bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
569 Functional Recovery from Thalamic Intracerebral Hemorrhage Following Minimally Invasive Evacuation
Authors: Odland Ian , Ali Muhammad , Schuldt Braxton Riley , Downes Margaret , Vasan Vikram , Iruvanti Sushruta , Rossitto Christina P. , Kalagara Roshini , Chennareddy Susmita , Smith Colton James , Shigematsu Tomoyoshi , Mocco J. D. , Kellner Christopher Paul
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) carries a high risk of disability and death, with thalamic hemorrhages associated with the worst outcomes. A minimally invasive (MIS) approach is a promising option to reduce time-to-treatment and prevent further injury during ICH evacuation. The functional outcomes of thalamic ICH evacuation should be accounted for when considering patient eligibility for MIS Hemorrhage Evacuation.

METHODS:

Patients with spontaneous thalamic ICH who presented to a large healthcare system between December 2015 and December 2021 were triaged to a central hospital for MIS endoscopic or surgiscopic evacuation. Criteria for inclusion was age ≥18 years, hematoma volume ≥15 ml, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score ≥6, premorbid mRS score ≤3, and time from ictus ≤72 hours.

RESULTS:

MIS evacuation was performed on 29 patients. 19 patients had hemorrhage confined to the thalamus, whereas 10 patients had hemorrhages extending into surrounding parenchymal structures. 25 patients (86%) had intraventricular hemorrhage. The average preoperative volume was 42.5 mL ± 33.7 mL and postoperative volume was 8.6 ± 11.3 mL indicating an evacuation rate of 78.0 ± 25.0%. One month after hemorrhage, two patients (6.9%) had expired. At 6-month, 6 patients (22.2%) had improved to a favorable outcome (mRS ≤ 3) with 2 patients lacking mRs outcome data.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study suggests that MIS evacuation can be safely performed in patients with thalamic hemorrhage. Moreover, it presents long-term functional outcomes to assist clinicians in determining treatment plans, and dictating randomization schemes or subgroup analyses for future comparison of MIS evacuation to standard hemorrhage evacuation.
623 Improving Access to Extracranial-Intracranial Bypass Surgery in Border Hispanic Communities Utilizing Collaborative Approach Between Plastics and Neurological Surgery
Authors: Wadekar Sonia , De La Garza Mauricio , Fernandez Patricia , Desai Sohum K.
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Hispanic patients such as those with Moyamoya disease are less likely to receive surgical revascularization therapy due to inequities in access (1). Our institution is a located in the Southern Texas-Mexico border region serving a largely Hispanic population. We previously referred patients for EC-IC bypass to other quaternary-care centers in Texas. While referrals were already challenging due to distance, mixed immigration status, and poor socioeconomic background of many patients; COVID-19 further exacerbated this problem with restriction of elective surgical volume.

METHODS:

A consecutive series of EC-IC bypasses performed by authors (SKD and MDLG) were retrospectively reviewed. Baseline clinical, perioperative radiographic, and post-operative outcomes were studied. All patients were offered option of a referral to a quaternary-care centers and also given local option for performing bypass surgery. Further, patients met preoperatively with both the plastic and neurological surgeon. Ultimately, decision was made by patient.

RESULTS:

A total of 6 craniotomies for EC-IC bypass were performed during the study period. The diagnoses included Moyamoya in 5 cases and symptomatic intracranial atherosclerosis in one. All patients were Hispanic, female, and nonsmokers with mean age of 35.6 years. Mean preoperative HBa1c was 7.9, preoperative LDL was 82, and mean preoperative hemoglobin was 11.3. Direct bypass was performed in 40% of cases. Mean OR time was 3 hours and 7 minutes.

CONCLUSIONS:

We have found collaboration between plastic and neurological surgery for surgical revascularization is feasible and improved access to care for Hispanic Moyamoya disease patients residing in a border community.

References

1) Chiu R, Chaker A, McGuire LS, et al. “Socioeconomic Inequities in the Surgical Management of Moyamoya Disease.” World Neurosurg. 2021 Nov; 155: e188-e195.
627 Trends and Patterns of Neurosurgery Influencers on Instagram: Increasing a Neurosurgeon's Social Media Footprint
Authors: Pando Alejandro , Gabriel Phabinly , Patel Aman , Talbot Christopher , Liu James K.
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Neurosurgery is a highly technical field and Instagram provides the dissemination of information to a large audience. Misleading information can potentially be harmful.

METHODS:

A social media tracking tool (Influencity, Madrid, Spain) was used to compile a list of the top neurosurgeon Instagram profiles based on number of followers, average interaction, and engagement obtained between May 2022 and June 2022. Profiles that were professional groups/societies/academic centers, not in the United States, had less than 1000 followers, and those not belonging to board-certified neurological surgeons were excluded. Individual posts were categorized as (1) clinical or professional, (2) lifestyle, or (3) patient-centered. Data such as number of followers, likes, comments, hashtags, caption words, user engagement, average user activity, interests, posts, and Instagram verification were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS:

A total of 84 neurological surgeon “influencer” Instagram profiles were identified. Of the most recent 30 posts for each influencer, clinical and professional posts made up 61.60%, lifestyle posts made up 29.41%, and patient posts made up 1.77%. The most frequent hashtags were #neurosurgery, #medicine, and #surgery. When comparing the 30 profiles with the most followers to the rest of the field, average interaction (437.13 vs. 136.44; p < 0.001), uploads (569.43 vs 199.65; p = 0.003), likes given in the top posts (791.16 vs 217.78; p < 0.001), and comments given in the top posts (32.67 vs 17.19; p = 0.03) were significantly higher in the top 30. Although the top 30 profiles had an average increased posts per week (2.15 vs. 1.34; p = 0.18) posts per month (8.06 vs. 4.87; p = 0.16), and lifestyle posts (3.9 vs. 2.83), those were not significant.

CONCLUSIONS:

Neurosurgeons may be able to increase their footprint and reach a wider audience by increasing their upload rate. Our analyses found that most neurosurgeons' posts are centered around clinical and professional interests.
647 Pain Prediction Using Digital Phenotyping Speech Data for Neurological Spine Disease Patients
Authors: Duey Akiro , Rana Aakanksha , Siddi Francesca , Hussein Helweh , Onnela J.P. , Smith Timothy R.
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Predicting pain-levels is integral for evaluating spine patients during pre- and post-surgical interventions. However, quantifying pain is challenging due to its complexities and subjective nature.

METHODS:

Patients with spine disease were enrolled from a general neurosurgical clinic. Data were collected both actively and passively, using an application installed into patient’s smartphones (Beiwe). Speech features including Pitch, Jitter, Shimmer, and HNR are extracted using the Parselmouth python library. We sought to predict pain levels using the K-Nearest-Neighbor (KNN) prediction model by correlating actively acquired speech recordings with the daily pain questionnaires (the visual analogue scale (VAS) was employed for rating) obtained through this application.

RESULTS:

A total of 60 patients were enrolled; with a mean age of 58.5 (S.D. 12.7), and 56.7% being females. We reported a mean pain score of 4.6 (S.D 2.7; range 0 to 10). A total of 384 daily observations were used to train and test the model. 80% of the total observations were used for training and 20% was used for testing. Using KNN prediction model, an accuracy of 68% with a mean precision of 0.69 was achieved in classifying pain intensity into low (VAS range 0 to 4) and high (VAS range 5 to 10). The model showed 0.71 and 0.69 precision, and a recall of 0.73 and 0.67 for high and low pain scores respectively. The overall F1-score was 0.68.

CONCLUSIONS:

The speech features obtained from a smartphone-based application showcases a good discriminative capacity for assessing the pain-levels in this cohort. Pain intensity was precisely quantified utilizing smart phone technology and ML, thus, overcoming the issue of objectivity that is considered an inherent flaw in the regularly used self-reporting pain scales.
648 Machine Learning Predicts Cavernous Sinus Invasion of Pituitary Adenomas
Authors: Nernekli Kerem , Asmaro Karam Paul , Zamarud Aroosa , Sozer Batuhan , Moon Ju Hyung , Fernandez-Miranda Juan Carlos , Yeom Kristen , Vigo Vera
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Cavernous sinus invasion (CSI) of pituitary adenoma can lead to incomplete resection, failure of endocrinological remission, and a higher tumor recurrence rate. Therefore, precise approaches toward CSI may help guide treatment strategies and patient counseling.

METHODS:

135 patients (median age = 50.14±15.56; 1.05:1 male to female ratio) with pathologically confirmed pituitary adenoma were retrospectively identified. High-resolution, coronal T1-contrast enhanced pituitary MR images were used. The study cohort was separated into training (n=101) and testing (n = 34) sets. Bounding box applied over the pituitary gland-cavernous sinus complex served to generate input image data. A 2D ResNet50V2 convolutional neural network was used as the base architecture for model development. Intraoperative inspection of the cavernous sinus and histopathologic analysis of the cavernous sinus medial wall served as ground truths for CSI.

RESULTS:

'The receiving operating characteristic (ROC) and precision-recall (PR) curves were used to assess model performance. The model's average area under (AU) ROC was 78.6% compared to Knosp AU ROC %64.7. The model AU PR curve was 82.7% compared to Knosp AU PR curve of 76.7%. The sensitivity and F1 score of the model were 71% and 0.73, respectively, compared to Knosp sensitivity and F1 scores of %35 and 0.50.

CONCLUSIONS:

Inherent challenges exist regarding the pre-operative evaluation of CSI of pituitary adenoma on MRI by human visual inspection alone. Our study demonstrates the potential for MRI-based machine learning analysis of CSI of pituitary adenomas. A future multi-site study that explores model generalizability could further examine the utility of AI integration in the clinical workflow.
669 Is Outpatient Spine Surgery at an Ambulatory Surgical Center Better Than at a Hospital? A MSSIC Study
Authors: Hamilton Travis Matthew , Mansour Tarek R. , Hadi Moustafa , Deshpande Nachiket , Shultz Lonni , Springer Kylie , Hu Jianhui , Nerenz David , Zakko Philip , Khalil Jad , Park Daniel , Easton Richard , Perez-Cruet Mick J. , Taliaferro Kevin , Abdulhak Muwaffak , Schwalb Jason M. , Park Paul , Chang Victor W.
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

The number of outpatient surgeries have quadrupled over the past several decades. Although studies have shown increased efficacy and cost-effectiveness of surgery done in an outpatient setting, few studies have compared outpatient surgeries performed at a hospital versus an ambulatory surgery facility (ASF)

METHODS:

The Michigan Spine Surgery Improvement Collaborative was queried for patients undergoing cervical and/or lumbar spine surgery between 1/1/2021 to 12/31/2021 performed at an ASF or hospital with same day discharge. A 4-to-1 propensity score matching using BMI, location (lumbar, cervical), ASA > 2, fusion procedure and number of levels as the matching variables for lumbar and cervical surgeries. Primary outcomes included: achieving MCID for PROMIS physical function, EQ-5D, Return-to-Work and NASS patient satisfaction. Complications were a secondary outcome and included: Surgical site Infection (SSI), urinary retention, hospital readmission/ED visit, return-to-OR, Axial pain, new radicular findings, weakness, Ileus (lumbar only), and Dysphagia (cervical only).

RESULTS:

A total of 2,763 patients were identified prior to matching. Of the 1,665 patients that were matched, 1,332 had surgery at a hospital and 333 in an ASF. There were no statistically significant differences for patient satisfaction, PROMIS-PF MCID, or Return-to-Work at 90-days. Patients who had surgery at an ASF had higher rates of axial pain (10% vs 5%, p = 0.002) and new radicular findings(19% vs 12%, p < .001) compared to surgery at a hospital. Dysphagia was also higher in the ASF group (5% vs 0%, p = .006). There were no differences in SSI, readmission, urinary retention, return-to-OR or ED visits between sites

CONCLUSIONS:

Outpatient spine surgery at an ASF demonstrated no significantly increased surgical morbidity compared to hospitals. Although ASFs had a higher rate of new radicular findings and axial pain, there were no differences in patient satisfaction and PROs after surgery.
671 Examining Degenerative Disease Adjacent to Lumbosacral Transitional Vertebrae: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Desai Ansh , McGrath Kyle , Schmidt Eric , Lee Jonathan , Statsevych Volodymyr , Steinmetz Michael P.
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Bertolotti syndrome is a clinical diagnosis given to patients with lower back pain arising from a lumbosacral transitional vertebra (LSTV). LSTVs cause altered biomechanics at the lumbosacral junction and adjacent segments, predisposing these patients to degenerative disease. Signs of degenerative disease can manifest on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as signal changes in the intervertebral discs and facet joints, as well as spinal stenosis and spondylolisthesis, all of which may contribute to a patient’s symptoms.

METHODS:

This is a retrospective analysis of patients with Bertolotti syndrome and anatomically normal controls who received care at a single institution between 2010 and 2020. The control group consisted of patients presenting with lower back pain without an LSTV. Patients with a history of prior trauma, laminectomy, or fusion were excluded. Degree of spinal stenosis and spondylolisthesis, as well as signs of degenerative changes in the intervertebral disc and facet joints, were assessed using sagittal and axial magnetic resonance grading criteria established in prior literature.

RESULTS:

A total of 173 patients were included in the study, 104 with Bertolotti syndrome and 69 controls. On two-tailed t-test, mean L4-L5 spinal stenosis grade was shown to be significantly different between patients with Bertolotti syndrome (1.00) and control patients (1.47) (p = .002). The difference in mean L4-L5 facet grade (p = .32), mean L4-L5 spondylolisthesis grade (p = .13), and mean L4-L5 disk grade (p=.33) were not significantly different on two-tailed t-test (p = .32).

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients with Bertolotti Syndrome may be more likely to develop spinal stenosis above the lumbosacral junction than patients without an LSTV. More research needs to be done to determine whether Bertolotti Syndrome patients are at an increased risk to develop clinically-significant lumbar spondylosis.
680 Lower Preoperative Hounsfield Units Predict Distal Junctional Kyphosis After Posterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion
Authors: Caruso James , Adenwalla Ammar , Sundarrajan Chandrasekhar , Van Hal Michael , Morrill Kevin C. , Tamimi Mazin Al , Bagley Carlos Antonio , Aoun Salah Ghassan
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Low bone mineral density (BMD) may predispose patients to structural and adjacent segment complications after spine surgery. While dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) remains the gold standard for BMD quantification, it is rarely performed on a routine basis prior to cervical fusion. Alternatively, vertebral body Hounsfield Units (HU) may provide useful and convenient estimates on BMD. However, minimal evidence exists to evaluate the value of HU in predicting postoperative complications after cervical fusion.

METHODS:

A retrospective, single-institution analysis was conducted, focusing on patients who underwent PCDF without a history of cervical spine surgery. Preoperative vertebral body HU were measured at each level of the cervical spine, and demographic, clinical, and postoperative complication data were recorded.

RESULTS:

166 patients were eligible for inclusion (mean age 66 ± 12 years), with an average follow-up time of 13.5 months. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, controlling for age, gender, and construct length, lower HU at the superior instrumented level were associated with increased rates of distal junctional kyphosis (p = 0.042, AUC = 0.86). Additionally, lower HU at the superior adjacent level were associated with increased rates of revision surgery (p = 0.016, AUC > 0.99).

CONCLUSIONS:

Preoperative cervical HU offer valuable insight in anticipating structural complications after PCDF, and HU may be useful for identifying patients who require preoperative BMD optimization.
802 The Predictive Role of Initial Brain Imaging on Seizure Development in Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Sciscent Bao Y. , Bailey David , Chand Daggubati Lekhaj , Hallan David , King Steven , Trifoi Mara , Rizk Elias Boulos
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) poses risk for early post-traumatic seizures (EPTS). Antiepileptic drugs are often prescribed prophylactically, though limited evidence exists regarding their effectiveness in pediatric TBI. Neuroimaging has been predictive of EPTS in adult TBI, but this is not well studied in children. Given the heterogeneous nature of TBIs, injury type and location may serve as predictors of seizure development.

METHODS:

This is a single-center retrospective analysis of 348 pediatric patients with TBI from January 2011 to June 2021 treated with levetiracetam. Factors analyzed include age, sex, GCS, dosage and date of levetiracetam administration, presence of seizures, medical and surgical management, and findings on CT imaging. The primary outcome was the prevalence of seizures within 7 days of injury.

RESULTS:

On multivariate analysis, the risk of having seizures any time within 7 days of injury was decreased in children with contusions (OR .425 [.205-.880], p = 0.021), simple skull fractures (OR .226 [.079-.648], p = 0.006), and complex skull fractures (OR .370 [.175-.784], p = 0.009). Findings of SDH, traumatic SAH, and pneumocephalus did not significantly increase the risk of EPTS. On univariate analysis of patients who developed seizures after levetiracetam, the only significant imaging factor for EPTS was SDH (OR 4.398 [1.447-13.370], p = 0.009). On multivariate analysis, no imaging characteristics were predictive of EPTS, but older children had a decreased risk of EPTS (1-2 yo OR .095 [.016-.560], p = 0.009; 3-18 yo; OR .006 [0-.132], p = 0.001) despite levetiracetam prophylaxis.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study demonstrates that regardless of initial neuroimaging, younger age is associated with an increased risk of seizures despite prophylaxis. Further studies are needed to determine the predictive value of imaging characteristics in developing EPTS in pediatric TBI patients.
804 The Association Between Hyperoxia after TBI and Degree of Disability in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Tang Si Jie , Mor Sirjan , Fine Jeffrey , Shahlaie Kiarash
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of death and disability in children worldwide. Hyperoxia has been suggested as a mechanism of secondary injury following adult TBI, but its effect on pediatric patients has not been well-described.

METHODS:

We conducted a review of all pediatric (≤18yo) TBI patients in a prospective institutional registry from October 2008 to January 2021. PaO2 was extracted from the arterial blood gas report for the first 24 hours after admission to the ICU. The first PaO2, highest PaO2 and the AUC calculation of PaO2 were collected and calculated for each patient. Outcomes 6 months after injury were measured using the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) and dichotomized as favorable (1-2) or unfavorable (3-6). A multivariable logistic regression model was used to determine if minimum PaO2, maximum PaO2, or AUC PaO2, predicted an unfavorable outcome.

RESULTS:

We identified 122 pediatric patients with severe TBI (GCS 3 – 8) during the study period. The incidence of hyperoxia (PaO2 >300 mmHg) was 25%. Elevated PaO2 values, determined by both maximum and AUC PaO2 within the first 24 hours of hospitalization, was an independent predictor of worse neurological outcome at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS:

Using an institutional database, hyperoxia was an independent predictor of poor neurological outcome in pediatric patients. Further studies are needed to determine if efforts to prevent and/or correct hyperoxia are associated with improved outcomes.
836 Factors Associated With Non-Routine Discharge Following Spinal Cord Stimulator Insertion Surgery
Authors: Nathani Karim , Bhandarkar Archis R. , Jarrah Ryan , Bydon Mohamad
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Neuropathic pain can lead to functional impairment and psychological stress in the patients. Spinal cord stimulation offers pain alleviation that can lead to improvement in quality of life and functionality.

METHODS:

The national inpatient sample (NIS) 2016-2019 was used to identify patients undergoing surgery for spinal cord stimulator (SCS) insertion. The patients were divided based on their discharge disposition to either routine or non-routine discharge groups.

RESULTS:

A total of 1786 patients, with a mean age of 60.0 (14.0) years and 1031 (57.7%) females, were enrolled in the study. The non-routine discharge group comprised 462 (25.9%) patients that were not discharged to home or self-care. The univariate analysis observed a higher risk for nonroutine discharge following SCS insertion to be associated with higher age (64.3 vs. 58.5 years, p < 0.01), female sex (64.3% vs. 55.4%, p<0.01), insurance type (p<0.01), and postoperative complications (2.6% vs. 0.7, p < 0.01). On the multivariate regression model, a significant association of nonroutine discharge was observed for age (OR: 1.02 (1.01 – 1.03), p < 0.01), female sex (OR: 1.44 (1.14 - 1.81), p < 0.01), Hispanic race (OR: 1.85 (1.27 - 2.69), p < 0.01), Medicare insurance (OR: 1.71 (1.26 - 2.32), p < 0.01), and postoperative complication (OR: 3.50 (1.43 - 8.53), p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS:

The study found that non-routine discharge following SCS insertion was independently associated with higher age, female sex, Hispanic race, medicare insurance coverage, and postoperative complications.
839 Beta-Band Power Modulation in the Human Amygdala During a Go/No-Go Reaching Task
Authors: Chung Ryan , Martin del Campo-Vera Roberto , Gilbert Zachary , Tang Austin M. , Cavaleri Jonathan , Leonor Andrea , Shao Arthur , Tabarsi Emiliano , Sundaram Shivani , Kammen Alexandra , Gogia Angad S. , Liu Charles Y. , Kellis Spencer , Lee Brian
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

The role of the amygdala in motor control is a developing area of investigation. Although classically known for its involvement in emotional processing, the amygdala has also been associated with modulating motor processing. For example, increases in the gamma frequency band (30-200 Hz) have been observed during volitional movements. However, the underlying neural mechanisms of amygdaloid motor movement and inhibition are not well-understood.

METHODS:

Nine patients with drug resistant epilepsy underwent implantation with stereoelectroencephalographic (SEEG) depth electrodes for seizure monitoring in the amygdala (5 bilaterally, 2 left unilaterally, and 2 right unilaterally). SEEG data were sampled throughout discrete phases of a Go/No-Go task (ITI, Fixation, Go/No-Go response), which required participants to touch a target or inhibit movement based on a colored cue. A Wilcoxon signed-rank hypothesis test was used to assess significant modulations of beta-band power between the response and fixation (baseline) phases of the task.

RESULTS:

In the Go condition, six out of seven patients with electrodes in the right amygdala had a significant decrease in beta-band power (p < 0.0479), and four out of seven in the left amygdala (p < 0.049). During the No-Go condition, seven out of seven patients with electrodes in the right amygdala displayed statistically significant increases of beta-band power when compared to the baseline period (p < 0.0451), and four out of seven in the left amygdala (p < 0.0137).

CONCLUSIONS:

This study reports beta-band power modulation in the human amygdala during voluntary movement in the setting of motor execution versus inhibition. This finding adds to previous studies in other brain areas that have linked beta-band power to motor control. The presence of beta-band power modulation in No-Go conditions suggests that the beta-band potentially plays a role in amygdaloid motor inhibition.
877 EZH2 Inhibition Decreases SMARCB1 and NF2 Mutant Meningioma Cell Viability
Authors: Clark Victoria Elizabeth , Young Richard
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

The majority of sporadic and familial forms of meningiomas bear mutations in NF2. A subset of NF2 mutant meningiomas are co-mutant for SMARCB1, which encodes the SWI/SNF complex core subunit BAF47, grow in the midline/parafalcine region, and confer risk for atypia. SMARCB1/NF2 meningiomas and WHO Grade II NF2 meningiomas have demonstrated PRC2/EZH2 hyperactivity by ChIPseq analysis, providing a rationale for EZH2 inhibition for these aggressive tumors.

METHODS:

Pharmacologic growth inhibition experiments were conducted in a SMARCB1/NF2 co-mutant meningioma cell line (BEN-MEN-1), an NF2 mutant/SMARCB1 wildtype meningioma cell line (MN1-LF), and a control wildtype arachnoid cell line (A2). Tazemetostat was administered in triplicate at 9 dosages (ranging from 1.5 uM to 10 mM) over 14 days. Cell viability was calculated via luminescent-based assay and normalized to DMSO-treated cells.

RESULTS:

After 14 days of tazemetostat treatment, SMARCB1/NF2 mutant cells showed a significantly decreased viability compared to control arachnoid cells (26.87% viability for SMARCB1 mutant vs 87.80% viability for arachnoid cells; p = 0.0047). NF2 mutant meningioma cells also had significantly decreased viability (48.84% vs 87.80%, p = 0.0102). The calculated IC50 for tazemetostat is 3.098 mM for SMARCB1/NF2 mutant cells, 6.263 mM for NF2 mutant cells, and was estimated to be 43.98 mM in control arachnoid cells using nonlinear regression.

CONCLUSIONS:

Tazemetostat decreases viability for both SMARCB1/NF2 and NF2 mutant meningioma cells. This represents a novel pharmacologic target for the majority of meningiomas, and may obviate the need for repeat surgery for recurrent tumors or serve as a suppressant agent for patients with neurofibromatosis type II.
878 Development of a Near Infrared Somatostatin Receptor Type 2 (SSTR2)-Targeted Probe for Fluorescence-Guided Surgery in Meningiomas
Authors: Fürtjes Gina , Weitzenberg Merle , Rolbieski Hannes , Arús Bernardo , Mawrin Christian , Goldbrunner Roland , Plettenburg Oliver , Bruns Oliver , Neuschmelting Volker
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Meningioma frequently recur at the primary resection site requiring improvement in the intraoperative tumor visualization and surgical technique. To guide the resection, this study aims to develop a highly specific and sensitive optical method for intraoperative meningioma imaging. By suitable cameras fluorescent dyes in the near infrared (NIR, 700-1000nm) can be detected up to few millimeters in depth in real time.

METHODS:

We invented a SSTR2 targeting probe by linking a somatostatin analogue (TATE, Tyr(3)Thr(8)-Octreotid) to a new developed dye (sNIR). In the optical characterization, our probe showed similarities to indocyanine green and stability as well as bleaching kinetic were investigated in vitro. The probe was intravenously injected in native mice and detected by a custom-built camera setup to evaluate pharmacokinetics and biodistribution, focusing on physiologically SSTR2 overexpressing organs that were validated by immunohistochemistry (IHC). As proof-of-principle, fluorescence-guided meningioma resection was performed in an ectopic and orthotopic IOMM-Lee mouse model.

RESULTS:

Our probe is stable in aqueous solution up to 12h with favorable optical properties regarding pharmacokinetics, biodistribution and photostability compared to its IRDye800 analogue. In vivo, we observed a highly specific signal uptake in the gastric epithelium, pancreas and pituitary (all are overexpressing SSTR2) compared to autofluorescence and negative controls. Given the intermediate SSTR2 expression in the meningioma mouse model, we could still detect a mean tumor-to-brain ratio of 6.12 (n = 5; SD 1.8) allowing the fluorescence-guidance to be feasible.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our preclinical results indicate that the new SSTR2-targeted fluorescent probe is stable in various media over time and capable of specifically targeting the SSTR2 in vitro and in vivo potentially enabling sensitive and specific meningioma fluorescent-guided surgery in the future.
884 Frailty and Socioeconomic Status Predict Outcome in Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma Patients
Authors: Mirpuri Pranav , Singh Maharaj , Rovin Richard A.
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Identification of molecular markers of glioblastoma (GBM) prognosis has not often led to meaningful intervention. Individual patient and socioeconomic factors are underexplored prognostic factors. Frailty, a measure of physiological vulnerability, and area deprivation, a measure of socioeconomic status, are easily obtained during the preoperative evaluation. Moreover, both are amenable to intervention; the medical conditions that contribute to frailty can be optimized prior to surgery, while barriers to health care (physical, financial, and cultural) can be addressed for patients at risk socioeconomically.

METHODS:

This is a retrospective review of patients with newly diagnosed GBM undergoing surgery from 2015 through 2020. Demographic and tumor specific data were recorded. Additionally, the 5-factor modified frailty index (mFI-5) and national area deprivation index (ADI) were determined for each patient.

RESULTS:

There were 244 patients. Compared to patients in the “some or no” frailty category, patients with “significant” frailty had a shorter median survival: 273 days (95% CI 126-339) vs 393 days (95% CI 317-458), p = 0.008. The median survival for patients living in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods, 210 days (95% CI 134-334), is significantly lower than for those living in the least, 384 days (95% CI 239-484), p = 0.17. Twenty-five percent of patients living in the most disadvantaged neighborhoods did not receive postoperative chemoradiation compared to 11% of patients in the least disadvantaged neighborhoods, p=0.046. Similarly, patients of color were less likely to receive standard of care chemoradiation than white patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

Both increasing frailty and neighborhood disadvantage are associated with worse outcome in newly diagnosed GBM patients undergoing surgery. Patients living in the most deprived neighborhoods and patients of color are less likely to receive postoperative chemoradiation. Identification of non-traditional predictors of treatment and outcome will lead to mitigation strategies.
891 Next Generation Sequencing Mutational Profiles of Gliomas Presenting With and Without Seizure
Authors: Shukla Poojan , Nguyen Minh P. , Young Jacob , Lee Anthony T. , Chang Edward
Published: March 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Seizures are among the most common presentation of gliomas in adults, but much remains unknown regarding the relationship between underlying tumor biology and epileptic activity.

METHODS:

We conducted a single-center retrospective review of 140 adult patients who underwent surgical management of glioma with next generation sequencing of tumor samples obtained 2016-2020. Univariate odds ratios were computed for relevant cohort characteristics.

RESULTS:

Among patients with documented seizure history, 71 (51.1%) presented with seizures while 68 (48.9%) did not. At time of diagnosis, patients presenting with seizure were younger (47 vs 60.5, p = 0.0001) and had more recurrent disease (60.6% vs 16.7%, p < 0.0001). Patients presenting with seizure had fewer glioblastomas (OR: 0.2 [0.09-0.41], p < 0.0001) but more astrocytomas (OR: 4.78 [1.68-13.65], p = 0.0038) and oligodendrogliomas (OR: 3.47 [1.07-11.27], p = 0.0557). Of the top 15 most common mutations in our cohort, patients presenting with seizure had fewer instances of IDH1 (OR: 5.26 [2.44-11.32], p<0.0001), polysomy 7/monosomy 10 (OR: 0.48 [0.24-0.95], p = 0.0523), and PTEN mutation (OR: 0.46 [0.22-0.98], p = 0.0646), but more instances of 1p/19q codeletion (OR: 3.47[1.07-11.27], p = 0.0557), ATRX (OR: 2.54 [1.15-5.59], p = 0.0315) and CIC (OR: 13.63 [1.72-107.97], p = 0.0046) mutations. Notably, mutations in NF1 (OR: 0.73 [0.28-1.88)], p = 0.6753), TP53 (OR: 1.1 [0.56-2.15], p = 0.9194), TERT (OR: 0.63 [0.31-1.28], p = 0.2679), CDKN2A/B (OR: 0.61 [0.31-1.21], p = 0.2154), and EGFR (OR: 0.49 [0.21-1.13], p = 0.1396) were not associated with seizure presentation.

CONCLUSIONS:

ATRX and CIC mutations are positively associated with seizure presentation while polysomy 7/monosomy 10 and PTEN mutations are negatively associated. Future analysis of this cohort is needed to better characterize the influence of tumor mutational profile on preoperative as well as postoperative seizure activity.
The role of O-GlcNAcylation in development
Authors: Czajewski Ignacy , van Aalten Daan M. F.
Published: March 2023

O-GlcNAcylation is a dynamic post-translational modification performed by two opposing enzymes: O-GlcNAc transferase and O-GlcNAcase. O-GlcNAcylation is generally believed to act as a metabolic integrator in numerous signalling pathways. The stoichiometry of this modification is tightly controlled throughout all stages of development, with both hypo/hyper O-GlcNAcylation resulting in broad defects. In this Primer, we discuss the role of O-GlcNAcylation in developmental processes from stem cell maintenance and differentiation to cell and tissue morphogenesis.
Microbiota Mediate Enhanced Exercise Capacity Induced by Exercise Training
Authors: DOWDEN ROBERT A. , WISNIEWSKI PAUL J. , LONGORIA CANDACE R. , OYDANICH MARKO , MCNULTY TARA , RODRIGUEZ ESTHER , ZHANG JIE , CAVALLO MARK , GUERS JOHN J. , VATNER DOROTHY E. , VATNER STEPHEN F. , CAMPBELL SARA C.
Published: March 2023

The gut microbiota is critical to host metabolism and is influenced by many factors, including host genotype, diet, and exercise training.

Purpose

We investigated the effects of gut microbes, and the mechanisms mediating the enhanced exercise performance induced by exercise training, i.e., skeletal muscle blood flow, and mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative function in male mice.

Methods

All mice received a graded exercise test before (PRE) and after exercise training via forced treadmill running at 60% to 70% of maximal running capacity 5 d·wk−1 for 5 wk (POST). To examine the role of the gut microbes, the graded exercise was repeated after 7 d of access to antibiotic (ABX)-treated water, used to eliminate gut microbes. Peripheral blood flow, mitochondrial oxidative capacity, and markers of mitochondrial biogenesis were collected at each time point.

Results

Exercise training led to increases of 60% ± 13% in maximal running distance and 63% ± 11% work to exhaustion (P < 0.001). These increases were abolished after ABX (P < 0.001). Exercise training increased hindlimb blood flow and markers of mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative function, including AMP-activated protein kinase, sirtuin-1, PGC-1α citrate synthase, complex IV, and nitric oxide, all of which were also abolished by ABX treatment.

Conclusions

Our results support the concept that gut microbiota mediate enhanced exercise capacity after exercise training and the mechanisms responsible, i.e., hindlimb blood flow, mitochondrial biogenesis, and metabolic profile. Finally, results of this study emphasize the need to fully examine the impact of prescribing ABX to athletes during their training regimens and how this may affect their performance.
Can We Accurately Predict Critical Power and W′ from a Single Ramp Incremental Exercise Test?
Authors: CAEN KEVIN , BOURGOIS JAN G. , STUER LENA , MERMANS VINCENT , BOONE JAN
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the suitability of a single ramp incremental test to predict critical power (CP) and W′. We hypothesized that CP would correspond to the corrected power output (PO) at the respiratory compensation point (RCP) and W′ would be calculable from the work done above RCP.

Methods

One hundred fifty-three healthy young people (26 ± 4 yr, 51.4 ± 7.6 mL·min−1·kg−1) performed a maximal ramp test (20, 25, or 30 W·min−1), followed by three to five constant load trials to determine CP and W′. CP and W′ were estimated using a “best individual fit” approach, selecting the mathematical model with the smallest total error. The RCP was identified by means of gas exchange analysis and then translated into its appropriate PO by applying a correction strategy in order to account for the gap in the V̇O2/PO relationship between ramp and constant load exercise. We evaluated the agreement between CP and the PO at RCP, and between W′ and the total work done above CP (W′
RAMP > CP) and above RCP (W′
RAMP > RCP) during the ramp test.

Results

The CP was significantly higher than the PO at RCP (Δ = 8 ± 16 W, P < 0.001). W′
RAMP > CP was significantly lower than W′ (Δ = 1.9 ± 3.3 kJ, P < 0.001), whereas W′
RAMP > RCP and W′ did not differ from each other (Δ = −0.6 ± 5.8 kJ, P = 0.21).

Conclusions

Despite the fact that CP and RCP occurred in close proximity, the estimation of W′ from ramp exercise may be problematic given the likelihood of underestimation and considering the large variability. Therefore, we do not recommend the interchangeable use of CP and W′ values derived from constant load versus ramp exercise, in particular, when the goal is to obtain accurate estimates or to predict performance capacity.
Effect of Cold Exposure and Exercise on Insulin Sensitivity and Serum Free Fatty Acids in Obese Rats
Authors: WENG XIQUAN , WANG CHAOGE , YUAN YU , WANG ZHENHUAN , KUANG JUJIAO , YAN XU , CHEN HAO
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the effect of exercise and cold exposure on insulin sensitivity and the level of serum free fatty acids (FFA) in diet-induced obese rats.

Methods

Sixty-four diet-induced obese rats were randomly assigned to eight groups: room temperature–sedentary, room temperature–exercise, acute cold exposure–sedentary, acute cold exposure–exercise, intermittent cold exposure–sedentary, intermittent cold exposure–exercise, sustained cold exposure–sedentary, and sustained cold exposure–exercise. After the interventions, the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) values, the level of serum FFA, subcutaneous fat ratio (SFR) and visceral fat ratio, enzyme activities of adipose triglyceride lipase, and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) in inguinal adipose tissue, and protein expression of PGC1-α and p38 MAPK in skeletal muscle were investigated.

Results

We found that exercise (P = 0.0136) and cold exposure (P < 0.0001) reduced HOMA-IR values independently. Exercise reduced serum FFA (P = 0.0041), whereas cold exposure did not affect them. Moreover, the HOMA-IR values were positively correlated with the serum FFA levels (r = 0.32, P = 0.01). SFR or visceral fat ratio was coordinately reduced by the interaction (for SFR, P = 0.0015) or opposing main effects between or of cold exposure and exercise, supporting the reduction of serum FFA. However, cold exposure or exercise increased the activity of adipose triglyceride lipase and LPL independently or interactively (for LPL, P = 0.0143), suggesting an increase in serum FFA. Finally, cold exposure and exercise enhanced protein expression of PGC1-α and p38 MAPK independently or interactively (for p38 MAPK, P = 0.0226), suggesting increased uptake and oxidation of serum FFA in muscle.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the combination of exercise and cold exposure may result in more serum FFA utilization than production and thus lead to reduced serum FFA and increased insulin sensitivity.
Νικόλαος Δόσιος
Authors: Κότσικας Δημήτριος
Published: March 2023

Η παρούσα διατριβή πραγματεύται το βίο και το έργο ενός σχετικά άγνωστου μέχρι σήμερα λογίου των τελών του 19ου - αρχών του 20ου αιώνα, του Νικόλαου Γ. Δοσίου. Γεννημένος στα Ιωάννινα το 1856 ο Δόσιος σπούδασε στη Γερμανία, εργάστηκε ως καθηγητής επί σειρά ετών στα Ιωάννινα, κυρίως στη Ρουμανία και τις τελευταίες δεκαετίες της ζωής του τις πέρασε στη Γαλλία. Στην εργασία μας για πρώτη φορά παρουσιάζεται μία ολοκληρωμένη βιογραφία του λογίου, ακολουθεί στο δεύτερο μέρος η συγκέντρωση και ανάλυση του συνόλου του έργου του, ενώ στο τελευταίο μέρος εκδίδεται η αδημοσίευτη ποιητική του συλλογή με τίτλο "Άνθη και Φύλλα".
Sargassum sp. extract improve hematological profile of tilapia fish (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Gazali Mohamad , Effendi Irwan , Husni Amir , Nurjanah Nurjanah , Wahyuni Sri , Kurniawan Ronal
Published: March 2023

Background: Strategies to increase body resistance and prevent disease in aquaculture include using vaccines, antibiotics, and probiotics. Today, the use of antibiotics with natural ingredients is becoming a trend. One of the natural ingredients that contain high antioxidants and antibiotics is Sargassum sp.

Methods: This research was conducted from March to May 2022 at the Biotechnology Laboratory, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine, Universitas Riau, in two stages: 1) the sensitivity of extracts of Sargassum sp. and 2) the application of Sargassum sp. extract orally in tilapia (O. niloticus). The parameters measured were clear zone, minimum inhibitory concentration, LD50 test of leaf extract of Sargassum sp. in tilapia (O. niloticus), hemoglobin levels, hematocrit, total leukocytes, total erythrocytes, leukocyte differentiation, and survival rate. Data on hematology parameters were tabulated and analyzed using a One-Way ANOVA followed by a Student Newman Keuls (SNK) test when deemed necessary.

Results: The results showed that the extract of Sargassum sp. inhibited the growth of Aeromonas hydrophila bacteria with a clear zone of 6.5-15.0 mm, which is classified as resistant. At doses of 2000, 2500, and 3000 ppm, it did not cause death in fish for 96 hours (LD50). Hematological parameters can be a sign of the health status of fish. Tilapia given Sargassum sp. in different doses gave an effect between treatments, both after 30 days of rearing and post-test against A. hydrophila bacteria (p<0.05). The results showed that the hematology of fish fed with Sargassum sp. extract was in the normal or healthy range. Healthy tilapia had erythrocyte counts ranging from 1.34-2.11×106 cells/mm3, hematocrit 26.17-33.19%, hemoglobin 6.26-11.2 g/dL and total leukocytes 1.01-1.50×104 cells/mm3 and total erythrocytes 5.88-9.13×104 cells/ mm3.

Conclusions: A dose of 3000 ppm provided the highest health improvement against A. hydrophila bacterial infection.
THE TEACHER’S PET: A TRANSFORMATIONAL STORY OF LEARNING HOW TO BELIEVE IN MY “SELF”
Authors: Buschlen Eric
Published: March 2023

This narrative shares a personal account of how the actions of one person can truly motivate, inspire, and challenge another person to transform. This reflective story outlines the actions of my transformational leader and also indicates how those behaviors align with a transformational leadership model published well after the interaction. I also challenge the reader to reach out to their transformational leader and reflect on their own personal development.
COMPETITIVE TEAM ENVIRONMENTS AND STUDENT LEADER CAPACITY GROWTH
Authors: Rosch David M. , Allen Scott J. , Jenkins Daniel M. , Pickett Meghan L.
Published: March 2023

We conducted a national study of the Collegiate Leadership Competition (CLC), which since inception in 2015, has included over 75 higher education institutions. The CLC brings students together in collaborative institution-based teams to compete with other teams in competitions to achieve goals and practice effective leadership skills. Our goal was to assess leadership capacity growth over the course of a four-month team practice period through the daylong inter-team competition and evaluate participant leadership assessed several months later. Results suggested students made significant and sustainable gains in leader-self-efficacy and short-term gains in leadership skill and motivation to lead. Our results also indicated the team’s coach played a significant role in student leadership development.

Leadership development programs for students in educational settings are proliferating in number and design. Curricular programs range from academic minors and certificates to doctoral programs in a variety of academic homes (e.g., education, business, healthcare). Co-curricular programs often take the form of drop-in workshops, day-long experiences, alternative spring breaks, service-learning trips, and other programs housed in student affairs and administrative offices (Guthrie & Jenkins, 2018). Moreover, the number of programs has steadily increased over the last 15 years from just under 1,000 in 2006 (Brungardt, et al., 2006) to more than 2,000 (ILA Program Directory, 2021). And while there is some commonality among the approach of these leadership programs in terms of content and delivery (see Harvey & Jenkins, 2014), vast differences exist in the structure and learning goals of student leadership programs compared to other social science disciplines. A potentially fruitful area in which to explore its effectiveness in supporting leadership development is the environment of competitive teams, where individuals work together as a group to compete against other teams. The purpose of our research was to investigate the degree to which such a competitive environment might support or detract from student leadership group, employing a potentially effective example of a formal program that utilizes the innovative approach of team competitions to motivate learning (the CLC).
LEADERSHIP EDUCATION IN A DIGITAL WORLD: A CONTENT ANALYSIS OF THE PEDAGOGY, ASSESSMENT, AND PURPOSE OF LEADERSHIP- ORIENTED MASSIVE OPEN ONLINE COURSES (MOOCS)
Authors: Headrick Jason , McElravy L.J.
Published: March 2023

Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) are a form of distance education courses. They have been celebrated as revolutionizing the way learners access education and the way colleges and universities could expand education on a global scale beyond their traditional campuses. The purpose of this study is to identify the pedagogical strategies used for instruction and assessment in leadership-oriented MOOCs and gain a more refined understanding of the current state of MOOCs in leadership education. This study examines 96 leadership MOOCs across the platforms of Coursera, EdX, FutureLearn, Canvas.net, and Standford Online through a content analysis research framework. The study concludes with a discussion of leadership MOOC pedagogy and presents the current state of MOOCS among leadership education and professional development.
CRISIS AS PEDAGOGY: Recommendations for Using the Pandemic in Leadership Education
Authors: Whitaker Brett L. , Kniffin Lori E.
Published: March 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has provided leadership educators with a unique and perilous opportunity. The events of 2020 were profoundly impactful and traumatic for our students, but they also illustrate a level of visceral engagement with various leadership topics that is incredibly useful. In this article, we outline some of the pedagogical considerations for using a chaotic and trauma filled set of experiences to teach leadership concepts. Specific theories and topics areas are presented that represent the most likely intersection of the pandemic and leadership, and examples are included for use by practitioners.