Identification of factors associated with sarcopenic obesity development: Literature review and expert panel voting

Sarcopenic obesity (SO) is defined as the combination of excess fat mass (obesity) and low skeletal muscle mass and function (sarcopenia). The identification and classification of factors related to SO would favor better prevention and diagnosis. The present article aimed to (i) define a list of factors related with SO based on literature analysis, (ii) identify clinical conditions linked with SO development from literature search and (iii) evaluate their relevance and the potential research gaps by consulting an expert panel. From 4746 articles screened, 240 articles were selected for extraction of the factors associated with SO. Factors were classified according to their frequency in the literature. Clinical conditions were also recorded. Then, they were evaluated by a panel of expert for evaluation of their relevance in SO development. Experts also suggested additional factors. Thirty-nine unique factors were extracted from the papers and additional eleven factors suggested by a panel of experts in the SO field. The frequency in the literature showed insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, lack of exercise training, inflammation and hypertension as the most frequent factors associated with SO whereas experts ranked low spontaneous physical activity, protein and energy intakes, low exercise training and aging as the most important. Although literature and expert panel presented some differences, this first list of associated factors could help to identify patients at risk of SO. Further work is needed to confirm the contribution of factors associated with SO among the population overtime or in randomized controlled trials to demonstrate causality.

Improved walking energy efficiency might persist in presence of simulated full weight regain after multidisciplinary weight loss in adolescents with obesity: the POWELL study

AIM

Weight loss leads to a reduction of the energy cost of walking but the respective implications of the metabolic and mechanic changes remain unknown. The present study compares the post-weight loss energy cost of walking (Cw) with and without a total reload of the induced weight reduction in adolescents with obesity.

METHODS

Energy cost of walking and substrate use were evaluated during a graded walking exercise (4×6-min at 0.75, 1, 1.25, 1.5 m.s-1) before (V1) and after a 12-week intervention in 21 adolescents with obesity (11 girls; 13.8 ± 1.4 y). After weight loss, the walking exercise was randomly repeated once without weight reload (V2) and once with a loading corresponding to the total induced weight loss during the program (V2L). Body composition was assessed before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

Body weight and fat mass decreased in response to the 12-week intervention (p < 0.001), while FFM did not change. The absolute gross Cw (ml.m-1) was higher on V1 compared with V2 at every speed. The absolute net Cw (ml.m-1) was higher on V1 compared to V2L at 0.75 m.s-1 (p = 0.04) and 1 m.s-1 (p = 0.02) and higher on V2L compared with V2 at 1.5 m.s-1 (p = 0.03). Net Cw (ml.m-1.kg-1) on V1 being higher than V2 (p < 0.001), and V2L higher than V2 (p = 0.006). The absolute CHO oxidation (mg.min-1) did not show any condition effect (p = 0.12) while fat utilization was higher on V1 compared to V2 and V2L (p < 0.001). Relative to body weight CHO oxidation was lower on V1 compared to V2 (p = 0.04) and V2L (p = 0.004) while relative to body weight fat oxidation was higher on V1 than V2 (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Adolescents with obesity might not show an entire rise back to pre-weight loss values of their metabolic cost of walking when weight gain is simulated. These new findings suggest metabolic and physiological adaptations to weight loss of the energy metabolism that remain to be clarified.

Long-term effectiveness and acceptability of switching from intravenous to subcutaneous infliximab in patients with inflammatory bowel disease treated with intensified doses: The REMSWITCH-LT study

BACKGROUND

The long-term risk of relapse after switching from intravenous (IV) to subcutaneous (SC) infliximab remains unknown in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

AIMS

To assess the long-term effectiveness and acceptability of switching from IV to SC infliximab in patients with IBD treated with or without an intensified IV regimen.

METHODS

We extended the follow-up of the REMSWITCH study including patients with IBD in clinical remission who were switched from IV to SC infliximab (120 mg/2 weeks). Relapse was defined as clinical relapse or faecal calprotectin increase ≥150 μg/g compared to baseline.

RESULTS

After median follow-up of 18 [15-20] months, among 128 patients, rates of relapse were 13.8% (8/58), 18.4% (7/38), 35.3% (6/17) and 86.7% (13/15) at last follow-up (p < 0.001), in those receiving 5 mg/kg/8 weeks, 10 mg/kg/8 weeks, 10 mg/kg/6 weeks and 10 mg/kg/4 weeks at baseline, respectively. Among relapsing patients, dose escalation led to clinical remission in 82.1% (23/28). In multivariable analyses, factors associated with higher risk of relapse were IV infliximab 10 mg/kg/4 weeks (OR = 61.0 [6.1-607.0], p < 0.001) or 10 mg/kg/6 weeks (OR = 4.7 [1.1-20.2], p = 0.017), and decreased (OR = 5.6 [1.5-20.3], p = 0.004) or stable (OR = 5.0 [1.6-15.0], p = 0.009) serum levels of infliximab between baseline and first post-switch visit. Acceptability was improved at 6 months and did not decrease over time (6.9 ± 1.6 before the switch vs. 8.8 ± 1.3 at 6 months and 8.8 ± 1.3 at last follow-up; p < 0.001). No severe adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

Switching from IV to SC infliximab 120 mg every other week is safe and well accepted leading to low long-term risk of relapse. Tight monitoring and dose escalation should be recommended for patients receiving 10 mg/kg/6 weeks and 4 weeks, respectively.

Infliximab is an effective option in patients with ulcerative colitis previously exposed to full subcutaneous anti-TNF agent: Results from a real-world multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Data on infliximab efficacy in bio-exposed patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) are limited.

AIMS

To evaluate infliximab effectiveness and its predictors in UC patients with prior exposure to subcutaneous (SC) anti-TNF agent.

METHODS

In this multicenter retrospective study (8 centers), we included all consecutive UC patients with prior exposure to subcutaneous anti-TNF, starting infliximab for symptomatic UC, excluding acute severe colitis. Corticosteroid-free clinical remission (CFREM) was assessed at week 14 (W14) and W52 while endoscopic improvement (CFREM + endoscopic Mayo score≤1) was evaluated at W14.

RESULTS

Overall, 104 patients were included (pancolitis=54.8%, primary failure to subcutaneous anti-TNF=57.4%, concomitant immunosuppressant=53.8%, median partial Mayo score at baseline=7[5-8]). The rate of CFREM was 33.6% (35/104) at W14 and 40.4% (42/104) at W52. At W14, endoscopic improvement was achieved in 29.8%(31/104). In multivariable analysis, concomitant immunosuppressant was associated with higher rate of CFREM at W14(OR=2.83[1.06-7.54], p = 0.037) and W52(OR=2.68[1.16-6.22];p = 0.021), while primary failure to a previous subcutaneous anti-TNF agent led to lower rate of CFREM at W14 (OR=0.37[0.14-0.98], p = 0.046). After a median follow-up of 20.9 months[11.7-33.7]), 50.0%(52/104) patients had discontinued infliximab.

CONCLUSION

Infliximab is an effective option in UC patients previously exposed to prior subcutaneous anti-TNF agent and should be used with concomitant immunosuppressant.

French validation of the Quality of life in Essential Tremor Questionnaire (QUEST) and the Essential Tremor Embarrassment Assessment (ETEA)

Two scales have been developed and validated in English to evaluate the impact of tremor on daily life, namely Quality of life in Essential Tremor Questionnaire (QUEST) and Essential Tremor Embarrassment Assessment (ETEA). The psychometric properties of the French version of these two scales were assessed for 117 patients with head tremor. Both scales showed excellent acceptability, very good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha coefficient>0.8) and reproducibility (Lin concordance coefficient>0.8), satisfactory external validity and satisfactory sensitivity to change. In conclusion, the French versions of QUEST and ETEA are comprehensive, valid and reliable instruments for assessing patients with head tremor.

Vaccination coverage reinforced by an infectious disease consultation during pretransplant check-up in patients awaiting kidney transplantation: A randomized study

BACKGROUND

Vaccine coverage (VC) in patients awaiting kidney transplantation is insufficient.

METHODS

We performed a prospective, single-center, interventional, randomized, open-label study comparing a reinforced group (infectious disease consultation proposed) and a standard group (letter stating vaccine recommendations sent to the nephrologist) of patients in our institution awaiting renal transplantation.

FINDINGS

Out of the 58 eligible patients, 19 declined to participate. Twenty patients were randomized to the standard group and 19 to the reinforced group. Essential VC increased from. 10% to 20% in the standard group and from 15.8% to 52.6% in the reinforced group (p < 0.034). The main obstacles identified were lack of vaccination traceability, refusal of an additional consultation and the journey time between home and hospital.

CONCLUSION

While introduction of an infectious disease consultation during the pre-transplant check-up significantly improved VC in patients, it is time-consuming and failed to achieve a satisfactory rate of VC.

Prior MRI-imaging impact of patients submitted to brachytherapy for prostate cancer

INTRODUCTION

Brachytherapy for the treatment of prostate cancer is a well-established option. Use of Multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging (mpMRI) for staging and diagnosis of prostate cancer has come to change the current paradigm. In this study we aim to assess the impact of performing mpMRI to evaluate the presence of extracapsular lesions before brachytherapy in patients with prostate cancer concerning biochemical recurrence and time to nadir.

METHODS

Review data from 73 patients submitted to brachytherapy. The following factors were evaluated: age, initial PSA, MRI local staging results, ISUP, nadir, time to nadir, PSA at one-year, biochemical recurrence, and time to recurrence.

RESULTS

Median age was 68 years (51-72) and median follow-up 53 months (30-72). Concerning imaging modality 30,1% (n = 22) patients performed mpMRI. In the mpMRI group, 90.9% (n = 20) had at least one suspect lesion on mpMRI. Time to nadir was 27 months (3-64) in patients where mpMRI was not performed and 23.5 months (2-48) in patients submitted to mpMRI (P = .244). The median value of nadir was 0.42 ng/mL (<0.001-2) in patients submitted to mpMRI and vs 0.28 ng/mL (<0.001-4) in patients without MRI (P = .062) Recurrence utilizing Phoenix criteria was 9% (n = 2) in patients with MRI and 9.2% (n = 5) without mpMRI (P = .456), median follow-up of 43 months (12-72) for the MRI group with 58 months (30-78) for the non-mpMRI group. Both groups were statistically similar.

CONCLUSION

Our results allow us to conclude that in our series MRI did not influence biochemical recurrence, time to nadir, or nadir value.

Development, sensitivity and reliability of a French version of the Leeds Food Preference Questionnaire (LFPQ-fr) for the evaluation of food preferences and reward

BACKGROUND

. There is a growing global interest in the evaluation of food reward, necessitating the adaptation of culturally appropriate instruments for use in empirical studies. This work presents the development and validation of a culturally adapted French version of the Leeds Food Preference Questionnaire (LFPQ-fr).

METHODS

. The LFPQ-fr was developed and validated in healthy-weight adults using the following systematic approach: i) selection and validation of appropriate food pictures; ii) linguistic translation of liking and wanting constructs in the target population (n=430; 81% female; 42.2 ± 12.7 years); iii) validation of the sensitivity and reliability of the task performed in a fasted state and in response to a standardized test meal (n=50; 50% female; 30.0 ± 8.4 years).

RESULTS

. During the first and second phases, the nutritional and perceptual validation of culturally appropriate food pictures and pertinent reward constructs, respectively, was demonstrated in a healthy-weight French sample. Findings from the third phase indicated that all food reward components were sensitive to the test meal and showed moderate to high agreement in both fasted (Lin's CCC =.72-.94) and fed (Lin's CCC = .53-.80) appetitive states between visit 1 (V1) and visit (V2). Except for explicit liking fat bias, all primary outcomes were statistically consistent in fasted and fed states between V1 and V2. Changes in fat and taste biases in response to a standardized meal for all primary outcomes were also consistent between V1 and V2 except for explicit liking fat bias (Lin's CCC = .49- .72).

CONCLUSION

. The LFPQ-fr developed and tested in this study is a reproducible and reliable method to assess food reward in both the fasted and fed states in a healthy-weight French population.

Effects of aquatic exercise on appetitive responses in adolescents with obesity: An exploratory study

Aquatic exercise has been suggested as a beneficial modality to improve weight loss, cardiorespiratory fitness and quality of life in adolescents with obesity; however, its impact on appetite control in youth remains unknown. The aim of this preliminary study was to examine the effect of an acute aquatic exercise session on energy intake (EI), appetite feelings and food reward in adolescents with obesity. Twelve adolescents with obesity (12-16 years, Tanner stage 3-5, 9 males) randomly completed two conditions: i) control (CON); ii) aquatic exercise session (AQUA). One hour before lunch, the adolescents stayed at rest outside the water in a quiet room for 45 min on CON while they performed a 45-min aquatic exercise session on AQUA. Ad libitum EI and macronutrients were assessed at lunch and dinner, subjective appetite feelings taken at regular intervals, and food reward measured before and after lunch. Paired T-test showed that EI was not different between CON and AQUA at lunch (1333 ± 484 kcal vs 1409 ± 593 kcal; p = 0.162) and dinner (528 ± 218 kcal vs 513 ± 204 kcal; p = 0.206). Total daily ad libitum EI was significantly higher on AQUA (1922 ± 649 kcal) compared with CON (1861 ± 685 kcal; p = 0.044) but accounting for the exercise-induced energy expenditure, relative energy intake did not differ (2263 ± 732 kcal vs 2117 ± 744 kcal, p = 0.304). None of the appetite feelings (hunger, fullness, prospective food consumption and desire to eat) and food reward dimensions were significantly different between conditions. These preliminary and exploratory results suggest that an acute aquatic-exercise session might not induce energy compensatory responses in adolescents with obesity.

Efficacy of self-management program associated with a spa therapy for knee osteoarthritis patients (GETT 2): a research protocol for a randomized trial

INTRODUCTION

Osteoarthritis is a chronic pathology that involves multidisciplinary management. Self-management for patients is an essential element, present in all international guidelines. During the time of the spa therapy, the patient is receptive to take the advantage of self-management workshops. The aim of this study is to assess the effects of 18 days spa therapy associated with a self-management intervention in patients with knee osteoarthritis in comparison with spa therapy alone on a priority objective, personalized and determined with the patient, chosen in the list of 5 objectives determined during the self-management initial assessment.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Two hundred fifty participants with knee osteoarthritis will participate to this multicenter, prospective, randomized, controlled study. All patients will benefit 18 days of spa therapy and patients randomized in the intervention group will participate to 6 self-management workshops. Randomization will be centralized. The allocation ratio will be 1:1. Data analysts and assessor will be blinded. The primary outcome is the effectiveness of the educational workshops associated with spa therapy in comparison with spa therapy alone on a priority objective, measured by Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS). The secondary outcomes are disability, health-related quality of life, and pain intensity.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics were approved by the CPP Sud-Méditerranée II. The results will be disseminated in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated at PRM, rheumatology, and orthopedics conferences. The results will also be disseminated to patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Trial registration number NCT03550547. Registered 8 June 2018. Date and version identifier of the protocol. Version N°6 of March 12, 2018.

Is the duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) excessive in post-angioplasty in chronic coronary syndrome? Data from the France-PCI registry (2014-2019)

Background

while the duration of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) following coronary angioplasty for chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) recommended by the European Society of Cardiology has decreased over the last decade, little is known about the adherence to those guidelines in clinical practice in France.

Aim

To analyze the real duration of DAPT post coronary angioplasty in CCS, as well as the factors affecting this duration.

Methods

Between 2014 and 2019, 8.836 percutaneous coronary interventions for CCS from the France-PCI registry were evaluated, with 1 year follow up, after exclusion of patients receiving oral anticoagulants, procedures performed within one year of an acute coronary syndrome, and repeat angioplasty.

Results

Post-percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) DAPT duration was > 12 months for 53.1% of patients treated for CCS; 30.5% had a DAPT between 7 and 12 months, and 16.4% a DAPT ≤ 6 months. Patients with L-DAPT (>12 months) were at higher ischemic risk [25.0% of DAPT score ≥2 vs. 18.8% DAPT score ≥2 in S&I-DAPT group (≤12 months)]. The most commonly used P2Y12 inhibitor was clopidogrel (82.2%). The prescription of ticagrelor increased over the period.

Conclusions

post-PCI DAPT duration in CCS was higher than international recommendations in the France PCI registry between 2014 and 2019. More than half of the angioplasty performed for CCS are followed by a DAPT > 12 months. Ischemic risk assessment influences the duration of DAPT. This risk is probably overestimated nowadays, leading to a prolongation of DAPT beyond the recommended durations, thus increasing the bleeding risk.

Thoracic sarcopenia as a predictive factor of SARS-COV2 evolution

PURPOSE

Evaluation of CT sarcopenia as a predictor of intensive care hospitalization during SARS-COV2 infection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Single-center retrospective study of patients admitted to hospital with SARS-COV2 infection. The estimation of muscle mass (skeletal muscle index (SMI)) for sarcopenia, measurement of muscle density for muscle quality and body adiposity, were based on CT views on the T4 and L3 levels measured at admission. Demographic data, percentage of pulmonary parenchymal involvement as well as the orientation of patients during hospitalization and the risk of hospitalization in intensive care were collected.

RESULTS

A total of 162 patients hospitalized for SARS-COV2 infection were included (92 men and 70 women, with an average age of 64.6 years and an average BMI of 27.4). The muscle area measured at the level of L3 was significantly associated with the patient's unfavorable evolution (124.4cm2 [97; 147] vs 141.5 cm² [108; 173]) (p = 0.007), as was a lowered SMI (p < 0.001) and the muscle area measured in T4 (OR = 0.98 [0.97; 0.99]), (p = 0.026). Finally, an abdominal visceral fat area measured at the level of L3 was also associated with a risk of hospitalization in intensive care (249.4cm2 [173; 313] vs 147.5cm2 [93.1; 228] (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that thoracic and abdominal sarcopenia are independently associated with an increased risk of hospitalization in an intensive care unit, suggesting the need to assess sarcopenia on admission during SARS-COV2 infection.

Attitude of community pharmacists toward patients with a substance-related disorder (heroin, alcohol and tobacco), estimation of harmfulness and knowledge of these substances, and continuing education: A pilot cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

To investigate attitude of community pharmacists toward patients with a substance-related disorder (heroin, alcohol and tobacco).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The attitudes were assessed thanks to the Attitude to Mental Illness Questionnaire (AMIQ) for heroin, alcohol and tobacco-related disorders in three independent groups of pharmacists. Estimation of substance-related harmfulness, knowledge of substance-related disorders and activities/needs for continuing education on substance-related disorders were also recorded.

RESULTS

Thirty-five pharmacists were included (heroin: 11, alcohol: 10 and tobacco: 14). AMIQ scores for heroin-related disorder were negative and lower than for alcohol (P<0.01) and tobacco (P<0.001). AMIQ scores for alcohol-related disorder were lower than for tobacco (P<0.05). The estimation of heroin-related harmfulness was higher than for alcohol and tobacco (P<0.001). The estimations of knowledge of substance-related disorders were lower for opioid and alcohol than for tobacco (P<0.001). AMIQ scores and the needs for continuing education on each associated addiction showed a positive relation (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

Pharmacists had a negative attitude toward heroin and alcohol-related disorders. A positive attitude toward patients with a substance-related disorder was associated with a need for continuing education. Efforts should be made to change attitudes and to promote continuing education on heroin and alcohol-related disorders.

A health promotion intervention for vulnerable schools (BeE-school): a cluster-randomized trial

Background

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) share key determinants like unhealthy diet, unhealthy 24h- movement behaviour (sleep, sedentary behaviour and physical activity), leading to other risks including overweight, obesity and raised blood pressure. Although the manifest of the NCDs in childhood is rare, risk behaviours, obesity, and raised blood pressure that accelerates their development begin during childhood. The current study aims to analyze the effectiveness of the intervention program based on the promotion of health literacy and lifestyles, on children’s health literacy, lifestyles (e.g. dietary intake, 24hmovement behaviour) and overweight and obesity.

Methods

478 children (6 schools) aged 6-12years old will participate in this cluster-randomized trial, having schools as the unit of randomization, assigned into intervention (239-3schools) and the control arm (239-3schools). This project is currently performing social listening (online and offline) and stakeholders’ involvement. Data collection includes sociodemographics, health literacy and infodemic resilience, dietary intake and children’s 24-h movement behaviour (e.g. accelerometry), anthropometry (e.g. weight, height and waist circumference) and blood pressure. It will occur at baseline and after the intervention (follow-up, 6 months after the beginning of the intervention).

Results

Expected outputs and outcomes include the 1-creation of a model for characterizing NCDs and health topics based on artificial intelligence techniques (e.g. deep learning, social network analysis methods).2- improved health literacy and infodemic resilience of children, families and teachers.3- enhanced children’s lifestyles. 4- reduce NCDs’ physical risk factors (e.g. overweight, raised blood pressure).

Conclusions

A feasible intervention program for school-aged children with vulnerabilities enhances tailored policies about health promotion and NCDs’ prevention, respecting the contextś singularities.

Key messages

• Health promotion and NCDs prevention are crucial for the well-being of our societies.

• Feasible intervention programs advocates for evidence-based policies that respect local singularities.

P-443 Evaluation of the effects of a semi-automated vitrification performed before or after in vitro maturation (IVM) on the kinetic of oocyte maturation and chromosome segregation

Study question

What are the optimal vitrification method (semi-automated vs. manual) and oocyte stage for in vitro -matured oocyte cryopreservation using meiosis kinetics and chromosome segregation as readouts?

Summary answer

The semi-automated vitrification method does not impact oocyte nuclear maturation quality compared with the manual method. Immature oocyte cryopreservation should be performed after IVM.

What is known already

Fertility preservation using oocyte vitrification should be performed before oncological treatments. The reference protocol consists in collecting mature oocytes after ovarian stimulation. Nevertheless, ovarian stimulation sometimes yields immature oocytes or cannot be performed (e.g., emergency oncological treatment). An IVM step is therefore required but it is not clearly demonstrated whether IVM should be performed before or after vitrification. Oocyte vitrification is usually performed with manual methods. A semi-automated vitrification device (Gavi®, Genea Biomedx) showing high performances for embryo was recently released. To our knowledge, no study has analysed its efficiency on oocyte vitrification.

Study design, size, duration

200 immature oocytes collected from ICSI cycles from January 2020 will be used. Oocytes will be divided in five groups (40 oocytes/group): freshly matured oocytes (group 1 control), oocytes vitrified after IVM by a manual technique (group 2a) or by Gavi® (group 2b) and oocytes vitrified prior IVM (groups 3a and 3b). We assess oocyte nuclear maturation quality by evaluating IVM kinetics by time-lapse (Geri®) and the accuracy of homologous chromosomes segregation by CGH array.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Since January 2020, 124 out of 200 immature oocytes have been included for this study. These oocytes provide from women under 37 years old without ovulatory disorder after signing an informed consent. The kinetics of meiotic resumption (germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and polar body extrusion (PBE) timings), is determined by time-lapse technology (Geri®, Genea Biomedx). The accuracy of the homologous chromosome segregation during the first meiotic division will be assessed by CGH-Array.

Main results and the role of chance

The clinico-biological characteristics (age, BMI, smoking and total FSH dose) are comparable between the five groups (p &gt; 0.05). No significant difference in post-thawing oocyte survival rate is observed between the two vitrification methods (semi-automated 58% vs. manual 64%). A significant difference in the overall oocyte survival rate is observed according to the stage of vitrification with a significantly higher survival rate if oocytes are vitrified at the mature stage (93% (2a+2b) vs. 61% (3a+3b), p = 0.02). The IVM rate is significantly higher if oocytes are matured freshly (86% in group 1 (fresh IVM, n = 7) and 93% in group 2a+2b (IVM before vitrification, n = 27)) compared to post vitrification (71% in group 3a+3b, n = 28), p = 0.03. The vitrification technique does not seem to impact IVM rate since it reached 64% (group 3a, n = 11) and 76% (group 3b, n = 16) (p = 0.4). GVBD and PBE timings are not significantly different between the 5 groups, suggesting that neither the oocyte stage of vitrification nor the vitrification technique affects maturation kinetics. Similarly, our preliminary results of polar bodies and oocytes chromosomal profiles assessed by CGH-Array demonstrate a similar rate of aneuploidy (monosomy or trisomy) between the groups.

Limitations, reasons for caution

Our preliminary results of CGH array should be confirmed with the analysis of a larger number of IVM oocytes.

Wider implications of the findings

Vitrification of immature oocytes should be performed by semi-automated or manual methods after IVM. Tour knowledge, this is the first study comparing the efficiency of both semi-automated and manual vitrification methods on immature and in vitro-matured oocytes.

Trial registration number

NCT03680937

P-150 clinical pregnancy rates of oocyte donor cycles are similar when universal media and/or oocyte-specific media are used for oocyte vitrification and warming

Study question

Did the use of universal vitrification/warming media have an impact on the clinical pregnancy rates in oocyte donation cycles compared with oocyte-specific vitrification/warming media?

Summary answer

Using universal media for oocyte vitrification and warming yields similar clinical pregnancy rates but higher oocyte survival rates than oocyte-specific media.

What is known already

Vitrification is now the gold standard for oocyte and embryo cryopreservation. Several commercial kits are available, some are designed for specific cell types (e.g., oocytes, zygotes, cleavage-stage embryos or blastocysts) and others are suitable for several stages, therefore termed “universal”. While the composition and the exposition protocol of stage specific media are optimized for specific cell types, “universal” media display a single composition, therefore exposition protocols need to be adapted to each specific developmental stage to ensure optimal cell survival rates. The potential use of the universal media allows to optimize the management of media in ART laboratories.

Study design, size, duration

This is a retrospective monocentric study. We compared the results obtained in our center for oocyte vitrification in donor cycles with the successive use of oocyte-specific vitrification/warming media (RapidVit/Warm™ Oocyte, Vitrolife) and afterwards universal vitrification/warming media (RapidVit/Warm™ Omni, Vitrolife). We analyzed 111 oocyte recipient ICSI cycles performed between March 2016 and July 2020 (86 recipient couples) and their 81 corresponding oocyte donation cycles (79 donors) with these media.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Oocyte recipient ICSI cycles were divided in three groups depending on the combination of vitrification and warming media used for the oocyte vitrification and warming procedures: “specific/specific” (S/S), “specific/universal” (S/U) and “universal/universal” (U/U). The primary outcome was the clinical pregnancy rate per embryo transfer. Secondary outcomes were the oocyte survival rates, fertilization rates, cleavage and blastocyst rates, live birth and miscarriage rates.

Main results and the role of chance

The age of the donors (31.7+/-3.6 yo) and the recipients (35.1+/-4.5) was similar for the three groups (p &gt; 0.05). Total FSH dose was similar for the 3 groups (1814.2+/-505UI) (p &gt; 0.05)

Clinical pregnancy rates were similar when universal vitrification/warming media were used (25.6% for S/U; 25.8% for U/U) compared with oocyte-specific vitrification/warming media (12.2% for S/S, p = 0.25). We observed higher oocyte survival rates when universal media were used (93.7% for U/U, 85.5% for S/U) compared with the use of the oocyte-specific media (75.6% for S/S, p &lt; 0.0001). Fertilization (74.9% for U/U; 68% for S/U; 68.1% for S/S), cleavage (97.9% for U/U; 94.6% for S/U; 89.3% for S/S), and blastulation rates (46.6% for U/U; 50.3% for S/U; 41.7% for S/S) were not different between the three groups (p &gt; 0.05). There was no difference in miscarriage (6.5% for U/U; 10.2% for S/U; 4.9% for S/S) and live birth rates (19.4% for U/U; 15.4% for S/U; 7.3% for S/S) between the 3 groups (p &gt; 0.05).

Limitations, reasons for caution

The preliminary results of this retrospective study need to be confirmed by a larger prospective study.

Wider implications of the findings

The use of vitrification/warming universal media, which improves the management of media used for vitrification of oocytes and embryos in ART laboratory, allows to obtain similar clinical pregnancy rates for oocyte recipient donors.

Trial registration number

not applicable

POS0587 TRAJECTORIES AND FACTORS INFLUENCING THE EVOLUTION OF HAND GRIP AMONG PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by an early reduced grip strength which persists over time despite the remission of the disease suggesting the presence of a sarcopenia.

Objectives

To study the evolution of the grip strength measured by the handgrip. by identifying different trajectories and associated factors.

Methods

Patients with active RA who visited the Rheumatology Department of Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital for initiating bDMARD were invited to participate to the longitudinal cohort RCVRIC analyzing cardiovascular risk and chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease. Within the RCVRIC cohort 175 RA initially underwent a handgrip determination. 143 patients had at least 2 handgrip measurements over 2 years, allowing analysis of trajectories by the “Group Based Trajectory Modeling” method. For the trajectories, handgrip was expressed in terms of percentage of the theoretical value defined according to age and sex. The clinical characteristics of the disease, the therapeutic response, and the body composition associated with each trajectory were analyzed.

Results

At inclusion, the handgrip was normal among only 4% of patients, with an alteration of 51% of its theoretical value. After 2 years of follow-up, a majority of patients improved their handgrip trajectory to reach an average of 68% of the theoretical one, but only 15.7% of the patients normalized their handgrip. Four trajectories have been identified along with associated factors:

1st trajectory consists of low handgrip with little improvement and was composed of: 9 patients (6.3%), median age 60 years [53.6;69.3], 88% women, disease duration 17.99 years [6.78;24.9], DAS 28 ESR 4.68 ± 1.29, and initial handgrip 21% of the theoretical value [8;24].

2nd trajectory shows good improvement (+72%) and was composed of: 70 patients (49%), median age 58.9 years [54.4;64.3], 84% women, disease duration 5.99 years [1.46;14.8], DAS 28 ESR 4.43 ± 1.07, and initial handgrip 32% of the theoretical value [17.8;46.4].

3rd trajectory shows moderate improvement (+25%) and was composed of: 43 patients (30%), median aged 60.7 years [45.7;69.4], 79% women, disease duration 3.5 years [1.25;9.9], DAS 28 ESR 4.0 ± 1.03 and initial handgrip 60% of the theoretical value [48.2;76].

4th trajectory shows high handgrip and was composed of: 21 patients (14.7%), 57% women, median age 57.9 years old [49.7; 67.4], disease duration 3.81 years [2.14; 10.7], DAS 28 ESR 3.68 ±1.29 and initial hand grip 92% of the theoretical value [85; 100].

Significant differences at inclusion between the 4 trajectories were observed. The 4th trajectory was characterized by a higher proportion of men (p=0.05), lower disease activity (DAS 28 ESR (p=0.02), SDAI (p=0.04)), better initial handgrip (p=0.03) and 6 min walk test (p=0.0001), and a lower percentage of fat mass (p=0.04). In contrast, a higher disability (HAQ, p=0.002), a lower total lean body mass (p=0.001) and poorer therapeutic response (p=0.04) were noted in trajectories 1 and 2.

Conclusion

After 2 years of follow-up, a majority of patients improved their handgrip trajectory. However, very few patients normalized their hand grip. Four trajectories of handgrip were identified; the main indicators of hand grip’s improvement were the control of the disease activity, low functional disability, walking performance, a low percentage of fat mass and high lean mass.

References

[1]Cruz-Jentoft AJ, and al. Sarcopenia: revised European consensus on definition and diagnosis. Age Ageing. janv 2019

[2]An HJ, and al. Sarcopenia in Autoimmune and Rheumatic Diseases: A Comprehensive Review. Int J Mol Sci. 7 août 2020

[3]Shiratori AP and al. Evaluation protocols of hand grip strength in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis: systematic review. Rev Bras Reumatol. avr 2014

[4]Dodds RM, et al. Grip strength across the life course: normative data from twelve British studies. PloS One. 2014;

Acknowledgements

I thank the department of rheumatology of Clermont Ferrand.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared.

Correlation between different equations to calculate free testosterone for improved detection of hypogonadism in people living with HIV

The diagnosis of hypogonadism in people living with HIV (PLWH) remains challenging by the lack of a standardised diagnostic algorithm. Since sexual hormone-binding globulin levels are commonly increased in PLWH, guidelines recommend assessing free testosterone (FT) along with total testosterone levels. We compared different online equations available to estimate FT levels and found a good correlation amongst all algorithms. Estimating FT levels increased diagnostic accuracy of hypogonadism and therefore should be encouraged in clinical practice in PLWH with clinical symptoms of hypogonadism, even when total testosterone levels are normal.

Injected 3T-3D-FLAIR-MRI labyrinthine patterns match with the severity and tonotopic alteration in sudden sensorineural hearing loss

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to assess a correlation between MRI labyrinthine changes detected with IV-gadolinium optimized high-resolution 3D-FLAIR sequences 4 h after injection (OPT4-3DFLAIR) and the type of SSNHL, in terms of frequency alteration and severity.

METHODS

This was a prospective monocentric study achieved from July 2019 to December 2020. The inclusion criterion was acute hearing loss of at least 30 dB over three contiguous frequencies occurring within a 72-h period, documented by a pure-tone audiometry (PTA). The primary endpoint was the visual assessment of hyperintensity in labyrinthine structures on OPT4-3DFLAIR performed on 3T MRI.

RESULTS

Thirty-six affected ears were included (20 men, 15 women; mean age: 54.5 ± 16.3 years) with 69.4% full-spectrum hearing loss. The median hearing loss, expressed as median and interquartile range [IQR] was 91 dB [74-120], with 47.2% of concomitant acute vestibular syndrome. Pathological signal was found in 26 out of 36 ears (72.2%). Basal turn enhancement was found in all abnormal MRIs, with 73.1% of apical turn enhancement and 50% of vestibular enhancement. Seventeen on 19 cases (89.5%) with apical involvement on MRI had low-frequency hearing loss. Vestibular involvement on MRI was significantly associated with a wider frequency range of hearing loss (p = 0.0002) and the severity of SSNHL (84.5 [71.7-92.5] dB versus 120 [85.8-120] dB, p = 0.0158).

CONCLUSION

This report shows that in pathological MRI in SSNHL, a pathologic cochlear base signal is always detected, a cochlear apical turn enhancement matches with low-tone impairment, and a pathological signal within the posterior labyrinth is associated with an impairment of all frequencies and the severity of SSNHL.

Evaluation of a Clinic Dedicated to People Aging with HIV at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital: Results of a 10-Year Experience

Successful management of HIV infection as a chronic condition has resulted in a demographic shift where the proportion of people living with HIV (PLWH) older than 50 years is steadily increasing. A dedicated clinic to PLWH older than 50 years was established at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital in January 2009 and then extended to HIV services across the directorate. We report the results of a service evaluation reviewing 10 years of activities of this clinic between January 2009 and 2019. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of major noninfectious comorbidities, polypharmacy (≥5 medications), and multimorbidity (≥2 non-HIV-related comorbidities) and describe algorithms devised for use in HIV outpatient clinics across the directorate. A cohort of 744 PLWH older than 50 years attending this service were analyzed (93% male; mean age of 56 ± 5.5 years; 84% white ethnicity); 97.7% were on antiretroviral treatment and 95.9% had undetectable HIV-RNA at the time of evaluation. The most common comorbidities diagnosed were dyslipidemia (50.1%), hypertension (21.5%), mental health disorders (depression and/or anxiety disorders, 15.7%), osteoporosis (12.2%), obesity (11.9%), chronic kidney disease (7.5%), and diabetes (5.8%). Low vitamin D levels were found in 62% of patients [43% with vitamin D deficiency (<40 mmol/liter) and 57% with vitamin D insufficiency (40-70 mmol/liter)]. The overall prevalence of polypharmacy and multimorbidity was 46.6% and 69.3%, respectively. This study showed significant rates of non-HIV-related comorbidities and polypharmacy in PLWH older than 50 years, leading on to the implementation of clinical care pathways and new joint HIV/specialty clinics (cardiology, nephrology, neurology, metabolic, menopause, and geriatric) to improve prevention, diagnosis, and management of major comorbidities in people aging with HIV.

Short Communication: Predictive Value of HIV-Related Versus Traditional Risk Factors for Coronary Atherosclerosis in People Aging with HIV

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is an important cause of morbidity in people living with HIV (PLWH). We compared the predictive value of HIV-related and traditional CVD risk factors to assess which factors best predict the presence of subclinical coronary atherosclerosis in PLWH. This is a cross-sectional study in PLWH over 50 years of age who performed computed tomography coronary artery calcium (CAC) scoring between 2009 and 2019 at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. The following outcomes were analyzed: CAC = 0 (no calcification), CAC >0 (any calcification), CAC >100 (moderate calcification), and CAC >400 (severe calcification). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to assess predictors of coronary calcification. A total of 744 patients were included (mean age 56 ± 5.7 years, 94.8% male, 84% white). A CAC >0 was found in 392 (52.7%), CAC >100 in 90 (12.1%), and CAC >400 in 42 (5.6%) subjects. CAC >100 was strongly associated with hypertension [odds ratio, OR: 2.91, (95% confidence interval: 1.93-4.36), p < .001], dyslipidemia [2.71 (1.81-4.06), p < .001], and diabetes [2.53 (1.29-4.96), p = .01]. Regarding HIV-specific factors, a significant association was found with exposure (>6 years) to protease inhibitors [1.67 (1.06-2.61), p = .05], whereas exposure to tenofovir (>8 years) was negatively associated with CAC >100 [0.54 (0.30-0.98), p = .05]. Despite the high prevalence of hypertension (45.4%) only 21.5% were on antihypertensives, whereas only 29.2% of eligible candidates were receiving lipid-lowering drugs for primary prevention of CVD. Traditional cardiometabolic risk factors remain the strongest predictors of coronary atherosclerosis in PLWH as in the general population. These results underscore the importance of optimizing treatment of hypertension and promoting primary prevention strategies that may be underused in PLWH.

Determinants of Resting Energy Expenditure in Very Old Nursing Home Residents

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to measure resting energy expenditure (REE) in institutionalized old persons and to determine factors possibly related to change in REE as a basis for estimating energy requirements.

DESIGN AND SETTINGS

A monocentric cross-sectional study was conducted. Statistical approaches were conducted to determine independent factors associated with REE. Various published predictive equations of REE were compared to our population.

PARTICIPANTS

72 residents of a nursing home, mostly women (80.5%) aged 87.4±6.6 years were included.

MEASUREMENTS

REE (indirect calorimetry), body composition (bio-impedance analysis), biological and anthropometric data were collected.

RESULTS

Mean REE was 1006±181 kcal/d and was higher in men than in (1227±195 vs. 953±131 kcal/d, p<0.05). According to criteria adapted from the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition consensus, 65.3 % of the institutionalized population were malnourished. In multivariate analysis adjusted on gender and age, REE was positively associated with calorie intake, fat-free mass (FFM), functional abilities (French Autonomie Gérontologie Groupe Iso Ressources scale), and elevated CRP level (> 25 mg/l). Significant differences (p<0.05) appeared between measured REE and predicted REE by using various published equations.

CONCLUSION

REE of very old nursing home residents is influenced by FFM, calorie intake, functional abilities, and CRP levels and is poorly predicted by classical equations based on age, gender, height, and weight. This suggests a metabolic adaptation to caloric restriction and inflammation and prompts to consider the level of physical activity and muscle loss when assessing caloric requirements in this population.

Lumbar puncture in infants with urinary tract infection: Assessment of infant management in the emergency department

BACKGROUND

Neonatal bacterial infections must be bacteriologically confirmed from laboratory samples to best adjust antibiotic therapy. Lumbar puncture (LP) has been recommended for infants younger than 1 month with suspected serious bacterial infection (SBI) to manage possible meningitis. However, the incidence of bacterial meningitis associated with other infections and particularly with urinary tract infections (UTIs) is low. Recourse to systematic LP may be less essential if infants have a UTI. We aimed (a) to determine the management and frequency of bacterial meningitis coexisting with a documented diagnosis of UTI in infants aged < 1 month who had an LP, and (b) to evaluate the management of infants in emergency admissions with suspected SBI while assessing antibiotic treatment.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective single-center study from January 2010 to April 2019 including all cases of neonatal bacterial infections, and collected data on the clinical, laboratory, and radiological features.

RESULTS

In all, 409 infants were included in the study. Of these, 162 (39.6%) presented with a UTI and eight (2%) had bacterial meningitis. Of the infants diagnosed with UTI, 74.7% had an LP, of whom 34.7% experienced LP complications. No coexistence of UTI and bacterial meningitis was found among infants who had an LP and a documented UTI.

CONCLUSION

Although not all infants had an LP and a urine culture at the same time, these results show that bacterial meningitis coexisting with a confirmed UTI diagnosis in infants is rare. Furthermore, LP can be traumatic in some cases and therefore its utility should be assessed according to the clinical context.

P–021 An accurate and reliable screening for SARS-CoV–2 in human sperm samples by RT-PCR: A requirement to evaluate the viral contamination risk during SARS-CoV–2 pandemic

Study question

How to ensure a reliable and accurate detection of SARS-CoV–2 in seminal plasma and spermatozoa fractions of human sperm samples?

Summary answer

This RT-PCR assay showed high sensibility, repeatability and reproducibility for SARS-CoV–2 detection in seminal plasma and spermatozoa fractions, with a detection limit of 17 genomes/reaction.

What is known already

SARS-CoV–2 pandemic brings numerous concerns, such as the safety of gametes for patients undergoing assisted reproductive technologies, fertility preservation or sperm donation. Transient viremia and expression of SARS-CoV–2 receptors in testis and accessory glands bring the question of the presence of the virus in sperm samples. Moreover, the contamination during sperm collection may be possible. The few available studies about this issue mostly showed the absence of SARS-CoV–2 detection in semen of COVID–19 patients, except one reported study. All these studies performed SARS-CoV–2 detection with RT-PCR assays approved for naso-pharyngeal swabs, without a process specifically validated for semen fractions.

Study design, size, duration

Method validation was conducted between July 2020 and January 2021. SARS-CoV–2 direct detection was performed according to the French Society of Microbiology guidelines (SFM). Repeatability (n = 6), reproducibility (n = 3), limit of quantification (n = 2) and of detection (n = 6) were evaluated in seminal plasma (SP) and spermatozoa samples isolated after density gradient centrifugation and cryopreserved. In addition, variability of the whole analytical method efficiency was evaluated in samples of men with normal (n = 6) or altered sperm parameters (n = 6).

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Samples were surplus semen obtained from men undergoing routine semen analysis after granting informed consent. Assays were performed on SP and frozen spermatozoa fractions. After automated RNA extraction (MGISP–960, MGI-Tech®), real-time RT-PCR was performed using the one-step multiplex TaqPath COVID–19 kit (ThermoFisher®) targeting three viral regions (ORF1, nucleocapsid-N and spike-S proteins). An exogenous internal control was added before RNA extraction. Positive samples and dilution ranges were prepared with a standard (SARS-CoV–2 inactivated virus, QnosticTM Randox®).

Main results and the role of chance

RT-PCR assay applied for human sperm samples has been previously validated and is routinely used for SARS-CoV–2 detection in naso-pharyngeal swabs. We evaluated the efficiency of RNA extraction and RT-PCR for SARS-CoV–2 detection in semen fractions. The qualitative and quantitative performance of the whole analytical method was validated with an accuracy profile for SP and spermatozoa fractions. Overall, for repeatability, the standard deviation (SD) of the cycle threshold (Ct) was lower than 0.40 for the strong positive sample and 0.50 for the low positive one. An exception was observed for the S target of the low positive SP samples (SD = 3) which was consistent with S being the less sensitive target of the assay. For reproducibility, SD of the Ct was lower than 0.30 for the strong positive sample and 0.80 for the low positive, except for the S target of the low positive (SD = 1.5). The linearity range was determined for N target, the most sensitive target of the RT-PCR assay. It layed between 5200 and 52 SARS-CoV–2 genomes/reaction. The limit of detection of the RT-PCR assay was 17 viral genomes/reaction. Equal efficiency of the assay was observed for SP and spermatozoa independently of semen parameters (normal and altered sperm parameters). Limitations, reasons for caution: Our detection method was validated for the whole process: RNA extraction (reagents and system), RT-PCR (reagents and thermocycler QuantStudio 5^TM) and for both SP and frozen spermatozoa fractions. Variability might be observed with a different extraction system or a different type of biological sample.

Wider implications of the findings: This validated RT-PCR assay enables accurate and reliable screening of SARS-CoV–2 in SP and spermatozoa fractions, mandatory to investigate the presence of the virus in semen samples of patients undergoing assisted reproductive techniques, fertility preservation or sperm donation, and to ensure viral safety in the cryobanking process during covid–19 pandemic.

Trial registration number

EudraCT 2020-A01409–30

The benefits of tenofovir discontinuation with or without bisphosphonate therapy in osteoporotic people living with HIV

OBJECTIVES

Treatment with bisphosphonates and discontinuation of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) are recommended strategies for managing osteoporosis in people living with HIV (PLHIV). This study aimed to compare the effects on bone mineral density (BMD) of TDF discontinuation with and without bisphosphonate therapy in osteoporotic PLHIV.

METHODS

The present study is a retrospective cohort analysis of dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan results of PLHIV attending Chelsea and Westminster Hospital HIV clinic between 2009 and 2020. Osteoporotic (T-score < -2.5) patients with ≥ 6 months' TDF exposure were included. Changes in BMD and T-scores at the lumbar spine (LS) and femoral neck (FN) were assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 84 participants were included, of whom 43 discontinued TDF only (TS) and 41 switched from TDF and received bisphosphonates (TS+): 86.9% were male; 77.4% were white; median (interquartile range, IQR) age was 54.8 (51.0-58.5) years; and median (IQR) TDF exposure was 6.5 (3.5-10.4) years. At a median follow-up of 2 years after TDF-discontinuation, mean spine BMD increased significantly in both groups, but bisphosphonate recipients had greater improvements (4.83% vs. 7.79%; P < 0.019); LS T-scores improved significantly but changes were comparable between groups (TS, 0.5 vs. TS+, 0.6; P = 0.270). At the FN, no significant increases in BMD were observed (TS, 3.05% vs. TS+, 2.71%; P = 0.205); T-scores significantly improved in bisphosphonate recipients only (+0.2; P = 0.003). A greater proportion recovered from osteoporosis in the TS+ group (34.9% vs. 43.9%), although differences between groups were not significant (P = 0.503).

CONCLUSIONS

Our real-world data indicate that although TDF discontinuation significantly improved bone health in osteoporotic PLHIV, combining bisphosphonates with TDF discontinuation resulted in greater improvements in BMD.

Impact of oral galenic formulations of Lactobacillus salivarius on probiotic survival and interactions with microbiota in human in vitro gut models

Health benefits of probiotics in humans essentially depend on their ability to survive during gastrointestinal (GI) transit and to modulate gut microbiota. To date, there is few data on the impact of galenic formulations of probiotics on these parameters. Even if clinical studies remain the gold standard to evaluate the efficacy of galenic forms, they stay hampered by technical, ethical and cost reasons. As an alternative approach, we used two complementary in vitro models of the human gut, the TNO gastrointestinal (TIM-1) model and the Artificial Colon (ARCOL), to study the effect of three oral formulations of a Lactobacillus salivarius strain (powder, capsule and sustained-release tablet) on its viability and interactions with gut microbiota. In the TIM-1 stomach, no or low numbers of bacteria were respectively released from the capsule and tablet, confirming their gastro-resistance. The capsule was disintegrated in the jejunum on average 76 min after administration while the core of sustained-release tablet was still intact at the end of digestion. Viability in TIM-1 was significantly influenced by the galenic form with survival percentages of 0.003±0.004%, 2.8±0.6% and 17.0±1.8% (n=3) for powder, capsule and tablet, respectively. In the ARCOL, the survival of the strain tended to be higher in the post-treatment phase with the tablet compared to capsule, but gut microbiota composition and activity were not differently modulated by the two formulations. In conclusion, the sustained-release tablet emerged as the formulation that most effectively preserved viability of the tested strain during GI passage. This study highlights the usefulness of in vitro gut models for the pre-screening of probiotic pharmaceutical forms. Their use could also easily be extended to the evaluation of the effects of food matrices and age on probiotic survival and activity during GI transit.

POS1475-HPR EFFECT OF ARGENTINE TANGO PRACTICE ON TOTAL PHYSICAL ACTIVITY TIME IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC INFLAMMATORY RHEUMATISM: A PILOT STUDY

Background:

Most patients with chronic inflammatory rheumatism (CIR) have a physical activity (PA) level below recommendations [1,2]. Currently, adapted structures offer a range of activities supervised by adapted physical activity educators. To the best of our knowledge, Argentinean tango is not yet offered in these structures.

Objectives:

The objective of this pilot study was to study the effect of 24 consecutive sessions of Argentinean tango on the total PA level in patients with CIR, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and spondyloarthritis (AS).

Methods:

In this controlled, randomized, open-label, clinical trial with two parallel arms, patients were required to attend two tango sessions per week, 48 sessions from 0 (M0) to 6 months (M6) for the intervention group (IG) and 24 sessions from 3 months (M3) to M6 for the control group (CG). Total PA time was measured at M3 using the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) [3].

Results:

A total of 27 patients (23 women) were included, including 15 with RA and 12 with AS. Mean age was 59 ± 12 years, and median disease duration was 10 years (IQR: 3-19). The majority of patients had background treatment (conventional and/or biological). At M3, 22 patients could be evaluated (11 GC patients and 11 GI patients), as 3 patients were lost to follow-up and 2 were unable to come in due to health or professional reasons. The 11 GI patients attended a median of 16 sessions (IQR: 8-22), i.e., approximately one session per week. At M3, the total PA time was not increased, regardless of the measurement method, GPAQ questionnaire (effect size and 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.03 [-0.60; 0.67], p=0.91) or accelerometer (effect size and 95% CI: 0.43 [-0.37; 1.24], p=0.26), and regardless of the intensity of the PA. No significant change was found for sedentary time, disease activity, fatigue, or anxiety. However, improvements were found in body appreciation as assessed by the Body Appreciation Scale 2 questionnaire (p=0.016), balance (p=0.053), wrist bending angle (p=0.092), and shoulder amplitude (p=0.093). The few participants in this study is explained by the geographic distance of the classes and their homes, the lack of availability of patients in professional activity, fatigue, or not liking dance (mainly among men).

Conclusion:

The results of this pilot study suggest that one Argentinean tango session per week in CIR patients is more achievable than two sessions as originally planned. As the practice of classes in hospitals is constrained due to geographic distance, the sessions could be offered in adapted structures. Nevertheless, our pilot study shows that the Argentinean tango is beneficial for body appreciation in patients with CIR. A qualitative study is needed to better understand these effects.

References:

[1]Haute Autorité de Santé (2007). Rheumatoid arthritis: therapeutic aspects excluding drugs and surgery - medico-social and organizational aspects. Professional recommendations service - Medical-economic evaluation and public health service.

[2]Haute Autorité de Santé (2008). Spondylarthritis: guide - long-term condition. Good Professional Practices Department - Communication Department.

[3] Cleland CL, Hunter RF, Kee F, Cupples ME, Sallis JF, Tully MA. (2014 Dec). Validity of the global physical activity questionnaire (GPAQ) in assessing levels and change in moderate-vigorous physical activity and sedentary behaviour. BMC Public Health. 10;14:1255. doi: 10.1186/1471-2458-14-1255.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

Cannabis use assessment and its impact on pain in rheumatologic diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Despite classic analgesic or effective treatments in rheumatic diseases, such as synthetic DMARDs in RA, patients remain in pain and often turn to non-prescribed pharmacological alternatives, such as cannabis self-therapeutic use. However, this medical use of cannabis has not been thoroughly studied.

METHODS

We performed a systematic literature review up to June 2020. The incidence of cannabis consumption was calculated by metaproportion. Differences between cannabis users and non-users were expressed as standardized mean differences using the inverse-variance method. We also assessed the effects of cannabis on pain.

RESULTS

A total of 2900 patients reported cannabis consumption in a sample of 10 873 patients [incidence 40.4% (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.28, 0.54)], and 15.3% (95% CI: 0.07, 0.27) specified that they were currently taking cannabis. Cannabis use was higher in the four fibromyalgia studies [68.2% (95% CI: 0.41, 0.90), n = 611] compared with seven articles concerning RA or lupus [26.0% (95% CI: 0.14, 0.41), n = 8168]. Cannabis consumption was associated with a decrease in pain intensity [VAS pain at baseline 8.2 (2.9) vs 5.6 (3.5) mm over time; pooled effect size -1.75 (95% CI: -2.75, -0.76)]. Cannabis users were younger [58.4 (11.4) vs 63.6 (12.1) years; P <0.001], more often smokers [OR 2.91 (95% CI: 1.84, 4.60)] or unemployed [OR 2.40 (95% CI: 1.31, 4.40)], and had higher pain intensity [5.0 (2.4) vs 4.1(2.6) mm; P <0.001] than non-users.

CONCLUSION

Nearly 20% of patients suffering from rheumatologic diseases actively consume cannabis, with an improvement in pain. The issue of cannabis use in the management of these patients should be addressed during medical consultation, essentially with cannabis-based standardized pharmaceutical products.

Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior of Elderly Populations during Confinement: Results from the FRENCH COVID-19 ONAPS Survey

Introduction: A national confinement was imposed in France in March 2020 during 55 days to prevent the spread of the virus and protect vulnerable people such as older individuals. This study aimed to describe the movement behaviors, and their determinants, of elderly people (≥ 65 years) during the confinement.Methods: An online survey was conducted from April 1^st, 2020 to May 6^th, 2020 by the National Observatory for Physical Activity and Sedentary behaviors. This study compared the level of physical activity (PA), sitting and screen time before and during the confinement and identified the impact of initial PA, sedentary profiles of the participants and housing conditions.Results: 1,178 people were included in this study. Reaching PA recommendations before lock-down was associated with the change in PA level during lock-down (p < .001). Besides, geographic location was associated with the change in PA, sitting time and screen time during lock-down (respectively p = .03, p = .02, p = .02).Conclusion: This study confirm the negative impact of confinement on senior movement behaviors, whether or not they met with public health recommendations prior to the pandemic. The housing conditions of older people must be also taken into future public health policies.

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: Exploratory validation study of the potential of a biofeedback digitized approach for burnout therapy optimization

Introduction

The Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has shown to be useful in the treatment of PTSD, general anxiety, stress and burnout. Nonetheless, assessing therapy progress has been limited to subjective appreciations of the patient and therapist, which compromise therapy efficacy, and the continuum of care (clinic and at home) and scalability that digitized approaches can offer.

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to validate the potential of a smartphone-based biofeedback digitized approach for EMDR usage in burnout therapy, as a means to provide quantitative progress assessment and personalized therapy optimization.

Methods

A digitized burnout status assessment app based on Maslach Burnout Inventory was first implemented and tested. Then, an EMDR app was developed by making use of adjustable audiovisual stimuli (e.g. different velocity and horizontal/vertical visual stimuli; and different pitch and left-right surround sound effects) and also of the smartphone’s camera photoplethysmography finger recordings from which heart rate, heart rate variability and breathing rate are derived and used for modulating stimuli (biofeedback). Finally, interviews with several EMDR experts were conducted to assess the potential of the app as a therapeutic adjuvant.

Results

The preliminary interview results showed that the app can be useful for online therapy, to optimize the stimuli presentation, and to quantify the therapy experience and outcomes. The interviews also validated the technical specifications and usability of the tool.

Conclusions

Results so far have shown a promising receptivity and interest from EMDR experts. As such, patient testing is currently on-going.

Disclosure

The work of the present abstract is the basis of the research conducted at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon, co-lead with NEVARO, a spin-off company of the same Faculty.

Disease-modifying drug retention rate according to patient age in patients with early rheumatoid arthritis: analysis of the ESPOIR cohort

Physicians are sometimes hesitant to use disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in elderly patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), as they are deemed too fragile, although there are no sufficient scientific evidence. We aimed to compare DMARD treatment retention in early RA patients from the ESPOIR cohort, according to age upon inclusion. Overall, treatment retention was evaluated as the percentage of patients whose DMARDs were not stopped, with stratification by age group: < 50, 50-64, and > 65 years. Survival curves were measured using the Kaplan-Meier method. Of the entire ESPOIR cohort (n = 813), 7% were > 65 years old. Methotrexate (MTX) was used by 521 patients, and was the sole DMARD for 198 patients. MTX treatment retention appeared better in patients > 65 years old compared to < 50 years old [HR 0.45 (0.25; 0.81); p = 0.008, n = 195/198] with adjustment on sex, smoking, positive anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies, positive rheumatoid factor, body mass index, changes in DAS28 and corticosteroid treatment. The proportion of patients using etanercept (n = 111), and this drug's retention rate, did not differ according to patient age. The proportion of patients treated with adalimumab (n = 104) was significantly higher in patients < 50 years old (p = 0.003), and treatment retention was marginally better among younger patients [HR 1.68 (0.88; 3.22), p = 0.12]. Within the ESPOIR cohort, DMARD retention did not appear to differ according to age-except for better retention of MTX treatment in patients 50-64 years old, and of adalimumab in patients < 50 years old.

First pregnancies in jennies with vitrified donkey semen using a new warming method

Sperm vitrification has been recently developed, but fertility trials have not been performed yet in equine species. In this study, a new warming technique for vitrified donkey semen was developed and the uterine inflammatory response and fertility were compared to conventional freezing. In Experiment 1, sperm was vitrified in straws and warmed in 3 ml of extender or in a water bath at: 37 °C/30 s; 43 °C/10 s; and 60 °C/5 s. Sperm motility, plasma and acrosome membranes and DNA integrity were compared between treatments. In Experiment 2, jennies were inseminated twice (500 × 10⁶ sperm) in the uterine body either with vitrified or frozen semen (2 cycles/jenny). Pregnancy rates and the uterine inflammatory response (polymorphonuclear neutrophil concentration; PMN) were evaluated after artificial insemination (AI). No differences between warming in extender/water bath were found and 43 °C/10 s was better than lower temperatures in terms of total (53.8 ± 13.2%) and progressive sperm motility (41.4 ± 11.4%). No differences in PMN concentration (×10³ PMN/ml) were found between vitrified (276.8 ± 171.6) or frozen (309.7 ± 250.7) semen after AI. However, PMN decreased faster (P < 0.05) using vitrified semen. Pregnancy rates were greater for vitrified (22%) than frozen semen (10%) but not statistically different. In conclusion, donkey sperm vitrified in straws could be directly warmed in a water bath at 43 °C/10 s, reducing the uterine inflammatory response obtained after AI and promoting positive pregnancy outcomes. These findings confirm the possibility to use vitrified semen as an alternative for AI in jennies.

Early Transmural Response Assessed Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging Could Predict Sustained Clinical Remission and Prevent Bowel Damage in Patients with Crohn's Disease Treated with Anti-Tumour Necrosis Factor Therapy

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] is a promising tool to evaluate therapeutic efficacy in ileocolonic Crohn's disease [CD].

AIMS

We aimed to assess the feasibility of early MRI evaluation (week 12 [W12]) to predict corticosteroid-free remission [CFREM] at W52 and prevent long-term bowel damage.

METHODS

All patients with active CD needing anti-tumour necrosis factor [anti-TNF] therapy were consecutively enrolled in this multicentre prospective study. MRI was performed before starting therapy, at W12 and W52. CFREM was defined as Crohn's Disease Activity Index < 150, C-reactive protein < 5 mg/L and faecal calprotectin < 250 µg/g, with no switch of anti-TNF agents, no bowel resection and no therapeutic intensification between W12 and W52.

RESULTS

Among 46 patients, 22 [47.8%] achieved CFREM at W52. Anti-TNF agents were able to heal almost all CD lesions as soon as W12 [p < 0.05]. Early transmural response defined as a 25% decrease of either Clermont score (odds ratio [OR] = 7.7 [1.7-34.0], p < 0.001) or Magnetic Resonance Index of Activity (OR = 4.2 [1.3-13.3], p = 0.015) was predictive of CFREM at W52. Achieving at least two items on W12-MRI among ulceration healing, disappearance of enlarged lymph nodes or sclerolipomatosis, ΔADC [apparent diffusion coefficient] > +10% or ΔRCE [relative contrast enhancement] > -30% was associated with a likelihood of CFREM at W52 of 84.6% vs 37.5% in patients without transmural response [p < 0.001]. Early transmural response could prevent bowel damage progression over time using Clermont score (hazard ratio = 0.21 [0.0-0.9]; p = 0.037).

CONCLUSION

Evaluation of early transmural response by MRI is feasible and is a promising end point to monitor therapeutic efficacy in patients with CD.

Factors Affecting Embryo Recovery Rate, Quality, and Diameter in Andalusian Donkey Jennies

Simple Summary

Embryo transfer has been successfully used for the conservation of equine endangered species, but a number of factors may affect the outcome of these techniques in mares. However, only a few studies have evaluated these factors in donkeys. The present study was conducted to determine which factors affect the recovery rate, morphological quality, and diameter in embryos from Andalusian donkey jennies. According to our results, the factors affecting embryo recovery rate were donor jenny, donor age, successive cycle within donor, number of flushings, and jack. Day of flushing and number of flushings had an effect on embryo diameter, whereas donor jenny and day of flushing had an effect on embryo quality. The knowledge of these factors is crucial to achieve a higher efficiency of embryo transfer in endangered donkey breeds.

Abstract

Embryo transfer and the vitrification of embryos could be used for the conservation and recovery of endangered donkey breeds. It is important to develop techniques that optimize recovery rates and the cryotolerance of donkey embryos. This study evaluates factors affecting the recovery rate, quality, and diameter of embryos obtained from donor jennies as a starting point for the use of vitrification and embryo transfer in the conservation of the Andalusian donkey. A total of 100 embryos were recovered out of 124 estrous cycles (80.6%). The donor jenny affected the rates of positive flushings (PFR; p = 0.040) and embryo recovery (ERR; p < 0.05) as well as embryo quality (p = 0.004). ERR was also affected by the number of flushings (p < 0.001), donor age (p < 0.05), successive cycle within donor (p < 0.001), and jacks (p < 0.05). Number of flushings (p < 0.001) and jack (p < 0.05) had a significant effect on PFR, whereas the day of flushing influenced the developmental stage (p < 0.001), embryo quality (p < 0.05), and diameter of embryos (p < 0.001). The number of flushings significantly influenced the diameter (p = 0.038) and embryo developmental stage (p = 0.001), whereas the developmental stage was statistically different between herds (p = 0.020). The factors influencing the success of this assisted reproductive technique were donor jenny, donor age, successive cycle within donor, day of flushing, number of flushings, and jack. The identification of these key points is crucial to achieve a higher efficiency of embryo transfer and vitrification processes, before considering their application in the conservation of endangered donkey breeds.

Is an enhanced recovery program (ERP) after rectal surgery as feasible as after colonic surgery? A multicentre Francophone study of 870 rectal resections

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery program (ERP) is well-established in colorectal surgery. Rectal surgery (RS) is known to be associated with high morbidity and prolonged hospital stay, which might explain why ERPs are less applied in this specific group of patients. The aim of this large-scale study was to assess the feasibility of an ERP in RS compared with colonic surgery.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective analysis of a prospective database including 3740 patients eligible for colorectal resection from February 2014 to January 2017 in 75 European Francophone centres. Patients were divided into two groups (colon group C vs. rectum group R). The main endpoint was compliance with ERP components. A subgroup analysis was performed in patients for whom a defunctioning stoma (DS) was required after RS.

RESULTS

A total of 3740 patients were included. There were 2870 patients in group C and 870 patients in group R. The overall compliance rate for ERPs was 81.71% in group C and 79.09% in group R. Patients were significantly less mobilized within 24 h in group R. Specific recommendations for RS concerning bowel preparation and abdominal drainage were significantly less implemented. Overall morbidity was significantly higher in group R. Mean length of stay (LOS) was significantly shorter in group C. In the sub-group analysis, a DS was significantly associated with fewer compliance with early mobilization and early feeding, leading to significantly longer LOS (group R).

CONCLUSION

ERP is safe and effective in RS, despite the well-known higher morbidity and LOS compared with colonic surgery. DS could be a limiting factor in ERP implementation after RS.

Fertilizing capacity of vitrified stallion sperm assessed utilizing heterologous IVF after different semen warming procedures

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fertilizing capacity of frozen or vitrified stallion sperm after assessing different warming procedures. In Experiment 1, different warming procedures were compared after sperm vitrification: immersion in extender at 43 °C (C), or in a water bath at 37 °C/30 s (W37), 43 °C/10 s (W43) or 60 °C/5 s (W60). With the W60 treatment, there were greater values (P < 0.05) for VCL (83.93 ± 3.6 μm/s) and ALH (3.00 ± 0.2 μm) than freezing and with the C group, and greater values (P < 0.001) for PM (35.33 ± 2.5 %) than with the W43 treatment. In Experiment 2, the fertilizing capacity of vitrified and frozen sperm was assessed utilizing heterologous IVF procedures, using cattle oocytes. Vitrification resulted in greater values (P < 0.05) than freezing for the number of bound sperm (1.36 ± 0.3 and 0.69 ± 0.2, respectively). There were no differences between frozen or vitrified sperm in pronuclear formation (26 hours post-insemination - hpi; 14.08 ± 4.2 % and 22.78 ± 4.8 %, respectively) or cleavage rate (32.77 ± 4.3 % and 39.66 ± 4.6 %, respectively). In conclusion, vitrified stallion sperm warmed in a water bath at 60 ºC had the capacity to penetrate cattle oocytes, leading to pronuclear formation and hybrid embryo cleavage after heterologous IVF.

Targeting Inflammation and Immunosenescence to Improve Vaccine Responses in the Elderly

One of the most appreciated consequences of immunosenescence is an impaired response to vaccines with advanced age. While most studies report impaired antibody responses in older adults as a correlate of vaccine efficacy, it is now widely appreciated that this may fail to identify important changes occurring in the immune system with age that may affect vaccine efficacy. The impact of immunosenescence on vaccination goes beyond the defects on antibody responses as T cell-mediated responses are reshaped during aging and certainly affect vaccination. Likewise, age-related changes in the innate immune system may have important consequences on antigen presentation and priming of adaptive immune responses. Importantly, a low-level chronic inflammatory status known as inflammaging has been shown to inhibit immune responses to vaccination and pharmacological strategies aiming at blocking baseline inflammation can be potentially used to boost vaccine responses. Yet current strategies aiming at improving immunogenicity in the elderly have mainly focused on the use of adjuvants to promote local inflammation. More research is needed to understand the role of inflammation in vaccine responses and to reconcile these seemingly paradoxical observations. Alternative approaches to improve vaccine responses in the elderly include the use of higher vaccine doses or alternative routes of vaccination showing only limited benefits. This review will explore novel targets and potential new strategies for enhancing vaccine responses in older adults, including the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and immunomodulators.