bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translation, reliability and validity of the Turkish versions of Norwich Patellar Instability score and The Banff Patellar Instability Instrument 2.0
Authors: Yilmaz Engin Turkay , Goymen Ibrahim Mehmet , Oral Melih , Tuncay Ozan , Dursun Gokay , Turhan Egemen , Tokgozoglu Ahmet Mazhar
Published: February 2024

Background

Current treatment options for patellofemoral (PF) instability have required functional scoring systems. The Banff Patellar Instability Instrument (BPII) 2.0 and Norwich Patellar Instability (NPI) scores were explicitly created to meet the need to evaluate PF instability. Different patient-reported outcome measurements (PROMs) are used to evaluate anterior knee problems.

Objectives

To test the validity and reliability of the Turkish version of the BPII 2.0 and NPI score.

Study design and methods

Fifty-one patients that operated for PF instability, older than eighteen years old, were included in this study. Turkish translation of the BPII 2.0 and NPI scores was undertaken through translation into Turkish by an independent translator. Two tests were repeated seven days apart. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used for test–retest reliability. Internal consistency was analyzed using Cronbach's alpha. Validity was assessed by correlating the Kujala and Lysholm knee scores.

Results

Fifty-one patients (34 females/17 males), the average age was 25 ± 7, were included in this study. Cronbach's alpha value was 0.829 for BPII 2.0 and 0.843 for NPI for the first time answered by patients. ICC values applied to evaluate test–retest reliability were 0.904 (p < 0.05) for BPII 2.0 and 0.915 (p < 0.05) for NPI. There was a moderate correlation between the BPII 2.0 Turkish version and the Kujala score. There was a very high correlation between the Turkish version of the BPII 2.0 and Lysholm knee scores. An excellent negative correlation was found between Norwich and Kujala scores (r = −0.819, p < 0.05). The correlation coefficient between Norwich and Lysholm scores was −0.662, indicating a high negative correlation (p < 0.05). The correlation coefficients between the Turkish version of BPII 2.0 and NPI were −0.533 (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The Turkish version of the BPII 2.0 and NPI score is a reliable and valid instrument for Turkish-speaking patients with patellofemoral instability.
Lived experiences of genetic diagnosis for rare disease patients: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Modelhart Antonia , Sturz Dominique , Kremslehner Lydia , Prainsack Barbara
Published: February 2024

Background

Genetic diagnosis is often understood as a single event within the care pathway of rare disease patients. Legal, policy and ethical scholarship focusing on rare diseases and genetic information discusses questions of how to best deal with the process of genetic diagnosis and the communication of genetic information within a given health system. We co-created a research design with rare disease patients and their families in Austria to explore in-depth the experiences of genetic diagnosis for people affected by rare diseases. Our objective was to trace the whole pathway of genetic testing and understand how rare disease patients experience genetic diagnosis as part of their care pathway in the healthcare system.

Results

Data was collected through in-depth semi-structured qualitative interviews with 14 patients with a suspected or diagnosed rare disease or their parents, focusing on their perception of the pathway of genetic diagnosis in Austria. This pathway included the initial triggering of genetic diagnosis, the process of testing and its immediate (communication of results, counselling) and long-term, wider aftermath. Patients missed a clear link to already established forms of care such as their primary care/treating physicians. They also advocate for an integrated and interdisciplinary care pathway.

Conclusions

Our study underscores the importance of a continuous care and communication pathway spanning from the initial genetic diagnosis process to post-test phases. It further shows the importance of exploring patients’ perspectives through qualitative research methods to understand the intricate workings of public health policies and tools. Integrating genetic diagnosis into a broader care trajectory is crucial for a holistic approach to care for rare disease patients who often rely on regular interactions with the healthcare system. Achieving this holistic approach requires collaboration between experts in specific rare disease areas, primary care physicians, and support networks.
EURO-NMD registry: federated FAIR infrastructure, innovative technologies and concepts of a patient-centred registry for rare neuromuscular disorders
Authors: Atalaia Antonio , Wandrei Dagmar , Lalout Nawel , Thompson Rachel , Tassoni Adrian , ’t Hoen Peter A. C. , Athanasiou Dimitrios , Baker Suzie-Ann , Sakellariou Paraskevi , Paliouras Georgios , D’Angelo Carla , Horvath Rita , Mancuso Michelangelo , van der Beek Nadine , Kornblum Cornelia , Kirschner Janbernd , Pareyson Davide , Bassez Guillaume , Blacas Laura , Jacoupy Maxime , Eng Catherine , Lamy François , Plançon Jean-Philippe , Haberlova Jana , Brusse Esther , Hoeijmakers Janneke G. J. , de Visser Marianne , Claeys Kristl G. , Paradas Carmen , Toscano Antonio , Silani Vincenzo , Gyenge Melinda , Reviers Evy , Hamroun Dalil , Vroom Elisabeth , Wilkinson Mark D. , Lochmuller Hanns , Evangelista Teresinha
Published: February 2024

Background

The EURO-NMD Registry collects data from all neuromuscular patients seen at EURO-NMD's expert centres. In-kind contributions from three patient organisations have ensured that the registry is patient-centred, meaningful, and impactful. The consenting process covers other uses, such as research, cohort finding and trial readiness.

Results

The registry has three-layered datasets, with European Commission-mandated data elements (EU-CDEs), a set of cross-neuromuscular data elements (NMD-CDEs) and a dataset of disease-specific data elements that function modularly (DS-DEs). The registry captures clinical, neuromuscular imaging, neuromuscular histopathology, biological and genetic data and patient-reported outcomes in a computer-interpretable format using selected ontologies and classifications. The EURO-NMD registry is connected to the EURO-NMD Registry Hub through an interoperability layer. The Hub provides an entry point to other neuromuscular registries that follow the FAIR data stewardship principles and enable GDPR-compliant information exchange. Four national or disease-specific patient registries are interoperable with the EURO-NMD Registry, allowing for federated analysis across these different resources.

Conclusions

Collectively, the Registry Hub brings together data that are currently siloed and fragmented to improve healthcare and advance research for neuromuscular diseases.
Cai’s prescription inhibits granulosa cell apoptosis through ARHGAP4 on poor ovarian responders
Authors: Wang Zheng , Liu Denghao , Nie Yonghong , Zhang Qinhua
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Poor ovarian response (POR) is a big challenge for in vitro fertilization. The traditional Chinese medicine, Cai’s Prescription of Tonifying Kidney and Strengthening Vitals (Cai’s Prescription) has yielded satisfactory results for POR treatment clinically, but systematic scientific research of Cai’s Prescription is not well reported. This study aimed to investigate the clinical effect of Cai’s Prescription on poor ovarian responders and its biological mechanism.

Methods

Serum was collected from poor ovarian responders, and IL-1β, INFγ, FSH, E2 and AMH levels were analyzed by ELISA. Ovarian antral follicles were identified and counted using transvaginal ultrasound. The embryo quality grading were done on day 3 after retrieval. We used high-throughput sequencing of granulosa cells to investigate the gene transcription patterns of ovarian granulosa cells in poor ovarian responders after Cai’s Prescription pretreatment. The expression level of ARHGAP4 was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR and western blot. The effects of ARHGAP4 for granulosa cells were analyzed by CCK-8 assay, annexin-V and PI staining, ELISA and western blot. The effects of Cai’s Prescription on the expression of PI3K-Akt pathway and apoptosis were analyzed by western blot.

Results

In this study, we found that Cai’s Prescription pretreatment had the tendency to improve the ovarian reserve function and could increase the number of high quality embryos for poor ovarian responders. Through high-throughput sequencing of mRNA in granulosa cells, we discovered ARHGAP4, which is a member of GTPase-activating proteins (GAPs) may be a candidate target for POR treatment. ARHGAP4 was significantly increased in poor ovarian responders and can be recovered after Cai’s Prescription pretreatment. Mechanically, combining the cell line model and clinical tissue samples, we found that ARHGAP4 can accelerate cell apoptosis and inflammation response in granulosa cells via PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. In addition, Cai’s Prescription pretreatment for three months significantly reduced the high level of ARHGAP4 in poor ovarian responders.

Conclusion

This study shows that the traditional Chinese medicine, Cai’s Prescription yielded satisfactory results for poor ovarian responders clinically and ARHGAP4 may be a candidate target for POR treatment.
O-RADS MRI risk stratification system: pearls and pitfalls
Authors: Nougaret Stephanie , Razakamanantsoa Leo , Sadowski Elizabeth A. , Stein Erica B. , Lakhman Yulia , Hindman Nicole M. , Jalaguier-Coudray Aurelie , Rockall Andrea G. , Thomassin-Naggara Isabelle
Published: February 2024

In 2021, the American College of Radiology (ACR) Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O-RADS) MRI Committee developed a risk stratification system and lexicon for assessing adnexal lesions using MRI. Like the BI-RADS classification, O-RADS MRI provides a standardized language for communication between radiologists and clinicians. It is essential for radiologists to be familiar with the O-RADS algorithmic approach to avoid misclassifications. Training, like that offered by International Ovarian Tumor Analysis (IOTA), is essential to ensure accurate and consistent application of the O-RADS MRI system. Tools such as the O-RADS MRI calculator aim to ensure an algorithmic approach. This review highlights the key teaching points, pearls, and pitfalls when using the O-RADS MRI risk stratification system.

Critical relevance statement This article highlights the pearls and pitfalls of using the O-RADS MRI scoring system in clinical practice.

Key points

• Solid tissue is described as displaying post- contrast enhancement.

• Endosalpingeal folds, fimbriated end of the tube, smooth wall, or septa are not solid tissue.

• Low-risk TIC has no shoulder or plateau. An intermediate-risk TIC has a shoulder and plateau, though the shoulder is less steep compared to outer myometrium.

Graphical Abstract
Synthesis and evaluation of nanosystem containing chondroitinase ABCI based on hydroxyapatite
Authors: Afraei Fatemeh , Daneshjou Sara , Dabirmanesh Bahareh
Published: February 2024

The bacterial enzyme chondroitinase ABCI (chABCI), which has been isolated from Proteus Vulgaris, is crucial in the treatment of spinal cord injuries. However, due to its short lifespan, the maintenance and clinical application of this enzyme are very constrained. In this study, the immobilization of this enzyme on hydroxyapatite has been carried out and assessed with the aim of enhancing the characteristics and efficiency of chABCI. Hydroxyapatite particles (HAPs) are a potential candidate for drug-delivery carriers because of their excellent biocompatibility, shape controllability, and high adsorption. The use of the nanometer scale allows efficient access to the enzyme's substrate. It demonstrates important biological application capabilities in this way. Field emission gun-scanning electron microscopy (FEG-SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), in vitro release study, and cytotoxicity test were used to characterize the drug nanosystem's properties. According to the findings, electrostatic bindings was formed between charged groups of the enzyme and hydroxyapatite nanoparticles. The results also demonstrated that immobilized chABCI on hydroxyapatite has beneficial properties, such as more manageable drug release, minimal toxicity and side effects, and a high potential to enhance the efficacy of drug delivery and decrease the need for repeated injections.
Joint data power control and LSFD design in distributed cell-free massive MIMO under non-ideal UE hardware
Authors: Li Ning , Fan Pingzhi
Published: February 2024

This paper investigates distributed cell-free massive multiple-input multiple-output with non-ideal user equipment hardware under spatially correlated channels. By employing the use-and-then-forget technique, a lower capacity bound is derived based on the established generalized UE hardware impairments model. In addition, maximum ratio combining can be used to derive a closed-form expression of the spectral efficiency (SE), which offers novel insights into the impact of non-ideal UE hardware on network performance. Furthermore, a max–min SE fairness problem with UE hardware impairments is established where the optimization variables are data power and large-scale fading decoding (LSFD) vectors. Since this is a non-convex problem, we devise an iterative alternating optimization algorithm based on the bisection search to acquire the globally optimal solution. Numerical results indicate that the recommended joint data power control and LSFD design algorithm provides higher SE for the weakest UE, thus significantly enhancing the total SE of the network.
A systematic review of school-based weight-related interventions in the Gulf Cooperation Council countries
Authors: Banany Mohammed , Kang Melissa , Gebel Klaus , Sibbritt David
Published: February 2024

Background

The prevalence of childhood overweight and obesity has increased at alarming levels in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries (Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar). Weight-related interventions are urgently required in these countries to tackle childhood overweight and obesity and their-related consequences. To date, no systematic review has synthesised school-based weight-related interventions in the six GCC countries. This study aims to systematically review school-based, weight-related interventions conducted in the GCC countries, investigating the intervention characteristics, components, and outcomes.

Methods

Medline, Scopus, and ProQuest databases were searched for peer-reviewed literature published in English without date restriction and Google Scholar for grey literature using combined Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) terms and keywords under five relevant concepts including population, setting, interventions, outcomes, and geographical location. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), records were identified, screened for eligibility, and included in this review. Using the Effective Public Health Practice Project tool, the methodological quality of the included studies was assessed independently by two authors.

Results

Out of 1303 initially identified records, eight peer-reviewed articles and three doctoral theses were included in this review. The age of the students in the included studies ranged between 5 to 19 years, and the sample sizes between 28 and 3,967 students. The studies included between one and thirty public and private schools. Of the included studies, six were randomised controlled trials, four pre-post studies and one used a post-study design. Only four of the eleven studies were theory based. The included studies reported various improvements in the students’ weight or weight-related lifestyle behaviours, such as healthier dietary choices, increased physical activity, and decreased sedentary behaviour.

Conclusions

This review suggests the potential effectiveness of school-based interventions in the GCC countries. However, a thorough evaluation of these studies revealed significant methodological limitations that must be acknowledged in interpreting these results. Future studies in this field should be theory-based and use more rigorous evaluation methods.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020156535.
The impact of crop diversification on food security of farmers in Northern Bangladesh
Authors: Nahar Nazmun , Rahman M. Wakilur , Miah M. A. Monayem , Hasan Md Mahfuzul
Published: February 2024

Background

Crop diversification is the potential for greater dietary diversity, and reduced micronutrient deficiencies and malnutrition. Despite the increasing global concern of improving food security, the nature and extent of food security at the household level in rural areas are not well-documented. This paper determines the factors that influence crop diversification and its association with food security which helps policy maker to take proper steps in norther part of Bangladesh.

Methods

The effect of crop diversification on household food security in northern Bangladesh was measured by adopting the Herfindahl index (HI). Food Consumption Score (FCS) and Household Food Insecurity Access Score (HFIAS) were used to determine the food security status. The binary logistic regression model and multinominal logit model were performed to identify the factors influencing crop diversification and food security, respectively. All these analyses were performed based on 609 household samples collected from six northern districts of Bangladesh.

Results

Descriptive statistics show that the majority of farmers in the study districts reported 12–13 different crops, while only farmers in Bogura mentioned 19 different crops grown in their field. After calculating crop diversification using HI index, it is apparent that about 64% respondents irrespective of region produced different types of crops and around one third of them possessed in the middle categories neither they were fully crop diversified nor non crop-diversified. About 40% households had better Food Consumption Score lead to only 3.28% belonged to below poverty line and rest of the household fall in borderline. The analysis confirm that the crop diversified households were found to be more food secured or marginal food secured then that of less crop diversified households.

Conclusion and policy recommendation

We may infer from the factor analysis that, in line with the government policy to raise significantly the standard of living of the farmers, government should facilitate and encourage farmers to grow several crops rather than just one and provide training opportunities. In addition, food insecure people as well as the low food secure group might overcome their circumstances if the government places greater emphasis on education, training, and off-farm activities by providing financial support.
DeepMPTB: a vaginal microbiome-based deep neural network as artificial intelligence strategy for efficient preterm birth prediction
Authors: Chakoory Oshma , Barra Vincent , Rochette Emmanuelle , Blanchon Loïc , Sapin Vincent , Merlin Etienne , Pons Maguelonne , Gallot Denis , Comtet-Marre Sophie , Peyret Pierre
Published: February 2024

In recent decades, preterm birth (PTB) has become a significant research focus in the healthcare field, as it is a leading cause of neonatal mortality worldwide. Using five independent study cohorts including 1290 vaginal samples from 561 pregnant women who delivered at term (n = 1029) or prematurely (n = 261), we analysed vaginal metagenomics data for precise microbiome structure characterization. Then, a deep neural network (DNN) was trained to predict term birth (TB) and PTB with an accuracy of 84.10% and an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 0.875 ± 0.11. During a benchmarking process, we demonstrated that our DL model outperformed seven currently used machine learning algorithms. Finally, our results indicate that overall diversity of the vaginal microbiota should be taken in account to predict PTB and not specific species. This artificial-intelligence based strategy should be highly helpful for clinicians in predicting preterm birth risk, allowing personalized assistance to address various health issues. DeepMPTB is open source and free for academic use. It is licensed under a GNU Affero General Public License 3.0 and is available at https://deepmptb.streamlit.app/. Source code is available at https://github.com/oschakoory/DeepMPTB and can be easily installed using Docker (https://www.docker.com/).
Seismic observation using distributed acoustic sensing around the Tsugaru Strait at the Japan and Kuril Trenches, northeastern Japan
Authors: Baba Satoru , Araki Eiichiro , Yokobiki Takashi , Kawamata Kei , Uchiyama Keisuke , Yoshizuka Takuji
Published: February 2024

As megathrust earthquakes often have source areas in offshore regions, offshore seismic observations are important. However, the detection capability and resolution of offshore earthquake locations are low owing to the small number of permanent offshore seismic stations. Recently, distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) measurements, which use a fiber-optic cable as a high-density strain rate sensor, have been used for seismic observations. To evaluate the detectability of earthquakes using DAS measurements, locate earthquakes near the cable, and derive the empirical relationship between the magnitude and DAS S-wave strain rate amplitude, we conducted DAS measurements for 4 months using an offshore fiber-optic cable in the Tsugaru Strait, where various types of earthquakes were observed. In this observation, some earthquakes with magnitudes smaller than one or not listed in the earthquake catalog by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) were observed. This suggests a high seismic detection capability for DAS measurements near the cable. We located earthquakes in the Tsugaru Strait by manually picking the arrivals of P- and S-waves. The hypocenters of events near the cable were located near those of the JMA catalog at a kilometer resolution; therefore, DAS data have the potential to locate earthquakes near the cable. In this study, an equation related to the maximum S-wave strain rate amplitude, hypocentral distance, and earthquake magnitude was derived. When the hypocentral distance increased by one order, the amplitude of the S-wave strain rate decreased by approximately 1.8 orders. This attenuation was larger than that derived mainly from inland DAS data in previous studies, which may be due to the difference in scattering or intrinsic attenuation between the inland and offshore regions. Using the derived equation, the magnitude of an earthquake can be estimated using the DAS data. We compared the S-wave amplitudes of the DAS strain rate and the acceleration of the permanent inland stations. The relationship between these two amplitudes is comparable to an apparent S-wave velocity of approximately 1500 m/s in the sediment.

Graphical Abstract
Wheat flour-derived amyloid fibrils for efficient removal of organic dyes from contaminated water
Authors: Yang Dan-Dan , Chang Fu-Xiang , Zhang Bo-Fan , Yong Yang-Chun
Published: February 2024

Amyloid fibrils derived from different proteins have been proved as a promising material for adsorption of various pollutants from wastewater, which showed advantages of low cost and eco-friendliness. However, most of the amyloid fibrils derived from animal-based proteins with high environmental footprint, while more sustainable amyloid fibrils derived from plant materials are desirable. In this study, a plant-derived amyloid fibril was extracted from the commonly used wheat flour with a simple and scalable protein purification and fibrillization process. Interestingly, the amyloid fibrils showed good adsorption capacity towards typical organic dyes (Eosin Y (EY) and Congo red (CR)) from contaminated water. Adsorption kinetic analysis indicated the adsorption process to EY or CR by wheat flour amyloid well fitted with a pseudo-second-order model. The adsorption also followed a Langmuir isothermal model with adsorption capacities of 333 mg/g and 138 mg/g towards CR and EY, respectively. This work demonstrated the feasibility to utilize the plant-based amyloid fibril for organic dyes removal from contaminated water, which provided an affordable, sustainable and scalable tool for organic dyes removal from wastewater.

Graphical Abstract
Spatial monitoring of hydrolysis in a plug-flow bioreactor: a support for flexible operation?
Authors: Menzel Theresa , Neubauer Peter , Junne Stefan
Published: February 2024

Hydrolysis at changing hydraulic retention time, recirculation, bedding straw content in the feed, bioaugmentation and the impact of those changes on gradient formation in the liquid phase in plug-flow reactors (PFRs) was examined. The pH-value, conductivity and oxidation–reduction potential (ORP) were monitored at three spots along the PFRs to study potential correlations to process performance during a total process time of 123 weeks. The on-line monitoring showed good correlations to acidogenesis: namely, the pH and ORP to the acidification, to butyric (and lactic) acid concentration and to the acid yield. The ORP (measured at the inlet) showed the most stable correlation to acidogenesis under dynamic operation, while the conductivity (at the outlet) correlated to the acid concentration in dependence on the feedstock. Multiple measurement spots as used in this study allow to gain more information about acidogenic fermentation than a single spot, simplifying process control and automation attempts with recalcitrant feedstock.

Graphical Abstract
Shallow structure and late quaternary slip rate of the Osaka Bay fault, western Japan
Authors: Hamahashi Mari , Otsuka Hironori , Suzuki Yoshiaki , Arimoto Jun , Matsuno Tetsuo , Seama Nobukazu , Yamamoto Yuzuru , Sugioka Hiroko , Bowden Stephen A. , Shimizu Satoshi , Iwamaru Hikaru , Sano Mamoru , Suzuki Keita , Kaneko Katsuya , Nakahigashi Kazuo , Tatsumi Yoshiyuki
Published: February 2024

The Osaka Bay is situated at a seismically active region north of the Median Tectonic Line and east of Awaji Island in western Japan, known as part of the Kinki Triangle and the Niigata–Kobe Tectonic Zone. Dense distribution of active faults and high geodetic strain rates characterize the region, posing a major seismic hazard potential to the coastal and metropolitan areas of the Kansai region. To investigate the shallow structure and recent deformation history of active faults in the Osaka Bay, we acquired 15 high-resolution seismic profiles using a Mini-GI airgun and a Boomer as active sources, together with multi-beam bathymetry data across the Osaka Bay Fault. Our seismic sections image a ~ 0.1 to 3.7 km-wide asymmetric anticline forelimb above the Osaka Bay Fault at shallow depths, coupled with a ~ 2.6 km-wide syncline to the west, and a broad, ~ 11 km-wide syncline in the footwall to the east. The synclinal axial surface at shallow depths measured in this study ranges 75°–89°. We observe the vertical displacement of the Osaka Bay Fault increasing northwards along strike. The sediment thickness on the hanging wall, however, is variable, modified by non-tectonic processes such as by tidal currents, affecting the geometry of growth strata. The most recent deformation by the Osaka Bay Fault reaches to near the seafloor by active folding, with large vertical offsets of 8–14 m over the last ~ 11 ka, and 5–11 m over the last ~ 5 ka. By combining with previously reported borehole age data, the average uplift rate on the Osaka Bay Fault is estimated to be ~ 1.0 to 1.7 m/ka during the Latest Pleistocene to Holocene. The inferred slip of the Osaka Bay Fault during the Holocene is likely to account for > 5% of the regional geodetic strain accumulation within the Kinki Triangle. Further studies to evaluate the Holocene slip rates of regional faults are necessary to assess the seismic hazards and the internal strain budgets within the Kinki Triangle and the Niigata–Kobe Tectonic Zone.

Graphical abstract
Unveiling why race does not affect the mask effect on attractiveness: but gender and expression do
Authors: Hewer Ellie , Lewis Michael B.
Published: February 2024

Studies show that surgical face masks can have both positive and negative effects on attractiveness. Race has been implicated as a moderator of the size of this mask effect. Here, the moderating effects of expression, race and gender are explored. The mask effect was more positive for males than for females, for neutral faces than for smiling faces, and there were differences between the races. Further, the effect of unmasked attractiveness was partialled out for each image, which removed the race effects, but the gender and expression effects remained. It is suggested that racial differences previously observed in the mask effects are a consequence of differences in attractiveness of the faces sampled from those races. Re-analysis of previous research that showed race effects also demonstrates how they are better explained as attractiveness effects rather than race effects. This explanation can provide order to the different findings observed across the literature.
Distribution of legal retail cannabis stores in Canada by neighbourhood deprivation
Authors: Fataar Fathima , Driezen Pete , Owusu-Bempah Akwasi , Hammond David
Published: February 2024

Objectives

In legal cannabis markets, the distribution of retail stores has the potential to influence transitions from illegal to legal sources as well as consumer patterns of use. The current study examined the distribution of legal cannabis stores in Canada according to level of neighbourhood deprivation.

Methods

Postal code data for all legal cannabis stores in Canada were collected from government websites from October 2018 to September 2021. This data was linked to the Institut National de Santé Publique du Québec measures for material and social neighbourhood deprivation. Descriptive data are reported, including differences across provinces with different retail systems.

Results

At the national level, there were approximately 8.0 retail cannabis stores per 100,000 individuals age 15+ in September 2021. The distribution of stores was closely aligned with the expected distribution across levels of material deprivation: for example, 19.5% of stores were located in neighbourhoods with the lowest level of material deprivation versus 19.1% in the highest level. More cannabis stores were located in the ‘most socially deprived’ or ‘socially deprived’ neighbourhoods (37.2% and 22.1%, respectively), characterized by a higher proportion of residents who live alone, are unmarried, or in single-parent families. The distribution of stores in provinces and territories were generally consistent with national patterns with a few exceptions.

Conclusion

In the first 3 years following cannabis legalization in Canada, retail cannabis stores were evenly distributed across materially deprived neighbourhoods but were more common in socially deprived neighbourhoods. Future monitoring of retail store locations is required as the legal retail market evolves in Canada.
Acoustic change complex findings in mild and moderate sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Hamdy Mona , El Shennawy Amira , Hosny Noha , Ezz Elregal Aya Salah , Hamdy Hussein Sherif
Published: February 2024

Background

Auditory electrophysiological tests of the cortex, which are processed in or close to the auditory cortex, are brain reactions to sound. A variation in a continuous stimulus causes the acoustic change complex potential (ACC), which is a wave following the P1-N1-P2 response.

Objective

To measure the amplitude and latency of different components of ACC in normal subjects and across individuals with mild and moderate degrees of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL).

Patients and methods

The study includes 100 individuals with the age ranged from 10 to 50 years with different degrees of SNHL. The ACC was evoked by a change of second formant in the middle of ongoing steady-state synthetic, 3 formant vowels (ooee). The total duration was 500 ms. Changing occurred at 250 ms.

Results

The SNHL subgroups showed statistically significantly longer P1 and N1 latencies. N1 and P2 amplitudes of ACC onset response were larger with a statistical significance as compared to controls. Post hoc analysis revealed no statistically significant difference between mild and moderate SNHL on ACC parameters. Age showed a significant negative correlation with ACC N1 and P2 latency, ACC P1 and N1 amplitude, and onset P2 latency. Onset response P1 latency was significantly higher in children than adults. Median ACC P1 amplitude significantly increased in children than adults.

Conclusion

ACC is a reliable tool for testing the auditory cortex function of detecting difference in sounds presented that can be recorded readily in patients with mild and moderate SNHL.
Predicting the compressive strength of ultra-high-performance concrete using a decision tree machine learning model enhanced by the integration of two optimization meta-heuristic algorithms
Authors: Zhou Runmiao , Tang Yuzhe , Li Hongmei , Liu Zhenni
Published: February 2024

The compressive strength (CS) of ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) hinges upon the distinct properties, quantities, and types of its constituent materials. To empirically decipher this intricate relationship, employing machine learning (ML) algorithms becomes indispensable. Among these, the decision tree (DT) stands out, adept at constructing a predictive model aligned with experimental datasets. Notably, these models demonstrate commendable accuracy, effectively paralleling experimental findings as a testament to DT’s efficacy in UHPC prediction based on input parameters. To elevate predictive precision, this study integrates two meta-heuristic algorithms: the Sea-horse Optimizer (SHO) and the Crystal Structure Algorithm (CryStAl). This integration spawns three hybrid models: DTSH, DTCS, and DT. Particularly, the DTSH model shines with remarkable R2 values, registering an impressive 0.997, coupled with an optimal RMSE of 1.746 during the training phase. This underlines the model’s unmatched predictive and generalization capabilities, setting it apart from other models cultivated in this research. In essence, the fusion of empirical experimentation, advanced ML via DT, and the strategic infusion of SHO and CryStAl, culminates in the ascension of predictive prowess within the realm of UHPC compressive strength projection.
Restoration of postictal cortical activity after electroconvulsive therapy relates to recovery of orientation in person, place, and time
Authors: Stuiver Sven , Pottkämper Julia C.M. , Verdijk Joey P.A.J. , ten Doesschate Freek , van Putten Michel J.A.M. , Hofmeijer Jeannette , van Waarde Jeroen A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Most patients show temporary impairments in clinical orientation after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)-induced seizures. It is unclear how postictal reorientation relates to electroencephalography (EEG) restoration. This relationship may provide additional measures to quantify postictal recovery and shed light on neurophysiological aspects of reorientation after ECT.

Methods

We analyzed prospectively collected clinical and continuous ictal and postictal EEG data from ECT patients. Postictal EEG restoration up to 1 h was estimated by the evolution of the normalized alpha–delta ratio (ADR). Times to reorientation in the cognitive domains of person, place, and time were assessed postictally. In each cognitive domain, a linear mixed model was fitted to investigate the relationships between time to reorientation and postictal EEG restoration.

Results

In total, 272 pairs of ictal-postictal EEG and reorientation times of 32 patients were included. In all domains, longer time to reorientation was associated with slower postictal EEG recovery. Longer seizure duration and postictal administration of midazolam were related to longer time to reorientation in all domains. At 1-hour post-seizure, most patients were clinically reoriented, while their EEG had only partly restored.

Conclusions

We show a relationship between postictal EEG restoration and clinical reorientation after ECT-induced seizures. EEG was more sensitive than reorientation time in all domains to detect postictal recovery beyond 1-hour post-seizure. Our findings indicate that clinical reorientation probably depends on gradual cortical synaptic recovery, with longer seizure duration leading to longer postsynaptic suppression after ECT seizures.
Effects of psychedelic microdosing versus conventional ADHD medication use on emotion regulation, empathy, and ADHD symptoms in adults with severe ADHD symptoms: A naturalistic prospective comparison study
Authors: Haijen Eline C.H.M. , Hurks Petra P.M. , Kuypers Kim P.C.
Published: February 2024

Adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often struggle with emotion regulation (ER), impacting their empathic skills and relationships. ADHD medication might not be as effective for ER issues as for ADHD symptoms. Microdosing (MD) psychedelics has shown promise for ADHD treatment and previous studies reported social-emotional benefits. Two online prospective studies investigated MD effects on ER and empathy in adults with severe ADHD symptoms across three assessments: baseline, two-, and four-week post-initiation. Study 1 examined adults initiating MD on their own (n = 233, n = 64, and n = 44) and found positive effects on ER (cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression) and aspects of empathy (perspective-taking and personal distress). Study 2, including a control group and an ADHD symptom scale, compared individuals only MD (n = 180, n = 50, and n = 38) to individuals using conventional ADHD medication (n = 37, n = 27, and n = 28). After 4 weeks, ADHD symptoms were lower in the MD group. Only improvements in expressive suppression persisted after adding the control group. This study indicates the positive effects of MD psychedelics on ADHD symptoms and ER in adults with severe ADHD symptoms while lacking evidence for effects on empathy.
Improving Time to Antibiotic Administration for Pediatric Oncology Patients With New-Onset Fever
Authors: Smith Wesley T. , Read Jay , Agarwal Shreya , Tian Gengwen , Anum Shaniqua J. , Choe Michelle , Kurtz Kristen , Tlais Dana , Shen Xiaofan , Sarro Jill , Looney Thomas , Porea Timothy , Sauer Hannah , Brackett Julienne , Okcu M. Fatih , Chintagumpala Murali
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

Time to antibiotic administration (TTA) in <60 minutes for children with neutropenic fever presenting to an emergency room is associated with reduced incidence of sepsis and intensive care admission. As such, TTA is used as a national quality metric for pediatric oncology patients. At our center, in 2020, 19% of the hospitalized patients with a new fever encounter were receiving antibiotics in <60 minutes, prompting a multidisciplinary approach to reach a goal of >90% in all pediatric patients with cancer with a new fever.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary team completed four Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles between March 2021 and September 2023. We implemented education initiatives, an updated handoff smartphrase guiding the on-call team, an antibiotic champion (AC) nursing role, a revised fever plan for handoff, a rapid-response team to address new fevers, and an algorithm for blood culture collection. Data were collected, analyzed, and reported biweekly with feedback sought for delays in TTA.

RESULTS

There was a total of 639 new fevers in 329 unique oncology patients. As of September 4, 2023, average TTA decreased from 89 minutes at baseline to 46.4 minutes for more than 12 months. The percentage of patients receiving first dose of antibiotic in <60 minutes also increased from 19% to 93.7%, which was sustained as well. The most effective interventions were creation of the AC role and streamlining the blood culture collection process.

CONCLUSION

This project demonstrates the importance of multidisciplinary involvement for providing optimal care. Specific implementation of targeted education, an AC role, and development of an algorithm streamlining the processes led to meaningful targeted improvements. Further analyses will explore the impact of these interventions on patient outcomes.
Thank You for Being Here: Insights From Rural Oncology Practice
Authors: Swenson Wade T.
Published: February 2024

Rural oncologist reflects on 20 years of providing vital cancer care in underserved areas.
Activity of Tepotinib in Hepatocellular Carcinoma With High-Level MET Amplification: Preclinical and Clinical Evidence
Authors: Qin Shukui , Pan Hongming , Blanc Jean Frédéric , Grando Véronique , Lim Ho Yeong , Chang Xin Ying , O'Brate Aurora , Stroh Christopher , Friese-Hamim Manja , Albers Joachim , Johne Andreas , Faivre Sandrine
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

MET amplification ( METamp) has been reported in 1%-5% of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and may be sensitive to MET inhibition. Tepotinib, a selective MET inhibitor, has shown promising activity in HCC with MET overexpression. We investigated the preclinical and clinical activity of tepotinib in HCC with METamp ( MET gene copy number [GCN] ≥5), including high-level METamp ( MET GCN ≥10).

METHODS

Preclinical antitumor activity of tepotinib 100 mg/kg (orally, days 1-5, every 7 days, 3-5 weeks; 3-12 replicates) was evaluated according to METamp status, as determined using the nCounter platform (NanoString), in 37 HCC patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) in immunodeficient mice. Clinical outcomes were evaluated in patients with METamp by fluorescence in situ hybridization who received tepotinib 500 mg (450 mg active moiety) in two phase Ib/II trials in HCC with MET overexpression.

RESULTS

Across the PDX models, tepotinib induced complete or near-complete tumor regression in the only two models with high-level METamp. Median tumor volume reductions were 100% and 99.8% in models with MET GCN 47.1 and 44.0, respectively. Across the two clinical trials, 15/121 patients had METamp. Disease control was achieved by 11/15 patients with METamp (complete response [CR], n = 1; partial response [PR], n = 4; stable disease [SD], n = 6) and 4/4 with high-level METamp (CR, n = 1; PR, n = 2; SD, n = 1). All three patients with high-level METamp and objective response received treatment for >1 year, including one patient who received first-line tepotinib for >6 years.

CONCLUSION

High-level METamp may be an oncogenic driver in HCC that is sensitive to MET inhibitors such as tepotinib.
Phase II Clinical Trial of Trametinib and Low-Dose Dabrafenib in Advanced, Previously Treated BRAFV600/NRASQ61 Wild-Type Melanoma (TraMel-WT)
Authors: Awada Gil , Dirven Iris , Schwarze Julia Katharina , Tijtgat Jens , Fasolino Giuseppe , Kockx Mark , Neyns Bart
Published: February 2024

PURPOSE

Patients with BRAF V600/ NRAS Q61 wild-type melanoma who progress after immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have a poor prognosis. MEK inhibition has shown activity in this patient population but is associated with treatment-limiting skin toxicity. Combining a BRAF inhibitor with a MEK inhibitor is associated with less skin toxicity.

METHODS

This phase II trial investigated trametinib (2 mg once daily) in patients with advanced BRAF V600/ NRAS Q61 wild-type, ICI-refractory melanoma. In case of treatment-limiting skin toxicity, low-dose dabrafenib (50 mg twice daily) was added to trametinib. After a trial amendment, both drugs were combined up-front. The confirmed objective response rate (cORR) served as the primary end point.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients were included (50% male; median age 57 years; 92% Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Performance Status 0-2; 75% stage IV-M1c/stage IV-M1d; median number of prior therapies: two [range, 1-5]). Three patients were enrolled before and 21 patients after the amendment, respectively. Seven confirmed and one unconfirmed partial responses (PRs) were observed (cORR, 29.2%). The median duration of response was 16.6 weeks (95% CI, 5.5 to 27.7). Stable disease (SD) was the best response in an additional five patients. Among the responding patients, genetic alterations causing mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway activation were documented in six patients. The disease control rate in patients with MAPK pathway–activating alterations was 64.3% (five confirmed PR, one unconfirmed PR, and three SD). The median progression-free survival was 13.3 weeks (95% CI, 3.5 to 23.1), and the median overall survival was 54.3 weeks (95% CI, 37.9 to 70.6). Adding low-dose dabrafenib to trametinib effectively mitigated or prevented treatment-limiting trametinib-related skin toxicity.

CONCLUSION

The combination of trametinib plus low-dose dabrafenib demonstrated encouraging efficacy and effective mitigation of skin toxicity in patients with advanced, ICI-pretreated BRAF V600/ NRAS Q61 wild-type melanoma patients. MAPK pathway–activating alterations hold promise as a predictive biomarker.
Conventional HDL Subclass Measurements Mask Thyroid Hormone-dependent Remodeling Activity Sites in Hypothyroid Individuals
Authors: Bagdade John D , McCurdy Carrie E
Published: February 2024

Context

Earlier nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) studies of plasma lipoproteins estimated by size as small, medium, and large particles, demonstrated hypothyroidism was associated with increases in very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and intermediate-density lipoprotein (IDL) subclass particle number but variable changes in the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) subclasses. These disparate changes in HDL might be explained by reduced activity of the thyroid hormone-dependent remodeling proteins whose subclass specificity may be obscured when the 5 HDL subclasses identified by NMR are combined by size.

Objective

This work aimed to determine whether directional changes in particle number of individually measured HDL subclasses correlate with reduced activity of their thyroid hormone–dependent remodeling proteins in hypothyroid individuals.

Methods

VLDL, LDL, IDL, and HDL subclasses were measured by NMR in 13 thyroidectomized individuals 1 month following thyroid hormone withdrawal and 3 months after replacement. Changes in particle numbers in each subclass were compared when expressed individually and by size.

Results

Following thyroid hormone withdrawal, plasma lipids and VLDL, LDL, and IDL subclass particle number increased. HDL particle number nearly doubled in very small HDL-1 (P = .04), declined in small HDL-2 (P = .02), and increased 2-fold in HDL-5 (P = .0009).

Conclusion

The increment in HDL-1 and decline in HDL-2 subclasses is consistent with their precursor-product relationship and reduced lecithin cholesterol acyltransferase activity while the almost 2-fold increase in large HDL-5 is indicative of diminished action of hepatic lipase, phospholipid transfer protein, and endothelial lipase. These findings are inapparent when the 5 subclasses are expressed conventionally by size. This linking of specific HDL subclasses with HDL remodeling protein function provides new details about the specificity of their interactions.