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PubMed2026

Peripheral immune markers and choroid plexus volumes as predictors of change in depressive symptoms: Insights from the EMBARC study.

Changes in choroid plexus (ChP) volume and peripheral inflammation have been associated with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), yet their individual and combined impact on depressive symptoms is unclear. This study investigated whether baseline immune markers and ChP volumes predict changes in depressive symptoms during the 8-week treatment period among Establishing Moderators and Biosignatures of Antidepressant Response in Clinical Care (EMBARC) study participants who received either sertraline or placebo. Adults (n = 222) with MDD with peripheral blood samples were included. Circulating chemokines and cytokines were examined using a 40-plex assay. Depressive symptoms were assessed over 8 weeks using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17). Principal component analysis (PCA) was used for dimension reduction. Mixed-effects models were used to examine whether immune profiles and ChP volumes, and their interaction predicted HAMD-17, adjusting for demographic/clinical covariates and baseline depression severity. PCA identified three immune profiles. One profile, characterized by higher levels of cytokines and chemokines including IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β, was associated with greater depression severity, higher BMI, age, and CRP at baseline. Higher levels of these immune markers were associated with less improvement in depressive symptoms at 8 weeks (estimate = 1.211, p = 0.018) in models adjusting for right and left ChP volume (right ChP model: estimate = 1.034, p = 0.005; left ChP model: estimate = 0.993, p = 0.007). Interactions between immune markers and ChP volumes were not significant. Future investigations are warranted to examine the relationships between immune markers and ChP volume beyond structural changes in the context of depression symptoms.

Adult↗

PubMed2026

Glymphatic dysfunction mediates inflammation-driven vascular burden and cognitive decline in cerebral small vessel disease.

BACKGROUND: Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is increasingly recognized as a disorder involving microvascular dysfunction, impaired perivascular clearance, and inflammatory processes. However, how systemic inflammatory burden, neurovascular coupling (NVC), glymphatic MRI markers, vascular lesion burden, and cognition are interrelated remains unclear. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this prospective study, 155 patients with CSVD and 70 healthy controls (HCs) underwent multimodal MRI. NVC was quantified using the cerebral blood flow/fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations ratio. Glymphatic function was assessed via the diffusion tensor image analysis along the perivascular space (ALPS) index, choroid plexus volume (CPV), and perivascular space (PVS) fractions. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to evaluate the direct and indirect effects of inflammatory markers on vascular burden and cognitive performance. RESULTS: Patients with CSVD exhibited significantly diminished NVC (specifically in the right median cingulate and left frontal gyri) and impaired glymphatic function (lower ALPS-index; higher CPV and PVS fractions) compared to HCs. SEM revealed that inflammatory biomarkers exerted both a direct effect on vascular burden and a substantial indirect effect (accounting for 66.3% of the total effect) mediated through two pathways: a single-mediation path via glymphatic function (42.8%) and a serial-mediation path via NVC and glymphatic function (23.5%). Increased vascular burden was significantly associated with poorer cognitive performance. CONCLUSION: Inflammation drives CSVD progression and cognitive decline primarily through the disruption of NVC and glymphatic clearance mechanisms. These findings highlight glymphatic dysfunction as a critical mediator of inflammation-related structural brain damage.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Superficial Cervical Plexus Block and Quality of Recovery after Thyroidectomy: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

BACKGROUND: Whether adding a bilateral superficial cervical plexus block to a thyroidectomy enhanced recovery pathway improves postoperative quality of recovery remains uncertain. METHODS: In a single-center prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in adults undergoing thyroidectomy with general anesthesia, participants were randomized to bilateral superficial cervical plexus blocks with 0.25% bupivacaine or saline. All participants received multimodal analgesia with dexamethasone, acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and incisional local anesthetic. The primary outcome was quality of recovery, measured by the QoR-40 survey, on postoperative day 1. Secondary outcomes included the need for rescue opioid, total opioid consumption, nausea, vomiting, antiemetic administration, length of stay in the postanesthesia care unit (PACU), and opioid use on postoperative day 1. RESULTS: A total of 160 participants were randomized to receive a superficial cervical plexus block with bupivacaine 0.25% (n = 78) or saline (n = 82). On postoperative day 1, mean QoR-40 scores were 174 (95% CI, 170 to 178) for bupivacaine and 173 (95% CI, 169 to 177) for saline. The adjusted mean difference between bupivacaine versus saline was 0.91 (95% CI, -3.57 to 5.40; P = 0.688). There were no significant between-group differences in the need for opioids in the PACU or on postoperative day 1, nausea, vomiting, or PACU length of stay. However, the total amount of opioid administered in the PACU was lower in the bupivacaine group (median [interquartile range], 0 [0 to 8]) compared with the saline group (2 [0 to 20]; Hodges-Lehmann location shift, 0 morphine milligram equivalents; 95% CI, -4 to 0; P = 0.017), and fewer participants in the bupivacaine group received rescue antiemetics (3 [3.8%] vs . 13 [16%]; difference, -12%; 95% CI, -22% to -1.8%; P = 0.011). CONCLUSIONS: Bilateral superficial cervical plexus blocks did not improve quality of recovery after thyroidectomy when added to a multimodal analgesic regimen including dexamethasone, acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and incisional local anesthetic but were associated with lower total PACU opioid consumption.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Ciliochoroidal Effusion and Regional Scleral Thickening in Peripapillary Pachychoroid Syndrome.

PURPOSE: To assess anterior scleral thickness and the presence of ciliochoroidal effusion (CE) in eyes with peripapillary pachychoroid syndrome (PPS), and to compare the results with a cohort of healthy age-matched controls. DESIGN: Retrospective cross-sectional study METHODS: A total of 20 eyes from 12 patients diagnosed with PPS and 30 eyes from 15 healthy control subjects. All participants underwent a comprehensive ophthalmic examination, including spectral-domain optical coherence tomography with enhanced depth imaging (EDI-OCT) and anterior segment OCT (AS-OCT). Choroidal thickness was measured at predefined macular and peripapillary locations, while anterior scleral thickness was assessed 6 mm posterior to the scleral spur in 4 quadrants. Ciliochoroidal effusion was evaluated qualitatively using AS-OCT. Comparisons between groups were performed using linear mixed models with Bonferroni correction (scleral thickness corrected P < .010) RESULTS: The mean age of PPS patients was 75.6 ± 9.8 years, and 16% were females. Anterior scleral thickness was significantly greater in the temporal quadrant in PPS eyes compared to controls (396.85 ± 74.97 µm vs 331.13 ± 62.65 µm: P = .007). Ciliochoroidal effusion was detected in 60% of PPS eyes, predominantly in the superior and temporal sectors, whereas no effusion was observed in healthy controls (P < .001). Eyes with CE exhibited a thicker mean scleral thickness and a thicker subfoveal choroidal thickness compared to eyes without effusion (P < .05). CONCLUSION: Eyes with PPS demonstrated increased temporal scleral thickness and a high prevalence of CE. These findings suggest that scleral characteristics may represent a predisposing anatomical factor in PPS, although the precise pathophysiological mechanisms remain to be elucidated.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Aflibercept With Versus Without Reduced-Fluence Photodynamic Therapy for Polypoidal Choroidal Vasculopathy: Optical Coherence Tomography Angiographic Changes From a Randomized Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVES: To report the longitudinal optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) changes in polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV) treated with intravitreal aflibercept monotherapy or in combination with reduced-fluence PDT. DESIGN: Image analysis of a double-masked, sham-controlled, randomized clinical trial. SUBJECTS: 55 eyes of 55 treatment-naïve participants with symptomatic macular PCV completing 52 weeks of follow-up. METHODS: Participants underwent protocolized, multimodal imaging, including OCT, OCTA, fluorescein angiography, and indocyanine green angiography at baseline, week 12, and week 52. Quantitative OCTA parameters included total lesion area, branching neovascular network (BNN) area, and BNN vessel density (VD). Qualitative features included trunk vessel presence and OCTA signal within the polypoidal lesion (PL). Eyes were categorized by treatment arm and PL closure at week 52. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Longitudinal OCTA changes and predictors of PL closure at week 52. RESULTS: We included 55 eyes (28 combination therapy and 27 monotherapy). Total lesion area decreased at week 12 but returned toward baseline at week 52 (combination: 3.72 ± 3.01mm2 at baseline, 2.86 ± 2.50mm2 at week 12, 3.59 ± 3.26mm2 at week 52; monotherapy: 3.77 ± 2.23mm2 at baseline, 3.27 ± 2.36mm2 at week 12, and 3.47 ± 2.58mm2 at week 52). BNN area decreased at week 12 and remained reduced at week 52 in both treatment arms (combination: 2.29 ± 2.08 mm2 at baseline, 1.46 ± 1.36mm2 at week 12, and 1.53 ± 1.32mm2 at week 52; monotherapy: 2.39 ± 1.85mm2 at baseline, 1.87 ± 1.68mm2 at week 12, and 1.82 ± 1.38mm2 at week 52). BNN VD reduction was greater in the combination arm at week 12 (-10 ± 15% vs - 3 ± 12%, P = .02). The proportion of eyes with trunk vessels increased over time in both arms (combination: 35.7% at baseline, 59.3% at week 12, and 67.8% at week 52; monotherapy: 25.9% at baseline, 44.4% at week 12, and 71.4% at week 52). In multivariable analysis, baseline BCVA predicted BCVA change at week 52 (β=-0.96 [-1.21 to -0.72], P < .01), and baseline CST predicted CST change (β=0.93 [0.75 to 1.10], P < .01). Greater reduction in BNN VD at week 12 was independently associated with PL closure at week 52 (OR 0.62 [0.39 to 0.97], P = .03). CONCLUSIONS: Early reduction in BNN vessel density, rather than reduction in lesion size, was associated with subsequent PL closure. OCTA-derived vascular changes may serve as noninvasive biomarkers for predicting treatment response in PCV.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Clinical Utility of Ultra-Widefield Swept-Source OCT for Intraocular Tumors: Comparison With Ultrasonography, SD-OCT, and MRI.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the clinical performance of ultra-widefield swept-source optical coherence tomography (UWF-OCT) in the assessment of choroidal tumors and to compare it with ultrasonography (US), spectral-domain (SD)-OCT, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). DESIGN: Retrospective diagnostic comparison. SUBJECTS: Thirty-nine eyes from 39 patients diagnosed with choroidal tumors at a single tertiary referral center. METHODS: This retrospective diagnostic comparison evaluated patients diagnosed with choroidal tumors at a single tertiary referral center between January 2023 and August 2025. All patients underwent UWF-OCT imaging at diagnosis. Tumor measurements obtained with UWF-OCT were compared with US, SD-OCT, and MRI. Comparative analysis among imaging modalities and predictors affecting UWF-OCT applicability was performed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Tumor thickness (mm) and largest basal diameter (LBD, mm) measurements, and complete measurability rate across different tumor size categories. RESULTS: Thirty-nine eyes from 39 patients (mean age 59.2 ± 16.9 years) were analyzed, including 27 choroidal melanomas (69.2%), 5 metastatic tumors (12.8%), 4 hemangiomas (10.3%), 2 osteomas (5.1%), and 1 (2.6%) indeterminate choroidal melanocytic lesion. UWF-OCT successfully measured both tumor thickness and largest basal diameter (LBD) in 100% (31/31) of small and medium choroidal tumors, substantially outperforming SD-OCT (complete measurement achieved in 63.6% of small tumors, and 0% of medium or large tumors). UWF-OCT measurements were systematically smaller than ultrasonography (thickness: -32.3%, P < .01; LBD: -11.1%, P < .01) and MRI (thickness: -29.2%, P < .01). Mushroom-shaped tumor morphology was the strongest negative predictor of UWF-OCT quality (OR = 0.015, 95% CI 0.001-0.196, P < .01). UWF-OCT's complete measurability was limited in large tumors (12.5%, 1/8). CONCLUSIONS: UWF-OCT provides precise, noninvasive, single-scan assessment of small-to-medium choroidal tumors with detailed structural visualization. It may be particularly useful for dome-shaped tumors, while multimodal imaging with US and MRI remains optimal for complex morphologies. Overall, UWF-OCT represents a valuable tool for diagnosis and treatment planning, with potential utility for longitudinal follow-up in choroidal tumor management.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Predictive value of anal sphincter electromyography for sacral neuromodulation test-phase outcomes.

BACKGROUND: Sacral neuromodulation (SNM) is an established therapy for refractory pelvic organ dysfunction. Anal sphincter electromyography (EMG) is commonly used preoperatively to assess sacral and peripheral nerve integrity. However, the prognostic significance of chronic neurogenic EMG changes for SNM outcomes remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate whether chronic neurogenic changes on preoperative anal sphincter EMG predict the outcome of the SNM test phase. METHODS: We retrospectively analysed 62 consecutive patients with bladder and/or bowel dysfunction or pelvic pain who were candidates for SNM treatment and who underwent preoperative anal sphincter EMG. EMG findings were classified as normal or showing chronic neurogenic changes. SNM test-phase success was defined as a ≥50% improvement of symptoms at 24 days. Outcomes were compared between EMG groups. RESULTS: Of the 62 patients (49 women, 13 men), 30 (48%) had normal EMG findings and 32 (52%) showed chronic neurogenic changes. Overall, the SNM test phase was successful in 47 patients (76%). Success rates were similar in patients with normal EMG (72%) and neurogenic EMG changes (79%), with no statistically significant difference (p = 0.878). Sex-stratified analyses revealed no significant association between EMG findings and test-phase success in women or men. CONCLUSIONS: Chronic neurogenic changes on anal sphincter EMG do not predict SNM test-phase outcomes. These findings suggest that abnormal sphincter EMG results should not be used as a standalone criterion to exclude patients from SNM therapy. SIGNIFICANCE: Signs of neurogenic damage on anal sphincter EMG are not an indicator of reduced neuromodulatory capacity or diminished clinical response to SNM.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effects of Progressive Inspiratory Muscle Training on Lung Volume and Respiratory Strength in Patients With Pre-Dialysis Chronic Kidney Disease.

INTRODUCTION: Chronic kidney disease can present changes in thoracic cavity volume and respiratory muscle weakness, even in the pre-dialysis stage. However, there is little evidence on the effects of inspiratory muscle training in these patients. METHODS: This was a randomized clinical trial which comprised patients with Chronic Kidney Disease in stages 3, 4, and 5 undergoing conservative treatment, allocated experimental group (EG) with progressive loading (up to 50% of maximal inspiratory pressure [MIP]) and control group (CG) with a fixed load (5 cmH2O) and no load progression performed daily for 8 weeks. The outcomes assessed were thoracic cavity volumes, as measured by optoelectronic plethysmography, and inspiratory and expiratory respiratory muscle strength. RESULTS: A total of 30 patients completed the study. All volumes significantly increased at the end of the protocol with a large effect size, but only the pulmonary thoracic cavity volume showed a significant interaction (F = 3.698; p = 0.042). There was an increase in inspiratory muscle strength in the EG (73.88-90.35 cmH2O; p < 0.001) and in the CG (70.85-86.92 cmH2O; p = 0.001), as well as in expiratory muscle strength in the EG (97.71-108.53 cmH2O; p = 0.001) and in the CG (80.69-94.77 cmH2O; p = 0.004). CONCLUSION: Daily IMT increased thoracoabdominal volumes, particularly pulmonary rib cage volume in the progressive-load group, as well as respiratory muscle strength in patients with pre-dialysis CKD. However, progressive-load IMT was not superior to minimal-load training.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effect of cognitive enhancement therapy for early course schizophrenia on gray matter volume: A confirmatory multisite randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Cognitive Enhancement Therapy (CET) is an evidence-based cognitive remediation intervention for early course schizophrenia with established benefits for cognition. CET may protect against broad temporolimbic gray matter volume loss associated with cognitive improvement, but this finding has yet to be replicated. This research reexamined if CET protects against temporolimbic gray matter volume loss in an independent and larger multisite early course sample, and if this neuroprotective effect predicts cognitive and social adjustment improvement. METHODS: Ninety-nine participants with early course schizophrenia completed MRI, cognitive, and social adjustment assessments at baseline, 9 (mid-treatment), and 18 (end of treatment) months. Linear mixed-effects models examined the differential impact of CET (n = 56) compared to Enriched Supportive Therapy (n = 43) on temporolimbic gray matter volume in regions-of-interest (ROIs) that previously demonstrated CET-related neuroprotection (primary ROIs), as well as frontotemporal ROIs outlined in the first trial (secondary ROIs). RESULTS: The right rostral anterior cingulate was the only primary ROI to demonstrate a significant group × time interaction, but was unrelated to cognitive and social adjustment change. No secondary ROIs exhibited a differential treatment effect. CONCLUSION: This confirmatory trial did not recapitulate the observed broad pattern of CET-related temporolimbic gray matter volume neuroprotection. Consistent with the larger literature demonstrating limited evidence of cognitive remediation effects on the brain in schizophrenia, these findings underscore the need for continued investigation of CET-related changes with other neuroimaging modalities, especially given its established cognitive benefits. Such information is critical for cognitive remediation optimization based on validated therapeutic mechanisms.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Impact of estimated total blood volume on NT-proBNP response to angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibition in acute heart failure: Insights from the PREMIER study.

BACKGROUND: Sacubitril/valsartan (Sac/Val) reduces N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels in acute heart failure (AHF), particularly in patients with reduced ejection fraction. However, whether estimated total blood volume (TBV), calculated using anthropometric equations, is associated with heterogeneity in biomarker response remains uncertain. METHODS: This post hoc exploratory sub-analysis of the PREMIER randomized trial evaluated whether baseline estimated TBV was associated with heterogeneity in NT-proBNP reduction after Sac/Val compared with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker (ACEI/ARB) therapy. Estimated TBV was calculated using validated anthropometric equations and dichotomized at the median (4.05 L). Patients were further stratified by left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF <40% vs ≥40%). The primary endpoint was the proportional change in NT-proBNP from baseline to Week 8. RESULTS: Among 376 patients, 372 with baseline estimated TBV data were analyzed. In the high TBV group, Sac/Val was associated with greater NT-proBNP reduction than ACEI/ARB (-56% vs -32%; ratio of change, 0.67; 95% confidence interval, 0.53-0.84; P = .001), whereas no significant difference was observed in the low TBV group (P for heterogeneity = 0.063). In patients with LVEF <40%, Sac/Val was associated with greater NT-proBNP reduction in both TBV groups. In patients with LVEF ≥40%, Sac/Val was associated with greater NT-proBNP reduction in the high TBV group, whereas the point estimate in the low TBV group numerically favored ACEI/ARB. CONCLUSIONS: In this exploratory post hoc analysis, higher estimated TBV was associated with greater NT-proBNP reduction after Sac/Val, particularly among patients with LVEF ≥40%. These findings are hypothesis-generating and require external validation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05164653; Japan Registry of Clinical Trials, jRCTs021210046.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Donor Human Milk Utilization in a Level 1 Newborn Unit of a High-Volume Delivery Hospital: A Cautionary Tale.

INTRODUCTION: Donor human milk (DHM) is an alternative to formula for supplementation of breastfed newborns and has been associated with higher in-hospital exclusive breast milk feeding rates. Its use has increased substantially, most recently among term newborns, yet there is scarce data to describe patient characteristics and volumes administered. We aimed to characterize DHM utilization in our level 1 nursery. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study of newborns discharged in 2022 from the level 1 nursery. Variables included sex, gestational age, birth weight, delivery type, hypoglycemia diagnosis, DHM volume, and length of stay. DHM use was compared across preferred language, race, ethnicity, and payer type using chi-square testing. RESULTS: A total of 10,432 discharges were reviewed-those transferred to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) or another unit were excluded. Of 9,074 newborns receiving level 1 care, 1,094 (12.1%) received DHM. Newborns born between 35 and 37 weeks gestation, delivered by cesarean section, or diagnosed with hypoglycemia or small for gestational age were more likely to receive DHM (p < 0.05). DHM was also more common among newborns whose birth parent preferred the English language, identified as White or non-Hispanic, or had non-Medicaid insurance (p < 0.05). 6,552.6 ounces were consumed, with a total median of 3.9 ounces per newborn (dose range 2-50 mL). CONCLUSIONS: DHM use in the level 1 nursery varied by clinical and sociodemographic factors, revealing inequities. In addition, some doses exceeded recommended supplemental volumes. Future efforts should focus on ensuring equitable access to DHM, standardized dosing and discontinuation guidelines, and evaluation of impacts on exclusive breastfeeding rates.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Changes in hippocampal functional connectivity and volume associated with cognitive improvement and decline in amnestic mild cognitive impairment following computerized cognitive training.

BACKGROUND: The hippocampus influences the outcomes of amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and undergoes different changes during the cognitive decline or recovery of aMCI compared to elderly individuals with normal cognition, which may reveal disease-dependent neurodegeneration or plasticity. We first aimed to investigate the hippocampal changes associated with cognitive changes in aMCI using a combined case-control study design. METHODS: In total, 50 aMCI individuals and 50 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited in Shenyang, China, and separately randomized into training and control groups: aMCI training group, aMCI no training group, HC training group, and HC no training group. The aMCI and HC training groups received computerized cognitive training (CCT) thrice weekly for 12 weeks. Cognitive assessments and MRI data were collected at baseline and follow-up. RESULTS: The primary outcome was significant CCT×diagnosis interaction effect on the change in cognitive performance as measured by clock drawing test (CDT) scores (F = 4.322, P = 0.041); this interaction was driven by CCT specifically in aMCI (F = 4.465, P = 0.038). Significant CCT×diagnosis interaction effects of right-hippocampal FC changes were observed in the bilateral precuneus/cuneus (Pvoxel<0.05) driven by CCT in aMCI (F = 5.429, P = 0.023), and in the left superior temporal gyrus/middle temporal gyrus (STG/MTG, Pvoxel<0.05), driven by CCT of only in HCs (F = 6.587, P = 0.013). A significant interaction effect of left-hippocampal FC changes were observed in the right triangular part of the inferior frontal gyrus (IFGtriang, Pvoxel<0.05), driven by CCT in aMCI and HCs (F = 6.550, P = 0.013; F = 7.097, P = 0.010). No significant interaction effect on the change in hippocampal GMV was noted (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: CCT can improve the visuospatial ability of aMCI, which is reflected by the CDT scores. CCT can alter hippocampal FC in the bilateral precuneus/cuneus, the right IFGtriang, and the left STG/MTG. The hippocampal GMV is difficult to change in both HCs and aMCI during the cognitive decline. REGISTRATION NUMBER: ChiCTR1900026849. DATE OF REGISTRATION: 24 October 2019 NAME OF TRIAL REGISTRY: Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR).

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Soft Tissue Volume Augmentation at Single Implant Sites Applying Collagen Matrices or Connective Tissue Grafts: 10-Year Follow-Up of a Randomized Controlled Trial.

AIM: To compare up to 10 years clinical, profilometric and patient-reported outcomes of implant sites previously augmented using a volume-stable collagen matrix (VCMX) or connective tissue graft (SCTG) in the aesthetic zone. METHODS: The original non-inferiority randomized controlled trial (RCT) enrolled 20 patients who received soft tissue volume augmentation with VCMX or SCTG at single implant sites. Clinical assessments and standardized measurements were performed at baseline after crown insertion and at 6 months, 1, 3, 5, 7.5, and 10 years. The primary outcome was mucosal thickness. Secondary outcomes included marginal bone levels (MBL), probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque control record, Pink Aesthetic Score (PES), OHIP-14 and buccal profilometric changes. Group comparisons were performed using mixed-effects and generalized estimating equation (GEE) models, which account for within-patient correlations due to repeated measurements and allow inclusion of all available data without requiring imputation for missing observations. RESULTS: Of the 20 originally enrolled patients, 10 (5 in the SCTG group and 5 in the VCMX group) were available for re-examination at 10 years. The adjusted between-group difference in mucosal thickness was -0.02 mm (95% CI -0.99 to 0.96). As the lower bound of the confidence interval remained above the prespecified non-inferiority margin of -1 mm, non-inferiority of VCMX was shown. Buccal contour changes were comparable during the early follow-up, while a trend toward a greater long-term contour decrease was observed in group VCMX (-0.31 mm [95% CI, -0.65 to 0.03]; p = 0.07). Mean PES values were 10.6 in the SCTG group and 9.6 in the VCMX group, with no significant between-group differences (p = 0.45). Both groups revealed high levels of oral health-related quality of life, with low median OHIP-14 scores (SCTG, 0.0; VCMX, 1.0; p = 0.26). CONCLUSION: These preliminary long-term findings showed no clinically relevant differences between SCTG and VCMX in terms of clinical, profilometric and patient-reported outcomes. While SCTG remains the reference standard, VCMX represents a less invasive alternative but with a slight tendency toward greater long-term contour reduction. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Volume-stable collagen matrices serve as a viable alternative to autogenous connective tissue grafts for peri-implant soft tissue volume augmentation, particularly in patients seeking a reduced morbidity, without compromising long-term clinical or aesthetic outcomes. TRIAL REGISTRATION: German Clinical Trials Register: DRKS00017484.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Effect of protective ventilation throughout the intubation period on perioperative oxygenation in patients undergoing MIDCABG: a randomised controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass grafting (MIDCABG) requires prolonged one-lung ventilation (OLV), increasing postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs) risk. We investigated whether protective lung ventilation (PLV) throughout intubation benefits MIDCABG patients. METHODS: In this single-center randomized study, MIDCABG patients received PLV (low tidal volume of 6-8 mL·kg-1, PEEP of 6 cm H2O, alveolar recruitment maneuvers) or conventional mechanical ventilation (CMV, tidal volume of 8-10 mL·kg-1, without PEEP or maneuvers) from tracheal intubation to extubation. The primary outcome was perioperative oxygenation, assessed by the PaO2/FiO2 ratio. RESULTS: Sixty patients (n = 30 per group) were enrolled. Compared with CMV, PLV improved PaO2/FiO2 ratios (mean difference at OLV60: 34.56 mmHg; 95% CI: 11.78-57.33; p < 0.01), shortened median durations of postoperative mechanical ventilation (median difference: -4.5 h, 95% CI: -8.5 to -0.5; p = 0.013) and hospital stay (median difference: -3.0 days, 95% CI: -5.0 to -1.0; p = 0.019). PLV also reduced driving pressure, airway pressure and intrapulmonary shunt during OLV (all p < 0.05). Desaturation occurred in 23.3% of CMV patients and 13.3% of PLV patients (p = 0.506). Hemodynamic parameters were generally comparable between groups, except for lower MPAP and PVRI in the PLV group during OLV and after ICU admission (p < 0.05). The incidence of PPCs did not differ between groups. CONCLUSIONS: In patients undergoing MIDCABG, PLV applied throughout intubation improved perioperative oxygenation and shortened the duration of postoperative mechanical ventilation and hospital stay, but did not reduce PPCs. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ChiCTR1900022005.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

Single-slice Functional Lung MRI During Metronome-Paced Tachypnea Detects Changes in Regional Ventilation Dynamics After a Single Dose of Dual Bronchodilator Treatment in COPD.

Dual long-acting bronchodilators are a standard treatment in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), aimed at alleviating dyspnea, improving exercise tolerance, and preventing exacerbations. Metronome-paced tachypnea (MPT) offers a feasible alternative to exercise testing for the evaluation of dynamic hyperinflation (DH) in COPD. Because MPT can be performed during MRI, its combination with single-slice phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI provides a promising approach to investigate changes in regional ventilation dynamics induced by DH. This approach was evaluated in a randomized, investigator-blinded, placebo-controlled, single-dose (SD) crossover trial with a two-week extension of once daily dual bronchodilator medication, in which patients with stable COPD underwent PREFUL MRI during resting tidal breathing (RTB) and during MPT. During RTB, no significant improvements in MRI-derived parameters were observed after SD treatment compared with placebo. During MPT, however, regional ventilation, flow-volume loop correlation, its defect percentage, and end-expiratory lung area improved significantly after SD treatment compared to the placebo scan (all p < 0.02). After multi-dose treatment, five out of six measured parameters improved during MPT, when compared to the baseline scan without bronchodilator treatment (all p < 0.03). In contrast to RTB, PREFUL MRI during MPT was able to detect changes in COPD patients already after SD treatment. The combination of MPT and PREFUL MRI represents a promising method to evaluate the effects of dual bronchodilators on regional ventilation dynamics and hyperinflation.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

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

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

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PubMed2026

Effects of hospital planning reforms on access, costs, efficiency, and quality of care in OECD countries: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Many OECD countries have implemented hospital planning reforms to rising healthcare costs, demographic changes, and concerns about access, efficiency, and quality of care. Despite broad implementation, evidence on effectiveness remains fragmented and country-specific. OBJECTIVE: To synthesize evidence on the effects of hospital planning reforms aross four outcome domains: access, costs, efficiency, and quality of care. METHODS: We conducted a systematic review following Cochrane methodology, searching PubMed and Web of Science (January 2000 - September 2025). Studies were categorized into four intervention types - centralization, minimum volume requirements (MVR), performance-based targets, and governance and ownership restructuring. Risk of bias was assessed using Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for quasi-experimental designs. Where data permitted, random-effects meta-analyses pooled standardized mean differences (SMD) for access and efficiency and risk differences (RD) for quality outcomes. RESULTS: 26 studies from 12 countries were included. Centralization increased patient travel distances and reduced length of stay (SMD -0.09, 95% CI -0.17 to -0.01) and complications (RD -14.52 pp, -25.95 to -3.09), and, jointly with performance-based targets, 30-day readmissions (RD -0.43 pp, -0.65 to -0.22). Mortality effects varied by timepoint and intervention: short-term endpoints were largely non-significant, whereas 90-day mortality was reduced under centralization (RD -0.80 pp, -1.25 to -0.35) and 60-day mortality under MVR (RD -2.00 pp, -2.82 to -1.18). Survival was non-significant throughout. No study examined costs. CONCLUSION: The absence of cost evidence is a critical gap. Substantial heterogeneity reflects variation in reform design and context, underscoring the need to interpret findings by intervention and country conditions.

Humans↗

PubMed2026

From pathobiology to prescribing in obesity-driven HFpEF: A systematic review and practical therapeutic framework.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is increasingly driven by obesity and cardiometabolic dysfunction. In this phenotype, the dominant biology extends beyond congestion alone and includes visceral and epicardial adiposity, systemic inflammation, impaired myocardial energetics, endothelial dysfunction, and exertional elevation in filling pressures. We performed a PRISMA-compliant systematic review with structured narrative evidence synthesis to evaluate pharmacological therapy in obesity-driven HFpEF, searching PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, ClinicalTrials.gov, and WHO ICTRP through December 2025. Eighteen reports were included in the final qualitative synthesis. The available evidence supports sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors as the pharmacological foundation because they provide the most mature outcome data across the preserved ejection fraction spectrum. Semaglutide improves symptoms, physical limitations, exercise capacity, and body weight in dedicated obesity-related HFpEF trials, whereas tirzepatide extends this signal by improving clinical status and reducing worsening heart failure events. Finerenone broadens the therapeutic platform in HF with mildly reduced or preserved ejection fraction, although obesity-specific data remain indirect. Conventional neurohormonal therapies retain a selective role, but they are not the principal biological match for this phenotype. Obesity-driven HFpEF should therefore be managed as a cardiometabolic syndrome with heart failure expression, using a phenotype-based sequence that links diagnosis, decongestion, SGLT2 inhibition, obesity-directed therapy, and selective adjunctive intensification.

Humans↗