Mcmaster University

A study by Li Wang et al. finds teens who use marijuana have worse school outcomes, including lower grades, lower likelihood of high school completion, university enrollment, and degree attainment, and increased dropout rates and absenteeism.

The PBS phase II trial compared stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) vs. conventional fractionation external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) boost for unfavorable intermediate and high-risk prostate cancer. Early results showed no significant differences in EPIC quality of life scores, IPSS, or toxicity rates at 3 months, with similar early biochemical control rates. Long-term outcomes are pending.

McMaster University researchers, led by Jakob Magolan and Sheila Singh, developed selective inhibitors targeting brain metastasis-initiating cells (BMICs) to prevent brain metastasis. Focusing on the enzyme IMPDH, they synthesized over 500 compounds, with several showing promise for potency and blood-brain barrier penetration, aiming for a preventative treatment post-primary cancer therapy.

NICU managers Becky Thomas and Maddie White implemented recruitment and retention strategies, reducing vacant nursing positions from 40 to near zero. Key initiatives included increasing student placements, extern placements, and NGG positions, implementing leader rounding, CQI tools, and a new service resource nurse role. Professional development opportunities and in-the-moment feedback were also emphasized, leading to a shift in staff turnover reasons to healthier life changes.

Bavarian Nordic A/S announced the European Commission's approval of Imvanex (MVA-BN) smallpox and mpox vaccine for adolescents 12-17 years old, following a CHMP recommendation. This marks the second EMA approval for MVA-BN in a younger population. A clinical study demonstrated non-inferior immune responses and similar safety profiles in adolescents and adults. Bavarian Nordic plans to extend the vaccine's indication to children 2-12 years old through an upcoming clinical trial.

Phase 3 RCT comparing SBRT to hypofractionated CRT in stage I NSCLC found no significant difference in 3-year local control, with limited toxic effects in both groups, including central tumors.

EMA approves MVA-BN for mpox and smallpox in adolescents 12-17 years, following clinical study data showing non-inferior immune responses and similar safety profiles. This marks the second EMA approval for a younger population using MVA-BN-based vaccines.

EC approves Bavarian Nordic’s Imvanex for adolescents aged 12 to 17, based on CHMP recommendation and NIH-sponsored study showing non-inferior immune responses and safety profile.

Cognitive behavioral therapy significantly improved sexual desire and satisfaction in middle-aged and older women experiencing menopause-related sexual concerns, according to a study by McMaster University's Sheryl Green.