Carboxytherapy, via the Bohr effect, a denser dermal environment, and preserved fibroblast function, along with oral administration of bioactive marine collagen fragments that target fibroblasts, are regenerative strategies that could improve scar elasticity, thickness, and hydration. Their sequential combination might be an innovative approach. In March 2024, a 56-year-old woman began treatment of a large, hypertrophic, partially retracted post-surgical scar in the nasojugal area at the level of the right nasal wing. Ablative techniques were strictly contraindicated; therefore, a regenerative, restructuring approach via carboxytherapy was chosen. A six-session carboxytherapy cycle was performed from October 10, 2024 (T0) to April 3, 2025 (T6). Each session, performed every 15 days, lasted approximately 10 minutes (flow rate: 60 mL/min, 30-G needle, temperature 45°C). Evaluations were conducted after the third (T3) and last (T6) sessions, using the Antera 3D device (quantitative three-dimensional objective analysis of scar depth, texture, erythrosis, and pigmentation) and the POSAS investigator and subject scoring scales. A final injection of persistent hyaluronic acid was performed on April 3, 2025. To support and strengthen the normalization of the scarring process, the first of a twice-yearly oral cycle of hydrolyzed marine collagen fragments began on October 23, 2025. Over the six-month carboxytherapy treatment cycle, the scarred skin area showed significant improvement toward a normal appearance. The vascularity POSAS score (observer component) decreased from 7 at baseline to 3 at T6; the thickness and flexibility scores improved from 5 to 2 and from 7 to 3, respectively. Additionally, the POSAS pain and itching scores (patient component) decreased from 6 to 1. Stand-alone carboxytherapy again appears to be an effective option for hypertrophic, structurally abnormal scars. While further investigations are underway, supplementation with hydrolyzed marine collagen fragments may help maintain the benefits of prior carboxytherapy. Managing postsurgical scars, especially hypertrophic scars, is challenging. Carboxytherapy, the intradermal or subcutaneous administration of carbon dioxide, is well known for reducing the aesthetic and psychological burden of scars. It promotes local vasodilation, improves tissue oxygenation, and induces the production of new, well-organized collagen in the scar area. Emerging research on the skin-restructuring properties of orally absorbed fragments of marine collagen suggests that these bioactive small peptides may also contribute to scar management. These small collagen peptides, produced at the end of the collagen lifecycle when skin collagen breaks down, stimulate skin fibroblasts to produce new collagen. Several marine collagen fragments are identical to the small, bioactive peptides generated by collagen breakdown and likely act similarly. For the first time, the authors tested an innovative regenerative strategy that sequentially combines six sessions of carboxytherapy with long-term supplementation with hydrolyzed marine collagen in a 56-year-old woman. The woman sought treatment for a disfiguring hypertrophic scar on the right nasal wing following surgery for a skin carcinoma. The outcomes of this innovative treatment strategy appear encouraging, though preliminary, as the woman has completed only her first at-home cycle of oral marine collagen supplementation. Progress in the appearance of the disfiguring scar was monitored using a quantitative three-dimensional skin analysis device and the Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS). Definitive conclusions from any experience with a single patient must await the results of well-designed clinical studies, some of which are already underway.
with the aim of guiding the strategic response to major viral infections, this study aimed to determine the epidemiological profile of HIV, hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the Far North region of Cameroon. we conducted a cross-sectional epidemiological surveillance study in the Mayo-Tsanaga Division and surrounding localities in the Far North region of Cameroon from August 1 to September 20, 2024. After obtaining informed consent, each participant was given a standard questionnaire and tested for the three infections (HIV, HBV, and HCV) in accordance with the national testing algorithm. The collected data were analyzed using Excel 2019 and Power BI software, with a statistical significance threshold set at p < 0.05. a total of 3,188 participants were tested (60% female, median age 34 years [IQR 20-46]), of whom 396 tested positive overall, including 13 who were HIV-positive, 373 who were HBV-positive, and 10 who were HCV-positive. According to each type of infection, HIV, HBV and HCV seropositivity rates were 0.41% (13/3,170), 11.7% (373/3,188) and 0.31% (10/3,188), respectively. Despite the high endemicity of HBV (>8%), no statistically significant differences were observed by age or sex (p > 0.05). the low prevalence rates (<1%) of HIV and HCV suggest that their elimination is effectively underway among populations in the Far North region of Cameroon. However, the high endemicity of HBV indicates ongoing transmission and underscores the urgent need to prioritize vaccination as the primary preventive intervention toward elimination. dans le cadre de la triple élimination du VIH, des virus de l'hépatite B et C, une meilleure compréhension du fardeau local de ces infections est essentielle pour orienter les interventions ciblées. Cette étude vise à déterminer le profil épidémiologique du VIH, des hépatites virales B (VHB) et C (VHC) dans le département du Mayo-Tsanaga à l'Extrême-Nord du Cameroun. étude transversale de surveillance épidémiologique réalisée du 1er août au 20 septembre 2024. Un échantillonnage consécutif a été effectué. Après obtention du consentement éclairé, chaque participant a rempli un questionnaire standardisé et a été testé pour le VIH, le VHB et le VHC selon l'algorithme national. Les données ont été analysées avec Excel 2019 et Power BI, avec un seuil de significativité p<0,05. au total, 3188 participants (60% de femmes, âge médian 34 ans [IQR 20-46]) ont été inclus. Parmi eux, 396 (12,4%) ont été testés positifs à au moins une infection: VIH 0,41% (n = 13), VHB 11,7% (n = 373), VHC 0,31% (n = 10). Pour le VIH, une majorité de femmes (77%), concentrée dans la tranche de 25-34 ans. Pour le VHB, on avait une positivité élevée au-delà de 55 ans (27%), femmes 63,6%, pas de différence significative selon le sexe (p = 0,138). Pour le VHC, on avait une distribution homogène, sans différence significative selon âge ou sexe. nos résultats suggèrent une possible transition vers l'élimination du VIH et du VHC dans cette population au vu de leur faible séropositivité. En revanche, la forte positivité du VHB appelle à renforcer la stratégie vaccinale couplée au dépistage et à la sensibilisation ciblant prioritairement les jeunes.
Among biological models, cell culture constitutes an important paradigm that allows rapid examination of cell phenotype and behavior. While cell cultures are classically grown on a 2D substrate, the recent development of organoid technologies represents a paradigmatic shift in biological experimentation as they pave the way for reconstructing of minimalist organs in 3D. Manipulating these 3D cell assemblies presents a considerable challenge. While there is growing interest in studying the behavior of cells and organs in the space environment, manipulating 3D cultures in microgravity remains a challenge. But with cellular research underway aboard the International Space Station (ISS), optimizing techniques for handling 3D cellular assemblies is essential. Here, in order to cultivate 3D models of spheroids in microgravity, we developed and used an acoustic bioreactor to trap levitating cellular organoids in a liquid cell culture medium. Indeed, in a Bulk Acoustic Wave (BAW) resonator, spherical objects, such as cells, can be maintained in an equilibrium position, inside a resonant cavity, away from the walls. In the acoustic trapping plane, gravity is counterbalanced by the acoustic radiation force (ARF) making it possible to maintain an object even in weightlessness. A dedicated setup was designed and built to perform live calcium imaging during parabolic flights. During a parabolic flight campaign, we were able to monitor the calcium activity of 3D neural networks trapped in an acoustic field during changes in gravity during different parabolas. Our results clearly demonstrate that variations in gravitational force correlate with changes in calcium activity.
Despite widespread adoption and investment of resources nationally, the pediatric acute care cardiology (ACC) model of care has not been previously evaluated prospectively. To test the hypothesis that adoption of an ACC model will be associated with improved clinical outcomes. This single-center prospective quality improvement study was conducted in a 26-bed ACC unit of a high surgical volume, freestanding children's hospital. The baseline period was May 15 to October 31, 2023, and the intervention period was November 1, 2023, to November 30, 2024. All ACC unit encounters during the baseline and intervention periods were included. Data sources were hospital administrative data, local Pediatric Acute Care Cardiology Collaborative registry, and Patient and Family Experience (PFE) scores. Full-scale change in the model of care: transitioned unit leadership from hospital pediatrics to cardiology, changed attending of record for medical patients to cardiologist, hired nurse practitioners as frontline clinicians, integrated residents into the team, implemented multidisciplinary family-centered rounding, updated communication processes, and transitioned cardiology fellows to in-house overnight call. Complication rate and back transfer to the intensive care unit (ICU) were outcome measures, discharge time was a process measure, 7-day unplanned readmissions and length of stay (LOS) were balancing measures. Standard rules for identifying special cause variation (SCV) were applied. The percentage of patients and families with positive PFE scores (defined as scores of 9 or 10) before and after the intervention were compared using an independent t test. Hypothesis was formulated prior to data collection. There were 483 encounters (45.2% among children aged 1-18 years) in the baseline period and 973 (52.7% among children aged 1-18 years) in the intervention period. Outcome and process measures significantly improved showing SCV following adoption of the ACC model (mean complications: baseline, 23.6% vs intervention, 16.0%; mean back transfer to ICU: baseline, 11.4% vs intervention, 6.9%; mean patient discharge time: baseline, 15.37 hours vs intervention, 14.43 hours). LOS and 7-day unplanned readmissions were unchanged, suggesting no major inadvertent negative consequences of the ACC model. Mean LOS for medical patients decreased (7.83 vs 4.97 days). PFE improved after the intervention (median [SD], preintervention: 76.9% [3.7] vs postintervention: 82.9% [4.3]; P = .04). In this quality improvement study of an ACC model, multiple outcomes improved without evidence of negative consequences. These clinical improvements may justify necessary investment of resources to support ACC models. Adaptation of this model for other subspecialties may help address pediatric resident workforce changes. Ongoing evaluation of resource utilization, sustainability of improvement, and newly embedded improvement efforts is underway.
The fourth LBMR-Tim (Toulouse Referral Medical Laboratory of Immunology) symposium was convened on December 15th, 2025, in Toulouse, France, to discuss recent advances in the understanding and management of systemic sclerosis (SSc) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Pathophysiological mechanisms underlying SSc and SLE were discussed from a genetic perspective, with particular emphasis on the X-chromosomal TLR7/TLR8 locus and the interferon signaling pathway. Cellular aspects were explored, highlighting the critical roles of regulatory T cells (Tregs), exhausted T cells, macrophage polarization, and endothelial cells. At the translational research frontier, significant initiatives are underway within the framework of the European Autoimmunity Standardization Initiative (EASI) aimed at enhancing routine biomarker application for diagnosis, disease monitoring, and prognostic considerations. Emerging biomarker candidates promise potential for improving prognostic assessment and follow-up in lupus nephritis (e.g., urinary sCD163/creatinine ratio), cardiovascular complications and vasculopathy associated with SSc (e.g., dephosphorylated-uncarboxylated matrix Gla protein [dp-ucMGP] and endothelial progenitor cells), as well as therapeutic response evaluation (e.g., IGRA-PHA assays and proteomic methodologies). Therapeutically, a paradigm shift is underway with the development of efficacious mono- and multi-targeted antibody treatments alongside cellular therapies designed to eliminate B cells through chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells or to re-establish immune regulation through Treg restoration. The integration of these therapeutic modalities necessitates further investigation to optimize individualized patient selection and management strategies. The multidisciplinary expert panel advocates for a comprehensive approach encompassing fundamental science, translational research, clinical expertise, and therapeutic innovation to advance in the management of these two complex syndromes.
Chandipura virus disease (CHPVD), caused by the sandfly-transmitted Chandipura virus, is a major public health concern due to its reported explosive outbreaks of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) and high mortality in children. We aimed to describe the clinico-epidemiological characteristics of the cases and identify risk factors, following laboratory confirmation of CHPVD in Gujarat, India, in July 2024. We defined case as laboratory-confirmed CHPVD in clinical presentation of AES in a child aged under 15 years from Gujarat in July 2024. We identified cases through enhanced passive surveillance and compared them to age and place-matched controls. We randomly selected two controls (same and neighbouring village) with no fever and seizures or altered sensorium in previous month and aged +/-two years from case-age. We collected data using structured questionnaire. Severe underweight was weight-for-age z-score < -3 Standard deviation. We calculated geometric-mean (GM) for laboratory investigations, adjusted OR (aOR) using conditional logistic regression with Firth penalization. We conducted an entomological survey for sandflies in and around case household. We identified 54 cases with median age of 4 years [Interquartile-range (IQR) = 2-7] and 59% males in 20/33 districts. Case fatality rate was 50%. Rural cases were 81%, 72% had domestic animals, and 34.8% were severely underweight. Clinical manifestations were fever (87%), convulsion (74%), vomiting (70.4%), altered sensorium (57.4%), and loose stools (48%). Median duration between symptom onset and hospital admission was 1 day (IQR:0-2), and from hospital admission to death was 3 days (IQR:2-5.75). WBC count (GM = 15295/mm3), SGOT (GM = 121.7U/L), APTT (GM = 48.9 s) and Lactate dehydrogenase (GM=657U/L.) were elevated. CSF showed lymphocytic predominance, and protein was 63 mg/dL. Underweight status in child (aOR = 4, 95%CI = 1.4-14.3) and poor housing structures and conditions (aOR = 2.66, 95%CI = 1.71-4.93) were significant risk factors. We collected sandflies (Sergentomyia species) from dwelling units while insecticidal control measures were underway. This investigation highlights widespread nature and high mortality from CHPVD outbreak among children in Gujarat. Clinical findings were consistent with acute encephalopathy and disseminated systemic infection. Being underweight and poor housing conditions were risk factors. We recommended physician sensitization in case management, health communication to address nutrition, housing conditions and protection against the sandfly bites. Not applicable.
Recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) is the most widely used viral vector for in vivo gene therapy, with over 200 clinical trials currently underway worldwide. Achieving a manufacturing process that is sufficiently productive with the requisite product quality is critically important for commercialization success. Mammalian producer cell lines (PCLs) are stably transfected to integrate AAV structural and non-structural genes and are frequently combined with infection by wild-type adenovirus (Ad5) to provide helper elements. Within the PCL, both Ad5 amplification and rAAV production occur. During AAV manufacturing with PCLs, the upstream process targets the generation of high rAAV titers and full-capsid percentages. This is followed by a downstream process designed to effectively clear Ad5 and other process-related impurities, while further enriching full rAAV capsids. To explore potential improvements at the cellular level, we developed a mechanistic model based on empirical cell culture data, capturing intracellular dynamics of rAAV assembly and Ad5 amplification. Sensitivity analysis using this model identified cellular processes associated with rAAV yield and full-particle percentage. Notably, the analysis confirmed the critical influence of Ad5 amplification on both rAAV yield and quality. Further analysis, including nonlinear optimization, identified additional targets for cell line and helper virus engineering to evaluate process performance.
Sickle cell disease (SCD) is characterized by chronic hemolysis, painful vaso-occlusive episodes (VOE) and end organ damage. High levels of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) attenuate the disease phenotype. We used a lentivirus vector (LVV) expressing an shRNA embedded in a microRNA (shmiR) targeting BCL11A in erythrocytes to induce HbF in a first-in-human pilot study in SCD. The purpose of the study was to assess hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) collection, transduction parameters, safety, HbF induction and durability. Eleven eligible patients with SCD had HSC collection. Plerixafor-mobilized peripheral blood HSCs required for manufacturing were obtained in one mobilization cycle for 10/11 subjects and 11/11 patient products were successfully manufactured with a median time to release of product of 39 days. Ten patients were infused with autologous HSCs transduced with the shmiR vector. Engraftment occurred in all 10 patients. With a median follow-up of 58 months (range: 35-82) after infusion, no adverse events attributed to the gene vector have occurred. Transduction efficiency was 93.1%. One patient demonstrated low engraftment of transduced cells and had suboptimal HbF induction. In the remaining 9 patients, at 2 years post-treatment peripheral blood demonstrated 71% F cells with 11.9 pg HbF/F cells, both stable in 9 patients with ≥48 months follow-up. All patients who had VOEs prior to gene therapy demonstrated sustained mitigation of pain events. These data demonstrate excellent manufacturing efficiency and safety, with efficacy of targeting BCL11A using a shmiR LVV, and long-term durability of the shmiR vector, leading to a pivotal multi-site phase 2 trial currently underway (NCT05353647).
Frontline workers across multiple occupations operate in high-stress, trauma-exposed environments characterized by chronic demands and irregular schedules, increasing risk of burnout, depression, and poor sleep. Emerging evidence highlights the role of 24-hour movement behaviors in relation to mental health. Despite growing attention, research remains fragmented and often focuses on individual behaviors rather than their combined influence. This protocol outlines a scoping review designed to map existing evidence and identify research gaps. The primary aim is to map research examining relationships between 24-hour movement behaviors and mental health outcomes in frontline workers. Objectives include examining measurement approaches, associations, and methodological gaps. This scoping review will follow the JBI methodology and the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. Eligible studies include English-language research published between 2000 and 2025 involving adult frontline workers across multiple occupations and examining movement behaviors and mental health outcomes. A three-step search strategy will be conducted across multiple databases alongside targeted gray literature searches. Screening and data extraction will be performed independently by two reviewers. Findings will be synthesized using tabular summaries and narrative synthesis. Preliminary searches and pilot-testing were completed in October 2025. As of May 2026, updated database and supplementary searches have been completed, with 527 studies meeting the inclusion criteria for data charting. Data charting and synthesis are currently underway. Completion of the review and submission for publication are anticipated in July 2026. This review will provide a comprehensive overview of research linking 24-hour movement behaviors and mental health in frontline workers. Findings will highlight methodological, occupational, and research gaps to inform future research, policy, and practice.
Linerixibat (LYNAVOY®) is an orally administered reversible ileal bile acid transporter (IBAT) inhibitor developed by GSK for the treatment of cholestatic pruritus. In March 2026, linerixibat received its first approval for the treatment of cholestatic pruritus associated with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) in adult patients in the USA. It is the first US FDA-approved therapy for this indication. Subsequently, linerixibat was approved in May 2026 in the UK for the treatment of cholestatic pruritus in adult patients with PBC. A regulatory review of linerixibat is currently underway in Canada, China and the EU for the treatment of cholestatic pruritus associated with PBC. This article summarizes the milestones in the development of linerixibat leading to these first approvals.
Since 2021, Switzerland has authorised scientific pilot trials of regulated cannabis dispensing for non-medical purposes, with the aim of building an empirical basis for potential regulatory decisions. Seven projects are currently underway, targeting exclusively adult regular consumers. These projects combine access to controlled products, harm reduction measures, and longitudinal follow-up. By way of illustration, preliminary data from the Geneva trial describe a predominantly male cohort, with a mean age of around 38 years, frequent consumers, motivated by product quality and by the desire to contribute to regulatory change. No notable adverse events have been reported to date. These trials represent a pragmatic public health response whose longitudinal results will help inform future Swiss cannabis policies. Depuis 2021, la Suisse autorise des essais pilotes scientifiques de remise contrôlée de cannabis à des fins non médicales, afin de constituer une base empirique pour d’éventuelles décisions réglementaires. Sept projets sont en cours, et ciblent exclusivement des adultes consommateur-ice-s régulier-ère-s. Ces projets combinent accès à des produits contrôlés, mesures de réduction des risques et suivi longitudinal. A titre illustratif, les données préliminaires issues de l’essai genevois décrivent une cohorte majoritairement masculine, d’âge moyen autour de 38 ans, à consommation fréquente, motivée par la qualité des produits et par la contribution à une évolution réglementaire. Aucun événement indésirable notable n’a été rapporté à ce jour. Ces essais constituent une réponse pragmatique de santé publique dont les résultats longitudinaux contribueront à éclairer les futures politiques suisses en matière de cannabis.
The Editorial Board of Anticancer Research is issuing an official Expression of Concern regarding the article cited above. The study was published purely as “hypothesis-generating", opening the discussion for repurposing of these substances, establishing the ground for future approved, randomized clinical trials. Following publication, serious scientific concerns were raised by the international medical community regarding the verifiability and statistical reliability, and ethical oversight of the underlying dataset. In formal correspondence to the journal dated June 4, 2026, the authors clarified that the study cohort was not drawn from an unverified consumer survey, but instead comprised “provider-screened cancer patients enrolled in a structured prospective cohort” managed via an internal clinical workflow and licensed provider consultations. While the Editorial Board acknowledges the authors' transparency regarding the text-level limitations of selfreported data, a study published in a peer-reviewed oncology journal that reports a “Clinical Benefit Ratio of 84.4%” and specific percentages of “tumor regression” must rest on a verifiably real clinical foundation and adhere to established ethical frameworks for human subject research to maintain its validity in the permanent scholarly record. Anticancer Research does not endorse or condone the unvalidated off-label use of medications for unapproved oncological indications. Disclosing limitations does not exempt a clinical dataset from the foundational scientific requirements of empirical verifiability and independent ethical oversight. Accordingly, based on the authors' confirmation of an established clinical provider-patient workflow, the journal is initiating a formal Post-Publication Data Integrity and Ethical Oversight Audit. This investigation will evaluate the mandatory Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval or exemption documentation, the de-identified, source-verified clinical records confirming the baseline cancer diagnoses of the 197 initial participants and the objective medical documentation supporting the reported anatomical regressions. This Expression of Concern will remain prominently appended to the publication record online and in all indexing databases while this formal data and ethical verification audit is underway.
The AMPA receptor (AMPARs) mediates fast excitatory neurotransmission and is the central to synaptic plasticity, learning and memory dysregulation of this system has been implicated in epilepsy, neurodegeneration, and neuropsychiatric disorders. The transmembrane AMPA receptor regulatory protein γ8 (TARP γ8) plays a crucial role in the expression and localization of AMPARs within the brain, particularly in the hippocampus and cortex. A selective positron emission tomography (PET) ligand to image this target is of significant interest for investigating potential clinical AMPAR/TARP γ8 antagonists. This study describes the development and preclinical evaluation of a potent and selective tracer targeting TARP γ8, [18F]JNJ-1. The binding potency of JNJ-1 was evaluated using a calcium flux assay in HEK-293 cells. The radiotracer was synthesized on an automated synthesizer via a one-step substitution. TARP γ8 target expression in brains was confirmed through immunohistochemistry (IHC), and adjacent brain sections were used for autoradiography (ARG). In vivo assays were conducted in rats, knockout mice, and non-human primates by [18F]JNJ-1 PET imaging and JNJ-1 microdosing studies. JNJ-1 exhibited very high binding potency to TARP γ8, IC50 = 50 pM. Immunoreactivity of TARP γ8 showed high intensity in the hippocampus and moderate levels in the cortex across mouse, rat, and monkey brains. A microdosing with JNJ-1 study revealed high, moderate, and low levels of JNJ-1 uptake in the hippocampus, cortex, and cerebellum, respectively in wild-type mice (γ8 + / +), and low levels in all regions in knockout (γ8 - / -) mouse brains. In vitro ARG of [18F]JNJ-1 corresponded with IHC staining on adjacent rat brain sections, and the signal being blocked by JNJ-2, a potent and selective antagonist of TARP γ8. In vivo PET imaging demonstrated high brain uptake in the expected areas in rats and monkeys, which was blockable by JNJ-2 in a dose-dependent manner. [18F]JNJ-1 is emerging as a promising PET tracer with high in vitro binding affinity and evidence suggestive of target engagement at AMPAR/TARP γ8. The process of clinical validation is presently underway.
Affective and psychotic disorders often emerge during adolescence and early adulthood. Early detection and timely treatment of individuals with mental disorders (particularly affective and psychotic disorders) can play a decisive role in improving the course of disease and treatment outcomes. To bridge the gap between early detection and evidence-based, integrated, and cross-setting treatment, there is a need for conceptual advancement and closer coordination of outpatient, day clinic, and inpatient care services, particularly during the transition between child and adolescent psychiatry and adult psychiatry. The aim of this paper is to present the services offered by the "Young People" track at the Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital in Dresden as a potential best-practice example. It addresses established workflows, team structure, and the nature and frequency of interventions. In addition, descriptive data on all individuals seeking help at the Early Detection and Intervention Center between May 2018 and October 2025 as well as those treated in the day clinic between December 2019 and December 2024 are analyzed. Care is provided through a stepped pathway-starting with an initial general, low-threshold point of contact, moving on to specialized early detection of affective and psychotic disorders, and culminating in targeted referrals to established outpatient, day-care, and inpatient treatment programs for young people. From May 2018 to October 2025, 859 young people made their first visit to the Early Detection and Intervention Center (52.5% female; average age: 24 years). 31.4% did not meet the criteria for a mental disorder, 35.4% fulfilled the criteria of one, 20.6% of two, and 12.6% of at least three diagnoses. N = 63 met the risk criteria for developing bipolar disorder, n = 77 for developing psychosis. More than 100 young people were treated in the outpatient setting. The day clinic treated N = 283 patients (average duration: 7 weeks) with high treatment acceptance and significant improvements in symptom burden, self-management, and quality of life. Initial steps towards establishing a specialized inpatient treatment programme are currently underway with the allocation of six beds for young people, enabling continuous care even in times of increased treatment needs. The services offered by the "Young People" track at Dresden University Hospital bridge potential gaps in care during the transition from adolescent to adult psychiatry. Through low-threshold early detection and risk-adapted, continuous, and cross-setting care, young people-with or without previous treatment experience-receive targeted support. Treatment tailored to their developmental needs facilitates inter alia processes of maturation, career orientation, and the gradual achievement of independence. The accompanying research ensures the continuous, evidence-based development of the integrative and patient-centered care concept, which, as a potential best-practice example in Germany, can represent a decisive step towards an effective and person-centered care system for young people with affective and psychotic disorders.
The development of organoid technology has led to notable advances in regenerative medicine, disease modeling, and drug screening. However, given the pivotal role of vascular systems in growth maintenance and nutrient delivery, the lack of functional vascular networks within organoids limits the scalability and physiological functionality of these organoids. Efforts to explore strategies for organoid vascularization, such as co-culture, transcription factor induction, microfluidic technology, and the application of biomaterial scaffolds, are underway. These methods have shown distinct advantages across different types of organoids, partially addressing vascularization challenges. However, issues such as limited vascular network integration and insufficient functional maturity remain unresolved. Future efforts should prioritize the development of multi-tiered vascular networks, the application of smart biomaterials, and the creation of personalized vascularized organoids. This review summarizes the advances in this field and explores the potential translation of vascularized organoids into clinical practice, offering recommendations for further research.
Animal movement patterns over time and space underlie the design of effective protected areas (PAs). Gorgona National Natural Park (GNNP) is a PA in the Colombian Pacific for which evaluation of protections afforded to local conservation-dependent species is needed. We address this need herein by assessing green turtle (Chelonia mydas) movement and residency patterns at GNNP. Satellite telemetry for 10 juvenile turtles tracked during 2009-2012 provided evidence that nine individuals exhibited residency behavior. Kernel utilization distributions suggested that the resident population's core 50% area of activity was fully contained within GNNP, while the 90% activity space was 89% contained. One turtle left the study area, migrating south. We offer these findings at a pivotal time, when plans for constructing a military complex within GNNP are underway. Our study highlights that GNNP protects critical habitats for imperiled species and underscores the need for thoughtful consideration of future developments near sensitive PAs.
The term acute myeloid leukemia (AML) refers to a group of myeloid neoplasms characterized by maturation arrest, classically defined as ≥20% myeloblasts or myeloblast equivalents in the peripheral blood or bone marrow. In recent decades, a wealth of genetic information has reshaped our understanding of AML biology and enabled recognition of discrete molecular subgroups. However, questions remain, especially regarding which genetic lesions are class-defining and which are, at most, prognostic. These questions acquired particular salience with the advent of two classification systems, the 2022 International Consensus Classification and the WHO 5th Edition (WHO), replacing the prior WHO revised 4th Edition. While efforts are underway to unite current classification schemes, it is essential for pathologists to understand the rationale behind AML classification in the interest of patient care. Given the growing complexity in this area, this review aims to provide a practical guide for AML diagnosis and contemporary classification while highlighting areas of active inquiry which may inform future classification.
Dengue is no longer confined to tropical and subtropical regions; due to climate change, urbanization, and vector expansion, it has now spread to several Western countries, emerging as a significant global public health threat. A critical unmet need remains for the prevention and treatment of dengue and its complications. In addition to developing vaccines, substantial efforts are underway to discover prophylactic and therapeutic small-molecule inhibitors targeting viral proteins and host factors. This perspective article reviews discovery efforts from the past five years focused on inhibitors of nonstructural (NS) proteins and highlights key directions for future research.
There is mounting interest in leveraging conversational AI (CAI) for health across the world, including in underserved regions, but to be effective, CAI must respond appropriately within culturally and linguistically diverse contexts. Therefore, we need ways to address the fact that current LLMs exclude many lived experiences globally. Various advances are underway which focus on top-down approaches and increasing training data. In this paper, we aim to complement these with a bottom-up locally-grounded approach based on qualitative data collected during participatory workshops in Latin America. Our goal is to construct a rich and human-centred understanding of: (a) potential areas of cultural misalignment in digital health; (b) regional perspectives on chatbots for health and (c) strategies for creating culturally-appropriate CAI, with a focus on the understudied Latin American context. Our findings show that academic boundaries on notions of culture lose meaning at the ground level and technologies will need to engage with a broader framework; one that encapsulates the way economics, politics, geography and local logistics are entangled in cultural experience. To this end, we introduce a framework for 'Pluriversal Conversational AI for Health' which allows for the possibility that more relationality and tolerance, rather than just more data, may be called for. The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s43681-026-01196-y.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a fatal X-linked recessive disorder caused by dystrophin deficiency. Antisense oligonucleotide (ASO)-mediated exon skipping has emerged as a cornerstone of DMD therapy to restore dystrophin expression. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the four FDA-approved ASO therapies - eteplirsen, golodirsen, viltolarsen, and casimersen - tracing their journey from pivotal clinical trials to post-marketing updates. While the development and clinical evaluation of these agents have established a pioneering framework for rare genetic diseases, they have also highlighted critical challenges. These include complexities in clinical trial design, discrepancies between preclinical efficacy and clinical outcomes, real-world burdens, and limited patient eligibility. Furthermore, the FDA's accelerated approval of these therapies based on limited clinical data remains a subject of ongoing debate. Confirmatory trials to verify clinical efficacy and long-term follow-up studies are actively underway. Concurrently, intensive research is focused on developing next-generation ASOs to achieve enhanced therapeutic efficacy and definitive clinical outcomes. Elucidating the trajectory of research and development in this field offers profound insights for shaping future therapeutic strategies in rare diseases.