Digital health exercise interventions are scalable solutions for older adults with sarcopenia. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize the evidence on their efficacy in populations with clinically diagnosed sarcopenia and identify influential intervention characteristics associated with treatment outcomes. METHODS: We systematically searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, CNKI, and Wanfang on May 20, 2026, with no date restrictions. We included randomized controlled trials involving adults aged ≥60 with sarcopenia receiving digital exercise interventions. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias; analyses were performed using R and Review Manager. RESULTS: Fourteen trials (n = 927) were included. Digital interventions showed potential improvements in muscle mass (MD = 0.25, 95%CI:0.03-0.46, 95% PI:-0.36 to 0.85), muscle strength (MD = 2.14, 95% CI:1.18-3.11, P < 0.001), balance ability (SMD = 0.31, 95% CI:0.12-0.51, P = 0.001), walking performance (SMD = 0.55, 95% CI:0.21-0.89, 95% PI:-0.70 to 1.79), and physical function (SMD = 0.89, 95% CI:0.08-1.71, 95% PI:-2.33 to 4.12), but not quality of life (SMD = 0.08, 95% CI:-0.19 to 0.35, P = 0.53). Exploratory subgroup analyses suggested that factors such as supervision, program duration, and measurement tools may influence outcomes; however, formal tests for subgroup differences were generally non-significant, and consistent patterns across all metrics were not observed. CONCLUSION: Digital exercise interventions show potential for managing sarcopenia in older adults, though the very low to moderate certainty of evidence indicates that true effects may differ substantially from observed estimates. This review explores potential roles of intervention design, supervision, and multimodal delivery. Future research should adopt rigorous designs and longer follow-up to validate results and enhance clinical application. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO CRD420251135174.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effectiveness of Internet-Delivered Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (ICBT) in Improving Weight-Loss and Psychosocial Well-Being Among Adults With High BMI: A Systematic Review.

AIM: To examine the effectiveness of Internet-delivered Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (ICBT) in improving psychosocial well-being and promoting weight-loss in adults ≥ 18 years with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2. BACKGROUND: Global obesity engenders significant physical and psychosocial health consequences. Second-wave ICBT focused on restructuring negative thoughts and behaviours has been explored as a potential intervention for elevated BMI and mental health concerns, but its effectiveness remains to be fully established, making further evaluation essential. METHODS AND DATA SOURCES: Eight databases were searched from inception to January 2025 for randomised controlled trials (RCTs), including participants ≥ 18 years with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 and second-wave ICBT evaluating BMI, weight, depression, eating behaviours, and self-esteem. This review followed PRISMA 2020. Study quality was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias (ROB 2) and GRADE. Data were extracted using a modified Cochrane form. Random-effects meta-analysis calculated Standardised Mean Differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals, with subgroup analyses exploring heterogeneity. RESULTS: Nine trials with 2278 participants were included. Significant improvements were seen in BMI, weight, and depressive symptoms while self-esteem effects were small and non-significant. Compared with passive controls, ICBT showed greater improvements in BMI and weight, whereas differences versus active control were smaller and inconsistent. Face-to-face CBT demonstrated superior outcomes for depression and self-esteem. Male-tailored interventions showed greater improvements. Shorter programmes yielded larger short-term weight loss, while longer programmes supported more sustained effects. Narrative synthesis indicated improvements in emotional and external eating, with increased mindful and restrictive eating behaviours. CONCLUSION: ICBT improved weight, BMI, and depressive symptoms, with limited evidence for self-esteem. Male-tailored interventions and longer programmes may enhance sustainable outcomes. IMPACT: Future ICBT programs should integrate strategies targeting sustainable weight loss and psychosocial well-being to support long-term outcomes. NO PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION: Patients or members of the public were not involved, as this study synthesised previously published data. TRIAL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42024497961.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Impact of smoking on structural failure after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Rotator cuff tears cause significant shoulder pain and functional limitation. Arthroscopic rotator cuff repair improves symptoms, yet structural failure rates remain substantial. Smoking may impair tendon-to-bone healing, but clinical studies report mixed findings due to heterogeneous methodology. Therefore, a systematic synthesis of imaging-confirmed outcomes is needed to clarify the association between smoking and structural failure after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. METHODS: This review followed PRISMA 2020 and was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251246197). PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to 12 December 2025. Comparative clinical studies of adults undergoing arthroscopic rotator cuff repair that reported imaging-confirmed structural integrity (magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasonography) at ≥6 months were included. Two reviewers independently screened studies, extracted data, and assessed quality using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The primary outcome (structural failure) was pooled as risk ratios using a random-effects model with the restricted maximum likelihood estimator and Hartung-Knapp adjustment. Secondary continuous outcomes were synthesized using Bayesian random-effects models; subgroup, sensitivity, and meta-regression analyses explored heterogeneity. RESULTS: Ten cohort studies (1,683 shoulders) were included. Smoking was associated with a higher risk of imaging-confirmed structural failure (risk ratio 1.53; 95% confidence interval 1.13-2.08; P = .011) with low heterogeneity (I2 = 24.7%). Subgroup and sensitivity analyses supported robustness, with no evidence of effect modification by region, follow-up duration, tear size, or smoking definition. Meta-regression showed no significant influence of age, smoking prevalence, or diabetes prevalence on the pooled effect. Secondary outcomes (3 studies) suggested slightly lower postoperative American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores among smokers, while visual analog scale pain scores and forward flexion showed no clear between-group differences. No publication-bias signals were detected for the primary outcome. CONCLUSION: Smoking is associated with a higher risk of imaging-confirmed structural failure after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Functional outcomes were broadly similar between groups, with only a small, likely clinically negligible reduction in American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons scores among smokers. These findings support careful smoking history assessment and perioperative risk modification, including smoking cessation strategies.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Comparing the efficacy and safety of unilateral versus bilateral spinal anesthesia: a meta-analysis and systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Unilateral spinal anesthesia has gained increasing attention in recent years. Emerging evidence suggests that it provides comparable analgesia to conventional bilateral spinal anesthesia while reducing adverse effects, and its efficacy and safety compared to bilateral spinal anesthesia remains controversial. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of unilateral versus bilateral spinal anesthesia. DESIGN: Systematic reviews and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). DATA SOURCES: A systematic search was conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library from inception to December 10, 2024. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Included studies were randomized controlled trials involving adult patients (≥18 years) undergoing surgery under spinal anesthesia, comparing unilateral versus bilateral spinal anesthesia for efficacy and adverse effects. Studies that focused exclusively on either unilateral or bilateral spinal anesthesia were excluded. The comparator group used the same local anesthetic as the experimental group, with no restrictions on adjuncts (e.g. fentanyl, morphine). RESULTS: Nineteen randomized controlled trials including 1191 patients met the inclusion criteria. Compared with bilateral spinal anesthesia, unilateral spinal anesthesia has a longer onset of sensory blockade (MD = 2.58, 95% CI: 0.93 to 4.22, p = 0.002), a shorter duration of sensory blockade (MD = -27.83, 95% CI: -39.25 to -16.42, p < 0.00001). In addition, unilateral spinal anesthesia significantly reduced the incidence of hypotension (RR = 0.40, 95% CI: 0.31 to 0.52, p < 0.0001), nausea and vomiting (RR = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.07 to 0.56, p = 0.002), and post-dural puncture headache (RR = 0.44, 95% CI: 0.23 to 0.81, p = 0.009). No statistically significant differences were observed in bradycardia and urinary retention. Collectively, these findings support unilateral spinal anesthesia as a strategy that may enhance perioperative safety while maintaining adequate anesthetic efficacy in appropriately selected patients. CONCLUSIONS: Unilateral spinal anesthesia may offer a favorable balance between anesthetic efficacy and safety compared with bilateral spinal anesthesia, although its clinical utility may depend on surgical duration and patient characteristics.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Safety and efficacy of Meridian sinew tuina (MST) for post-surgical upper limb lymphedema: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Complex Decongestive Therapy (CDT) is the non-operative standard for breast cancer-related lymphedema (BCRL), but many patients experience persistent subcutaneous stiffness, pain, and restricted mobility. This study systematically reviews the safety and clinical efficacy of Meridian Sinew Tuina (MST) protocols for BCRL. METHODS: Global and regional databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP) were searched from inception to January 15, 2026, with alerts monitored through April 30, 2026. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating MST (deep tissue mobilisation along the six-hand meridian sinew [Jingjin] lines via plucking, kneading, and pressing) were included. Two reviewers independently extracted data, evaluated risk of bias using Cochrane RoB 2, and assessed evidence certainty via GRADE using a random-effects model. RESULTS: Fifteen RCTs were included. For the primary anthropometric outcome, MST significantly reduced upper limb circumference compared to controls (SMD = 1.59; 95% CI: 1.44 to 1.74; Z = 20.81; p < 0.0001; I2=0.0%; N = 924; GRADE: Moderate certainty). The Clinical Response Efficacy Rate (≥ 30% swelling reduction and symptom relief) favoured MST (RR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.54 to 1.87; Z = 10.62; p < 0.0001; I2=0.0%; N = 1,114; GRADE: Moderate certainty). Trial Sequential Analysis confirmed sample size sufficiency. For secondary outcomes (N = 924; GRADE: Low to Very Low certainty due to performance bias and clinical heterogeneity), MST showed favourable 3-month improvements in DASH functional scores (SMD = -1.81; 95% CI: -2.11 to -1.51; I2=45.1%), pain intensity (SMD = -2.44; 95% CI: -2.93 to -1.95; I2=50.4%), and quality of life (SMD = 1.04; 95% CI: 0.79 to 1.29; I2=0.0%). No serious adverse events occurred. CONCLUSIONS: MST protocols are associated with favourable short- and mid-term reductions in upper limb swelling. However, confidence is tempered by unblinded performance bias and control group variations. MST cannot be unconditionally recommended for standalone implementation but represents a promising, optional supportive adjunctive intervention within oncological rehabilitation.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Maternal Intake of Vitamins A, C, D, and E During Pregnancy and Risk of Type 1 Diabetes in the Child: The Norwegian Mother, Father, and Child Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Dietary vitamins play a role in antioxidant defense and immunoregulation. However, prospective studies exploring the association between vitamin intakes during pregnancy and the child's risk of type 1 diabetes are limited. OBJECTIVES: This population-based prospective cohort study aimed to investigate the association between maternal intake of vitamins A, C, D, and E during pregnancy and risk of type 1 diabetes in children. METHODS: We included 85,244 children born between 2002 and 2009 in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study, with follow-up until 31 December, 2021. Maternal intake of vitamins from food and dietary supplements from conception to the 22nd week of pregnancy was assessed with a validated food frequency questionnaire. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs), adjusting for background factors. RESULTS: During follow-up, 529 (0.6%) children were diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at a mean age of 9.4 y (standard deviation: 4.1 y) No associations were observed between maternal pregnancy intake of vitamin A [HR: 0.993; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.983, 1.003/100 μg], vitamin C (HR: 1.000; 95% CI: 0.993, 1.007/10 mg), vitamin D (HR: 0.991; 95% CI: 0.978, 1.003/1 μg), or vitamin E (HR: 0.999; 95% CI: 0.996, 1.004/10 mg) and risk of type 1 diabetes in the child when adjusted for potential confounders. The results were similar when intakes were assessed separately from food and dietary supplements and after restriction to children with human leukocyte antigen DQ2 and/or DQ8 risk haplotypes. CONCLUSIONS: This prospective cohort study does not support the hypothesis that higher maternal intake of vitamins A, C, D, and E during pregnancy would decrease risk of type 1 diabetes in the child. Corroborated with previous evidence, our findings support a general pattern of null associations.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Whole-Exome Sequencing in a Consanguinity-Enriched South Indian Retinitis Pigmentosa Cohort: Diagnostic Yield and Molecular Spectrum.

PURPOSE: To determine the molecular diagnostic yield, variant spectrum, inheritance architecture, and influence of consanguinity on whole-exome sequencing outcomes in a South Indian retinitis pigmentosa (RP) cohort. DESIGN: Prospective, registry-based cohort study. SUBJECTS: A total of 113 affected participants were enrolled through the Aravind Registry for Inherited Diseases of the Eye, including 109 unrelated probands and 4 affected relatives from already represented families. Primary analyses were restricted to the 109 unrelated probands. METHODS: Whole-exome sequencing was performed using a clinical exome workflow. Variants were interpreted using American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics/Association for Molecular Pathology criteria and cases were categorized as solved, possibly solved, inconclusive, or unsolved using prespecified inheritance-aware rules. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Molecular diagnostic yield, distribution of implicated genes and variant classes, inheritance architecture, and diagnostic yield stratified by consanguinity status. RESULTS: Among the 109 unrelated probands, mean age at testing was 39.3 ± 14.1 years and 58.7% were male. Whole-exome sequencing identified 186 distinct rare variants across 92 inherited retinal disease genes, including 26 pathogenic and 33 likely pathogenic variants. A molecular diagnosis was established in 50 of 109 probands (45.9%), including 42 solved and 8 possibly solved cases; 45 (41.3%) were inconclusive and 14 (12.8%) remained unsolved, including 4 (3.7%) in whom no candidate variant was identified. EYS, USH2A, and ADGRV1 were the most frequently implicated genes. Autosomal recessive (AR) disease predominated (44/50, 88.0%). Consanguineous AR cases were exclusively homozygous (17/17); notably, 68.0% of nonconsanguineous AR cases were also homozygous (P = 0.013). Diagnostic yield was higher in consanguineous probands (51.4% vs. 41.7%), without reaching significance. Recurrent alleles included an established South Asian founder variant (MFSD8 c.1361T>C) and candidate founder alleles in EYS (c.4321C>T) and ADGRV1 (c.14329C>T). CONCLUSIONS: Whole-exome sequencing established a molecular diagnosis in nearly half of this South Indian RP cohort and revealed a predominantly recessive, homozygosity-enriched architecture shaped by consanguinity. These findings define a region-specific variant landscape to support clinical interpretation, genetic counseling, and future trial enrollment in this underrepresented population. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURES: The authors have no proprietary or commercial interest in any materials discussed in this article.

Consanguinity↗

PubMed2026

Physician-Modified Fenestrated Stent-Grafts Planned Using Three-Dimensional Techniques for Complex Aortic Pathology: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

BACKGROUND: Complex aortic pathology involving the visceral arteries remains a significant therapeutic challenge. Open repair is associated with considerable perioperative risk, particularly in patients with multiple comorbidities, while standard endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is often not feasible because of inadequate proximal sealing zones. Fenestrated and branched endovascular repair (F/BEVAR) represents an established treatment strategy; however, the use of custom-made devices is limited by manufacturing time and availability. Physician-modified stent grafts (PMSGs) have therefore emerged as a pragmatic alternative. Three-dimensional planning techniques have been increasingly used to facilitate accurate graft modification. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of PMSG procedures planned with three-dimensional techniques. Technical success, target vessel patency, early mortality, endoleak occurrence, and reintervention rates were analyzed. METHODS: A systematic search was conducted in the PubMed/MEDLINE and Embase databases. Studies describing the use of physician-modified fenestrated stent grafts planned with three-dimensional tools were included. Meta-analyses were performed using a random-effects model with restricted maximum likelihood estimation. A logit transformation was used for the analysis of proportions. RESULTS: The analysis included five studies involving 172 patients. The estimated weighted mean follow-up duration was 14.9 months. The overall technical success rate was 92.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 84.5-96.9%), with low-to-moderate heterogeneity. Target vessel patency was 96.9% (95% CI: 93.6-98.5%). Early mortality was 5.5% (95% CI: 2.1-13.3%). The incidence of endoleaks was 13.3% (95% CI: 5.8-27.4%), with significant heterogeneity among studies. Reinterventions were reported in 6.6% of patients (95% CI: 2.3-17.5%). CONCLUSION: The results indicate that PMSG procedures planned with three-dimensional techniques are associated with a high rate of technical success and preserved patency of target vessels in patients with complex aortic pathology. The observed variability in endoleak and reintervention rates likely reflects differences in anatomical complexity and patient selection among studies. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm long-term outcomes.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Early and late CTCAE and patient-reported outcomes following lung cancer radiotherapy: A sex-stratified descriptive analysis from the REQUITE cohort.

BACKGROUND: Long-term prospective data on lung cancer patients treated with radiotherapy are limited, restricting understanding of outcomes and sex-specific characteristics. The multicentre REQUITE study provides standardized follow-up data from an international cohort. METHODS: We analysed longitudinal data from 530 lung cancer patients treated with radical radiotherapy (sequential or concurrent chemoradiotherapy, or stereotactic body radiation therapy [SBRT]) between 2014 and 2017 at 16 centres in Europe and the USA. Healthcare professionals prospectively recorded 21 pulmonary, oesophageal, neurological, cardiac, and skin adverse events using CTCAE v4.0. Patient-reported outcomes assessed symptoms, quality-of-life, fatigue, and physical activity. Adverse event incidence was stratified by sex, radiotherapy technique, chemotherapy administration, smoking status, and other clinical factors. RESULTS: At 12 months, 309 patients were evaluable, with 151 having follow-up beyond one year. Pulmonary adverse events were most frequent (40% grade ≥ 2), mainly dyspnoea and cough. Women had higher rates of oesophagitis, and more frequently reported dysphagia, and chest wall pain, while men experienced a higher frequency of cardiac adverse events. Exploratory subgroup analyses identified significant sex-related differences in grade ≥ 3 pulmonary adverse events following SBRT and in overall grade ≥ 2 oesophageal adverse events among patients with clinical stage I-II and those aged >70 years. Patient-reported outcomes showed persistent fatigue and reduced physical activity, particularly in females. Symptom prevalence and severity varied by sex, age, treatment modality, smoking status, and clinical stage. CONCLUSION: The REQUITE-Lung cohort provides prospectively collected real-world data on radiotherapy-related adverse events in lung cancer patients. This study describes patterns of adverse events and patient-reported outcomes according to sex, age, and treatment characteristics. These findings are hypothesis-generating and may support future validation in independent and pooled datasets.

Patient-reported outcomes↗