bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AMEERA-4: a randomized, preoperative window-of-opportunity study of amcenestrant versus letrozole in early breast cancer
Authors: Campone Mario , Bidard François-Clément , Neven Patrick , Wang Lei , Ling Bin , Dong Yvonne , Paux Gautier , Herold Christina , De Giorgi Ugo
Published: November 2023

Background

Window-of-opportunity (WOO) studies provide insights into the clinical activity of new drugs in breast cancer.

Methods

AMEERA-4 (NCT04191382) was a WOO study undertaken to compare the pharmacodynamic effects of amcenestrant, a selective estrogen receptor degrader, with those of letrozole in postmenopausal women with newly diagnosed, operable estrogen receptor–positive, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2−negative (ER+/HER2−) breast cancer. Women were randomized (1:1:1) to receive amcenestrant 400 mg, amcenestrant 200 mg, or letrozole 2.5 mg once daily for 14 days before breast surgery. The primary endpoint was change in Ki67 between baseline and Day 15 (i.e., day of surgery).

Results

Enrollment was stopped early because of slow recruitment, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The modified intent-to-treat population consisted of 95 study participants with baseline and post-treatment Ki67 values, whereas the safety population included 104 participants who had received at least one dose of study medication. Relative change from baseline in Ki67 was − 75.9% (95% confidence interval [CI] − 81.9 to − 67.9) for amcenestrant 400 mg, − 68.2% (− 75.7 to − 58.4) for amcenestrant 200 mg, and − 77.7% (− 83.4 to − 70.0) for letrozole (geometric least-squares mean [LSM] estimates). Absolute change in ER H-score from baseline (LSM estimate) was − 176.7 in the amcenestrant 400 mg arm, − 202.9 in the amcenestrant 200 mg arm, and − 32.5 in the letrozole arm. There were no Grade ≥ 3 treatment-related adverse events.

Conclusions

Both amcenestrant and letrozole demonstrated antiproliferative activity in postmenopausal women with previously untreated, operable ER+/HER2− breast cancer and had good overall tolerability.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04191382 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04191382. Registered 9 December 2019.
Blocking channels to metastasis: targeting sodium transport in breast cancer
Authors: Brackenbury William J. , Palmieri Carlo
Published: November 2023

The development of therapies that can suppress invasion and prevent metastasis, ‘anti-metastatic drugs’, is an important area of unmet therapeutic need. The new results of a recent open-label, multicentre randomised trial published in J Clin Oncol showed a significant disease-free survival (DFS) benefit for breast cancer patients receiving presurgical, peritumoral injection of lidocaine, an amide local anaesthetic, which blocks voltage-gated sodium channels (VGSCs). VGSCs are expressed on electrically excitable cells, including neurons and cardiomyocytes, where they sustain rapid membrane depolarisation during action potential firing. As a result of this key biophysical function, VGSCs are important drug targets for excitability-related disorders, including epilepsy, neuropathic pain, affective disorders and cardiac arrhythmia. A growing body of preclinical evidence highlights VGSCs as key protagonists in regulating altered sodium influx in breast cancer cells, thus driving invasion and metastasis. Furthermore, prescription of certain VGSC-inhibiting medications has been associated with reduced cancer incidence and improved survival in several observational studies. Thus, VGSC-inhibiting drugs already in clinical use may be ideal candidates for repurposing as possible anti-metastatic therapies. While these results are promising, further work is required to establish whether other VGSC inhibitors may afford superior metastasis suppression. Finally, increasing preclinical evidence suggests that several other ion channels are also key drivers of cancer hallmarks; thus, there are undoubtedly further opportunities to harness ion transport inhibition that should also be explored.
Comparison of different weight-based scalars of remimazolam tosylate for anesthesia induction in obese patients: study protocol for a prospective, controlled trial
Authors: Ni Wenwen , Yi Xiuwen , Feng Lili , Shen Yilei , Jiao Jiali , Cai Yirong , Fu Danyun , Han Yuan , Jia Ji’e , Li Wenxian
Published: November 2023

Background

The physiologic and anthropometric characteristics changes associated with obesity may result in the alternation of pharmacologic management. Remimazolam tosylate is a new type of ultra-short-acting benzodiazepine with stable context-sensitive half-time (CSHT) and no lipid accumulation after long-time infusion. Although remimazolam tosylate has potential advantages for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia in obese patients, the appropriate induction dosing scalars among obese patients are unknown. Therefore, we aim to compare the different weight-based scalars for dosing remimazolam tosylate of anesthesia induction among obese patients.

Methods/design

The study will be performed as a prospective, single-center, double-blind, controlled clinical trial. The study design is a comparison of remimazolam tosylate requirements based on total body weight (TBW) or lean body weight (LBW) to reach a Modified Observer’s Assessment of Alertness and Sedation (MOAA/S) score of 0 among obese subjects (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2). Another twenty normal-weight subjects (18.5 kg/m2 ≤ BMI < 25 kg/m2) will be enrolled as a control group, whose induction dose is scaled based on TBW. The infusion rate of remimazolam tosylate during induction is 12 mg/kg/h in all groups.

Discussion

Results of the present study will provide evidence of dose scalar of remimazolam tosylate to guide the clinical practice of anesthesia induction in obese patients.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR220005664. Registered on 9 February 2022, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=151150.
Rapid profiling of Plasmodium parasites from genome sequences to assist malaria control
Authors: Phelan Jody E. , Turkiewicz Anna , Manko Emilia , Thorpe Joseph , Vanheer Leen N. , van de Vegte-Bolmer Marga , Ngoc Nguyen Thi Hong , Binh Nguyen Thi Huong , Thieu Nguyen Quang , Gitaka Jesse , Nolder Debbie , Beshir Khalid B. , Dombrowski Jamille G. , Di Santi Silvia Maria , Bousema Teun , Sutherland Colin J. , Campino Susana , Clark Taane G.
Published: November 2023

Background

Malaria continues to be a major threat to global public health. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) of the underlying Plasmodium parasites has provided insights into the genomic epidemiology of malaria. Genome sequencing is rapidly gaining traction as a diagnostic and surveillance tool for clinical settings, where the profiling of co-infections, identification of imported malaria parasites, and detection of drug resistance are crucial for infection control and disease elimination. To support this informatically, we have developed the Malaria-Profiler tool, which rapidly (within minutes) predicts Plasmodium species, geographical source, and resistance to antimalarial drugs directly from WGS data.

Results

The online and command line versions of Malaria-Profiler detect ~ 250 markers from genome sequences covering Plasmodium speciation, likely geographical source, and resistance to chloroquine, sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP), and other anti-malarial drugs for P. falciparum, but also providing mutations for orthologous resistance genes in other species. The predictive performance of the mutation library was assessed using 9321 clinical isolates with WGS and geographical data, with most being single-species infections (P. falciparum 7152/7462, P. vivax 1502/1661, P. knowlesi 143/151, P. malariae 18/18, P. ovale ssp. 5/5), but co-infections were identified (456/9321; 4.8%). The accuracy of the predicted geographical profiles was high to both continental (96.1%) and regional levels (94.6%). For P. falciparum, markers were identified for resistance to chloroquine (49.2%; regional range: 24.5% to 100%), sulfadoxine (83.3%; 35.4– 90.5%), pyrimethamine (85.4%; 80.0–100%) and combined SP (77.4%). Markers associated with the partial resistance of artemisinin were found in WGS from isolates sourced from Southeast Asia (30.6%).

Conclusions

Malaria-Profiler is a user-friendly tool that can rapidly and accurately predict the geographical regional source and anti-malarial drug resistance profiles across large numbers of samples with WGS data. The software is flexible with modifiable bioinformatic pipelines. For example, it is possible to select the sequencing platform, display specific variants, and customise the format of outputs. With the increasing application of next-generation sequencing platforms on Plasmodium DNA, Malaria-Profiler has the potential to be integrated into point-of-care and surveillance settings, thereby assisting malaria control. Malaria-Profiler is available online (bioinformatics.lshtm.ac.uk/malaria-profiler) and as standalone software (https://github.com/jodyphelan/malaria-profiler).
Open innovation: the missing nexus between entrepreneurial orientation, total quality management, and performance of SMEs
Authors: Asad Muzaffar , Asif Muhammad Uzair , Sulaiman Mohammed Ali Bait Ali , Satar Mir Shahid , Alarifi Ghadah
Published: November 2023

Drawing upon the theoretical foundations of the resource-based view, the current research aims to examine the mediating role of open innovation between entrepreneurial orientation, total quality management, and SMEs performance. Open innovation is not new, but SMEs operating in the developing economies are unaware of it importance and need. A structural equation model was used in the study to evaluate the relationships between the data collected from 270 SMEs with the help of adopted questionnaires. The results confirmed the impact of entrepreneurial along with total quality management on open innovation as well as the performance of SMEs. Second, the indirect impact of entrepreneurial orientation along with total quality management via open innovation has also been established which is proven as significant. Owners and managers of SMEs should consider customer-driven practices in an entrepreneurial manner to achieve elevated levels of performance based on the study’s findings.
Preoperative moderate to severe anemia is associated with increased postoperative major adverse cardiac and cerebral events and pulmonary complications: a propensity score-matched analysis in hip fracture surgery patients over 80 years old
Authors: Min Li , Linyi Yang , Chen Li , Jiang Shen , Chen Chen
Published: November 2023

Background

Anemia is a common health problem in the elderly. Preoperative anemia is a risk factor for postoperative outcomes in the elderly for hip fracture. The objective of the study was to explore the relationship between preoperative moderate to severe anemia and postoperative morbidity and mortality in hip fracture patients over 80 years old.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study exploring preoperative moderate to severe anemia and postoperative morbidity and mortality. Patients over 80 years old undergoing hip fracture surgery were included in the study. Data were collected for major adverse cardiac and cerebral events (MACCE), postoperative pulmonary complications (PPCs), in-hospital mortality, delirium, gastrointestinal complication, deep venous thrombus (DVT), acute renal failure, ICU admission, and perioperative transfusion > 2 units rate.

Results

A total of 912 eligible patients were included for unmatched cohort analysis, and 512 patients were included for matched cohort analysis after propensity score matching. Baseline characteristics between the normal to mild anemia and moderate to severe anemia groups were significantly different. More patients in the moderate to severe cohort had a higher ASA classification grade III and female ratio. Patients in the moderate and severe anemia cohorts had more MACCE (unadjusted: odds ratio [OR] 1.968, 96% CI 1.090–3.555, P 0.023; adjusted: OR 1.929, 95% CI 1.014–3.668, P 0.045) and PPCs (unadjusted: OR 2.616, 95% CI 1.442–4.748, P 0.001; adjusted: OR 2.352, 95% CI 1.225–4.516, P 0.010) than patients with normal or mild anemia. However, the transfusion > 2 units rate was not significantly different between the two cohorts (unadjusted: OR 0.967, 95% CI 0.737–1.270, P 0.811; adjusted: OR 0.941, 95% CI 0.693–1.278, P 0.697). The in-hospital mortality, delirium rate, gastrointestinal complication, ICU admission, and DVT were similar. However, the in-hospital mortality was much higher (3.6%, 21/591 vs 1.6%, 5/321) in the moderate to severe anemia cohort. Furthermore, after propensity score-matched analysis, MACCE and PPCs were also significantly increased in the moderate to severe anemia cohort (OR 2.196 & 3.171, 95% CI 1.0794.470 & 1.563–6.436, P 0.027 & 0.001), which were in accordance with the unadjusted and adjusted results in the unmatched cohorts.

Conclusions

Moderate to severe preoperative anemia (< 11 g/dl) is associated with increased postoperative major adverse cardiac and cerebral events and pulmonary complications. Additionally, in-hospital mortality was not significant but was higher in the preoperative moderate to severe anemia cohort. Preoperative assessment and correction of hemoglobin level to above 11 g/dl might reduce MACCE, PPCs, and in-hospital mortality in hip fracture patients over 80 years old.
A novel transgenic mouse line with hippocampus-dominant and inducible expression of truncated human tau
Authors: Gao Yang , Wang Yuying , Lei Huiyang , Xu Zhendong , Li Shihong , Yu Haitao , Xie Jiazhao , Zhang Zhentao , Liu Gongping , Zhang Yao , Zheng Jie , Wang Jian-Zhi
Published: November 2023

Background

Intraneuronal accumulation of hyperphosphorylated tau is a defining hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). However, mouse models imitating AD-exclusive neuronal tau pathologies are lacking.

Methods

We generated a new tet-on transgenic mouse model expressing truncated human tau N1-368 (termed hTau368), a tau fragment increased in the brains of AD patients and aged mouse brains. Doxycycline (dox) was administered in drinking water to induce hTau368 expression. Immunostaining and Western blotting were performed to measure the tau level. RNA sequencing was performed to evaluate gene expression, and several behavioral tests were conducted to evaluate mouse cognitive functions, emotion and locomotion.

Results

Dox treatment for 1–2 months at a young age induced overt and reversible human tau accumulation in the brains of hTau368 transgenic mice, predominantly in the hippocampus. Meanwhile, the transgenic mice exhibited AD-like high level of tau phosphorylation, glial activation, loss of mature neurons, impaired hippocampal neurogenesis, synaptic degeneration and cognitive deficits.

Conclusions

This study developed a well-characterized and easy-to-use tool for the investigations and drug development for AD and other tauopathies.
A scoping review of emotion regulation and inhibition in emotional eating and binge-eating disorder: what about a continuum?
Authors: Arexis Mahé , Feron Gilles , Brindisi Marie-Claude , Billot Pierre-Édouard , Chambaron Stéphanie
Published: November 2023

Background

Emotional eating is defined as a nonpathological eating behavior, whereas binge-eating disorder (BED) is defined as a pathological eating behavior. While different, both share some striking similarities, such as deficits in emotion regulation and inhibition. Previous research has suggested the existence of an “eating continuum” that might reflect the increased severity of overeating behaviors, that is, from nonpathological overeating to BED. The main aims of this scoping review were to explore in the literature the idea of a continuum between emotional eating and BED and to observe whether deficits in emotion regulation and inhibition follow this continuum in terms of severity. The other aims were to hopefully clarify the ill-defined concept of overeating, to question the potential role of positive emotions and to identify potential knowledge gaps.

Method

A systematic scoping review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Two databases (PubMed/Medline and PsycINFO) were examined in complete accordance with the beforehand sharply defined eligibility and exclusion criteria. The main criteria included adults (≥ 18) with emotional eating, BED or overeating and emotion regulation and inhibition as exposure criteria.

Results

Thirty-two studies were included in this scoping review. If the results showed a link between emotional eating and BED, with the presence of inhibition and emotion regulation deficits in both eating behaviors, no mention of a continuum between emotional eating and BED was found.

Conclusion

In the absence of research directly comparing emotional eating and BED in the same studies and testing the potential increase in severity of emotion regulation and inhibition deficits along this continuum, there is currently no certainty that a continuum exists between emotional eating and BED. In the end, the idea of a continuum in terms of increased severity of overeating and in terms of emotion regulation and inhibition deficits between emotional eating and BED appears to be a gap in knowledge in the literature. This scoping review highlights the need for further research to identify knowledge gaps.
Anticipatory and consummatory pleasure in avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder
Authors: Dolan Sarah C. , Kambanis P. Evelyna , Stern Casey M. , Becker Kendra R. , Breithaupt Lauren , Gydus Julia , Smith Sarah , Misra Madhusmita , Micali Nadia , Lawson Elizabeth A. , Eddy Kamryn T. , Thomas Jennifer J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Recent research suggests that individuals with eating disorders (EDs) report elevated anhedonia, or loss of pleasure. Although individuals with avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) often express that they do not look forward to eating, it is unclear whether they experience lower pleasure than those without EDs. Thus, identifying whether individuals with ARFID experience anhedonia may yield important insights that inform clinical conceptualization and treatment.

Methods

A sample of 71 participants ages 10–23 with full and subthreshold ARFID and 33 healthy controls (HCs) completed the Pica, ARFID, and Rumination Disorder Interview, a diagnostic interview to assess ARFID profile severity (lack of interest in food, sensory sensitivity, fear of aversive consequences) and the Temporal Experience of Pleasure Scale (TEPS), a self-report measure of consummatory and anticipatory pleasure. Statistical analyses were performed using the full TEPS and also the TEPS with food-related items removed.

Results

The ARFID group reported significantly lower anticipatory and consummatory pleasure compared to HCs, but these differences were no longer significant after controlling for depression, nor after removing food items from the TEPS. Within the ARFID sample, greater ARFID severity was associated with lower anticipatory pleasure across analyses, and greater endorsement of the lack of interest in food profile was related to lower anticipatory pleasure. ARFID severity was also associated with lower consummatory pleasure using the full TEPS, but this relationship was no longer significant with food items removed.

Conclusions

These results provide initial evidence for lower pleasure before potentially pleasurable events in individuals with more severe ARFID, particularly those with the lack of interest phenotype. Our findings also suggest that depression is likely to contribute low pleasure in this population. Future research should seek to further characterize how dimensions of pleasure relate to the maintenance and treatment of ARFID symptoms.
X-ray-based examination of artworks by Cy Twombly: art technology and condition of the ‘Original Sculptures’
Authors: Reinhardt Juliana , Tischer Michaela , Schmid Simon , Kollofrath Jochen , Burger Ruben , Jatzlau Philipp , Bushart Elisabeth , Goldammer Matthias , Grosse Christian U.
Published: November 2023

What are Cy Twombly’s sculptures made of? This article presents an overview of a non-destructive examination conducted on three sculptures by American artist Cy Twombly (1928–2011) as part of an art-technological research project at the Doerner Institut in Munich. The artworks are part of the collection of the Brandhorst Museum and belong to Twombly’s series of so-called ‘Original Sculptures’: assemblages of individual found objects, which the artist covered and modified with layers of plaster and white paint. To develop a long-term preservation strategy, the research focused on understanding the materials and construction methods used in Twombly's sculptures. In collaboration with the Chair of Non-Destructive Testing at the Technical University of Munich, the artworks were inspected using X-ray radiography and computed tomography. The results showed that Cy Twombly used various everyday objects made from wood, plastics, metal, and paper/cardboard to build the assemblages. Unexpectedly, the examinations revealed that the individual parts are solely held together by the coating of plaster and paint, lacking additional mechanical connections. The overall structure thus proved to be very fragile and highly sensitive to physical stresses, whether due to handling, transport, or strains in the microstructure caused by climatic fluctuations. Since little was known about Cy Twombly´s choice of materials and manufacturing details, the results offer valuable insights into the overall artistic process and decision-making of one of the most influential artists of the 20th/twenty-first centuries. Conservators can use the art-technological findings to monitor the sculptures ‘condition and develop or adapt long-term preservation strategies, including aspects such as ambient climatic conditions and handling storage and transport specifications. In addition, the knowledge generated can be used for further research on the specific materials and transferred to other artworks by Cy Twombly.
Hemodynamic effects of supplemental oxygen versus air in simulated blood loss in healthy volunteers: a randomized, controlled, double-blind, crossover trial
Authors: Lie Sole Lindvåg , Hisdal Jonny , Rehn Marius , Høiseth Lars Øivind
Published: November 2023

Background

Trauma patients frequently receive supplemental oxygen, but its hemodynamic effects in blood loss are poorly understood. We studied the effects of oxygen on the hemodynamic response and tolerance to simulated blood loss in healthy volunteers.

Methods

Fifteen healthy volunteers were exposed to simulated blood loss by lower body negative pressure (LBNP) on two separate visits at least 24 h apart. They were randomized to inhale 100% oxygen or medical air on visit 1, while inhaling the other on visit 2. To simulate progressive blood loss LBNP was increased every 3 min in levels of 10 mmHg from 0 to 80 mmHg or until hemodynamic decompensation. Oxygen and air were delivered on a reservoired face mask at 15 L/min. The effect of oxygen compared to air on the changes in cardiac output, stroke volume and middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAV) was examined with mixed regression to account for repeated measurements within subjects. The effect of oxygen compared to air on the tolerance to blood loss was measured as the time to hemodynamic decompensation in a shared frailty model. Cardiac output was the primary outcome variable.

Results

Oxygen had no statistically significant effect on the changes in cardiac output (0.031 L/min/LBNP level, 95% confidence interval (CI): − 0.015 to 0.077, P = 0.188), stroke volume (0.39 mL/LBNP level, 95% CI: − 0.39 to 1.2, P = 0.383), or MCAV (0.25 cm/s/LBNP level, 95% CI: − 0.11 to 0.61, P = 0.176). Four subjects exhibited hemodynamic decompensation when inhaling oxygen compared to 10 when inhaling air (proportional hazard ratio 0.24, 95% CI: 0.065 to 0.85, P = 0.027).

Conclusions

We found no effect of oxygen compared to air on the changes in cardiac output, stroke volume or MCAV during simulated blood loss in healthy volunteers. However, oxygen had a favorable effect on the tolerance to simulated blood loss with fewer hemodynamic decompensations. Our findings suggest that supplemental oxygen does not adversely affect the hemodynamic response to simulated blood loss.

Trial registration This trial was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05150418) December 9, 2021
Replacing Lu-177 with Tb-161 in DOTA-TATE and PSMA-617 therapy: potential dosimetric implications for activity selection
Authors: Verburg Frederik A. , de Blois Erik , Koolen Stijn , Konijnenberg Mark W.
Published: November 2023

Aim

To explore the dosimetric effect of substituting Lu-177 with Tb-161 in targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) using the registered tracers DOTA-TATE and PSMA-617.

Methods

Using established kinetic data for [177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TATE and [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617, radiation absorbed doses to typical tumour lesion as well as non-target tissues ([177Lu]Lu-DOTA-TATE: kidneys, spleen and liver, [177Lu]Lu-PSMA-617: kidneys, liver and salivary glands) were calculated for Lu-177 and Tb-161.

Results

For both DOTA-TATE and PSMA-617, the substitution of Lu-177 with Tb-161 results in an increase in the delivered dose per unit of activity to tumour tissue by 40%. If an equivalent non-target delivered dose is strived for in order not to increase toxicity, based on kidney absorbed dose, 7400 MBq Lu-177 per cycle should be substituted with 5400 MBq Tb-161 for DOTA-TATE and 5300 MBq of Tb-161 for PSMA-617.

Conclusion

When substituting Lu-177 with Tb-161, activity conversion is necessary in order not to exceed non-target dose limits.
Semantic representation of neural circuit knowledge in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Prakash Sharan J. , Van Auken Kimberly M. , Hill David P. , Sternberg Paul W.
Published: November 2023

In modern biology, new knowledge is generated quickly, making it challenging for researchers to efficiently acquire and synthesise new information from the large volume of primary publications. To address this problem, computational approaches that generate machine-readable representations of scientific findings in the form of knowledge graphs have been developed. These representations can integrate different types of experimental data from multiple papers and biological knowledge bases in a unifying data model, providing a complementary method to manual review for interacting with published knowledge. The Gene Ontology Consortium (GOC) has created a semantic modelling framework that extends individual functional gene annotations to structured descriptions of causal networks representing biological processes (Gene Ontology–Causal Activity Modelling, or GO–CAM). In this study, we explored whether the GO–CAM framework could represent knowledge of the causal relationships between environmental inputs, neural circuits and behavior in the model nematode C. elegans [C. elegans Neural–Circuit Causal Activity Modelling (CeN–CAM)]. We found that, given extensions to several relevant ontologies, a wide variety of author statements from the literature about the neural circuit basis of egg-laying and carbon dioxide (CO2) avoidance behaviors could be faithfully represented with CeN–CAM. Through this process, we were able to generate generic data models for several categories of experimental results. We also discuss how semantic modelling may be used to functionally annotate the C. elegans connectome. Thus, Gene Ontology-based semantic modelling has the potential to support various machine-readable representations of neurobiological knowledge.

Graphical Abstract
What Tests are Used to Assess the Physical Qualities of Male, Adolescent Rugby League Players? A Systematic Review of Testing Protocols and Reported Data Across Adolescent Age Groups
Authors: Carron Michael A. , Scanlan Aaron T. , Power Cody J. , Doering Thomas M.
Published: November 2023

Background

Understanding the physical qualities of male, adolescent rugby league players across age groups is essential for practitioners to manage long-term player development. However, there are many testing options available to assess these qualities, and differences in tests and testing protocols can profoundly influence the data obtained.

Objectives

The aims of this systematic review were to: (1) identify the most frequently used tests to assess key physical qualities in male, adolescent rugby league players (12–19 years of age); (2) examine the testing protocols adopted in studies using these tests; and (3) synthesise the available data from studies using the most frequently used tests according to age group.

Methods

A systematic search of five databases was conducted. For inclusion, studies were required to: (1) be original research that contained original data published in a peer-reviewed journal; (2) report data specifically for male, adolescent rugby league players; (3) report the age for the recruited participants to be between 12 and 19 years; (4) report data for any anthropometric quality and one other physical quality and identify the test(s) used to assess these qualities; and (5) be published in English with full-text availability. Weighted means and standard deviations were calculated for each physical quality for each age group arranged in 1-year intervals (i.e., 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18 years) across studies.

Results

37 studies were included in this systematic review. The most frequently used tests to assess anthropometric qualities were body mass, standing height, and sum of four skinfold sites. The most frequently used tests to assess other physical qualities were the 10-m sprint (linear speed), 505 Agility Test (change-of-direction speed), Multistage Fitness Test (aerobic capacity), bench press and back squat one-repetition maximum tests (muscular strength), and medicine ball throw (muscular power). Weighted means calculated across studies generally demonstrated improvements in player qualities across subsequent age groups, except for skinfold thickness and aerobic capacity. However, weighted means could not be calculated for the countermovement jump.

Conclusion

Our review identifies the most frequently used tests, but highlights variability in the testing protocols adopted. If these tests are used in future practice, we provide recommended protocols in accordance with industry standards for most tests. Finally, we provide age-specific references for frequently used tests that were implemented with consistent protocols.

Clinical Trial RegistrationThis study was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Review and Meta-analysis guidelines and was registered with PROSPERO (ID: CRD42021267795).
Efficacy of derinat as a treatment for murine and androgenetic alopecia (AGA) patients
Authors: Wu Ching-Ying , Chen Wei-Chiao , Hsieh Cheng-Hsu , Liang Yun-Fang , Li Wei-Ju , Shen Hao , Wei Wei-Yen , Chou Ting-Yu , Chiu Yen-Chun , Huang Hao , Hsu Wen-Li
Published: November 2023

Background

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), one of the most common types of hair loss, is associated with oxidative stress, inflammation and aging. Derinat, a transient receptor potential canonical channels (TRPCs) inhibitor, restrains TRPCs-mediated increase intracellular Ca2+ signaling, which initiates the skin aging process with intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. This study investigated whether Derinat protected skin from oxidative stress-induced damage and aging, thus inhibiting AGA pathogenesis.

Methods

The lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans was measured to examine the capacity of Derinat to oppose the oxidative stress induced-aging process, which drives the hair cycle from anagen to catagen phase. The experiments that used BALB/c-nu and C57BL/6 mice determined the effects of Derinat on hair cycle and oxidative stress in skin. To further apply Derinat to clinical study, the resulting relationship between AGA pathogenesis and TRPCs-regulated oxidative stress was confirmed using the bioinformatics approach. We consequently used the parameters of hair density, hair diameter, hair recovery and quality of life index to evaluate the effect of Derinat treatment on AGA subjects.

Results

Derinat restrained the oxidative stress induced-aging process sufficiently to extend the lifespan of worms. Derinat also changed the hair growth patterns of mice by maintenance of the hair cycle at the anagen phase. This efficacy was due to reduction of TRPCs-mediated ROS accumulation. Because the bioinformatics analysis found that AGA pathogenesis is associated with TRPCs-regulated oxidative stress and inflammation, treatment with Derinat in AGA subjects increased positive outcomes of oral medication while mitigating the impairment of AGA subjects’ quality of life.

Conclusions

Derinat restrains AGA pathogenesis and may provide a new therapeutic approach for treating AGA. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT05450861, https://register.clinicaltrials.gov, date of registration 07/11/2022.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT05450861, https://register.clinicaltrials.gov, date of registration 07/11/2022
Apocrine lesions of breast and invasive carcinoma with apocrine differentiation: a brief review
Authors: Anjum Saba , Mooghal Mehwish , Rehman Abdul , Sellal Yusra , Vohra Lubna
Published: November 2023

Apocrine metaplastic change is a frequent change in breast pathology. Invasive carcinoma with apocrine differentiation of the breast has unconventional histology, immunohistochemical (IHC), and molecular profile. It has an Estrogen receptor (ER)/Progesterone receptor  (PR) negative and an Androgen receptor (AR) positive profile. About 1/3 of cases can show Her2neu amplification through IHC or Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) and lymph node metastasis (LNM) are frequently observed and they often have poor pathological response to chemotherapy. Histologically and molecularly defined apocrine subtypes of breast cancer, although have considerable overlap, yet are different and discrete entities. The decision on using chemotherapy and targeted regimens in these lesions is still controversial which calls for more insight. This could be achieved by acquiring a standardized diagnostic practice, further research, and discussion.
Evaluation of the diagnostic performance of estimated fecal calprotectin and serum intelectin-1 and C-reactive protein solo or in combination for differentiation between patients with query ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Sarhan Rizk Sayad R. , Marei Yasmin M. , Marei Yomna M.
Published: November 2023

Objectives

Evaluation of the ability of estimated levels of fecal calprotectin (FCP), serum intelectin-1 (ITLN1), and C-reactive protein (CRP) to differentiate between patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Patients

Three-hundred forty-two patients were evaluated clinically for diagnostic criteria of UC and IBD and underwent colonoscopic examination and grading according to Mayo endoscopic scores (MES). Colorectal biopsies were taken for microscopic examination. Fecal and blood samples were obtained for ELISA estimation of levels of the studied variate. Patients were grouped according to microscopic examination of the obtained biopsies as UC and IBD groups. Study outcome is the ability of the laboratory variate for prediction of the microscopic diagnosis.

Results

In UC patients, FCP and serum CRP levels were notably elevated compared to controls and IBS patients. Conversely, UC patients exhibited significantly reduced serum ITLN1 levels in comparison to controls and IBS patients with insignificantly lower levels in samples of IBS patients. Statistical analyses defined high FCP and low serum ITLN1 as the significant predictors for UC diagnosis with high specificity for FCP level > 150 µg/ml and high sensitivity for serum ITLN1 ≤ 30 and ≤ 18 ng/ml to predict colonoscopic and microscopic UC diagnosis, respectively.

Conclusion

The combination of high FCP and low serum ITLN1 could accurately predict the colonoscopic and microscopic findings of UC and can differentiate UC from IBS and may spare the need for colonoscopy and biopsy especially for IBS patients.
Shades of grey: choice, control and capacity in alcohol-related brain damage
Authors: Kane Nuala B. , Broderick Norella , Rao Emily , Ruck Keene Alex , Rao Rahul Tony
Published: November 2023

Liaison psychiatrists have identified that conducting capacity assessments in general hospital patients with alcohol-related brain damage (ARBD) can be challenging. This educational article uses the fictitious case of a man with ARBD, alcohol dependence and significant self-neglect, focusing on assessment of his capacity to decide about moving into a care home on discharge. We provide an overview of clinical, legal and ethical literature relevant to decision-making and capacity assessment in individuals with ARBD, with the aim of guiding clinicians approaching complex capacity assessments.
The Skills of Citizenship
Authors: Kozakowski Michael A.
Published: November 2023

This article analyzes the history of adult vocational training (AVT) programs for Algerian migrants, funded by the French state, between the end of World War II in 1945 and the aftermath of Algerian independence in 1962. These programs responded to the postwar expansion of citizenship and rights of indigenous Algerians, including rights to migrate and to take jobs in metropolitan France. Across changing governments and diverse ministries, French officials were convinced that vocational training was necessary for indigenous Algerians to find stable employment, to mitigate the supposed risks of migration, and to enable migrants to transform themselves into an idealized version of the French citizen. The widespread adoption of AVT for Algerian migrants calls into question the pervasive image of the unskilled, interchangeable migrant. At the same time, the shortcomings of AVT programs shed light on how migrants frequently contributed to postwar economic expansion and economic modernization while enjoying the fruits of economic growth only meagerly and on an individual basis. More broadly, this study reveals the importance of skill, industry, and labor in French postwar conceptions of (social) citizenship.
Comparative Scoping Review of Prenatal Care Resources for Families of Children With Spinal Dysraphism and Hydrocephalus in High-Income Countries and Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Jiang Kelly , Kalluri Anita L. , Ran Kathleen R. , Spann Marcus , Kanmounye Ulrick Sidney , Ammar Adam , Abu-Bonsrah Nancy , Groves Mari L.
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) face higher incidences and burdens of care for neural tube defects (NTDs) and hydrocephalus compared with high-income countries (HICs), in part due to limited access to neurosurgical intervention. In this scoping review, we aim to integrate studies on prenatal care, counseling, and surgical management for families of children with spinal dysraphism and hydrocephalus in LMICs and HICs.

METHODS:

PubMed, Embase, Global Index Medicus, and Web of Science electronic databases were searched for English language articles pertaining to prenatal care, counseling, and surgical management for families of children with spinal dysraphism and hydrocephalus in HICs and LMICs. Identified abstracts were screened for full-text review. Studies meeting inclusion criteria were reviewed in full and analyzed.

RESULTS:

Seventy studies met the inclusion criteria. Twelve studies (16.9%) were conducted in HICs only, 50 studies (70.4%) were conducted in LMICs only, and 9 studies (12.7%) encompassed both. On thematic analysis, seven underlying topics were identified: epidemiology, folate deficiency and supplementation/fortification, risk factors other than folate deficiency, prenatal screening, attitudes and perceptions about NTDs and their care, surgical management, and recommendations for guideline implementation.

CONCLUSION:

NTDs have become a widely acknowledged public health problem in many LMICs. Prenatal counseling and care and folate fortification are critical in the prevention of spinal dysraphism. However, high-quality, standardized studies reporting their epidemiology, prevention, and management remain scarce. Compared with NTDs, research on the prevention and screening of hydrocephalus is even further limited. Future studies are necessary to quantify the burden of disease and identify strategies for improving global outcomes in treating and reducing the prevalence of NTDs and hydrocephalus. Surgical management of NTDs in LMICs is currently limited, but pediatric neurosurgeons may be uniquely equipped to address disparities in the care and counseling of families of children with spinal dysraphism and hydrocephalus.
Focused Ultrasound Central Lateral Thalamotomy for the Treatment of Refractory Neuropathic Pain: Phase I Trial
Authors: Ahmed Abdul-Kareem , Zhuo Jiachen , Gullapalli Rao P. , Jiang Li , Keaser Michael L. , Greenspan Joel D. , Chen Chixiang , Miller Timothy R. , Melhem Elias R. , Sansur Charles A. , Eisenberg Howard M. , Gandhi Dheeraj
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Magnetic resonance–guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) central lateral thalamotomy (CLT) has not yet been validated for treating refractory neuropathic pain (NP). Our aim was to assess the safety and potential efficacy of MRgFUS CLT for refractory NP.

METHODS:

In this prospective, nonrandomized, single-arm, investigator-initiated phase I trial, patients with NP for more than 6 months related to phantom limb pain, spinal cord injury, or radiculopathy/radicular injury and who had undergone at least one previous failed intervention were eligible. The main outcomes were safety profile and pain as assessed using the brief pain inventory, the pain disability index, and the numeric rating scale. Medication use and the functional connectivity of the default mode network (DMN) were also assessed.

RESULTS:

Ten patients were enrolled, with nine achieving successful ablation. There were no serious adverse events and 12 mild/moderate severity events. The mean age was 50.9 years (SD: 12.7), and the mean symptom duration was 12.3 years (SD: 9.7). Among eight patients with a 1-year follow-up, the brief pain inventory decreased from 7.6 (SD: 1.1) to 3.8 (SD: 2.8), with a mean percent decrease of 46.3 (SD: 40.6) (paired t-test, P = .017). The mean pain disability index decreased from 43.0 (SD: 7.5) to 25.8 (SD: 16.8), with a mean percent decrease of 39.3 (SD: 41.6) (P = .034). Numeric rating scale scores decreased from a mean of 7.2 (SD: 1.8) to 4.0 (SD: 2.8), with a mean percent decrease of 42.8 (SD: 37.8) (P = .024). Patients with predominantly intermittent pain or with allodynia responded better than patients with continuous pain or without allodynia, respectively. Some patients decreased medication use. Resting-state functional connectivity changes were noted, from disruption of the DMN at baseline to reactivation of connectivity between DMN nodes at 3 months.

CONCLUSION:

MRgFUS CLT is feasible and safe for refractory NP and has potential utility in reducing symptoms as measured by validated pain scales.
Minimally Invasive Breast Biopsy After Neoadjuvant Systemic Treatment to Identify Breast Cancer Patients with Residual Disease for Extended Neoadjuvant Treatment: A New Concept
Authors: Pfob André , Cai Lie , Schneeweiss Andreas , Rauch Geraldine , Thomas Bettina , Schaefgen Benedikt , Kuemmel Sherko , Reimer Toralf , Hahn Markus , Thill Marc , Blohmer Jens-Uwe , Hackmann John , Malter Wolfram , Bekes Inga , Friedrichs Kay , Wojcinski Sebastian , Joos Sylvie , Paepke Stefan , Degenhardt Tom , Rom Joachim , Rody Achim , van Mackelenbergh Marion , Banys-Paluchowski Maggie , Große Regina , Reinisch Mattea , Karsten Maria Margarete , Sidey-Gibbons Chris , Wallwiener Markus , Golatta Michael , Heil Joerg
Published: November 2023

Background

Breast cancer patients with residual disease after neoadjuvant systemic treatment (NAST) have a worse prognosis compared with those achieving a pathologic complete response (pCR). Earlier identification of these patients might allow timely, extended neoadjuvant treatment strategies. We explored the feasibility of a vacuum-assisted biopsy (VAB) after NAST to identify patients with residual disease (ypT+ or ypN+) prior to surgery.

Methods

We used data from a multicenter trial, collected at 21 study sites (NCT02948764). The trial included women with cT1-3, cN0/+ breast cancer undergoing routine post-neoadjuvant imaging (ultrasound, MRI, mammography) and VAB prior to surgery. We compared the findings of VAB and routine imaging with the histopathologic evaluation of the surgical specimen.

Results

Of 398 patients, 34 patients with missing ypN status and 127 patients with luminal tumors were excluded. Among the remaining 237 patients, tumor cells in the VAB indicated a surgical non-pCR in all patients (73/73, positive predictive value [PPV] 100%), whereas PPV of routine imaging after NAST was 56.0% (75/134). Sensitivity of the VAB was 72.3% (73/101), and 74.3% for sensitivity of imaging (75/101).

Conclusion

Residual cancer found in a VAB specimen after NAST always corresponds to non-pCR. Residual cancer assumed on routine imaging after NAST corresponds to actual residual cancer in about half of patients. Response assessment by VAB is not safe for the exclusion of residual cancer. Response assessment by biopsies after NAST may allow studying the new concept of extended neoadjuvant treatment for patients with residual disease in future trials.
Η διαχρονική συμβολή της νήσου Χίου στην ανάπτυξη και εξέλιξη της ψαλτικής τέχνης (ΙΔ΄ αι. – α΄ ήμ. ΙΘ΄ αι.)
Authors: Κολλίντζας Δημήτριος
Published: November 2023

Η διατριβή εξετάζει τη ζωή και το έργο προσώπων, τα οποία γεννήθηκαν και έδρασαν ή κατάγονται από το νησί της Χίου και συνέβαλαν στην εξέλιξη και ανάπτυξη της Ψαλτικής Τέχνης διαχρονικά, από τον ΙΔ΄ αι. έως τα μέσα του ΙΘ΄ αι.. Πιο συγκεκριμένα, η διατριβή ερευνά την κωδικογραφική παραγωγή Χίων γραφέων, το μελοποιητικό, εξηγητικό και καλλωπιστικό έργο Χίων μουσικών, την διδακτική και ψαλτική δράση Χίων, την δραστηριοποίηση χίων μουσικών εκτός του νησιού τους, όπως στην Κωνσταντινούπολη, τις Παραδουνάβιες Ηγεμονίες, το Άγιο Όρος, τη Σμύρνη και άλλα ψαλτικά κέντρα. Επίσης, παρουσιάζονται αναλυτικά η συμβολή των Χίων στην κοσμική μουσική, ιδιαίτερες χιακές μελοποιήσεις και το έργο Χίων υμνογράφων.Στο πρώτο μέρος της εργασίας παρουσιάζεται αναλυτικά το κωδικογραφικό, μελοποιητικό και εξηγητικό έργο όλων των Χίων, οι οποίοι εντοπίστηκαν κατά την διάρκεια της εκπόνησης της διατριβής. Τα εργογραφικά στοιχεία συνοδεύονται από βιογραφικές πληροφορίες για το κάθε ένα πρόσωπο ξεχωριστά. Στο δεύτερο μέρος παρουσιάζονται τα χειρόγραφα χιακού ενδιαφέροντος, αναφέρονται οι ιδιαίτερες μελοποιήσεις Χίων και εκτίθεται ένας συγκεντρωτικός κατάλογος με τις συνθέσεις, εξηγήσεις, καλλωπισμούς και υμνογραφήματα των Χίων. Στο τελευταίο κεφάλαιο του δεύτερου μέρους γίνεται μορφολογική εξέταση χαρακτηριστικών δειγμάτων της χιακής μελοποιίας, ενώ η εργασία ολοκληρώνεται με τα απαραίτητα συμπεράσματα. Η διατριβή αποτελεί πρωτότυπη και μοναδική εργασία, σχετικά με την χιακή ψαλτική παράδοση και τη διαχρονική συμβολή των Χίων στην εξέλιξη της ψαλτικής τέχνης, καθώς μεμονωμένες εισηγήσεις και άρθρα, αλλά και σημαντικές διατριβές, καλύπτουν μέρος μόνο του θέματος της εργασίας. Αναδεικνύεται η ποσοτική και ποιοτική παραγωγή Χίων μουσικών, η οποία είτε ανθολογείται αποσπασματικά στην έως σήμερα βιβλιογραφία, είτε είναι παντελώς άγνωστη. Για όλα τα παραπάνω, η εργασία αποδεικνύεται απαραίτητη για το πεδίο της ιστορικής και βυζαντινής μουσικολογίας, καλύπτοντας ένα μεγάλο κενό στην ελληνική και ξενόγλωσση επιστημονική βιβλιογραφία.