Background: Considering regional and temporal trends, we sought to explore the incidence of primary malignant brain tumours in Newfoundland and Labrador. Methods: We reviewed all primary, malignant brain tumour cases from 2015-2022 confirmed by St. John’s Health Sciences Centre pathology reports. Incidence rates were standardized using the 2011 Canadian standard population. Results: We included 362 cases. The average annual age-standardized incidence rate of primary, malignant brain tumours per 100,000 was 7.0 (95% CI: 6.3-7.7), lower than the national average (7.93; 95% CI: 7.78-8.08). The incidence of glioblastoma (5.1; 95% CI: 4.5-5.7) was significantly higher than the national average (4.05; 95% CI: 3.95-4.16). Temporal trends revealed that oligodendroglioma incidence spiked from 0.5 (95% CI: 0.2-0.7) in 2015-2019 to 1.5 (95% CI: 0.4-2.6) in 2020 before returning to baseline in 2022. Regional trends indicated a lower incidence of malignant tumours in Labrador-Grenfell (5.1; 95% CI: 2.5-7.6), compared to 6.9 (95% CI: 6.2-7.6) averaged elsewhere. Conclusions: Higher rates of glioblastoma in Newfoundland and Labrador could have a genetic or multi-factorial cause. The increased occurrence of oligodendroglioma during the COVID-19 pandemic necessitates broader investigation, potentially linked to delays in patient care during this period. Regional trends could suggest less access to care in rural populations and underestimated incidence.

Background: In early-stage transsylvian aneurysm surgery, achieving brain relaxation is crucial for the safe exposure of aneurysms; however, in cases of tight, hemorrhagic brains, ventricular drainage is often required. Although Paine/Samson initially proposed a ventricular access point in the frontal horn of the lateral ventricle, and numerous points and techniques have been described since, their consistency and success rates have not undergone rigorous evaluation through comparative cadaveric anatomical studies. Methods: We injected 2 cc agar-agar solutions with distinct colors into the lateral ventricles of twelve cadaveric brains, utilizing four described points, followed by refrigeration at 4°C for one hour for each injection. Next, the brains were sectioned in the coronal plane at 2 cm intervals for evaluation. We assessed the efficacy of the injections in reaching the ventricles and measured the ventricular dimensions, in addition to calculating the Evans’ index for each brain. Results: Injections at Paine/Samson’s point achieved a 100% success rate, followed by Hyunn’s point with a 91.6% success rate. The success rates at Temporal point and Park point were 83.3% and 58.3%, respectively. Conclusions: We emphasize the significance of direct ventricle puncture technique and our findings indicate that the classical Paine/Samson point is the most reliable among the evaluated methods.

Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal neurodegenerative disease with only four approved treatments in North America - sodium phenylbutyrate (PB) and ursodoxicoltaurine (TURSO, also known as taurursodiol), riluzole, edaravone, and tofersen. Poor treatment adherence reduces clinical effectiveness which can adversely impact disease progression and mortality rates. Understanding barriers and adherence to treatment in clinical practice is essential to address these issues. Methods: A scoping review was conducted in PubMed, Medline, Embase, and Web of Science. Retained studies were, (1) published in English, (2) included adults with ALS, (3) explored treatment non-adherence and/or identified barriers associated with non-adherence in ALS in real world clinical practice, (4) focused on ≥1 of the four approved ALS medications, and (5) used a measurement of adherence. Observational studies, real-world data, and case reports were included. Quality assessment was performed. Results: The review illustrated several knowledge gaps, including limited data on the incidence of non-adherence to ALS treatment in clinical practice, a lack of understanding regarding barriers to treatment adherence in ALS, and an absence of studies outside of western societies. Conclusions: We demonstrate a dearth of real-world data on treatment adherence in ALS and highlight opportunities for advancing research into this important area.

Background: Pineal region tumors are a heterogenous group of pathologies often symptomatic due to occlusive hydrocephalus leading to elevated intracranial pressure (ICP). High ICP may not always be associated with clinical signs. A non-invasive technique for assessment of ICP is measuring the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD). The goal of this study was to determine the utility of preoperative and postoperative ONSD measurements for assessment of elevated ICP in children with pineal region tumors. Methods: Retrospective data analysis was performed in patients operated for pineal region tumors at our tertiary care center between 2003 and 2022. Preoperative and postoperative MRI scans were reviewed. Clinical data and ONSD at multiple time points were analyzed and correlated. Results: Thirty-four patients with forty operative cases met the inclusion criteria. Hydrocephalus was seen in 80% of patients preoperatively (n=32/40). Presence of hydrocephalus was associated with significantly elevated ONSD preoperatively (p=0.006) and postoperatively (p=0.017). There was significant decrease in ONSD immediately postoperatively (p<0.001), at 3 months (p<0.001) and 12 months (p<0.001). In patients without hydrocephalus, no significant changes in ONSD were observed (p=0.369). Conclusions: ONSD is a useful adjunct for the identification of high ICP preoperatively and evaluation of treatment response postoperatively in patients presenting with pineal region tumors.

Background: Shared decision-making (SDM) is a dynamic, patient-engaged approach to collaborative medical care. Limited SDM tools exist in pregnancy. We aimed to examine the need and usability of a novel SDM tool for pharmaco-therapeutic treatment of neurological conditions in pregnancy. Methods: This is an exploratory mixed-methods study. Non-pregnant women of any age were recruited using convenience, purposive sampling from an academic neurology clinic in Toronto. Participants reported the user friendliness of the SDM by completing the systems usability (SUS) questionnaire and participated in a focus group to further elaborate on their experience. Results: Eleven participants completed the survey 45% each between age 31-40, and 51-60. Median time spent on the tool was 17.2 minutes, and median SUS score 70 (<68 being not usable). Thematic data analysis from 2 focus groups, identified technical and content improvements: use of inclusive language, simplified design, and importance of patient engagement in SDM. Conclusions: Based on our preliminary results, a SDM web-tool for medication-related concerns of pregnant patients with neurological conditions is needed and usable. With integration of patients’ lived experiences, this novel tool may serve as an anchor point for future work in this field.

Background: Prolonged length of stay (LOS) after elective spine surgery increases patients’ risk for in-hospital complications and contributes significantly to healthcare costs. Here we explored the role of pain control and other perioperative factors on LOS. Methods: Consecutive adult patients undergoing elective spine surgery were enrolled. The primary outcome was in-hospital LOS following surgery. The primary independent variable was poor pain control on postoperative day 1 (POD1). Univariable analyses followed by multivariable regression analysis were used to investigate the relationship between poor pain control and LOS. Results: 1305 patients were enrolled. Mean LOS was 4.38 days. Incidence of poor pain control was 56.9%. Multivariable analysis revealed poor POD1 pain control was significantly associated with increased LOS (p=0.03), after adjusting for other significant predictors of increased LOS including perioperative hemodynamic instability (p=0.001), perioperative blood transfusion (p=0.000), delirium (p=0.000), POD1 morphine equivalent dose (p=0.000), urinary tract infection (p=0.000), urinary retention (p=0.003), surgical site infection (p=0.000), wound complication (p=0.000), neurologic deterioration (p=0.000), surgical levels (p=0.016), operative time (p=0.007), ASA score (p=0.000), preoperative disability score (p=0.001). Conclusions: Poor pain control on POD1 was an independent predictor of increased LOS after elective spine surgery, highlighting the importance of a proactive approach to addressing pain in the immediate postoperative period.

Background: After a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or minor stroke, the long-term risk of subsequent stroke is uncertain. Methods: Electronic databases were searched for observational studies reporting subsequent stroke during a minimum follow-up of 1 year in patients with TIA or minor stroke. Unpublished data on number of stroke events and exact person-time at risk contributed by all patients during discrete time intervals of follow-up were requested from the authors of included studies. This information was used to calculate the incidence of stroke in individual studies, and results across studies were pooled using random-effects meta-analysis. Results: Fifteen independent cohorts involving 129794 patients were included in the analysis. The pooled incidence rate of subsequent stroke per 100 person-years was 6.4 events in the first year and 2.0 events in the second through tenth years, with cumulative incidences of 14% at 5 years and 21% at 10 years. Based on 10 studies with information available on fatal stroke, the pooled case fatality rate of subsequent stroke was 9.5% (95% CI, 5.9 – 13.8). Conclusions: One in five patients is expected to experience a subsequent stroke within 10 years after a TIA or minor stroke, with every tenth patient expected to die from their subsequent stroke.

Background: Neurodegeneration with Brain Iron Accumulation (NBIA) is a heterogenous group of disorders with the common theme of iron accumulation in the basal ganglia. These disorders typically present in childhood with progressive neurodegeneration and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Caring for an individual with NBIAs is intensive, however it is unknown what factors impact caregiver well-being and quality of life. Methods: Common themes were obtained via literature review of quality of life surveys in children with neurological and chronic illnesses. Five domains were addressed: Diagnosis, Communication, Symptom Management, Clinical Experience and Resources/Support. The survey was approved by the Family Advisory Committee at the CHEO Research Institute and the CHEO REB. The survey was distributed via the Rare Connect Platform to Canadian caregivers. Results: Survey responses are being analyzed and will be presented at the CNSF. Within each domain, Likert scales will be analyzed. Domains will be ranked according to the caregiver responses. Conclusions: Results of this survey will assist in developing care management guidelines, resources for families and help with future advocacy for patients and families affected by NBIAs. The results will also help guide future NBIA Canada Family Conferences.

Background: Charcot Marie Tooth disease is a polygenic disorder with cannonical features of distal amyotrophy, acrohypesthesia, and tight tendoachilles of either axonal (type 2) or demeylinating (type 1) varieties. Type 1 CMT patients are required to possess conduction slowing of a sufficient degree to qualify as demyelinating. Presented is a middle-aged man with an unremarkable neurologic exam and normal electrophysiology. Methods: Standard electrophysiological techniques were employed to obtain the nerve conduction data (Natus Nicolet EDX AT2; Middleton, WI, USA). Repeated next generation sequencing and deletion/duplication analyses were performed. Results: The nerve conduction studies showed no evidence of demyelination in the upper or lower extremeties. The duplication error was confirmed with repeat testing. The heterozygous PMP22 gene duplication encompassed the entire coding sequence involving exons 1-5. Conclusions: CMT1A accounts for the vast majority of dysmyelinating hereditary neuropathies. Phenotypic variability is well described. Presentations include (a) classic conduction slowing, (b) intermediate slowing, (c) conduction block, (d) HNPP-like, (e) absent CMAPs, and (f) normal NCSs in young infants. This is the first case of a neurologically intact adult with CMT1A. Cryptogenic genetic modifier-effect(s) are posited as a possible explanation of the lack of penetrance. Identifying the nature of this modification may prove instructive for future therapies.

Background: Gender disparities persist in neurosurgery, unfortunately impacting career progression for women. Understanding these challenges is vital for fostering inclusivity. Methods: An international survey designed using a physician wellness framework was sent to neurosurgeons between June 2021 and November 2021. Univariate analysis (Kruskal-Wallis Test) was performed to assess various aspects of perceived career progression as a function of gender. Results: Of the total 537 respondents (64% neurosurgeons, 6% fellows, and 30% residents), 69% identified as male, 29% as female, and 2% as other. Compared to their male colleagues, female neurosurgeons expressed greater desire to advance in their career (p<0.05) and to leave their home country in the interest of job prospects (p<0.05). Despite these aspirations, female neurosurgeons reported that they did not have available career advancement opportunities (p<0.05), that the culture in their country inhibited their career advancement (p<0.05), and that they felt subject to harassment at their workplace (p<0.05). Conclusions: Our survey highlights significant gender-related obstacles in neurosurgical career advancement. Female neurosurgeons express strong career aspirations but face barriers such as limited opportunities, cultural impediments, and harassment. Addressing these challenges is crucial for achieving gender equity in neurosurgery.

Background: In the Phase 3 RAISE study (NCT04115293), zilucoplan significantly improved MG-specific outcomes in patients with acetylcholine receptor autoantibody-positive generalised MG. After the first 12 weeks of the open-label extension study, RAISE-XT (NCT04225871), corticosteroid dose could be changed per the investigator’s discretion. We evaluate changes in corticosteroid dose during treatment with zilucoplan in RAISE-XT. Methods: In RAISE-XT, adults who completed the Phase 2 or RAISE studies (N=200) self-administered daily subcutaneous zilucoplan 0.3mg/kg, either continuing with zilucoplan or switching from placebo. Primary outcome was incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). We assessed (post-hoc) the proportion of patients who discontinued/reduced or increased corticosteroid dose relative to double-blind baseline up to Week 60. Results: At Week 60, 30% (n=18/60) and 22% (n=12/54) of patients receiving corticosteroids in the zilucoplan and placebo-switch groups, respectively, reduced/discontinued corticosteroids (mean dose reductions: 14mg and 16mg; mean [SD] CFB in MG-ADL scores: -5.00 [3.96] and -5.67 [6.89]. 12% (n=7/60) and 7% (n=4/54) of patients in the zilucoplan and placebo-switch groups, respectively, increased corticosteroid dose (~12mg mean increase in both groups). TEAEs occurred in 188 (94.0%) patients (data cut-off: 08 September 2022). Conclusions: While receiving zilucoplan, discontinuation or dose reduction in concomitant corticosteroids was possible with maintained efficacy.

Background: OSCE-GPT (https://learnmedicine.ca/) is an AI-based app that integrates history, physical exam, and relevant components for case guidance across medical disciplines to help trainees improve clinical skills. With global users across 60+ countries, this preliminary quality improvement study gathers user feedback on neurology and otolaryngology cases. Methods: A survey was distributed to users at the University of Ottawa and Cumming School of Medicine. Participants provided insights on the app’s use, perceived benefits, and suggested improvements. Results: Using 5-point Likert scales, 13 respondents, 9 of which evaluated an otolaryngology case, rated the overall usefulness of the learning tool 4.57± 0.51 (1=very poor, 5=very good), with a score of 4.00±0.65 relative to other teaching methods, such as didactic lectures or grand rounds (1=much worse, 5=much better). Users noted realistic interactions and self-paced learning as beneficial factors. Areas for improvement included a more fluid transition between physical exams and history, geographic variations in cases, and the addition of elements such as non-verbal patient cues or emotional. Conclusions: This study demonstrates utility of OSCE-GPT for medical trainees, particularly for otolaryngology and neurology cases. As cases continue to be added, feedback will be implemented to further improve user experience.

Background: Primary angiitis of the central nervous system (PACNS) is a rare inflammatory condition affecting the parenchymal and leptomeningeal vessels of the CNS. PACNS presenting as a solitary mass lesion (ML-PACNS) constitutes a rare subtype of this pathology. Herein we present the first case reported in Canada of ML-PACNS, presenting with clinical and radiographic findings consistent with a high grade glial neoplasm, as well as a review of the literature on ML-PACNS. Methods: Review of the literature from 1987-2023 was conducted using PubMed to identify features of ML-PACNS and possible treatment paradigms. Results: A number of case reports of ML-PACNS were identified, as well as 6 retrospective analyses of a total of 67 patients. Features such as faster rate of symptom onset, and investigations such as MRI vessel-wall imaging and MR spectroscopy were suggested for identification of ML-PACNS. Treatment was highly variable, but followed guidelines for other neuroinflammatory disorders. Conclusions: Preoperative differentiation between ML-PACNS and CNS neoplasms is difficult due to their similar clinical and radiographic features. However, making this distinction is crucial as PACNS mass lesions can regress entirely with immunosuppressive therapy, potentially obviating the requirement for surgical intervention. Beyond diagnostics, further research is required to establish and validate a treatment paradigm.

Background: Adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) are at risk for stroke and dementia. We report baseline and Year 1 results from an ongoing study assessing brain health in people with moderate- and great-complexity ACHD. Methods: Participants aged ≥18 undergo baseline and Year-3 brain MRI/MRA and annual cognitive assessment (MoCA, NIH Toolbox-Cognitive Battery (NIH-TB)). Results: Of 93 participants to date, 79 (85%) have completed Year 1 follow-up. At baseline, the great-complexity group had lower MoCA (26.32 vs. 27.38; p=0.04) and NIH-TB scores (total composite 45.63 vs. 52.80; p=0.002) than the moderate-complexity group. Year-1 testing showed numerical improvements across cognitive batteries in both groups. More participants with great-complexity ACHD had white matter hyperintensities (WMH; 72% vs. 55%; p=0.21) and cerebral microbleeds (CMBs; 72% vs. 54%; p=0.17) on baseline neuroimaging, but differences were not significant. Conclusions: Baseline neuroimaging shows a greater-than-expected burden for age of CMB and WMH in the context of previous cardiac surgery. Baseline cognitive performance was worse with great-complexity ACHD. Improved cognitive battery performance across both subgroups at Year-1 suggests a practice effect. Repeat neuroimaging will be performed in Year-3 and cognitive performance is reassessed annually.

Background: Receiving and managing neurosurgical consultations are central to providing quality patient care but are resource intensive processes. As part of an ongoing quality improvement initiative, we conducted a single-institution descriptive analysis of adult neurosurgical consultations. Methods: A retrospective review of prospectively collected consultation records and call schedules from a 12-month period from February 2019 to 2020 was performed. Consults were graded according to disposition (admission for surgery, non-operative admission, additional investigations recommended, opinion without further investigations, unnecessary consult). Results: There were 1916 consultations reviewed, with 52% of calls (n=991) originating outside of our hospital, and 72% (n=1387) coming from an emergency department. Cranial cases made up 64% (n=1230) of consults, while the remaining 36% (n=688) were spine cases. The mean patient age was 60.1±0.4 years. In multinomial logistic regression analysis, age, geographical distance of consulting site, and consult specific variables (neurosurgical subspecialty, inside vs. outside call, emergency department vs. inpatient ward or private office) were associated with consult disposition (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study provides a descriptive analysis of neurosurgical consultations in Nova Scotia. Results from this study may be used to address inefficacies in the neurosurgical consultation process, including targeted education for consulting physicians.

Background: Stroke incidence is rising among younger adults (≤65yrs). Modifiable and behavioural risk factors are linked to stroke; however, limited understanding of knowledge and behaviour exists around preventative/lifestyle medicine (LSM) among this patient population. Study aim was to assess younger adult stroke patients’ lifestyle knowledge, habits, and barriers. Methods: A cross-sectional design was employed. Data were collected through an online, self-reported survey following a routine stroke prevention clinic visit and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Sample included 103 participants (56.3% women, 60% white, mean age 47.6, 54.5% prior stroke). Majority (63%) understood current healthy lifestyle recommendations around blood pressure, sleep, and alcohol use, but fewer (<24.3%) around exercise and diet. Almost 70% ate processed food weekly, with emotions and social/family situations influencing eating habits. Interestingly, despite not understanding the current recommendations, >80% exercised moderately (3.5d/wk) with work and family responsibilities as main barriers. Over 50% slept <7hrs/night, had moderate to high stress levels, and implemented different coping strategies (food, TV, video games, and exercise). Majority (82.4%) reported willingness to change habits. Conclusions: Our findings provide valuable insight on young adult stroke patients’ preventative/LSM-related knowledge, habits, and barriers and provide new opportunities for the development of brain care-related initiatives.

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effects of breed and genomic inbreeding on 305-day lactation yields of milk, fat and protein; and fertility traits of pasture-based dairy cows in Argentina. The genomic inbreeding and heterozygosity of 890 first-lactation cows and 27 bulls were calculated through methods based on the genomic relationship matrix and run of homozygosity using 44 174 single-nucleotide polymorphisms. Cows were classified into four breed groups: Holstein, Holstein crossbred, Holstein–Jersey crossbred and Jersey crossbred. The effect of genomic inbreeding was not significant on production traits, but inbred cows increased 3.0 days calving to conception interval (CCI) per 1% genomic inbreeding. On average, purebred Holstein cows produced 1119 kg milk, 22 kg fat and 30 kg protein more than Jersey crossbred cows. In the case of the fertility traits, Jersey crossbred cows had 45 days shorter CCI than purebred Holstein cows. A possible reason for the non-significant effects of genomic inbreeding of production and fertility traits is that these effects were evaluated in a crossbred population in which rates of heterozygosity would operate to some extent in the opposite direction to rates of genomic inbreeding.

Background: For treatment of high-grade gliomas (HGGs), subtotal resection (STR) may be preferred to minimize injury to eloquent areas. We aimed to characterize neurologic deficits developed in STR patients within the first month post-operatively and to establish a potential threshold for a safe volume of residual tumor to avoid neurological worsening. Methods: This is a single institution retrospective chart review, with 146 charts reviewed and 78 patients deemed eligible. Preoperative deficits and postoperative neurological deficits presenting prior to 1 month after surgery were captured. Imaging features such as tumour volume, edema, and other pertinent imaging characteristics were collected from preoperative and postoperative imaging. Results: Most patients that developed a postoperative deficit presented with motor deficits (55.1%), while only 1.3% of patients developed new or worsening tremor after surgery. On average, in patients with a new deficit, 26.5% of tumor was resected, and all patients had more than 19% of residual tumor. Conclusions: Postoperative neurologic deficits may develop after a subtotal resection when an average of 73.5% of tumor remains. The proposed threshold for tumor resection is greater than 26.5% to minimize the potential of neurologic worsening 1 month postoperatively.