Prevalence of dermatitis including allergic contact dermatitis from medical devices used by children and adults with Type 1 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and questionnaire study

Use of medical devices (MDs), that is, glucose sensors and insulin pumps, in patients with Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) has proven an enormous advantage for disease control. Adverse skin reactions from these MDs may however hamper compliance. The objective of this study was to systematically review and analyse studies assessing the prevalence and incidence of dermatitis, including allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) related to MDs used in patients with T1D and to compare referral routes and the clinical investigation routines between clinics being part of the European Environmental and Contact Dermatitis Research Group (EECDRG). A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and Cochrane databases of full-text studies reporting incidence and prevalence of dermatitis in persons with T1D using MDs was conducted until December 2021. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess study quality. The inventory performed at EECRDG clinics focused on referral routes, patient numbers and the diagnostic process. Among the 3145 screened abstracts, 39 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Sixteen studies included data on children only, 14 studies were on adults and nine studies reported data on both children and adults. Participants were exposed to a broad range of devices. Skin reactions were rarely specified. It was found that both the diagnostic process and referral routes differ in different centres. Further data on the prevalence of skin reactions related to MDs in individuals with T1D is needed and particularly studies where the skin reactions are correctly diagnosed. A correct diagnosis is delayed or hampered by the fact that, at present, the actual substances within the MDs are not declared, are changed without notice and the commercially available test materials are not adequately updated. Within Europe, routines for referral should be made more standardized to improve the diagnostic procedure when investigating patients with possible ACD from MDs.

The first patients treated with MR-CBCT soft-tissue matching in a MR-only prostate radiotherapy pathway

INTRODUCTION

Magnetic Resonance (MR)-only radiotherapy for prostate cancer has previously been reported using fiducial markers for on-treatment verification. MR-Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) soft-tissue matching does not require invasive fiducial markers and enables MR-only treatments to other pelvic cancers. This study evaluated the first clinical implementation of MR-only prostate radiotherapy using MR-CBCT soft-tissue matching.

METHODS

Twenty prostate patients were treated with MR-only radiotherapy using a synthetic (s)CT-optimised plan with MR-CBCT soft-tissue matching. Two MR sequences were acquired: small Field Of View (FOV) for target delineation and large FOV for organs at risk delineation, sCT generation and on-treatment verification. Patients also received a CT for validation. The prostate was independently contoured on the small FOV MR, copied to the registered CT and modified if there were MR-CT soft-tissue alignment differences (MR-CT volume). This was compared to the MR-only volume with a paired t-test. The treatment plan was recalculated on CT and the doses compared. Independent offline CT-CBCT matches for 5/20 fractions were performed by three therapeutic radiographers using the MR-only contours and compared to the online MR-CBCT matches using two one-sided paired t-tests for equivalence within ±1 mm.

RESULTS

The MR-only volumes were significantly smaller than MR-CT (p = 0.003), with a volume ratio 0.92 ± 0.02 (mean ± standard error). The sCT isocentre dose difference to CT was 0.2 ± 0.1%. MR-CBCT soft-tissue matching was equivalent to CT-CBCT (p < 0.001), with differences of 0.1 ± 0.2 mm (vertical), -0.1 ± 0.2 mm (longitudinal) and 0.0 ± 0.1 mm (lateral).

CONCLUSIONS

MR-only radiotherapy with soft-tissue matching has been successfully clinically implemented. It produced significantly smaller target volumes with high dosimetric and on-treatment matching accuracy.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

MR-only prostate radiotherapy can be safely delivered without using invasive fiducial markers. This enables MR-only radiotherapy to be extended to other pelvic cancers where fiducial markers cannot be used.

fMRI BOLD and MEG theta power reflect complementary aspects of activity during lexicosemantic decision in adolescents with ASD

Neuroimaging studies of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been predominantly unimodal. While many fMRI studies have reported atypical activity patterns for diverse tasks, the MEG literature in ASD remains comparatively small. Our group recently reported atypically increased event-related theta power in individuals with ASD during lexicosemantic processing. The current multimodal study examined the relationship between fMRI BOLD signal and anatomically-constrained MEG (aMEG) theta power. Thirty-three adolescents with ASD and 23 typically developing (TD) peers took part in both fMRI and MEG scans, during which they distinguished between standard words (SW), animal words (AW), and pseudowords (PW). Regions-of-interest (ROIs) were derived based on task effects detected in BOLD signal and aMEG theta power. BOLD signal and theta power were extracted for each ROI and word condition. Compared to TD participants, increased theta power in the ASD group was found across several time windows and regions including left fusiform and inferior frontal, as well as right angular and anterior cingulate gyri, whereas BOLD signal was significantly increased in the ASD group only in right anterior cingulate gyrus. No significant correlations were observed between BOLD signal and theta power. Findings suggest that the common interpretation of increases in BOLD signal and theta power as 'activation' require careful differentiation, as these reflect largely distinct aspects of regional brain activity. Some group differences in dynamic neural processing detected with aMEG that are likely relevant for lexical processing may be obscured by the hemodynamic signal source and low temporal resolution of fMRI.

A Microcosm of Tobacco Research: An American Indian Northern Plains Review

Objectives: Despite decades of continued commercial tobacco prevention and control efforts, smoking rates in Northern Plains American Indian (AI) communities within the United States continues to be remarkably high. We sought to take a microcosmic view of AI tobacco research in the Northern Plains region to identify the types of tobacco-related research that has been completed, and to critically examine whether the four areas of community importance outlined as best practice for tobacco programming in AI communities has been represented in the literature to date. Design: A systematic search of multiple databases was executed utilizing an established scoping review framework that was adapted to fit within an Indigenous worldview. A consequent title and abstract review of tobacco-related research published with AI Northern Plains communities was completed. Structured deductive content analysis was carried out on each article utilizing a matrix of analysis developed from existing literature on best practices in AI communities. Results: Of the 916 published studies identified, 50 met the inclusion criteria and were represented within five identified categorical themes: (1) commercial tobacco smoking as a risk factor, (2) commercial tobacco-related disease outcomes, (3) tobacco policy, (4) commercial tobacco smoking cessation, and (5) cultural or traditional tobacco use. The matrix analysis identified substantial variation in the number of studies carried out with community-identified best practices in place, including 22 of the 50 (44%) articles containing one or none of the four areas of importance noted as best practice. Conclusions: We identified a substantial lack of community and culturally informed tobacco-related research being carried out in the Northern Plains region. Community-based and culturally grounded efforts that consider colonization, historical trauma, and ACEs when planning research, funding mechanism, and health programming activities in the region are urgently needed to decrease commercial tobacco use and consequent health disparities.

P-564 Advanced paternal age is associated with higher rate of segmental chromosomal aberrations in preimplantation embryos

Study question

Is there a correlation between paternal age and the frequency of chromosomal aberrations in embryos created by in vitro fertilization (IVF)?

Summary answer

There is an association between paternal age and segmental aberration rates in embryos derived from young oocyte providers after adjusting for age,sperm,and IVF-cycle characteristics.

What is known already

Paternal reproductive aging(APA) is less understood than maternal reproductive aging(AMA). Embryo aneuploidy presents one of the most important determinants of transfer cycle success. The association of AMA with increased rate of aneuploidy is well established. The systematic review and meta-analysis published by our group did not identify an association of APA with aneuploidy, based on ∼10,000 pooled embryos, however, the power to detect subchromosomal aberrations was limited by the sensitivity of the PGT-A platform used by each center. Our aim was to study the impact of APA on chromosomal aberrations in a large sample size analyzed by high resolution PGT-A.

Study design, size, duration

This was a retrospective cohort study performed at the CReATe Fertility Centre Genetics Laboratory, Toronto, Canada, between January 2019-December 2021. A total of 17731 blastocysts from 3506 cycles (2502 patients) were analyzed using high resolution NGS PGT-A (10Mb resolution; 30%-70% reported as mosaicism). Clinical, laboratory and demographic data were obtained for statistical analysis.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Embryos were allocated into two groups by oocyte-provider age: ≤33years and ≥34years. Each group was divided into four sub-groups by paternal age: Group A 20-29(n = 484); GroupB 30-39(n = 9704); GroupC 40-49(n = 6341); GroupD≥50(n = 1202). Multiple logistic/ordinal regressions were conducted to evaluate euploidy, mosaicism and aneuploidy rates between age groups, as appropriate. Each was further sub-analyzed by type of abnormality A-single-whole-chromosome, S-segmental, C-complex (≥2 full-chr-aberrations). Segmental aberrations were divided into subgroups of S + (segmental gain), S-(segmental loss) and CS(complex segmental).

Main results and the role of chance

High resolution NGS PGT-A analysis of 17731 embryos showed 54.9% were euploid, 31.5% were aneuploid and 13.6% mosaic. In the oocyte provider’s age of ≤ 33 group, significant differences between paternal age group A vs. B, C and D were found in euploidy rates (68.8%, 62.5%, 61.7%, 59.0% respectively; p = 0.00559). There were no significant differences in aneuploidy rates (19.1%, 22.7%, 22.5%, 24.6% respectively; p = 0.07184) or mosaicism rates (12.1%, 14.8%, 15.8%, 16.3%; respectively, p = 0.23754).

In the oocyte provider’s age of ≥ 34 group, decreasing euploidy rates and increasing aneuploidy rates were observed between all paternal age groups (p = 0.00001 and p &lt; 0.00001,respectively), and no significant differences in mosaicism rates (14%, 12%, 10.2%, 11.6% respectively) reflecting the maternal age effect on euploidy/aneuploidy. In the oocyte provider’s age of ≤ 33 group, paternal group A (2.3%) had significantly lower segmental (S) rates compared to groups B (4.3%, p = 0.027599), C (3.3%, p = 0.039924) and D (4.6%, p = 0.018478). In addition, segmental losses (S-) were lower in group A (1.3%) compared to groups B (3.4%, p = 0.020431), C (3.1%, p = 0.043166) and D (3.7%, p = 0.016385).

Limitations, reasons for caution

The main limitation was the retrospective nature of this study; however, multiple regression analyses were conducted to limit potential bias by adjusting for sperm and oocyte characteristics. In addition, PGT-A analysis cannot provide information on origin of the aneuploidy and all conclusions are deduced from indirect associations to paternal age.

Wider implications of the findings

The results of this study provide important information to assist fertility practitioners when providing pre-conception counseling to patients, particularly for couples in which the male partner belongs to an older age group.

Trial registration number

na

O-076 Genomic and morphokinetic blueprint of mosaic embryos is evidence supporting their distinct clinical category

Study question

Is there a correlation between blastocyst mosaicism, morphokinetic and morphologic characteristics and can it inform the clinical outcome of mosaic embryo transfers?

Summary answer

Mosaic (diploid/aneuploid) embryos have a distinct genetic, morphokinetic and morphologic signature that distinguishes them from euploid and abnormal embryos and supports their unique clinical identity.

What is known already

Advances in technologies for preimplantation aneuploidy testing (PGT-A) as the ultimate test for embryo selection has increased the resolution and sensitivity to detect intermediate chromosomal copy number as low as 20%. This has brought to light a biological phenomenon that has created clinical dilemma. Current recommendations support mosaic embryo transfer but with conflicting standpoints ranging from complete dismissal of mosaic embryos to arguing their existence. Time-lapse imaging technologies allow collection of morphokinetic data as a non-invasive assessment tool for embryo development. The aim of this study was to correlate genomic and morphokinetic data with clinical outcomes of mosaic embryos.

Study design, size, duration

This is a retrospective cohort study that took place in a single academic IVF centre, where we analysed the results from high resolution PGT-A, morphokinetic, morphologic and cell division features of 4113 embryos cultured in the time lapse imaging incubator (Embryoscope™) from 2016-2021. Associated patient data and transfer outcome of 770 euploid and 147 mosaic embryo transfers were analyzed.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

High resolution NGS PGT-A was performed using the Illumina platform and BluGnome and NxClinical for data analysis. Clinically relevant findings were aberrations &gt;10Mb and mosaicism from 25%-75%. Time-lapse imaging was performed with an Embryoscope™. Comparison of clinical, morphological, morphokinetic characteristics of euploid, aneuploid, low-level mosaic (25%-&lt;50% aneuploid cells in trophectoderm biopsy), and high-level mosaics (50% -75%) was done with R-statistical package, Mathlab and SSPS software were used, and p &lt; 0.05 with CI 95% was considered significant.

Main results and the role of chance

Aneuploidy was detected in 26.2%, euploidy in 56.7% and diploid-aneuploid mosaicism in 17.1% of embryos included in this study. Compared with euploid embryos, mosaic embryos had significant delays in t2 (27.04±0.35vs.26.4±0.17 h-post-ICSI(hpi), p = 0.0029), which was not correlated with transfer outcome. Embryos with whole chromosome mosaicism (WCM) had longer t2 compared to those with segmental chromosome mosaicism (SCM) (27.29±0.59vs.26.4±0.3hpi,p=0.013). The time to first mitosis was also longer for mosaic vs. euploid embryos (4.57± 0.59vs.3.4±0.25hpi,p=0.000056) and for mosaic embryos with WCM vs SCM embryos (4.64± 0.9 vs 3.5 ±0.5hpi,p=0.04). Mosaic embryos had longer tB &tSB than euploid embryos (110.12±0.69vs.109.13hpi±0.4,p=0.01). Embryos with WCM had longer tB &tSB than those with SCM (111.07±1.09vs.108.7±0.8hpi,p=0.0006). Time to blast was longer for mosaic vs euploid embryos (13.69±0.52vs.12.7±0.4hpi,p=0.0035) and for mosaic WCM vs. SCM embryos (14.3±0.7vs.12.8±0.5hpi,p=0.00084).

Both euploid and mosaic embryos that implanted had shorter time to tB&tSB than mosaic embryos that didn’t (p = 0.029; p = 0.007 and p = 0.002; p = 0.006 and p = 0.029 respectively); and mosaic embryos that implanted had shorter time to first mitosis than euploid embryos that didn’t (p = 0.00228).

High level mosaic embryos had significantly more multinucleation at 2-cell stage (MN2) vs. euploid (p = 0.04,OD1.58-95%CI[1.01-2.45]),aneuploid (p = 0.02,OD1.7-95%CI[1.08-2.8]), as well as MN at 4-cell stage (euploid-p=0.0007,OD2.6-95CI1.4-4.7] and aneuploid-p=0.039,OD1.8-95CI1.02-3.4]).

Limitations, reasons for caution

Although this is the largest study to date that evaluated genomic, morphokinetic and outcome data of mosaic transfers, the numbers are still low to analyze the impact of specific chromosomal aberrations on morphokinetics and pregnancy outcome. The retrospective nature and cohort design limited the generalizability of our results.

Wider implications of the findings

Mosaic embryos have significant developmental potential and result in birth of healthy babies. Our study reveals the genomic interconnection of genomic and morphokinetic features of mosaic embryos and provides further evidence that mosaic embryos are a distinct category that requires specific clinical attention.

Trial registration number

Not applicable

Study of the doubly charmed tetraquark [Formula: see text]

Quantum chromodynamics, the theory of the strong force, describes interactions of coloured quarks and gluons and the formation of hadronic matter. Conventional hadronic matter consists of baryons and mesons made of three quarks and quark-antiquark pairs, respectively. Particles with an alternative quark content are known as exotic states. Here a study is reported of an exotic narrow state in the D0D0π+ mass spectrum just below the D*+D0 mass threshold produced in proton-proton collisions collected with the LHCb detector at the Large Hadron Collider. The state is consistent with the ground isoscalar [Formula: see text] tetraquark with a quark content of [Formula: see text] and spin-parity quantum numbers JP = 1+. Study of the DD mass spectra disfavours interpretation of the resonance as the isovector state. The decay structure via intermediate off-shell D*+ mesons is consistent with the observed D0π+ mass distribution. To analyse the mass of the resonance and its coupling to the D*D system, a dedicated model is developed under the assumption of an isoscalar axial-vector [Formula: see text] state decaying to the D*D channel. Using this model, resonance parameters including the pole position, scattering length, effective range and compositeness are determined to reveal important information about the nature of the [Formula: see text] state. In addition, an unexpected dependence of the production rate on track multiplicity is observed.

Angular Analysis of D^{0}→π^{+}π^{-}μ^{+}μ^{-} and D^{0}→K^{+}K^{-}μ^{+}μ^{-} Decays and Search for CP Violation

The first full angular analysis and an updated measurement of the decay-rate CP asymmetry of the D^{0}→π^{+}π^{-}μ^{+}μ^{-} and D^{0}→K^{+}K^{-}μ^{+}μ^{-} decays are reported. The analysis uses proton-proton collision data collected with the LHCb detector at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV. The dataset corresponds to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. The full set of CP -averaged angular observables and their CP asymmetries are measured as a function of the dimuon invariant mass. The results are consistent with expectations from the standard model and with CP symmetry.

Tests of Lepton Universality Using B^{0}→K_{S}^{0}ℓ^{+}ℓ^{-} and B^{+}→K^{*+}ℓ^{+}ℓ^{-} Decays

Tests of lepton universality in B^{0}→K_{S}^{0}ℓ^{+}ℓ^{-} and B^{+}→K^{*+}ℓ^{+}ℓ^{-} decays where ℓ is either an electron or a muon are presented. The differential branching fractions of B^{0}→K_{S}^{0}e^{+}e^{-} and B^{+}→K^{*+}e^{+}e^{-} decays are measured in intervals of the dilepton invariant mass squared. The measurements are performed using proton-proton collision data recorded by the LHCb experiment, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1} . The results are consistent with the standard model and previous tests of lepton universality in related decay modes. The first observation of B^{0}→K_{S}^{0}e^{+}e^{-} and B^{+}→K^{*+}e^{+}e^{-} decays is reported.

Observation of Two New Excited Ξ_{b}^{0} States Decaying to Λ_{b}^{0}K^{-}π^{+}

Two narrow resonant states are observed in the Λ_{b}^{0}K^{-}π^{+} mass spectrum using a data sample of proton-proton collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV, collected by the LHCb experiment and corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 6  fb^{-1}. The minimal quark content of the Λ_{b}^{0}K^{-}π^{+} system indicates that these are excited Ξ_{b}^{0} baryons. The masses of the Ξ_{b}(6327)^{0} and Ξ_{b}(6333)^{0} states are m[Ξ_{b}(6327)^{0}]=6327.28_{-0.21}^{+0.23}±0.12±0.24 and m[Ξ_{b}(6333)^{0}]=6332.69_{-0.18}^{+0.17}±0.03±0.22  MeV, respectively, with a mass splitting of Δm=5.41_{-0.27}^{+0.26}±0.12  MeV, where the uncertainties are statistical, systematic, and due to the Λ_{b}^{0} mass measurement. The measured natural widths of these states are consistent with zero, with upper limits of Γ[Ξ_{b}(6327)^{0}]<2.20(2.56) and Γ[Ξ_{b}(6333)^{0}]<1.60(1.92)  MeV at a 90% (95%) credibility level. The significance of the two-peak hypothesis is larger than nine (five) Gaussian standard deviations compared to the no-peak (one-peak) hypothesis. The masses, widths, and resonant structure of the new states are in good agreement with the expectations for a doublet of 1D Ξ_{b}^{0} resonances.

Measurement of the Nuclear Modification Factor and Prompt Charged Particle Production in p-Pb and pp Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=5 TeV

The production of prompt charged particles in proton-lead collisions and in proton-proton collisions at the nucleon-nucleon center-of-mass energy sqrt[s_{NN}]=5  TeV is studied at LHCb as a function of pseudorapidity (η) and transverse momentum (p_{T}) with respect to the proton beam direction. The nuclear modification factor for charged particles is determined as a function of η between -4.8<η<-2.5 (backward region) and 2.0<η<4.8 (forward region), and p_{T} between 0.2<p_{T}<8.0  GeV/c. The results show a suppression of charged particle production in proton-lead collisions relative to proton-proton collisions in the forward region and an enhancement in the backward region for p_{T} larger than 1.5  GeV/c. This measurement constrains nuclear PDFs and saturation models at previously unexplored values of the parton momentum fraction down to 10^{-6}.

Study of Z Bosons Produced in Association with Charm in the Forward Region

Events containing a Z boson and a charm jet are studied for the first time in the forward region of proton-proton collisions. The data sample used corresponds to an integrated luminosity of 6  fb^{-1} collected at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV with the LHCb detector. In events with a Z boson and a jet, the fraction of charm jets is determined in intervals of Z-boson rapidity in the range 2.0<y(Z)<4.5. A sizable enhancement is observed in the forwardmost y(Z) interval, which could be indicative of a valencelike intrinsic-charm component in the proton wave function.

Evidence for a New Structure in the J/ψp and J/ψp[over ¯] Systems in B_{s}^{0}→J/ψpp[over ¯] Decays

An amplitude analysis of flavor-untagged B_{s}^{0}→J/ψpp[over ¯] decays is performed using a sample of 797±31 decays reconstructed with the LHCb detector. The data, collected in proton-proton collisions between 2011 and 2018, correspond to an integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. Evidence for a new structure in the J/ψp and J/ψp[over ¯] systems with a mass of 4337_{-4}^{+7} _{-2}^{+2}  MeV and a width of 29_{-12}^{+26} _{-14}^{+14}  MeV is found, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic, with a significance in the range of 3.1 to 3.7σ, depending on the assigned J^{P} hypothesis.

Colorectal cancer community engagement: a qualitative exploration of American Indian voices from North Dakota

Background

American Indians (AI) in North Dakota present with higher rates of advanced-stage disease for screening detectable colorectal cancers and have lower overall baseline colorectal cancer screening rates than non-AIs. We sought to identify the perceived barriers and facilitators for the engagement with colorectal cancer prevention within North Dakota tribal communities.

Methods

Twelve semi-structured interviews were carried out across four tribal reservation communities in the state of North Dakota with American Indian adults between the ages of 30 and 75 years. We utilized purposive sampling to ensure maximum variation in age, sex, and tribal community until data saturation was achieved. The interviews were transcribed, and thematic analysis was carried out to identify consistent themes rooted within the data. Ethical approval was gained for this project from all relevant institutional review boards.

Results

Four main themes were identified as barriers for the engagement with colorectal cancer prevention, including: colorectal cancer screening barriers, focused on other health problems, lack of colorectal cancer tailored health promotion, and socio-cultural factors affecting colorectal cancer prevention. Three main themes were identified as facilitators for the engagement with colorectal cancer prevention, including: reasons for getting colorectal cancer screening, role of culture, and getting out into the community.

Conclusion

There is need for more community-rooted, strengths-based approaches to colorectal cancer prevention activities in AI communities in North Dakota. Socio-cultural factors, such as the use of storytelling, and the use of traditional knowledge have been demonstrated to be an important element of consideration for colorectal cancer tribal community engagement and prevention planning in the state.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-021-09119-2.

Analysis of Neutral B-Meson Decays into Two Muons

Branching fraction and effective lifetime measurements of the rare decay B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} and searches for the decays B^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} and B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-}γ are reported using proton-proton collision data collected with the LHCb detector at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV, corresponding to a luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}. The branching fraction B(B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})=(3.09_{-0.43-0.11}^{+0.46+0.15})×10^{-9} and the effective lifetime τ(B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})=2.07±0.29±0.03  ps are measured, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. No significant signal for B^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} and B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-}γ decays is found and upper limits B(B^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})<2.6×10^{-10} and B(B_{s}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-}γ)<2.0×10^{-9} at the 95% C.L. are determined, where the latter is limited to the range m_{μμ}>4.9  GeV/c^{2}. The results are in agreement with the standard model expectations.

970 Age-related Differences in Acute Skeletal Muscle Atrophy After Immobilisation: A Systematic Review

Introduction

Muscle atrophy is a recognised cause of morbidity and mortality. Whilst the association between loss of muscle mass and age is well established, it is controversial as to whether older adults’ atrophy at a different rate or are more susceptible to atrophy in the acute setting. The aim of this systematic review is to identify if there are any age-related differences in the rate of atrophy between older and younger persons.

Method

A systematic search of Medline, Embase and Cochrane databases in December 2020 was carried out. All studies whose design involved a period of immobilisation and a comparison between older and younger cohorts were included. Studies must have direct pre-and-post immobilisation muscle mass measurements, and the percentage change in muscle mass was extracted from each study.

Results

Searching revealed 1007 records, of which six articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. 150 participants were included; 136 (90.7%) were male, and 14 (9.3%) were female. Studies used immobilisation periods between five and 14 days, and measured muscle volume by MRI, DXA or CT. Three studies reported greater atrophy in the older group, and three studies reported greater atrophy in the younger group.

Conclusions

There is no convincing evidence of any differences between the rates of atrophy in older persons in comparison to younger persons. We highlight that the current literature is inconsistent and overall, there is a lack of high-quality research on the topic, with particular concern regarding the significant lack of literature regarding atrophy rates in women.

Branching Fraction Measurements of the Rare B_{s}^{0}→ϕμ^{+}μ^{-} and B_{s}^{0}→f_{2}^{'}(1525)μ^{+}μ^{-} Decays

The branching fraction of the rare B_{s}^{0}→ϕμ^{+}μ^{-} decay is measured using data collected by the LHCb experiment at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV, corresponding to integrated luminosities of 1, 2, and 6  fb^{-1}, respectively. The branching fraction is reported in intervals of q^{2}, the square of the dimuon invariant mass. In the q^{2} region between 1.1 and 6.0  GeV^{2}/c^{4}, the measurement is found to lie 3.6 standard deviations below a standard model prediction based on a combination of light cone sum rule and lattice QCD calculations. In addition, the first observation of the rare B_{s}^{0}→f_{2}^{'}(1525)μ^{+}μ^{-} decay is reported with a statistical significance of 9 standard deviations and its branching fraction is determined.

Observation of the Mass Difference between Neutral Charm-Meson Eigenstates

A measurement of mixing and CP violation in neutral charm mesons is performed using data reconstructed in proton-proton collisions collected by the LHCb experiment from 2016 to 2018, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.4  fb^{-1}. A total of 30.6 million D^{0}→K_{S}^{0}π^{+}π^{-} decays are analyzed using a method optimized for the measurement of the mass difference between neutral charm-meson eigenstates. Allowing for CP violation in mixing and in the interference between mixing and decay, the mass and decay-width differences are measured to be x_{CP}=[3.97±0.46(stat)±0.29(syst)]×10^{-3} and y_{CP}=[4.59±1.20(stat)±0.85(syst)]×10^{-3}, respectively. The CP-violating parameters are measured as Δx=[-0.27±0.18(stat)±0.01(syst)]×10^{-3} and Δy=[0.20±0.36(stat)±0.13(syst)]×10^{-3}. This is the first observation of a nonzero mass difference in the D^{0} meson system, with a significance exceeding seven standard deviations. The data are consistent with CP symmetry and improve existing constraints on the associated parameters.

Enhancing the Measure of Participation Burden in Protocol Design to Incorporate Logistics, Lifestyle, and Demographic Characteristics

BACKGROUND

Growing interest in improving patient participation convenience and the feasible execution of clinical trials has increased demand for new approaches to leverage patient input in the protocol design process.

METHODS

This study builds on prior work conducted by the Tufts Center for the Study of Drug Development in collaboration with ZS. A comprehensive participant burden algorithm based on protocol procedures, participation requirements and lifestyle preferences was developed and tested. Clinical trial preferences and perceptions from 3002 global patients were analyzed to inform and derive the algorithm. It was next tested against a convenience sample of 266 completed protocols. Descriptive statistics, significance tests, and regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Mean participant burden scores were highly associated with, and predictive (p < 0.01) of, screen failure rates, overall clinical trial duration and the number of substantial protocol amendments; and predictive (p < 0.05) of protocol treatment duration. Of 11 subgroups assessed, those that most influenced the algorithm and drove higher overall burden scores included disease condition, caregiver reliance, race, prior experience as a clinical trial participant and participant age. Geographic area and participant sex showed only minimal influence.

CONCLUSION

This study presents advancement and refinement in measuring participation burden that will assist drug development teams and protocol authors in retrospectively understanding clinical trial performance outcomes and in prospectively informing protocol design decisions.

Observation of New Resonances Decaying to J/ψK^{+} and J/ψϕ

The first observation of exotic states with a new quark content cc[over ¯]us[over ¯] decaying to the J/ψK^{+} final state is reported with high significance from an amplitude analysis of the B^{+}→J/ψϕK^{+} decay. The analysis is carried out using proton-proton collision data corresponding to a total integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1} collected by the LHCb experiment at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV. The most significant state, Z_{cs}(4000)^{+}, has a mass of 4003±6_{-14}^{+4}  MeV, a width of 131±15±26  MeV, and spin parity J^{P}=1^{+}, where the quoted uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively. A new 1^{+}  X(4685) state decaying to the J/ψϕ final state is also observed with high significance. In addition, the four previously reported J/ψϕ states are confirmed and two more exotic states, Z_{cs}(4220)^{+} and X(4630), are observed with significance exceeding 5 standard deviations.

Patch test informed consent form: position statement by European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Task Force on Contact Dermatitis

BACKGROUND

To our knowledge, an international consensus is lacking regarding the development of an adequate informed consent form for a patch test (PT) and the information that should be included in such document.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to reach a consensus on the specific points that need to be addressed in a PT consent form.

METHODS

A Delphi survey, comprising 2 rounds and 1 final discussion, was used to gather and analyse data, which was conducted over the Internet. Each statement that reached a consensus with the respondents (9 expert dermatologists from Europe) was defined as a median consensus score (MED) of ≥7 and agreement among panelists as an interquartile range (IQR) of ≤3. All study participants were members of the EADV task force on contact dermatitis.

RESULTS

The expert panel addressed several topics that should be included in an informed consent form for a PT: introduction, preparation for PT, testing procedure, allowed activities, adverse events and additional authorizations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results assess recommendations regarding points to be contained in an informed consent form for a PR. Future actions towards standardization and harmonization of this specific consent form are needed.

Angular Analysis of the B^{+}→K^{*+}μ^{+}μ^{-} Decay

We present an angular analysis of the B^{+}→K^{*+}(→K_{S}^{0}π^{+})μ^{+}μ^{-} decay using 9  fb^{-1} of pp collision data collected with the LHCb experiment. For the first time, the full set of CP-averaged angular observables is measured in intervals of the dimuon invariant mass squared. Local deviations from standard model predictions are observed, similar to those in previous LHCb analyses of the isospin-partner B^{0}→K^{*0}μ^{+}μ^{-} decay. The global tension is dependent on which effective couplings are considered and on the choice of theory nuisance parameters.

Observation of a New Excited D_{s}^{+} Meson in B^{0}→D^{-}D^{+}K^{+}π^{-} Decays

Using pp collision data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.4  fb^{-1} collected with the LHCb detector at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV, the B^{0}→D^{-}D^{+}K^{+}π^{-} decay is studied. A new excited D_{s}^{+} meson is observed decaying into the D^{+}K^{+}π^{-} final state with large statistical significance. The pole mass and width, and the spin parity of the new state are measured with an amplitude analysis to be m_{R}=2591±6±7  MeV, Γ_{R}=89±16±12  MeV, and J^{P}=0^{-}, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second systematic. Fit fractions for all components in the amplitude analysis are also reported. The new resonance, denoted as D_{s0}(2590)^{+}, is a strong candidate to be the D_{s}(2^{1}S_{0})^{+} state, the radial excitation of the pseudoscalar ground-state D_{s}^{+} meson.

Observation of Multiplicity Dependent Prompt χ_{c1}(3872) and ψ(2S) Production in pp Collisions

The production of χ_{c1}(3872) and ψ(2S) hadrons is studied as a function of charged particle multiplicity in pp collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 8 TeV, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 2  fb^{-1}. For both states, the fraction that is produced promptly at the collision vertex is found to decrease as charged particle multiplicity increases. The ratio of χ_{c1}(3872) to ψ(2S) cross sections for promptly produced particles is also found to decrease with multiplicity, while no significant dependence on multiplicity is observed for the equivalent ratio of particles produced away from the collision vertex in b-hadron decays. This behavior is consistent with a calculation that models the χ_{c1}(3872) structure as a compact tetraquark. Comparisons with model calculations and implications for the binding energy of the χ_{c1}(3872) state are discussed.

Measurement of CP Violation in the Decay B^{+}→K^{+}π^{0}

A measurement of CP violation in the decay B^{+}→K^{+}π^{0} is reported using data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.4  fb^{-1} collected with the LHCb experiment at a center-of-mass energy of sqrt[s]=13  TeV. The CP asymmetry is measured to be 0.025±0.015±0.006±0.003, where the uncertainties are statistical, systematic, and due to an external input. This is the most precise measurement of this quantity. It confirms and significantly enhances the observed anomalous difference between the direct CP asymmetries of the B^{0}→K^{+}π^{-} and B^{+}→K^{+}π^{0} decays, known as the Kπ puzzle.

First Observation of the Decay B_{s}^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} and a Measurement of |V_{ub}|/|V_{cb}|

The first observation of the suppressed semileptonic B_{s}^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ} decay is reported. Using a data sample recorded in pp collisions in 2012 with the LHCb detector, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 2  fb^{-1}, the branching fraction B(B_{s}^{0}→K^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ}) is measured to be [1.06±0.05(stat)±0.08(syst)]×10^{-4}, where the first uncertainty is statistical and the second one represents the combined systematic uncertainties. The decay B_{s}^{0}→D_{s}^{-}μ^{+}ν_{μ}, where D_{s}^{-} is reconstructed in the final state K^{+}K^{-}π^{-}, is used as a normalization channel to minimize the experimental systematic uncertainty. Theoretical calculations on the form factors of the B_{s}^{0}→K^{-} and B_{s}^{0}→D_{s}^{-} transitions are employed to determine the ratio of the Cabibbo-Kobayashi-Maskawa matrix elements |V_{ub}|/|V_{cb}| at low and high B_{s}^{0}→K^{-} momentum transfer.

Model-Independent Study of Structure in B^{+}→D^{+}D^{-}K^{+} Decays

The only anticipated resonant contributions to B^{+}→D^{+}D^{-}K^{+} decays are charmonium states in the D^{+}D^{-} channel. A model-independent analysis, using LHCb proton-proton collision data taken at center-of-mass energies of sqrt[s]=7, 8, and 13 TeV, corresponding to a total integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1}, is carried out to test this hypothesis. The description of the data assuming that resonances only manifest in decays to the D^{+}D^{-} pair is shown to be incomplete. This constitutes evidence for a new contribution to the decay, potentially one or more new charm-strange resonances in the D^{-}K^{+} channel with masses around 2.9  GeV/c^{2}.

Constraints on the K_{S}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} Branching Fraction

A search for the decay K_{S}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-} is performed using proton-proton collision data, corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.6  fb^{-1} and collected with the LHCb experiment during 2016, 2017, and 2018 at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV. The observed signal yield is consistent with zero, yielding an upper limit of B(K_{S}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})<2.2×10^{-10} at 90% C.L.. The limit reduces to B(K_{S}^{0}→μ^{+}μ^{-})<2.1×10^{-10} at 90% C.L. once combined with the result from data taken in 2011 and 2012.

Dynamic time warping outperforms Pearson correlation in detecting atypical functional connectivity in autism spectrum disorders

Resting state fMRI (rsfMRI) is frequently used to study brain function, including in clinical populations. Similarity of blood-oxygen-level-dependent (BOLD) fluctuations during rsfMRI between brain regions is thought to reflect intrinsic functional connectivity (FC), potentially due to history of coactivation. To quantify similarity, studies have almost exclusively relied on Pearson correlation, which assumes linearity and can therefore underestimate FC if the hemodynamic response function differs regionally or there is BOLD signal lag between timeseries. Here we show in three cohorts of children, adolescents and adults, with and without autism spectrum disorders (ASDs), that measuring the similarity of BOLD signal fluctuations using non-linear dynamic time warping (DTW) is more robust to global signal regression (GSR), has higher test-retest reliability and is more sensitive to task-related changes in FC. Additionally, when comparing FC between individuals with ASDs and typical controls, more group differences are detected using DTW. DTW estimates are also more related to ASD symptom severity and executive function, while Pearson correlation estimates of FC are more strongly associated with respiration during rsfMRI. Together these findings suggest that non-linear methods such as DTW improve estimation of resting state FC, particularly when studying clinical populations whose hemodynamics or neurovascular coupling may be altered compared to typical controls.

Observation of Enhanced Double Parton Scattering in Proton-Lead Collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16 TeV

A study of prompt charm-hadron pair production in proton-lead collisions at sqrt[s_{NN}]=8.16  TeV is performed using data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of about 30  nb^{-1}, collected with the LHCb experiment. Production cross sections for different pairs of charm hadrons are measured and kinematic correlations between the two charm hadrons are investigated. This is the first measurement of associated production of two charm hadrons in proton-lead collisions. The results confirm the predicted enhancement of double parton scattering production in proton-lead collisions compared to the single parton scattering production.

Measurement of CP-Averaged Observables in the B^{0}→K^{*0}μ^{+}μ^{-} Decay

An angular analysis of the B^{0}→K^{*0}(→K^{+}π^{-})μ^{+}μ^{-} decay is presented using a dataset corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 4.7  fb^{-1} of pp collision data collected with the LHCb experiment. The full set of CP-averaged observables are determined in bins of the invariant mass squared of the dimuon system. Contamination from decays with the K^{+}π^{-} system in an S-wave configuration is taken into account. The tension seen between the previous LHCb results and the standard model predictions persists with the new data. The precise value of the significance of this tension depends on the choice of theory nuisance parameters.

Observation of New Ξ_{c}^{0} Baryons Decaying to Λ_{c}^{+}K^{-}

The Λ_{c}^{+}K^{-} mass spectrum is studied with a data sample of pp collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.6  fb^{-1} collected by the LHCb experiment. Three Ξ_{c}^{0} states are observed with a large significance and their masses and natural widths are measured to be m[Ξ_{c}(2923)^{0}]=2923.04±0.25±0.20±0.14  MeV, Γ[Ξ_{c}(2923)^{0}]=7.1±0.8±1.8  MeV, m[Ξ_{c}(2939)^{0}]=2938.55±0.21±0.17±0.14  MeV, Γ[Ξ_{c}(2939)^{0}]=10.2±0.8±1.1  MeV, m[Ξ_{c}(2965)^{0}]=2964.88±0.26±0.14±0.14  MeV, Γ[Ξ_{c}(2965)^{0}]=14.1±0.9±1.3  MeV, where the uncertainties are statistical, systematic, and due to the limited knowledge of the Λ_{c}^{+} mass. The Ξ_{c}(2923)^{0} and Ξ_{c}(2939)^{0} baryons are new states. The Ξ_{c}(2965)^{0} state is in the vicinity of the known Ξ_{c}(2970)^{0} baryon; however, their masses and natural widths differ significantly.

Search for the Rare Decays B_{s}^{0}→e^{+}e^{-} and B^{0}→e^{+}e^{-}

A search for the decays B_{s}^{0}→e^{+}e^{-} and B^{0}→e^{+}e^{-} is performed using data collected with the LHCb experiment in proton-proton collisions at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV, corresponding to integrated luminosities of 1, 2, and 2  fb^{-1}, respectively. No signal is observed. Assuming no contribution from B^{0}→e^{+}e^{-} decays, an upper limit on the branching fraction B(B_{s}^{0}→e^{+}e^{-})<9.4(11.2)×10^{-9} is obtained at 90(95)% confidence level. If no B_{s}^{0}→e^{+}e^{-} contribution is assumed, a limit of B(B^{0}→e^{+}e^{-})<2.5(3.0)×10^{-9} is determined at 90(95)% confidence level. These upper limits are more than one order of magnitude lower than the previous values.

What is in? What is out? Updating the British Society for Cutaneous Allergy facial series

BACKGROUND

Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to cosmetics is widely reported. To ensure we are accurately diagnosing ACD, patch test series should be continually reviewed to identify relevant and emerging allergens and highlight those that are outdated. The current British Society for Cutaneous Allergy (BSCA) facial series recommends 26 allergens and was last modified in 2012.

OBJECTIVES

To review and update the BSCA facial series.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the results from 12 UK and Ireland patch test centres' facial series from January 2016 to December 2017. We recorded the number of allergens tested in each centre and the detection rate for each allergen. Using a 0·3% positive rate as the inclusion threshold, we established which allergens in the BSCA facial series had positive patch test rates < 0·3% and > 0·3%. Allergens not in the BSCA facial series that had a positive patch test rate > 0·3% were identified.

RESULTS

Overall, 4224 patients were patch tested to the facial series. The number of allergens included in individual centres' facial series ranged from 24 to 66, with a total of 103 allergens tested across all centres. Twelve of the 26 allergens in the BSCA facial series had a positive patch test rate < 0·3% and 14 had a rate > 0·3%. Twenty-five allergens not recommended in the BSCA facial series had a positive patch test rate > 0·3%.

CONCLUSIONS

This audit has highlighted the significant variation in practice that exists among patch test centres, despite a recommended facial series. The BSCA facial series has been updated and now contains 24 allergens. Fifteen allergens remain, 11 allergens have been dropped and nine new allergens have been added.

Measurement of f_{s}/f_{u} Variation with Proton-Proton Collision Energy and B-Meson Kinematics

The ratio of the B_{s}^{0} and B^{+} fragmentation fractions f_{s} and f_{u} is studied with B_{s}^{0}→J/ψϕ and B^{+}→J/ψK^{+} decays using data collected by the LHCb experiment in proton-proton collisions at 7, 8, and 13 TeV center-of-mass energies. The analysis is performed in bins of B-meson momentum, longitudinal momentum, transverse momentum, pseudorapidity, and rapidity. The fragmentation-fraction ratio f_{s}/f_{u} is observed to depend on the B-meson transverse momentum with a significance of 6.0σ. This dependency is driven by the 13 TeV sample (8.7σ), while the results for the other collision energies are not significant when considered separately. Furthermore, the results show a 4.8σ evidence for an increase of f_{s}/f_{u} as a function of collision energy.

Isospin Amplitudes in Λ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΛ(Σ^{0}) and Ξ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΞ^{0}(Λ) Decays

Ratios of isospin amplitudes in hadron decays are a useful probe of the interplay between weak and strong interactions and allow searches for physics beyond the standard model. We present the first results on isospin amplitudes in b-baryon decays, using data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 8.5  fb^{-1}, collected with the LHCb detector in pp collisions at center of mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV. The isospin amplitude ratio |A_{1}(Λ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΣ^{0})/A_{0}(Λ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΛ)|, where the subscript on A indicates the final-state isospin, is measured to be less than 1/21.8 at 95% confidence level. The Cabibbo suppressed Ξ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΛ decay is observed for the first time, allowing for the measurement |A_{0}(Ξ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΛ)/A_{1/2}(Ξ_{b}^{0}→J/ψΞ^{0})|=0.37±0.06±0.02, where the uncertainties are statistical and systematic, respectively.

First Observation of Excited Ω_{b}^{-} States

We report four narrow peaks in the Ξ_{b}^{0}K^{-} mass spectrum obtained using pp collisions at center-of-mass energies of 7, 8, and 13 TeV, corresponding to a total integrated luminosity of 9  fb^{-1} recorded by the LHCb experiment. Referring to these states by their mass, the mass values are m[Ω_{b}(6316)^{-}]=6315.64±0.31±0.07±0.50  MeV, m[Ω_{b}(6330)^{-}]=6330.30±0.28±0.07±0.50  MeV, m[Ω_{b}(6340)^{-}]=6339.71±0.26±0.05±0.50  MeV, m[Ω_{b}(6350)^{-}]=6349.88±0.35±0.05±0.50  MeV, where the uncertainties are statistical, systematic, and the last is due to the knowledge of the Ξ_{b}^{0} mass. The natural widths of the three lower mass states are consistent with zero, and the 90% confidence-level upper limits are determined to be Γ[Ω_{b}(6316)^{-}]<2.8  MeV, Γ[Ω_{b}(6330)^{-}]<3.1  MeV and Γ[Ω_{b}(6340)^{-}]<1.5  MeV. The natural width of the Ω_{b}(6350)^{-} peak is 1.4_{-0.8}^{+1.0}±0.1  MeV, which is 2.5σ from zero and corresponds to an upper limit of 2.8 MeV. The peaks have local significances ranging from 3.6σ to 7.2σ. After accounting for the look-elsewhere effect, the significances of the Ω_{b}(6316)^{-} and Ω_{b}(6330)^{-} peaks are reduced to 2.1σ and 2.6σ, respectively, while the two higher mass peaks exceed 5σ. The observed peaks are consistent with expectations for excited Ω_{b}^{-} resonances.

Search for A^{'}→μ^{+}μ^{-} Decays

Searches are performed for both promptlike and long-lived dark photons, A^{'}, produced in proton-proton collisions at a center-of-mass energy of 13 TeV. These searches look for A^{'}→μ^{+}μ^{-} decays using a data sample corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 5.5  fb^{-1} collected with the LHCb detector. Neither search finds evidence for a signal, and 90% confidence-level exclusion limits are placed on the γ-A^{'} kinetic mixing strength. The promptlike A^{'} search explores the mass region from near the dimuon threshold up to 70 GeV and places the most stringent constraints to date on dark photons with 214<m(A^{'})≲740  MeV and 10.6<m(A^{'})≲30  GeV. The search for long-lived A^{'}→μ^{+}μ^{-} decays places world-leading constraints on low-mass dark photons with lifetimes O(1)  ps.