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The emerging applications of JAK inhibitors in dermatology - a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors are established treatments for selected dermatologic conditions, but their off-label use has expanded across refractory skin diseases. METHODS: We systematically searched MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science from inception to October 1, 2025, for studies reporting off-label JAK inhibitor use in dermatologic disorders beyond approved or late-phase trial indications. RESULTS: Of 9,182 records screened, 277 studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising 210 case reports, 55 case series, and 12 retrospective studies involving 764 patients. Owing to substantial clinical heterogeneity, findings were narratively synthesized using a structured disease-family framework. Off-label use most commonly involved lichenoid, neutrophilic, and granulomatous dermatoses. Overall, 725/764 (94.88%) patients experienced clinical benefit, including complete or near-complete response in 209/764 (27.35%) and significant or partial improvement in 516/764 (67.53%). Thirty-five patients (4.58%) showed no clinical change, and four (0.52%) experienced disease worsening. A total of 154 adverse events were reported, most commonly with tofacitinib; most were mild to moderate, although six were serious and 25 resulted in treatment discontinuation. CONCLUSION: JAK inhibitors demonstrate promising therapeutic potential across a broad spectrum of refractory dermatological diseases. The predominance of uncontrolled case-based evidence, heterogeneous dosing, and frequent combination therapy limits attribution of efficacy and safety to JAK inhibitor monotherapy. Prospective controlled studies are needed to better define their therapeutic role.

Humans

Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Nerandomilast in Healthy Volunteers.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Nerandomilast, a preferential phosphodiesterase 4B inhibitor, is approved for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and progressive pulmonary fibrosis in some countries. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of nerandomilast in healthy volunteers through single- and multiple-rising-dose studies, and a human mass balance study evaluating absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion. METHODS: Healthy participants received oral nerandomilast doses ranging from 0.02 mg to 24 mg in the single-rising-dose trial, 1 mg or 6 mg twice daily for 14 days in the multiple-rising-dose trial, and a single oral dose of 18 mg [14C]-labeled nerandomilast in the mass balance trial. In each trial, pharmacokinetic blood samples were collected for determination of nerandomilast plasma concentrations. In the mass balance study, urine, feces, and blood samples were collected, and [14C]-radioactivity was quantified from these matrices. All pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated via noncompartmental analysis. RESULTS: Nerandomilast was rapidly absorbed postadministration, with peak plasma concentrations occurring between 0.5 and 1.25 h postdose before declining in a multiphasic manner. Nerandomilast exposure increased dose proportionally following single- and multiple-dose administrations. Steady state was reached by day 7 after twice-daily dosing with up to 1.69-fold drug accumulation. Following a single oral dose administration of [14C]nerandomilast, 58.0% and 36.4% of radioactivity was excreted in feces and urine, respectively. Of the administered dose, 11.9% was excreted as unchanged parent compound in urine. Nerandomilast safety was acceptable across all three studies and nerandomilast was well tolerated in healthy participants. CONCLUSIONS: Nerandomilast exhibited rapid oral absorption, multiphasic elimination profile, dose-proportional exposure, and was excreted via urine and feces. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT01594515 (registered 2012-05-07), NCT01835899 (registered 2013-04-11), and NCT04771286 (registered 2021-02-23).

Humans

Anabolic androgen therapy in critically ill adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Critical illness is characterized by a catabolic, proinflammatory state. Anabolic agents, such as testosterone, have therefore been proposed as therapeutic targets. Our objectives were to assess the effects of testosterone in critically ill populations on patient-important outcomes and identify design limitations to inform future studies. We searched for randomized control trials (RCTs) through Medline, Embase, and EBM Reviews databases from inception through February 24, 2026, including English language articles enrolling adults (≥18 years) admitted to ICU where anabolic androgen therapies (AAT) were compared with placebo or standard of care. Studies had to report at least one of: mortality, ICU and hospital lengths of stay, or duration of mechanical ventilation. We extracted data independently using a standardized data extraction tool, and feedback was received from all co-authors to ensure agreement. For each outcome, we performed meta-analyses using a random-effects model with inverse variance weighting in RevMan. We used the GRADE approach to assess certainty in pooled estimates of effect. Of 1325 screened articles, we found 4 that fit our inclusion criteria. Together, we judged risk of bias as 'some concerns' in 3 trials and 'high' in the final trial, and ultimately found that the effects of anabolic-androgen therapy on patient-important outcomes uncertain. With the uncertainty of current evidence for the effects of anabolic-androgen therapy in critically ill adults, there is insufficient support for its routine use. Future randomized evidence is needed to determine whether anabolic-androgen therapy improves clinically-important outcomes and better define its safety profile in critically ill adults.

Humans

Unravelling bioanalytical innovations, degradation processes, and impurity landscapes of VEGFR inhibitors.

From pre-formulation studies to clinical trials, VEGFR-targeted small-molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) require rigorous analytical standards. Bioanalysis, stability-indicating studies, and impurity profiling are used to examine chromatographic advances for VEGFR-targeted TKIs like sunitinib, pazopanib, axitinib, sorafenib, cabozantinib, vandetanib, apatinib, lenvatinib, nintedanib, and regorafenib. An LC-MS/MS and UPLC-MS/MS routinely show sub ng/mL performance, as shown by LLOQs (0.2 ng/mL) for sunitinib and axitinib, 1 ng/mL for pazopanib, 5-7 ng/mL for sorafenib, 0.5-1.5 ng/mL for regorafenib metabolic products, and 0.1-0.5 ng/mL for lenvatinib. These approaches are used for pharmacokinetics and therapeutic drug monitoring due to their good correlation coefficient of 0.1-10,000 ng/mL, accuracy of 95%-108%, and precision of 15% RSD. UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS distinguishes degradants and metabolites during forced degradation studies, enabling structural elucidation following ICH M7 risk evaluation protocol. HPTLC/MLC offers fast, sensitive screenings, while RP-HPLC/DAD or HPLC-UV offer reliable, cost-effective routine quality-control solutions with LOD/LOQ in the μg/mL range and linearity of 10-240 μg/mL. This review lists the structures and CAS numbers of ten VEGFR-2 TKI degradants and metabolites, as well as pharmacopeial impurities in SMILES forms. It will be useful for future method development and regulatory applications. To ensure VEGFR-targeted TKI quality, safety, and therapeutic efficacy, LC-MS/MS for trace quantification and HRMS for structure elucidation provide a robust, future-oriented framework. To improve VEGFR-targeted TKI quality, safety, and regulatory compliance, analytical development should focus on HRMS-based impurity characterization, AI-assisted degradation prediction, green chromatography, and harmonized bioanalytical validation.

Humans

Driving Under the Influence of Cannabis Among U.S. Young Adults Who Use Cannabis: Evidence From the 2021-2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health.

PURPOSE: To estimate the prevalence of driving under the influence of cannabis (DUIC) and identify associated factors among U.S. young adult drivers reporting past-year cannabis use. METHODS: This cross-sectional study analyzed pooled 2021-2024 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. The analytic data were restricted to drivers aged 18-25 years who reported past-year cannabis use (N = unweighted 17,141; weighted N = 10,814,381). The outcome was self-reported past-year DUIC. Independent variables included demographics, substance use, mental health, cannabis-related perceptions, and driving behaviors. These relationships were assessed by modified Poisson regression. RESULTS: The weighted prevalence of DUIC was 28.0%, representing approximately over three million young adults. DUIC prevalence increased with cannabis use frequency, from 2.51 times higher among those using cannabis 12-49 days (adjusted prevalence ratio [APR]: 2.51; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.29-2.75) to 3.63 times higher among those reporting use on 300-365 days (APR: 3.63; 95% CI: 3.60-3.76), compared with those using cannabis 1-11 days. Cannabis use disorder (APR: 2.34; 95% CI: 2.06-2.65), simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use (APR: 1.29; 95% CI: 1.28-1.30), and perceived easy cannabis availability (APR: 2.36; 95% CI: 2.33-2.39) were also associated with higher prevalence of DUIC. Nonenrollment in school and living in a state with a medical cannabis law were associated with lower DUIC prevalence. DISCUSSION: DUIC is highly prevalent among U.S. young adults who use cannabis, with a clear graded association across categories of cannabis use frequency. Public health interventions should address frequent use, cannabis use disorder, alcohol-cannabis co-use, and perceived cannabis availability.

Humans

New insights into soil amendment: Impact of humic acid on typical antibiotic resistance in agricultural soil.

Humic acid (HA) addition can improve agricultural soil, but little is known about how it affects the soil resistome. In this study, we used selective agar plate combined with quantitative PCR (qPCR) and 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate how HA influences antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistant genes (ARGs) in soil contaminated with erythromycin and kanamycin. 0.1 % HA reduced the abundance of culturable erythromycin-resistant bacteria (ERB), while promoting the growth of kanamycin-resistant bacteria (KRB). Lysinibacillus and Paenibacillus were the dominant genera in ERB and KRB, respectively, governing the changes in their abundances. At this concentration, the Lysinibacillus abundance in ERB decreased from 96.74 % to 70.57 %. Meanwhile, that of Paenibacillus in KRB increased from 33.40 % to 77.44 %. The copy number of ermF decreased after HA addition, while that of ermB increased. Furthermore, 0.1 % HA significantly reduced the copy number and relative abundance of aadA1 and aac(6')-Ib (aka aacA4)-03 in the soil. Changes in these two types of ARB and ARGs were primarily driven by shifts in the microbial community structure. Soil physicochemical properties, particularly increased organic matter (OM), altered the absolute abundance of ermB. Meanwhile, changes in intI1 abundance determined the risk associated with aadA1 and aac(6')-Ib (aka aacA4)-03. These findings emphasize the dual role of HA in the dissemination of antibiotic resistance in agricultural soils and highlight the necessity of considering dose-dependent effects when applying HA as a soil amendment.

Soil Microbiology

An oxidative stress - and immunotherapy-related six-gene signature defines immune subtypes and predicts prognosis and immunotherapy response in hepatocellular carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Oxidative stress and the tumor immune microenvironment jointly shape hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) progression and response to immunotherapy, yet integrated biomarkers linking these processes are lacking. METHODS: Transcriptomic and clinical data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) datasets were used to identify oxidative stress- and immunotherapyrelated differentially expressed genes (OSIRDEGs). Functional enrichment, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and LASSO-Cox regression were used to construct a prognostic signature. Consensus clustering, TIDE, CIBERSORT and ssGSEA characterized immune phenotypes. Somatic mutation, copy-number and drug-response data were integrated to assess genomic alterations and drug sensitivity. Expression of model genes was validated by qRT-PCR and western blotting in HCC cell lines. RESULTS: We identified 24 OSIRDEGs enriched in cell-cycle and mitotic pathways. WGCNA intersection yielded 18 module genes, from which a six-gene signature (BUB1B, CDKN2A, CENPE, HMMR, PTTG1, SPP1) was derived. The signature robustly stratified patients into high- and low-risk groups with significantly different progression-free and disease-free survival in both TCGA-LIHC and GSE14520. Based on signature expression, two molecular subtypes were defined, exhibiting distinct survival, immune landscapes and predicted immunotherapy responsiveness. Model genes harbored recurrent alterations and showed significant correlations with anticancer agents. All six genes were upregulated at mRNA and protein levels in metastatic HCC cell lines versus normal hepatocytes. CONCLUSIONS: We systematically explored the landscape of OSIRDEGs in HCC, and proposed a validated six-gene signature that refines prognostic stratification, delineates immunerelevant HCC subtypes and highlights candidate biomarkers for therapeutic selection and mechanistic investigation.

Humans

Intraocular pressure-lowering effects of tetrahydrocannabinol drugs: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PURPOSE: Within the past few decades, several studies have reported intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering effects associated with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) compounds as an alternative or complementary agent to conventional glaucoma therapies. The purpose of this study is to generate pooled estimates on the IOP-lowering effects of THC. METHODS: This systematic review and meta-analysis article was registered a priori on PROSPERO (CRD420251007916). MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science were searched for studies reporting IOP reduction following THC administration. Two reviewers independently performed screening, data extraction, and risk of bias assessments. A random-effects meta-analysis of mean differences was performed to estimate the overall pooled peak percentage reduction in IOP following THC administration, stratified by route of THC administration. RESULTS: Five studies were included, consisting of a total of 99 patients and 69 with THC exposure/intervention. Overall, the pooled peak percentage reduction in IOP after THC administration was 14.66% (95% CI: [3.38%, 25.93%]; p < 0.005). By route of THC delivery, the pooled peak percentage reduction in IOP was 33.27% (95% CI: [20.36%, 46.17%]; p < 0.0001) with the IV route. It was 10.65% (95% CI: [-7.60%, 28.89%]) with the oral route and 9.36% (95% CI: [-8.89%, 27.6%]) with the topical route. Four studies reported the peak percentage reduction in IOP after THC and control administration. From these studies, the pooled peak percentage reduction in IOP after THC was 6.88% (95% CI: [-9.56%, 23.33%]; p&#x202f;=&#x202f;0.41) and nonsignificantly different from control. CONCLUSIONS: Our study generated literature-pooled estimates of the overall and route-stratified peak percentage reduction in IOP following THC administration. THC significantly reduced IOP, although comparatively less significant to the control group.

Humans

Positive conversion of latent tuberculosis screening in patients with inflammatory bowel disease on antitumor necrosis factor alpha drugs: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients undergoing antitumor necrosis factor-alpha (anti-TNF) therapy are at increased risk of developing tuberculosis (TB), making screening before anti-TNF initiation mandatory. Repeated screening during treatment is not yet recommended because of a lack of studies to support this practice. We aimed to determine the proportion of patients who develop latent TB during anti-TNF therapy. We systematically searched studies from MEDLINE, Embase, and Lilacs, and performed a single-arm meta-analysis investigating the positive conversion rate in IBD patients under anti-TNF therapy with previous negative TB screening. We calculated the combined proportion with 95% confidence interval, using the random-effects model. A P value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant for subgroup differences. We included 13 studies from nine countries with 1153 patients. The overall positive conversion rate was 9.20%. Portugal had 18.01% of positive conversion, Spain 4.51%, and the USA 1.11%. Tests for subgroup differences were statistically significant for subgroup analysis by country and consistency of test used (performig same test as baseline). Subgroup analyses by continent, study design, or specific test (tuberculin skin test or interferon-gamma release assay) showed no statistical difference. Meta-regression analysis showed a significant positive association between positive conversion and TB incidence. In conclusion, IBD patients on anti-TNF therapy can have a positive conversion rate of 9.20%. Higher conversion rates were seen in European and Asian studies compared with those in the Americas (particularly the USA). TB prevention strategies should, therefore, be individualized and based on geographic location and risk factors.

Humans

Molecular targeted therapy in combination with chemotherapy for the treatment of platinum-resistant/refractory ovarian cancer (PROC): a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Although single-agent chemotherapy is the most common approach for treating platinum-resistant or refractory ovarian cancer (PROC), there is growing evidence that combining molecular targeted agents with chemotherapy is beneficial, especially for certain patient groups. However, the most effective combination regimen remains elusive. OBJECTIVES: This Bayesian network meta-analysis (NMA) aims to identify the best combination therapy for PROC. METHODS: Relevant studies were searched in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from their inception until October 2024. The primary outcomes were overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS) and adverse events (AEs). Statistical analyses were performed using the GEMTC package (1.0-2) and R 4.2.0. This review was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023428414). RESULTS: Our analysis of 22 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) (n&#xa0;=&#xa0;3408) demonstrated that chemotherapy combinations with bevacizumab (hazard ratio (HR)&#xa0;=&#xa0;0.52-0.65), sorafenib (HR = 0.65, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.45-0.93) or adavosertib (HR = 0.56, 95%CI: 0.35-0.90) significantly improved OS and PFS versus chemotherapy alone. Notably, adavosertib&#xa0;+&#xa0;gemcitabine was associated with an increased risk of grade 3-4 AEs (relative risk (RR)&#xa0;=&#xa0;1.8, 95%CI: 1.3-2.7), but these were generally manageable. CONCLUSIONS: Bevacizumab-based combinations demonstrate consistent benefits across multiple regimens for PROC. Paclitaxel&#xa0;+&#xa0;bevacizumab emerges as the optimal balance of efficacy and safety. Topotecan&#xa0;+&#xa0;sorafenib could be an alternative for patients who are ineligible for anti-angiogenic therapy.

Humans

"Clinical efficacy and expression of antimicrobial resistance genes after using a novel herbal mouthwash compared to chlorhexidine: A Randomised controlled trial in generalised gingivitis patients".

OBJECTIVES: Chlorhexidine, the gold-standard mouthwash, has several disadvantages, like promotion of antimicrobial resistance. Herbal mouthwashes are emerging as alternatives to chlorhexidine. However, its impact on antimicrobial resistance remains unclear. The aim of the study was to compare the clinical efficacy and the expression of antimicrobial resistance genes of chlorhexidine with a novel herbal mouthwash. DESIGN: Sixty patients with generalised gingivitis were randomly assigned to two groups using block randomisation. After professional mechanical plaque removal patients were instructed to use either chlorhexidine or a novel herbal mouthwash (patented composition) for two weeks. Tetracycline resistance (tetM) and macrolide efflux (mefI) gene expression in subgingival plaque were analysed using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Intragroup comparisons were performed with a paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test for parametric and nonparametric data. Intergroup comparisons employed unpaired t-test, chi-square test, and Mann-Whitney test. RESULTS: A significant reduction in bleeding, plaque, pocket depth and and patient reported outcomes were noticed in both groups. But reduction in plaque was more significant in chlorhexidine group. tetM and mefI genes significantly upregulated in the chlorhexidine group, while it was downregulated with herbal mouthwash (fold change 1.79&#x202f;&#xb1;&#x202f;0.74 and 0.60&#x202f;&#xb1;&#x202f;0.43 for tetM, and 1.83&#x202f;&#xb1;&#x202f;0.87 and 0.51&#x202f;&#xb1;&#x202f;0.44 for mefI). However, patients' perception of taste, freshness, and overall satisfaction was better in the chlorhexidine group. CONCLUSIONS: The increased expression of antimicrobial resistance genes following chlorhexidine use warrants careful consideration. Herbal mouthwash is an effective, safer alternative with comparable clinical benefits and less impact on antimicrobial resistance.

Humans

Durability and Safety of Imeglimin as an Add-On to DPP-4 Inhibitors in Japanese Type 2 Diabetes: The 104-Week FAMILIAR Trial.

AIMS: To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of imeglimin added to dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes, focusing on glycemic durability and safety in elderly patients over 104&#x2009;weeks. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled trial comprised a 24-week double-blind phase (imeglimin 1000&#x2009;mg or placebo twice daily) followed by an 80-week open-label extension in which all patients received imeglimin. Eligible patients had inadequate glycemic control despite DPP-4 inhibitor monotherapy. The main assessment measured HbA1c changes from baseline to week 104. Secondary assessments included meal tolerance tests (MTT) for evaluating physiological changes in &#x3b2;-cell function and insulin resistance and safety monitoring. RESULTS: Of 117 randomized patients, 81 completed 104&#x2009;weeks. In the early-start group that received imeglimin from week 0, the significant HbA1c reduction observed at week 24 (-0.65%) was maintained through week 104 (-0.55%; p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001 vs. baseline). The delayed-start group that switched to imeglimin at week 24 achieved similar glycemic control thereafter. Elderly patients (&#x2265;&#x2009;65&#x2009;years) in the early-start group maintained stable HbA1c reduction (-0.58%) without hypoglycemic events over 2&#x2009;years. MTT analysis in the early-start group showed sustained improvements in glucose AUC and insulin sensitivity without unnecessary insulin secretion over time. CONCLUSIONS: Imeglimin added to DPP-4 inhibitors appeared to improve glycemic control for 104&#x2009;weeks, without clear attenuation. The combination was well-tolerated with a low risk of hypoglycemia even in elderly patients. The long-term effect may be associated with improvements in insulin sensitivity. TRIAL REGISTRATION: jRCTs061210082.

Humans

Perspectives of participating neurologists and study nurses - Mixed-methods process evaluation of a web-based program for relapse management in multiple sclerosis (POWER@M2).

BACKGROUND: Relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system and the leading cause of disability in young adults. In Germany, 90% of relapses are treated with high-dose intravenous glucocorticoids, despite limited evidence for long-term benefit and international preference for oral administration. Time constraints often hinder informed decision-making. The multicentre Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) POWER@MS2 (N&#x202f;=&#x202f;160, 2020-2023), conducted at 18 German MS-centres, aimed to promote self-determined relapse management through a complex intervention (dialogue-based decision aid, nurse-led webinar, online-chat). OBJECTIVE: While RCTs demonstrate effectiveness, process evaluations are essential to understand implementation, mechanisms of impact and contextual factors. This study explored healthcare professionals' experiences and attitudes toward implementing relapse self-management and self-medication in clinical practice. METHODS: A mixed-methods process evaluation followed the UK Medical Research Council- framework. Quantitative data were collected via validated questionnaires at up to three time points and analysed descriptively. Interview guides were developed based on these results. Qualitative data from neurologist and study nurse interviews were thematically analysed. Results were triangulated using a joint display. RESULTS: Data were collected from 55 neurologists and 17 study nurses (quantitative) and from 7 neurologists and 4 nurses (qualitative) (2020-2024). Most neurologists opposed routine steroid use, reserving it for severe relapses. Some voiced concerns about self-management, but informed patients were generally viewed as capable of safe self-medication. Study nurses gave mixed feedback on the intervention, citing overload and improved guidance. CONCLUSION: Clinicians showed openness toward implementing the intervention. Enhancing accessibility and addressing specific concerns may support broader adoption.

Humans

Comparative genomic epidemiology of food- and patient-derived diarrheagenic Escherichia coli from sentinel surveillance in Southeast China.

Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) remains an important foodborne pathogen, yet long-term comparative genomic surveillance data jointly characterizing food-derived and patient-derived isolates remain limited. This surveillance-based comparative study integrated antimicrobial susceptibility testing and whole-genome sequencing to characterize diarrheagenic Escherichia coli isolates recovered from food and patient sources in Lishui, Southeast China, during 2018-2025, with emphasis on occurrence, resistance profiles, genomic backgrounds, and plasmid replicon-associated features. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed for 258 selected isolates, and whole-genome sequencing was conducted for a curated analytical subset of 204 isolates. The sequenced subset was used for diversity-oriented comparative genomic analysis rather than for unbiased prevalence estimation of the entire DEC collection. EAEC predominated in both sources, although food-associated occurrence was heterogeneous across categories, with the highest recovery rate observed in raw meat. Patient-derived isolates showed a broader overall resistance burden, whereas food-derived isolates retained substantial resistance to tetracycline, chloramphenicol, and florfenicol. Phylogenetic analysis showed partial overlap in genomic backgrounds between food-derived and patient-derived isolates, while representative resistance determinants displayed both broadly distributed and lineage-enriched patterns. Replicon-based plasmid profiling identified 42 plasmid types, including 12 detected in both sources, with IncF-related replicons predominating among these shared profiles. Several food-derived isolates carried multiple plasmid replicon types that were also observed in patient-derived isolates. Overall, food-derived and patient-derived DEC showed partial overlap in genomic backgrounds, resistance determinants, and replicon-defined plasmid profiles within this surveillance setting, while retaining source-associated heterogeneity. These findings should be interpreted as surveillance-based comparative evidence rather than as evidence of direct source attribution or transmission.

Humans

Comparison of the clinical efficacy, safety and EEG functional connectivity changes between 18-Hz rTMS and iTBS of accelerated dTMS treatment for major depressive disorder: a randomized controlled trial.

Although the antidepressant efficacy of 18-Hz deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) has been validated, its prolonged treatment duration has considerable limitations for treatment capacity and patient adherence. Therefore, novel short-course protocols such as accelerated dTMS and intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) present promising alternative options. Here we addressed the question of whether iTBS of accelerated dTMS achieves comparable therapeutic and electrophysiological effects to accelerated dTMS with the conventional 18-Hz rTMS protocol in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). In a randomized controlled trial (n&#x2009;=&#x2009;73), participants received either 18-Hz rTMS of accelerated dTMS (rTMS-dTMS group), iTBS of accelerated dTMS (iTBS-dTMS group), or pharmacotherapy alone (drug group). Both dTMS protocols were administered twice daily for 10 days targeting the left lateral prefrontal cortex including the dorsolateral region. Results showed that Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) score of the iTBS-dTMS group decreased significantly from 22.5&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;3.7 before treatment to 8.2&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;4.1 after treatment (t&#x2009;=&#x2009;15.900, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). HAMD score of the rTMS-dTMS group decreased significantly from 21.3&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;2.9 before treatment to 8.0&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;3.8 after treatment (t&#x2009;=&#x2009;17.232, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). The drug group also exhibited significantly improved patients' mood symptoms, and the HAMD score decreased from 24.7&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;6.8 to 14.0&#x2009;&#xb1;&#x2009;5.0 (t&#x2009;=&#x2009;6.363, p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.001). The treatment response rate was 85.7% in the iTBS-dTMS group and 76.9% in the rTMS-dTMS group, which was much higher than that of the drug group (42.1%). The remission rate was 50.0% in the iTBS-dTMS group and 42.3% in the rTMS-dTMS group, which was significantly higher than 10.5% of the drug group. We demonstrate here that both accelerated dTMS protocols significantly reduced HAMD scores, improved the response rates, and remission rates, outperforming pharmacotherapy alone. Resting-state EEG analysis further revealed unique frequency-specific functional connectivity (FC) modulation effects: the rTMS-dTMS group primarily exhibited weakened alpha-band functional connectivity within the fronto-occipital, fronto-temporal and fronto-central networks after treatment, whereas the iTBS-dTMS group predominantly demonstrated reduced theta-band functional connectivity within the fronto-parietal, fronto-occipital and fronto-temporal pathways after treatment. These findings indicate that iTBS of accelerated dTMS demonstrates comparable efficacy and tolerability to 18-Hz rTMS of accelerated dTMS, whilst inducing treatment-specific network-level neurophysiological alterations. In the rTMS-dTMS group, relative changes in FC between the frontal and temporal/precentral regions showed significant negative correlation with HAMD score reduction rates, while relative changes in FC between the frontal lobe and parietal lobe showed a significant positive correlation with the rate of HAMD score reduction for the iTBS-dTMS group. This study revealed novel mechanisms by which accelerated dTMS protocols modulate brain networks, providing evidence for the clinical application of accelerated iTBS-dTMS as an efficient, evidence-based treatment for MDD.

Humans

Efficacy and Safety of iGlarLixi Versus IDegAsp by Baseline Age, Disease Duration and HbA1c in Chinese People With Type 2 Diabetes: Post Hoc Analyses of the Soli-D Study.

AIMS: To compare the efficacy and safety of insulin glargine 100&#x2009;U/mL plus lixisenatide (iGlarLixi) with insulin degludec plus insulin aspart (IDegAsp) by baseline age, Type 2 diabetes (T2D) duration and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) in the Soli-D study. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In Soli-D, Chinese adults with T2D suboptimally controlled on oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs) were randomized to iGlarLixi or IDegAsp for 24&#x2009;weeks. These post hoc analyses evaluated glycaemic efficacy, insulin dose, body weight and hypoglycaemia outcomes in subgroups defined by baseline age (<&#x2009;65, &#x2265;&#x2009;65&#x2009;years), T2D duration (<&#x2009;10, &#x2265;&#x2009;10&#x2009;years) and HbA1c (&#x2265;&#x2009;7% to &#x2264;&#x2009;8% [&#x2265;&#x2009;53 to &#x2264;&#x2009;64&#x2009;mmol/mol], >&#x2009;8% to &#x2264;&#x2009;9% [>&#x2009;64 to &#x2264;&#x2009;75&#x2009;mmol/mol], >&#x2009;9% [>&#x2009;75&#x2009;mmol/mol]). RESULTS: Among 582 participants (iGlarLixi n&#x2009;=&#x2009;291; IDegAsp n&#x2009;=&#x2009;291), baseline age was <&#x2009;65&#x2009;years in 442 and &#x2265;&#x2009;65&#x2009;years in 140; T2D duration was <&#x2009;10&#x2009;years in 366 and &#x2265;&#x2009;10&#x2009;years in 216; and HbA1c was &#x2265;&#x2009;7% to &#x2264;&#x2009;8% in 205, >&#x2009;8% to &#x2264;&#x2009;9% in 209 and >&#x2009;9% in 168. At Week 24, HbA1c reductions were greater with iGlarLixi versus IDegAsp, with no treatment-by-subgroup interactions for baseline age, T2D duration or HbA1c. Change in other glycaemic outcomes, insulin dose and body weight generally showed no interaction across subgroups. Total insulin daily doses during treatment and hypoglycaemia event rates were consistently lower with iGlarLixi versus IDegAsp in all subgroups. CONCLUSIONS: iGlarLixi provides improved glycaemic control at lower insulin doses with reduced risk of hypoglycaemia in Chinese adults with suboptimally controlled T2D on OADs, regardless of baseline age, disease duration or HbA1c.

Humans

Activity of Aztreonam-avibactam and Ceftazidime-Avibactam against Enterobacterales and Pseudomonas aeruginosa causing infections in patients hospitalized in hematology, oncology, and transplant units from United States medical centres (2019-2024).

Immunosuppression increases the risks and severity of infections and is associated with a higher incidence of infection with multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens. We evaluated the antimicrobial susceptibility of Enterobacterales and Pseudomonas aeruginosa from patients hospitalized in hospital units where the frequency of immunosuppressed patients is very high. Bacterial isolates were consecutively collected (1/patient) from 75 US medical centres in 2019-2024 and susceptibility tested by broth microdilution. Enterobacterales (n = 2,407) and P. aeruginosa (n = 485) from patients hospitalized in hematology, oncology, and transplant units were evaluated. Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) were screened for &#x3b2;-lactamases by whole genome sequencing. Enterobacterales were mainly from bloodstream infection (BSI; 53.6%) and urinary tract infection (19.9%) and P. aeruginosa were mainly from BSI (37.9%) and pneumonia (35.0%). Aztreonam-avibactam, ceftazidime-avibactam, and meropenem-vaborbactam were highly active against Enterobacterales (99.9-99.4% susceptible), including MDR isolates (99.6-98.1% susceptible), but only aztreonam-avibactam exhibited good activity against CRE (95.8% susceptible). Ceftolozane-tazobactam showed good activity against Escherichia coli (95.7% S) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (92.8% S), but limited activity against Enterobacter cloacae species complex (75.9% susceptible). All (100.0%) carbapenemase (CBase)-producing CRE isolates were aztreonam-avibactam-susceptible while 77.4% were ceftazidime-avibactam-susceptible and 67.7% were meropenem-vaborbactam-susceptible. The most common CBases were KPC (41.7%), NDM (12.5%), and OXA-48 types (10.4%). Metallo-&#x3b2;-lactamases represented 23.5% of CBases and were identified in 16.7% of CREs. The most active agents against P. aeruginosa were ceftazidime-avibactam (95.7% susceptible), ceftolozane-tazobactam (94.8% susceptible), and tobramycin (91.5% susceptible). Piperacillin-tazobactam and meropenem were active against 81.4% and 82.5% of P. aeruginosa, respectively, and aztreonam-avibactam inhibited 78.6% of P. aeruginosa at &#x2264;8 mg/L.

Humans

Type, severity, frequency and management of adverse reactions associated with ultrasound contrast agents: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: This systematic review and meta-analysis are aimed at evaluating the incidence of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) following administration of clinically approved ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs) in adults and children, to assess risks in patients with cardiovascular disease and in pregnancy, and to evaluate the effectiveness of emergency management of severe ADRs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A PRISMA 2020 systematic review was conducted searching PubMed, Scopus, and Embase. Two reviewers independently screened, extracted data, and assessed quality. Incidence estimates were pooled when feasible, stratified by age group, contrast agent, and administration route. RESULTS: Seventy-four studies encompassing >&#x2009;1 million adults and >&#x2009;36,000 children were included, contributing multiple analytic cohorts to the quantitative synthesis. Severe acute ADRs were extremely rare (6 and 16 cases per 100,000 in adults and children, respectively) and absent following endocavitary administration in children. Non-severe acute ADRs occurred in 11 and 8 cases per 10,000 adults and children, respectively. Delayed reactions were very rare (<&#x2009;1 case per million in adults). No significant safety differences emerged between UCA products. The incidence of ADRs in patients with cardiovascular disease was analogous to the general population. No ADRs were reported in pregnant women. Standard emergency management was effective in almost all serious cases, though rare fatalities occurred. CONCLUSION: UCAs show an excellent safety profile in adults and children, with very rare severe ADRs and few non-severe, typically self-limiting reactions. Strict adherence to recommended emergency management protocols mitigates the remaining risks, supporting safe use across a broad range of clinical indications. PROSPERO REGISTRATION: CRD42023432668. KEY POINTS: Question What is the incidence, type, and severity of acute and delayed ADRs associated with clinically approved UCAs across different patient populations? Findings Severe acute adverse reactions are very rare, and non-severe reactions are rare and self-limiting, with no significant safety differences between adults, children, or patients with cardiovascular disease. Clinical relevant UCAs show an excellent safety profile across populations. These findings support their safe clinical use as reliable alternatives to iodine-based and gadolinium-based contrast agents in routine diagnostic imaging.

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