Targeting SBP Below 130 mmHg May Lower Hospitalizations in HFpEF Without Increasing Serious Risks: Meta-analysis

Japan – Targeting a systolic blood pressure (SBP) below 130 mmHg may significantly reduce hospitalizations in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), a recent systematic review and meta-analysis published in Hypertension Research has revealed. The study, led by Dr. Chisa Matsumoto from the Department of Cardiology at Tokyo Medical University in Fukuoka, Japan, offers important guidance for clinicians ahead of the upcoming Japanese Society of Hypertension 2025 (JSH2025) guidelines.

HFpEF accounts for approximately half of all heart failure cases and remains a clinical challenge, particularly when it comes to optimal blood pressure management. To address this, Dr. Matsumoto and her team systematically reviewed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published since 2012 that examined the impact of tight BP control, specifically targeting SBP <130 mmHg, on clinical outcomes in HFpEF patients.

The analysis included six RCTs that collectively assessed various interventions such as mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists, angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs), intensive BP control strategies, and comprehensive heart failure management approaches. These studies had follow-up periods of at least six months and demonstrated significant BP reduction in intervention groups, achieving SBP below 130 mmHg.

The study led to the following findings:

  • Maintaining systolic blood pressure (SBP) below 130 mmHg was associated with a 20% reduction in the risk of heart failure-related hospitalizations (RR: 0.80).
  • There was a trend toward reduced all-cause mortality, though it did not reach statistical significance.
  • There was a 35% increased risk of hypotension reported (RR: 1.35).
  • There was no significant increase in serious adverse events or renal dysfunction, suggesting overall safety was not compromised despite the lower SBP target.

Even though none of the trials were specifically designed to use SBP <130 mmHg as the primary intervention target, the consistent benefits observed across different treatment modalities support the adoption of this threshold in clinical practice for HFpEF patients.

“Based on our findings, we advocate aiming for an SBP under 130 mmHg in HFpEF management, provided that patients are carefully monitored for hypotension,” said Dr. Matsumoto. “Given the heterogeneity of HFpEF, personalized treatment strategies and close clinical observation remain essential.”

The authors call for future trials that directly assess SBP targets and investigate how different antihypertensive agents might be tailored to the complex needs of HFpEF patients.

The study provides timely evidence to inform treatment decisions and guideline development, emphasizing a cautious yet proactive approach to blood pressure control in heart failure care.

Reference:

Matsumoto, C., Nagai, M., Shinohara, K., Morikawa, N., Kai, H., & Arima, H. (2025). Systolic blood pressure lower than 130 mmHg in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical outcomes. Hypertension Research, 1-14. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41440-025-02240-w

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Cool Drinks Linked to Afib Episodes: Survey Finds Lifestyle Impact

USA: Researchers have found in a cross-sectional survey that many individuals with atrial fibrillation (AFib) experienced fewer episodes by avoiding cold drinks and foods like ice water, smoothies, and ice cream. Strategies included letting beverages reach room temperature and avoiding straws. Despite patient-reported improvements, healthcare providers often dismissed the “cold drink heart” (CDH) phenomenon.

The study, published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology and led by Dr. Daniel D. DiLena from Kaiser Permanente Northern California, sheds light on a relatively under-recognized AFib trigger. The research focused on the “cold drink heart” phenomenon, a term used to describe atrial fibrillation episodes that are triggered specifically by the intake of cold consumables.

The investigators conducted a mixed-methods study involving a detailed patient survey supplemented by chart reviews. Participants were either approached during emergency department visits for AFib or reached out to the study team directly. The survey collected data on demographics, clinical history, and the nature of AFib episodes, particularly those linked to cold consumption.

The key findings were as follows:

  • A total of 101 patients participated in the study, with 75% being male.
  • The median age at onset of cold drink-triggered atrial fibrillation (CDH) was 44.5 years.
  • 51.5% of respondents reported that their AFib episodes occurred exclusively after consuming cold drinks or foods.
  • Many patients experienced a rapid onset of arrhythmia following cold ingestion.
  • A significant number of episodes were associated with recent physical exertion.
  • 86.4% of participants reported a reduction or complete elimination of AFib episodes after avoiding cold consumables.
  • Among patients with only CDH-triggered episodes, 100% experienced prevention of recurrence through lifestyle modifications.

Despite these clear patterns observed by patients, the medical community appears to have limited awareness of the phenomenon. According to the survey, more than half of the participants (52.4%) felt that their experiences with CDH were dismissed or not taken seriously by healthcare providers. This disconnect underscores the need for increased clinician awareness and a more patient-centered approach to managing AFib.

The findings point toward a potential non-pharmacological strategy for certain AFib patients. Avoiding specific triggers, such as cold drinks, could offer a simple and effective way to manage arrhythmia recurrence in affected individuals.

While these observations are promising, the researchers emphasize the need for further investigation to establish definitive clinical guidance. Controlled studies are warranted to validate CDH as a recognized trigger and to develop tailored management approaches.

The authors concluded, “The study brings attention to a unique but impactful trigger of AFib and highlights the importance of listening to patient-reported experiences in shaping personalized care strategies.”

Reference:

DiLena, D. D., Zhang, J. Y., Rauchwerger, A. S., Reed, M. E., Marcus, G. M., Warton, E. M., & Vinson, D. R. Characterizing Patients With Cold Drink-Triggered Atrial Fibrillation. Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology. https://doi.org/10.1111/jce.16753

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Full-zirconia implant Restorations Show High Survival but Frequent Technical Complications, suggests study

Researchers have found in a new study that Full-zirconia implant-supported restorations with angulated screw channel abutments demonstrated a 97% survival rate over 5 years in posterior maxillary and mandibular regions, but were associated with a high rate of technical complications.

Implant-supported restorations in the posterior region are subjected to various complications that could be prevented by changing either the design or the material. The aim of this prospective case series study was to evaluate full-zirconia implant-supported restorations with angulated screw channel abutments in the molar region of the maxilla and mandible and their effect on hard and soft peri-implant tissues, during a 1-year follow-up period. Thirty consecutive patients with a single missing molar, sufficient bone height, and implant site free of infection were included. Each patient was to receive a parallel-walled implant with conical connection according to a two-staged surgical protocol. After 3 months, a full-contour screw-retained zirconia restoration with angulated screw channel abutment was provided. Clinical and radiographic examinations were performed 1 and 12 months after placement of the restoration. Patients’ satisfaction was scored prior to treatment and after 12 months with the restoration in function. Primary outcome measure was success of the restoration. Results: All patients could be evaluated after 12 months. Success of the restorations was 100%. From loading to the 12-month follow-up, the mean marginal bone loss was 0.16 mm (SD: 0.26). Mean scores for plaque, calculus, peri-implant mucosa, bleeding, and pocket probing depth were low, depicting healthy peri-implant conditions. Patients’ satisfaction was high and had improved after treatment. Full-contour zirconia implant-supported restorations with angulated screw channel abutments in the molar region have an excellent clinical performance after 1 year of function.

Reference:

Pol CWP, Raghoebar GM, Maragkou Z, Cune MS, Meijer HJA. Full-zirconia single-tooth molar implant-supported restorations with angulated screw channel abutments: A 1-year prospective case series study. Clin Implant Dent Relat Res. 2020 Feb;22(1):138-144. doi: 10.1111/cid.12872. Epub 2019 Dec 3. PMID: 31793193; PMCID: PMC7064919.

Keywords:

Full-zirconia, implant, Restorations, Show, High, Survival, Frequent, Technical, Complications, Pol CWP, Raghoebar GM, Maragkou Z, Cune MS, Meijer HJA, angulated screw channel; dental implants; posterior; restoration; zirconia.

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Decoding Doppler: How Fetal Heart Monitoring Shapes Perinatal Health?

Recent systematic review evaluated the association between peripartum fetal Doppler sonography findings and perinatal outcomes in term pregnancies (37-42 weeks). The review included studies focusing on Doppler assessments of selected fetal blood vessels conducted at labor admission or during labor, excluding high-risk pregnancies. Following PRISMA guidelines, the study selection process was detailed, with a total of 37 studies evaluated, primarily prospective, involving 11,505 pregnancies.

Key Findings on Doppler Parameters

Key findings highlighted a strong association between Doppler parameters and adverse perinatal outcomes. Specifically, the presence of umbilical vein (UV) pulsations indicated a high likelihood of fetal distress (FD) with an odds ratio (OR) of 28. Low corrected UV blood flow rates were linked to increased odds of fetal distress (OR 1.64) and NICU admission (OR 3.61) but did not correlate with meconium-stained amniotic fluid or low Apgar scores. The cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) emerged as a predictive factor, showing abnormal CPR associated with fetal distress (OR 3.19) and adverse outcomes such as low Apgar scores. Methodological quality assessment revealed that 29.7% of included studies had a low risk of bias, with many studies affected by selection and confounding biases. The review utilized random-effects meta-analyses to address the anticipated heterogeneity across studies, reflecting differences in study designs, populations, and Doppler assessment protocols.

Study Limitations and Future Research Needs

The analysis found that abnormal Doppler findings are consistently linked to poor perinatal outcomes, yet most included studies had low methodological quality and small sample sizes, particularly for rare outcomes such as perinatal mortality. This emphasizes the need for future research to determine whether incorporating fetal Doppler sonography into labor management can lead to enhanced perinatal care outcomes compared to existing monitoring methods. Significantly, the review calls for well-designed, randomized controlled trials to ascertain the efficacy of intrapartum Doppler assessments in improving perinatal outcomes, especially given the inherent challenges in conducting such studies in settings with low incidences of severe morbidity. Overall, while the findings underscore the potential utility of Doppler sonography in identifying at-risk fetuses, the need for rigorous, high-quality research to confirm these associations and inform clinical practice is apparent.

Major Points

– A systematic review evaluated the relationship between peripartum fetal Doppler sonography findings and perinatal outcomes specifically in term pregnancies (37-42 weeks), analyzing a total of 37 studies which included 11,505 pregnancies and complied with PRISMA guidelines.

– Key Doppler parameters, including the presence of umbilical vein (UV) pulsations and low corrected UV blood flow rates, were identified as significant indicators of fetal distress (FD), with odds ratios (OR) of 28 and 1.64 respectively. Additionally, low UV blood flow rates were associated with increased NICU admissions (OR 3.61), while no correlation was found with meconium-stained amniotic fluid or low Apgar scores.

– The cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) was highlighted as a critical predictive factor; abnormal CPR values were associated with a heightened likelihood of fetal distress (OR 3.19) and negative outcomes, including low Apgar scores.

– Methodological quality assessment of the included studies indicated that 29.7% had a low risk of bias, with many studies exhibiting selection and confounding biases, signaling the need for caution in interpreting the findings.

– While abnormal Doppler findings were consistently related to adverse perinatal outcomes, the majority of studies suffered from low methodological quality and small sample sizes, particularly concerning rarer outcomes like perinatal mortality, which indicates a gap for further investigation.

– The review calls for well-structured, randomized controlled trials to determine the effectiveness of intrapartum Doppler assessments in enhancing perinatal outcomes and addresses the challenges of conducting such studies in low morbidity settings, underscoring the necessity for high-quality research to validate these findings and guide clinical practices.

Reference –

B. Packet et al. (2025). Peripartum Fetal Doppler Sonography And Perinatal Outcome: A Systematic Review And Meta-Analysis. *BMC Pregnancy And Childbirth*, 25. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-025-07586-0.

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Intermittent sodium zirconium cyclosilicate Treatment May Prevent Hyperkalemia in CKD Patients: Study

Researchers have found in a new study that Intermittent use of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) may help prevent hyperkalemia in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, additional studies are needed to determine whether this translates into better long-term clinical outcomes.

Hyperkalemia is a common complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD) that often requires urgent dialysis and increases healthcare costs. Daily sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC) is a safe and effective treatment for the control of serum potassium levels in CKD patients. We studied the efficacy and safety of intermittent SZC therapy for the prevention of hyperkalemia in CKD patients.

In a retrospective study, we analyzed patients in the Hospital Authority Clinical Data Analysis and Reporting System (CDARS) receiving sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (Lokelma®) therapy once to thrice weekly for at least 3 months from January 2021 to June 2023. Outcome measures included plasma potassium levels, hyperkalemia episodes, hospital admissions, and renal function changes, which were compared to the 6 months period before the initiation of SZC treatment. Results: They studied 36 adult CKD patients. SZC treatment significantly reduced plasma potassium levels from 5.10 (inter-quartile range [IQR] 4.91–5.40) to 4.73 (IQR 4.50–5.10) mmol/l (p = 0.0003). The median incidence of any hyperkalemia reduced from 5.0 (IQR 2.0–8.0) to 1.9 (IQR 0.0–4.7) episode per patient-year (p = 0.0001), and the incidence of urgent treatment for hyperkalemia decreased from 2.0 (IQR 0.0–4.0) to 0.0 (IQR 0.0–1.5) episode per patient-year (p = 0.007). The number of emergency room attendance and hospitalization were not significantly reduced. Intermittent SZC treatment may help prevent hyperkalemia in CKD patients. Further research is necessary to ascertain if this benefit translates into impro

Reference:

Ng, J.KC., Fung, WS., Chan, GK. et al. Intermittent sodium zirconium cyclosilicate for the prevention of hyperkalemia in chronic kidney disease. BMC Nephrol 26, 260 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12882-025-04194-0

Keywords:

Intermittent , SZC Treatment, May, Prevent, Hyperkalemia, CKD Patients, Ng, J.KC., Fung, WS., Chan, GK, Potassium, Renal failure, Dialysis

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New classification system for nasal deformity in cleft lip and palate reported

A proposed classification system appears highly accurate in evaluating nasal deformities in infants with cleft lip and/or palate (CLP), reports a study in the May/June issue of The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery. The journal is published in the Lippincott portfolio by Wolters Kluwer.

“This new tool offers a reliable and practice tool for categorizing the severity of nasal deformities in CLP patients,” comments lead author Martha Mejia, DDS, of Nicklaus Children’s Health System, Miami. “With ongoing evaluation, it may promote more consistent diagnosis, individualized treatment planning, and standardized approaches to enhance outcomes for infants with CLP.”

Standardized approach to evaluating CLP-related nasal deformities

Cleft lip and/or palate is one of the most common congenital deformities. Many infants with CLP have accompanying nasal deformities, but these are generally not included in standard CLP classification systems. Deformities of the nose may seem like a secondary concern at birth, but often become more prominent over time.

If a person cannot speak or hear due to nasal deformities secondary to orofacial clefts, it can significantly impact their ability to communicate. Effective communication skills are essential for achieving social acceptance and leading a normal life.

In their study, Dr. Mejia and colleagues report the development and initial evaluation of a new standardized tool to guide evaluation of CLP-related nasal deformities. The proposed classification focuses on factors readily assessed by clinicians treating infants with facial deformities – for example, symmetry of the septum, projection of the nasal tip, and the shape of the nostrils. Users rate each feature as moderate to severe, guided by patient photographs. The proposed system includes separate classifications for unilateral (one side) and bilateral (both sides) clefts.

To evaluate its accuracy, the researchers sent the classification system and instructions to an international panel of plastic surgeons and orthodontists with varying levels of experience in managing infants with CLP. Each clinician was sent a random sample of close-up patient photographs and asked to rate each factor as mild to severe, based on their understanding of the classification system. The reliability of the experts’ ratings was compared using a statistical technique called intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

‘Excellent’ agreement in classifying CLP-related nasal deformities

The findings “demonstrate[d] strong consistency among specialists applying the classification system to photographs,” the researchers write. Survey results suggested “excellent” agreement between the panel members’ ratings of the severity of nasal deformities. Although ICC values were higher for unilateral versus bilateral clefts (0.816 versus 0.743), both sets of ratings showed high reliability.

The proposed classification system provides a user-friendly tool for evaluating nasal deformities in in infants with CLP. “Prioritizing easily identifiable features bridges the gap between novice and experienced clinicians, promoting consistent diagnosis and treatment planning for CLP patients,” Dr Mejia and colleagues write. Their article includes figures illustrating the proposed classification system and explaining its use.

An important next step will be assessing the new tool’s use in evaluating improvement of nasal deformities after cleft repair surgery and orthodontic treatment. Dr. Mejia and coauthors conclude: “By tracking changes in nasal classification scores over time, clinicians can evaluate the efficacy of different treatment approaches and identify potential areas for refinement.”

Reference:

Mejia M, Bernal I, Cordero JP, Bercu C, Policherla R, Steinberg JP. A Proposed Nasal Deformity Classification System for Infants With Cleft Lip and Palate. J Craniofac Surg. 2025 May 27. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0000000000011151.

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Personalized Inhaled Bacteriophage Therapy Shows Promise for Cystic Fibrosis: Study

A small study published in Nature Medicine reported encouraging results for personalized inhaled bacteriophage therapy in treating cystic fibrosis (CF) patients with drug-resistant pulmonary infections. Individualized nebulized bacteriophage (phage) therapy has been found to decrease bacterial load and enhance lung function in CF patients with drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. The research identifies phage therapy as a promising approach to tackle antimicrobial resistance, especially in chronic lung infections of CF. The study was conducted by Benjamin K.C. and colleagues.

Phage therapy, where lytic viruses are used to infect and kill targeted bacteria, is being considered as a solution to the worldwide antimicrobial resistance problem. Cystic fibrosis is a hereditary disease frequently complicated by chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa infections that become more resistant to standard antibiotics with time. In this trial, an individualized phage therapy approach was tested in which the phages were chosen not only for their ability to kill the bacteria but also to cause bacterial vulnerabilities—like decreased antibiotic resistance or decreased virulence.

Nine adult CF patients (eight female, one male; median age 32 years, range 22–46 years) with MDR or PDR Pseudomonas infection were enrolled in a compassionate-use treatment protocol. The infections had failed multiple previous antibiotic regimens. Either a nebulized phage cocktail or a single-phage therapy was administered to each patient, chosen on the basis of anticipated evolutionary trade-offs that would compel the bacteria into becoming either less virulent or more antibiotic-sensitive.

Notably, both patients tolerated the phage therapy with no occurrence of adverse effects. The phages were administered via inhalation, which is where the infection was present.

Results

  • Patients enrolled: 9 (8 women, 1 man)

  • Median age: 32 years (range 22–46)

Type of infection: MDR or PDR Pseudomonas aeruginosa resistant to conventional antibiotics

  • Method of delivery: Nebulized cocktail or single phage therapy

  • Safety: No adverse effects reported

Reduction of bacteria:

  • Median: Reduction in Pseudomonas of 10⁴ CFU/ml

  • Mean: Reduction of 10² CFU/ml (P = 0.006)

Improvement of lung function:

  • Median FEV1: +6%

  • Mean FEV1: +8% (P = 0.004)

  • Sputum microbiome: Remains unchanged

  • Trade-offs: Compromise loss of antibiotic resistance or virulence of bacteria

Personalized nebulized phage therapy is shown to be a safe and effective method of decreasing bacterial load and enhancing lung function in cystic fibrosis patients with drug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. The novel therapy not only reduces bacterial numbers but also imposes genetic trade-offs on bacteria that can decrease their resistance and virulence.

Reference:

Chan, B.K., Stanley, G.L., Kortright, K.E. et al. Personalized inhaled bacteriophage therapy for treatment of multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis. Nat Med (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41591-025-03678-8

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Hormone Therapy in Postmenopause May Adversely Affect Bladder Health, Research Reveals

USA: A large-scale study exploring the link between menopausal status, hormone therapy, and bladder health in women has revealed critical insights into how urinary symptoms vary across different stages of menopause. Published in Menopause, the journal of The Menopause Society, the study sheds light on an under-researched aspect of women’s health—bladder function and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

“Perimenopausal women were more than twice as likely as premenopausal women to report urgency urinary incontinence and other lower urinary tract symptoms. Both peri- and postmenopausal stages were linked to poorer bladder health scores,” the researchers reported. “Among postmenopausal women, hormone use was associated with a further decline, resulting in a 6-point reduction in Bladder Health Score and a 4.8-point drop in the Bladder Function Index.”

While hot flashes and night sweats are widely recognized as hallmark symptoms of menopause, the impact of hormonal changes on urinary health has not received equal attention. The RISE FOR HEALTH study was designed to fill this gap by examining bladder health across premenopausal, perimenopausal, and postmenopausal women and evaluating how hormone therapy influences these outcomes.

Camille P. Vaughan, Birmingham/Atlanta VA Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, and colleagues surveyed over 3,000 community-dwelling adult women in the United States between May 2022 and December 2023. Researchers assessed bladder health and urinary symptoms using validated tools and conducted multivariable regression analyses to explore associations.

The following were the key findings of the study:

  • Perimenopausal and postmenopausal women had significantly poorer bladder health and function compared to premenopausal women.
  • Perimenopausal women were over twice as likely (odds ratio 2.27) to report urgency urinary incontinence and other lower urinary tract symptoms.
  • Bladder Health Scores (BHS) and Bladder Function Indices (BFI) declined notably with the menopausal transition.
  • Hormone use varied across menopausal stages, with 38.3% of premenopausal women reporting use, compared to 21.5% of perimenopausal and 13.2% of postmenopausal women.
  • In postmenopausal women, hormone therapy, particularly systemic forms, was linked to poorer bladder outcomes.
  • Postmenopausal hormone users showed a 6-point reduction in BHS and a 4.8-point drop in BFI compared to non-users.

These findings confirm earlier reports that urinary symptoms tend to worsen with age and menopause. It also highlights the nuanced and sometimes adverse relationship between hormone use and bladder health in the later stages of menopause.

Researchers concluded that the interplay between hormonal changes and bladder health is multifaceted and warrants greater clinical attention. They emphasized the importance of proactive education and screening for urinary symptoms as women approach menopause. Early recognition and timely interventions may be key in preserving quality of life.

Overall, the study underscores the need for more targeted research and personalized approaches to managing bladder health during the menopause transition—a critical yet often overlooked component of women’s health.

Reference:

Vaughan, Camille P. MD, MS1; Markland, Alayne D. DO, MSc2; McGwin, Gerald PhD3; Lukacz, Emily S. MD4; Brady, Sonya S. PhD, LP5; Lacoursiere, Yvette D. MD, MPH6; Wyman, Jean F. PhD7; Sutcliffe, Siobhan PhD, ScM, MHS8; Smith, Ariana L. MD9; Kenton, Kimberly MD10; Stapleton, Ann MD11; Brubaker, Linda MD12; Harlow, Bernard L. PhD13. Association of menopausal status and hormone use with bladder health and lower urinary tract symptoms in US women: results from the RISE FOR HEALTH study. Menopause ():10.1097/GME.0000000000002541, April 29, 2025. | DOI: 10.1097/GME.0000000000002541

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SA-PCT Cleanser Effectively treats Acne without compromising Skin barrier: Study

A new study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology showed that while maintaining the integrity of the skin barrier, a new salicylic acid (SA)-polymeric cleansing technology (PCT) cleanser successfully treats acne-prone skin.

Inflammatory lesions (pustules, papules, and nodules) and non-inflammatory lesions (comedones) are the hallmarks of acne vulgaris, a common inflammatory skin disorder. The quality of life is greatly impacted by this disorder, which is most common in adolescence but frequently advances into adulthood. Excess sebum production, the presence of the C. acnes bacterium on the skin, follicular hyperkeratinization, and inflammation are the four primary pathogenic variables linked to the development of acne.

Salicylic acid is one treatment option that has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, sebum-reducing, and exfoliating properties. Although there are various forms of SA, SA in cleansers offers a more patient-favored and straightforward full-face and body treatment regimen. However, SA can worsen skin barrier disruption, causing irritation and poor compliance, when combined with harsh surfactants typically found in lathering cleansers.

Therefore, the effectiveness of a new acne cleanser that contains 2% salicylic acid (SA), polymeric cleansing technology, and a microgel complex in treating mild to moderate acne while preserving the integrity of the skin barrier was assessed in this study.

Measurements of transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER), IL-1α release, and hyperkeratinization were used to evaluate the impact of cleansers on the skin barrier on epidermal equivalents. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin dryness, and erythema were evaluated in a 5-day exaggerated arm wash (EAW) research (n=33) in comparison to benchmark cleansers. A 12-week face research (n=35) assessed the impact on lipid profiles, acne reduction, and esthetic improvements. Throughout, the product’s tolerability and safety were observed.

The innovative SA-PCT with microgel complex cleanser preserved the integrity of the epidermal barrier in comparison to a traditional SA-surfactant cleanser, as evidenced by increased TEER (P<0.001), lower IL-1α release (P<0.0001), and no discernible hyperkeratinization (P<0.0001) in pre-clinical trials.

Clinical findings revealed no lipid barrier disruption with notable decreases in acne lesions beginning at week 4, reduced skin irritation (dryness: P<0.01, erythema: P<0.001), and less barrier disruption through decreased TEWL (P<0.001).

Self-reported improvements in skin oiliness and significant objective clinical changes in skin tone, texture, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation were seen (P<0.05). There were no reports of skin irritation, and the cleanser was well accepted. Overall, these outcomes show how well the new SA-PCT cleanser works to improve acne-prone skin while preserving the skin’s protective layer.

Source:

Hussain, R., Miller, D., Shyr, T., Friscia, D., Li, W.-H., Parsa, R., & Zeichner, J. (2025). Novel 2% salicylic acid cleanser with Polymeric Cleansing Technology treats acne without compromising skin barrier. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology: JDD, 24(6), 570–578. https://doi.org/10.36849/JDD.9019

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TB-CHAMP Trial Reveals Key Risk Factors for TB Infection in Children Under five

TB-CHAMP Trial Reveals key risk factors for TB Infection in children under five years of age.

Young children have a high risk of developing tuberculosis (TB) disease following infection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) in the absence of preventive treatment. Infection prevalence and risk factors for infection impact delivery of prevention strategies. We aimed to determine the prevalence of infection in child household contacts aged < 5 years exposed to adults with confirmed pulmonary multidrug-resistant (MDR)-TB and to determine risk factors for infection. TB-CHAMP was a trial of MDR-TB prevention that recruited children under 5, regardless of M.tb infection status. All children enrolled had an interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) at baseline. We described M.tb infection prevalence, developed directed acyclic graphs to clarify causal relationships and used modified Poisson regression models to assess the relationship between risk factors and IGRA positivity. Results: Of 785 included children, 160 (20.4%) had a positive IGRA. Duration of cough and drug misuse in the index patient, age of the child, relationship between the child and the index patient and study site were significantly associated with risk of infection. The prevalence of infection was lower than observed in previous studies. This may be related to improved diagnosis and treatment of MDR-TB in the study setting and/or test limitations and has implications for TB preventive treatment (TPT). When considering TPT for child contacts, healthcare providers should be especially concerned about any young child exposed to an adult index patient who is his/her parent/primary caregiver, has a chronic cough and/or a history of drug misuse.

Reference:

Susan E Purchase, Joanna Brigden, James A Seddon, Neil A Martinson, Lee Fairlie, Suzanne Staples, Thomas Wilkinson, Trinh Duong, H Simon Schaaf, Anneke C Hesseling, Risk of tuberculosis infection in young children exposed to multidrug-resistant tuberculosis in the TB-CHAMP multi-site randomised controlled trial, Clinical Infectious Diseases, 2025;, ciaf284, https://doi.org/10.1093/cid/ciaf284

Keywords:

Susan E Purchase, Joanna Brigden, James A Seddon, Neil A Martinson, Lee Fairlie, Suzanne Staples, Thomas Wilkinson, Trinh Duong, H Simon Schaaf, Anneke C Hesseling, Risk, tuberculosis, infection, young, children, exposed, multidrug-resistant, tuberculosis, the TB-CHAMP, multi-site, randomised, controlled trial, Clinical Infectious Diseases, levofloxacin, risk factors, interferon-gamma release assays

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