New research found that combining radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with anti-PD-1 immunotherapy provides dual therapeutic benefits for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), effectively controlling distant tumors while preventing recurrence. The combination therapy significantly enhances infiltration of CD8⁺ T cells and dendritic cells while reducing PMN-MDSCs, mediated through activation of CXCL10/JAK-STAT signaling pathways. Importantly, this approach establishes durable immune memory capable of inhibiting growth of rechallenge tumor.

Non-invasive respiratory support has transformed the treatment of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, yet choosing the best option remains challenging. A special issue of the Journal of Intensive Medicine explores currently available strategies and their roles in improving patient outcomes and avoiding intubation. Through both expert reviews and original research, this special issue offers practical, evidence-based guidance to help medical practitioners navigate a critical aspect of intensive care.

Survey data from the Netherlands show high interest and intention to use antibiotics to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A new approach to prevent bacterial sexually transmitted infections uses the antibiotic doxycycline for post exposure prophylaxis.

A research team has evaluated the real-world effectiveness of a community-based pneumococcal vaccination support program for older adults. They conducted their study in Sera Town, Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. Their research shows that the pneumococcal vaccination support program for older residents reduced pneumonia-related mortality.

In August 2024, the World Health Organization declared a second “Public Health Emergency of International Concern” for mpox. The current outbreak in Africa is driven mainly by the clade I variant, with multiple countries reporting their first-ever mpox cases of this more severe strain. Nagoya University researchers and their collaborators have found that measuring the amount of virus in the blood when skin lesions first appear can help predict whether patients will experience mild or severe progression of the disease. The study analyzes viral loads during early infection to predict how sick patients will get, potentially improving treatment strategies for future outbreaks.