β-arrestin-biased Allosteric Modulator of Neurotensin Receptor 1 Reduces Ethanol Drinking and Responses to Ethanol Administration in Rodents

Alcohol use disorders (AUDs) impose an enormous societal and financial burden, and world-wide, alcohol misuse is the 7th leading cause of premature death1. Despite this, there are currently only 3 FDA approved pharmacological treatments for the treatment of AUDs in the United States. The neurotensin (Nts) system has long been implicated in modulating behaviors associated with alcohol misuse. Recently, a novel compound, SBI-553, that biases the action of Nts receptor 1 (NTSR1) activation, has shown promise in preclinical models of psychostimulant misuse. Here we investigate the efficacy of this compound to alter ethanol-mediated behaviors in a comprehensive battery of experiments assessing ethanol consumption, behavioral responses to ethanol, sensitivity to ethanol, and ethanol metabolism. Additionally, we investigated behavior in avoidance and cognitive assays to monitor potential side effects of SBI-553. We find that SBI-553 reduces binge-like ethanol consumption in mice without altering avoidance behavior or novel object recognition. We also observe sex-dependent differences in physiological responses to sequential ethanol injections in mice. In rats, we show that SBI-553 attenuates sensitivity to the interoceptive effects of ethanol (using a Pavlovian drug discrimination task). Our data suggest that targeting NTSR1 signaling may be promising to attenuate alcohol misuse, and adds to a body of literature that suggests NTSR1 may be a common downstream target involved in the psychoactive effects of multiple reinforcing substances.

A multicomponent ethanol response battery across a cumulative dose ethanol challenge reveals diminished adolescent rat ethanol responsivity relative to adults

Adolescence is a conserved developmental period associated with low alcohol responsivity, which can contribute to heavy drinking and development of an alcohol use disorder (AUD) later in life. To investigate ethanol responsivity between adolescent and adult rats, we developed an ethanol response battery (ERB) to assess acute ethanol responses across cumulative doses of ethanol during the rising phase of the blood ethanol curve. We tested the hypothesis that adolescent male and female rats would exhibit lower ethanol responsivity to a cumulative ethanol challenge relative to adults. Male and female adolescent (postnatal day [P]40) and adult (P85) Wistar rats underwent ERB assessment following consecutive doses of ethanol (i.e., 1.0, 1.0, and 1.0 g/kg) to produce cumulative ethanol doses of 0.0, 1.0, 2.0, and 3.0 g/kg. The ERB consisted of (1) the 6-point behavioral intoxication rating scale, (2) body temperature assessment, (3) tail blood collection, (4) accelerating rotarod assessment, (5) tilting plane assessment, and (6) loss of righting reflex (LORR) assessment. Across cumulative ethanol doses, adolescent and adult rats evidenced progressive changes in ERB measures. On the ERB, adolescent rats of both sexes evidenced (1) lower intoxication rating, (2) blunted hypothermic responses, particularly in females, (3) longer latencies to fall from the accelerating rotarod, and (4) less tilting plane impairment relative to adults despite comparable BECs. All adult rats, regardless of sex, displayed a LORR at the 3.0 g/kg cumulative ethanol dose while among the adolescent rats, only one male rat and no females showed the LORR. These data reveal decreased adolescent ethanol responsivity across body temperature, intoxication, balance, and coordination responses to a cumulative ethanol challenge as assessed using the novel ERB relative to adults. The results of this study suggest that adolescent-specific low ethanol responsivity may contribute to adolescent binge drinking and increased risk for development of an AUD.

Achondroplasia Natural History Study (CLARITY): 60-year experience with hydrocephalus in achondroplasia from four skeletal dysplasia centers

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to describe the incidence and management of hydrocephalus in patients with achondroplasia over a 60-year period at four skeletal dysplasia centers.

METHODS

The Achondroplasia Natural History Study (CLARITY) is a registry for clinical data from achondroplasia patients receiving treatment at four skeletal dysplasia centers in the US from 1957 to 2017. Data were entered and stored in a REDCap database and included surgeries with indications and complications, medical diagnoses, and radiographic information.

RESULTS

A total of 1374 patients with achondroplasia were included in this study. Of these, 123 (9%) patients underwent treatment of hydrocephalus at a median age of 14.4 months. There was considerable variation in the percentage of patients treated for hydrocephalus by center and decade of birth, ranging from 0% to 28%, although in the most recent decade, all centers treated less than 6% of their patients, with an average of 2.9% across all centers. Undergoing a cervicomedullary decompression (CMD) was a strong predictor for treatment of hydrocephalus (OR 5.8, 95% CI 3.9-8.4), although that association has disappeared in those born since 2010 (OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.2-5.7). In patients born since 1990, treatment of hydrocephalus with endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) has become more common; it was used as the first line of treatment in 38% of patients in the most recent decade. Kaplan-Meier analysis suggests that a single ETV will treat hydrocephalus in roughly half of these patients.

CONCLUSIONS

While many children with achondroplasia have features of hydrocephalus with enlarged intracranial CSF spaces and relative macrocephaly, treatment of hydrocephalus in achondroplasia patients has become relatively uncommon in the last 20 years. Historically, there was a significant association between symptomatic foramen magnum stenosis and treatment of hydrocephalus, although concurrent treatment of both has fallen out of favor with the recognition that CMD alone will treat hydrocephalus in some patients. Despite good experimental data demonstrating that hydrocephalus in achondroplasia is best understood as communicating in nature, ETV appears to be reasonably successful in certain patients and should be considered an option in selected patients.

Clinical factors associated with need for neurosurgical care in young children with imaging for macrocephaly: a case control study

BACKGROUND

Macrocephaly is present in 2.3% of children with important neurosurgical conditions in the differential diagnosis. The objective of this study was to identify clinical associations with actionable imaging findings among children with head imaging for macrocephaly.

METHODS

We conducted a case-control study of head imaging studies ordered for macrocephaly among children 24 months and younger in a multistate children's health system. Four neurosurgeons reviewed the images, determining cases to be a 'concern' if neurosurgical follow-up or intervention was indicated. Electronic health records were reviewed to collect patient-level data and to determine if surgery was performed. Controls were matched 3:1 to cases of 'concern' in a multivariate model using conditional logistic regression.

RESULTS

In the study sample (n = 1293), 46 (4%) were concern cases, with 15 (1%) requiring surgery. Significant clinical factors associated with neurosurgical concern were bulging fontanel [aOR 7.47, (95% CI: 2.28-24.44), P < 0.001], prematurity [aOR 21.26, (95% CI: 3.76-120.21), P < 0.001], any delay [aOR 2.67, (95% CI: 1.13-6.27), P = 0.03], and head-weight Z-score difference (W_diff, defined as the difference between the Z-scores of head circumference and weight) [aOR 1.70, (95% CI: 1.22-2.37), P = 0.002].

CONCLUSIONS

Head imaging for macrocephaly identified few patients with findings of concern and fewer requiring surgery. A greater head-weight Z-score difference appears to represent a novel risk factor for neurosurgical follow-up or intervention.

Tracheal Narrowing and Its Impact on Anesthesia Care in Patients With Morquio A (Mucopolysaccharidosis Type IVA): An Observational Study

BACKGROUND

Recently, tracheal narrowing has been recognized as a significant comorbid condition in patients with Morquio A, also known as mucopolysaccharidosis IVA. We studied a large cohort of patients with Morquio A to describe the extent of their tracheal narrowing and its relationship to airway management during anesthesia care.

METHODS

This is an observational study, collecting data retrospectively, of a cohort of patients with Morquio A. Ninety-two patients with Morquio A syndrome were enrolled, among whom 44 patients had their airway evaluated by computed tomography angiography and had undergone an anesthetic within a year of the evaluation. Our hypothesis was that the tracheal narrowing as evaluated by computed tomography angiography increases with age in patients with Morquio A. The primary aim of the study was to examine the degree of tracheal narrowing in patients with Morquio A and describe the difficulties encountered during airway management, thus increasing awareness of both the tracheal narrowing and airway management difficulties in this patient population. In addition, the degree of tracheal narrowing was evaluated for its association with age or spirometry parameters using Spearman's rank correlation. Analysis of variance followed by the Bonferroni test was used to further examine the age-based differences in tracheal narrowing for the 3 age groups: 1 to 10 years, 11 to 20 years, and >21 years.

RESULTS

Patient age showed a positive correlation with tracheal narrowing ( rs= 0.415; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.138-0.691; P = .005) with older patients having greater narrowing of the trachea. Among spirometry parameters, FEF25%-75% showed an inverse correlation with tracheal narrowing as follows: FEF25%-75% versus tracheal narrowing: ( rs = -0.467; 95% CI, -0.877 to -0.057; P = .007). During anesthetic care, significant airway management difficulties were encountered, including cancelation of surgical procedures, awake intubation using flexible bronchoscope, and failed video laryngoscopy attempts.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinically significant tracheal narrowing was present in patients with Morquio A, and the degree of such narrowing likely contributed to the difficulty with airway management during their anesthetic care. Tracheal narrowing worsens with age, but the progression appears to slow down after 20 years of age. In addition to tracheal narrowing, spirometry values of FEF25%-75% may be helpful in the overall evaluation of the airway in patients with Morquio A.

Addressing Domestic Violence in Antenatal Care Environments in Nepal (ADVANCE) - study protocol for a randomized controlled trial evaluating a video intervention on domestic violence among pregnant women

BACKGROUND

Domestic violence (DV) prior to, and during pregnancy is associated with increased risks for morbidity and mortality. As pregnant women routinely attend antenatal care this environment can be used to offer support to women experiencing DV. We have developed a video intervention that focuses on the use of behavioral coping strategies, particularly regarding disclosure of DV experiences. The effectiveness of this intervention will be evaluated through a randomized controlled trial (RCT) and a concurrent process evaluation.

METHODS

All pregnant women between 12-22 weeks of gestation attending routine antenatal care at two tertiary level hospitals in Nepal are invited to participate. DV is measured using the Nepalese version of the Abuse Assessment Screen (N-AAS). Additionally, we measure participants' mental health, use of coping strategies, physical activity, and food security through a Color-coded Audio Computer Assisted Self Interview (C-ACASI). Irrespective of DV status, women are randomized into the intervention or control arm using a computer-generated randomization program. The intervention arm views a short video providing information on DV, safety improving actions women can take with an emphasis on disclosing the violence to a trusted person along with utilizing helplines available in Nepal. The control group watches a video on maintaining a healthy pregnancy and when to seek healthcare. The primary outcome is the proportion of women disclosing their DV status to someone. Secondary outcomes are symptoms of anxiety and depression, coping strategies, the use of safety measures and attitudes towards acceptance of abuse. Follow-up is conducted after 32 weeks of gestation, where both the intervention and control group participants view the intervention video after completing the follow-up questionnaire. Additionally, a mixed methods process evaluation of the intervention will be carried out to explore factors influencing the acceptability of the intervention and the disclosure of DV, including a review of project documents, individual interviews, and focus group discussions with members of the research team, healthcare providers, and participants.

DISCUSSION

This study will provide evidence on whether pregnant women attending regular antenatal visits can enhance their safety by disclosing their experiences of violence to a trusted person after receiving a video intervention.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study is registered in ClinicalTrial.gov with identifier NCT05199935.

Prospective evaluation of postoperative pain and opioid use after minor urologic surgery

INTRODUCTION

Filling an opioid prescription after a minor urologic procedure increases patient risk of overdose and misuse. Strategies to reduce the number of opioids reaching the community are critical. This study evaluates opioid use after minor urologic procedures at a Canadian academic center and guides future prescribing recommendations.

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated patients over 18 years old undergoing minor urologic procedures (penile, scrotal, urethral, etc.) from September 2020 to May 2022. Consenting participants were given a pain diary and postoperative pain questionnaire. Patients on chronic pain medications or those who had major surgery within six months were excluded. Response rate, pain on visual analog scale, pain control satisfaction, quantity of opioids prescribed, and consumption of opioid and non-opioid medication were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Ninety-five patients met the inclusion criteria. The mean age was 61.7 years (range 20- 87) and 96% of patients identified as male. The response rate for the opioid diary and pain questionnaire was 57%. Forty-two patients (78%) were offered an opioid prescription following their surgery, but only 12 of those patients (22%) filled and consumed any opioids analgesics. Forty-two patients (78%) used no postoperative opioids, and the mean oral morphine equivalents (OME) consumed was 5.87 (standard deviation 16.7). There was a total of 259 OME unused from post-procedure prescriptions. The mean overall pain score for patients who did and did not fill opioid prescriptions were 3.18/10 and 1.79/10 (p<0.01), respectively, with mean overall pain management satisfaction score of 8.63/10 and 8.58/10 (p=0.94), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients undergoing minor urologic procedures do not require opioids to manage postoperative pain. Based on our data, we suggest that a prescription for 39 OME would adequately treat postoperative pain in 95% of patients undergoing minor urologic procedures. Education around pain management with non-narcotic modalities is imperative, and practice changes are warranted to address the opioid crisis within our specialty.

The effect of a novel, digital physical activity and emotional well-being intervention on health-related quality of life in people with chronic kidney disease: trial design and baseline data from a multicentre prospective, wait-list randomised controlled trial (kidney BEAM)

BACKGROUND

Physical activity and emotional self-management has the potential to enhance health-related quality of life (HRQoL), but few people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have access to resources and support. The Kidney BEAM trial aims to evaluate whether an evidence-based physical activity and emotional wellbeing self-management programme (Kidney BEAM) leads to improvements in HRQoL in people with CKD.

METHODS

This was a prospective, multicentre, randomised waitlist-controlled trial, with health economic analysis and nested qualitative studies. In total, three hundred and four adults with established CKD were recruited from 11 UK kidney units. Participants were randomly assigned to the intervention (Kidney BEAM) or a wait list control group (1:1). The primary outcome was the between-group difference in Kidney Disease Quality of Life (KDQoL) mental component summary score (MCS) at 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included the KDQoL physical component summary score, kidney-specific scores, fatigue, life participation, depression and anxiety, physical function, clinical chemistry, healthcare utilisation and harms. All outcomes were measured at baseline and 12 weeks, with long-term HRQoL and adherence also collected at six months follow-up. A nested qualitative study explored experience and impact of using Kidney BEAM.

RESULTS

340 participants were randomised to Kidney BEAM (n = 173) and waiting list (n = 167) groups. There were 96 (55%) and 89 (53%) males in the intervention and waiting list groups respectively, and the mean (SD) age was 53 (14) years in both groups. Ethnicity, body mass, CKD stage, and history of diabetes and hypertension were comparable across groups. The mean (SD) of the MCS was similar in both groups, 44.7 (10.8) and 45.9 (10.6) in the intervention and waiting list groups respectively.

CONCLUSION

Results from this trial will establish whether the Kidney BEAM self management programme is a cost-effective method of enhancing mental and physical wellbeing of people with CKD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT04872933. Registered 5th May 2021.

EffEctiveness of Prophylactic fOam dressings in the prevention of saCral pressure injuries in at-risk hospitalised patients: the EEPOC trial

BACKGROUND

Prophylactic dressings are increasingly used to prevent pressure injuries in hospitalised patients. However, evidence regarding the effectiveness of these dressings is still emerging. This trial aims to determine the clinical and cost-effectiveness of a prophylactic silicone foam border dressing in preventing sacral pressure injuries in medical-surgical patients.

METHODS

This is a multicentre, pragmatic, parallel group, randomised controlled trial. A sample size of 1320 was calculated to have >90% power to detect a 5% difference in the primary outcome at an alpha of 0.05. Adult patients admitted to participating medical-surgical wards are screened for eligibility: ≥18 years, admitted to hospital within the previous 36 h, expected length of stay of ≥24 h, and assessed high risk for hospital-acquired pressure injury. Consenting participants are randomly allocated to either prophylactic silicone foam dressing intervention or usual care without any dressing as the control group via a web-based randomisation service independent of the trial. Patients are enrolled across three Australian hospitals. The primary outcome is the cumulative incidence of patients who develop a sacral pressure injury. Secondary outcomes include the time to sacral pressure injury, incidence of severity (stage) of sacral pressure injury, cost-effectiveness of dressings, and process evaluation. Participant outcomes are assessed daily for up to 14 days by blinded independent outcome assessors using de-identified, digitally modified sacral photographs. Those who develop a sacral pressure injury are followed for an additional 14 days to estimate costs of pressure injury treatment. Analysis of clinical outcomes will be based on intention-to-treat, per-protocol, and sensitivity analyses.

DISCUSSION

This trial aims to provide definitive evidence on the effect prophylactic dressings have on the development of hospital-acquired sacral pressure injuries in medical-surgical patients. A parallel economic evaluation of pressure injury prevention and treatment will enable evidence-informed decisions and policy. The inclusion of a process evaluation will help to explain the contextual factors that may have a bearing on trial results including the acceptability of the dressings to patients and staff. The trial commenced 5 March 2020 and has been significantly delayed due to COVID-19.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ANZCTR ACTRN12619000763145. Prospectively registered on 22 May 2019.

1439. Latent tuberculosis infection treatment location and association with care completion

Background

Location and type of clinic where pediatric latent TB infection (LTBI) care is provided are associated with treatment completion and retention in care. Prior research has not evaluated joint clinical management occurring between care settings. Understanding care transfer dynamics and accessibility of clinics can inform pediatric LTBI care service delivery.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of LTBI in children 0-17 years old who were prescribed outpatient treatment in two Boston-area health systems from 2017-2019. We defined “initial clinical setting” (categorized as primary care or TB/infectious diseases clinic) as the location where the first LTBI medication was prescribed. Through chart review, we determined if care was transferred to a different (“final”) clinic setting during treatment. We calculated driving time between a child’s home address and initial and final treatment clinics. The primary outcome was frequency of care transfer after starting treatment. In a secondary analysis, we used two multivariable logistic regression models (adjusted for age, sex, and use of rifamycin-based treatment) to evaluate associations between completion and distance to and type of initial and final treatment clinic.

Results

We identified 142 children who started LTBI treatment as outpatients; 110 started treatment in primary care clinics and 32 in TB/infectious diseases clinics. Overall, 20/142 (14%) transferred TB care to a different clinic after starting treatment. A total of 101/142 (71%) patients completed treatment. Neither initial treatment location nor driving time to initial clinic were significantly associated with treatment completion (Table 1). However, final treatment in a TB clinic was associated with higher odds of treatment completion than final treatment in a primary care clinic (aOR 2.71 [95%CI 1.06-6.91], P=0.04); time to clinic was not associated with completion (Table 2). Figure 1.

887. Race and ethnicity differences in hospital length of stay for children with acute osteomyelitis in the United States

Background

Changes in management of bone infections, particularly early transition to oral antibiotic therapy, have decreased length of stay (LOS) for children hospitalized with acute osteomyelitis. However, evaluation of differences in length of stay by race and ethnicity have been limited.

Methods

Using the Kids’ Inpatient Database, we conducted a cross-sectional study of children ages 0–20 years hospitalized in 2016 or 2019 with a primary or secondary diagnosis of acute osteomyelitis. Using survey-weighted negative binomial regression, we modeled length of study (LOS) by race and ethnicity, accounting for clinical and hospital characteristics and socioeconomic status. Secondary outcomes included predictors of LOS &gt; 7 days (equivalent to LOS in the highest quartile), central venous catheter (CVC) placement, and time to debridement.

Results

We identified 2,388 patients discharged with acute osteomyelitis. Median LOS was 5 days (IQR 3–7). Black race (adjusted incidence rate ratio [aIRR] 1.15, 95%CI 1.05–1.27), Hispanic ethnicity (aIRR 1.11, 95% CI 1.02–1.21), and other race and ethnicity (aIRR 1.12, 95% CI 1.01–1.23) were associated with longer LOS, compared to White race (Figure 1). Additional factors associated with prolonged LOS were Medicaid/self-pay status (aIRR 1.14, 95% CI 1.07–1.21) and other insurance (aIRR 1.21, 95% CI 1.02–1.45), compared to private insurance; debridement procedure (aIRR 1.31, 95%CI 1.23–1.31); CVC placement (aIRR 1.41, 95% CI 1.31–1.51), and complex chronic condition (aIRR 1.21, 95% CI 1.11–1.33). The odds of Black children experiencing LOS &gt; 7 days was 46% higher compared to White children (aOR 1.46, 95% CI 1.01–2.11; Figure 2). There were no differences by race and ethnicity on odds of CVC placement or time to debridement.

Model is adjusted for hospital location/teaching status, hospital region, year, debridement procedure, CVC placement, complex chronic condition, weekend admission, discharge quarter, hospital bed size, Zip code median income quartile.

Model is adjusted for hospital location/teaching status, hospital region, year, debridement procedure, CVC placement, complex chronic condition, weekend admission, discharge quarter, hospital bed size, Zip code median income quartile.

Conclusion

Black, Hispanic, and other race and ethnicity children with acute osteomyelitis experienced longer LOS than White children. Further research into mechanisms underlying these differences, including social determinants such as access to care or structural racism, may be important to improve care for children with osteomyelitis.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures.

1403. Facilitators and barriers to latent tuberculosis infection diagnosis and care in Massachusetts: a convergent mixed methods study of clinicians

Background

Understanding barriers and facilitators to latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) diagnosis and care is needed to successfully treat children/adolescents with LTBI in the US. We explored physicians’ perspectives on pediatric LTBI diagnosis and care, and strategies to improve care.

Methods

We conducted a convergent mixed methods study with physicians in Massachusetts. Participants were purposefully sampled from primary care clinics (n=10), clinics seeing immunocompromised patients (n=2), and TB clinics (n=2). Physicians participated in individual qualitative semi-structured interviews exploring experience and comfort with LTBI care, and perceived barriers and facilitators to care. We used applied thematic analysis to analyze transcripts. Participants completed surveys to assess comfort with LTBI care and volume of LTBI patients in their care.

Results

Of the 25 physicians invited, 14 participated. Most participants reported “medium” or “high” comfort with current LTBI guidelines; volume of LTBI care varied by physician type (Table 1). Analysis revealed perceived barriers (Figure 1) at four steps of care: 1) identification of risk and testing for LTBI (e.g., family/patient risk perception, physician knowledge gaps), 2) completion of referral after a positive test (e.g., communication barriers), 3) treatment acceptance and initiation (e.g., lack of social support), and 4) treatment adherence and completion (e.g., adolescents’ emerging autonomy). Facilitators such as protocolized screening, counseling strategies, free medication, and telehealth (Figure 2) overcame some barriers. Important emergent themes included: 1) COVID-19 has induced rapid positive and negative changes in LTBI care in primary care clinics; 2) immigrant adolescents are uniquely at risk for disengagement due to lack of social support; and 3) physicians and clinics are ill-equipped to provide TB care for patients’ close contacts, despite knowledge of need for care. Table 1.

Volume of patients by clinician type (N=13 respondents)

Figure 1.

Barriers to LTBI diagnosis and care.

Figure 2.

Facilitators of LTBI care.

Conclusion

Lack of perceived risk, family and clinic resource constraints, and accessibility challenges hindered LTBI care; protocolized screening, telehealth, and free medications were among the facilitators that overcame some but not all barriers. These results will inform improvement of LTBI care within and between clinics.

Disclosures

Jessica Haberer, MD, MS, Merck: Advisor/Consultant|Natera: Stocks/Bonds.

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SP2.1.8 Informed consent – Are we appropriately assessing the process?

Aims

There is no standardised measure of the validity of consent. Over 300 million invasive procedures take place globally each year. This study aims to define a core outcome set (COS) for informed consent for therapy.

Methods

A prospective mixed method study was undertaken in line with a published protocol and the COS was developed in accordance with Core Outcome Measures in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) methodology. This included a systematic review of outcomes in studies of consent, semi-structured interviews and prioritisation of outcomes using a 2-round modified Delphi technique. Two consensus webinars were used to ratify outcomes for inclusion in the final COS.

Results

36 outcome domains for valid consent were identified and developed by systematic review. 41 semi-structured interviews were conducted with key consent stakeholders (with significant patient involvement) 164 participants from key stakeholder groups across 8 countries completed Delphi Round 1 and 125 completed round 2. 11 of 40 outcomes met the “consensus in” criteria, with 6 meeting “consensus in” in all stakeholder groups. These were included directly in the final COS and the other 5 that met “consensus in” in some but not all stakeholder groups were discussed in consensus webinars. 9 outcomes were defined for the final COS.

Conclusion

This is the first study to define a COS for research into informed consent for therapy. It defines what outcomes are most important to all key stakeholders in the consent process and is a step forward in standardising consent research.

Development of a core outcome set for informed consent for therapy: An international key stakeholder consensus study

Background

300 million operations and procedures are performed annually across the world, all of which require a patient’s informed consent. No standardised measure of the consent process exists in current clinical practice. We aimed to define a core outcome set for informed consent for therapy.

Methods

The core outcome set was developed in accordance with a predefined research protocol and the Core OutcoMes in Effectiveness Trials (COMET) methodology comprising systematic review, qualitative semi structured interviews, a modified Delphi process and consensus webinars to ratify outcomes for inclusion in the final core outcome set. (Registration—https://www.comet-initiative.org/Studies/Details/1024). Participants from all key stakeholder groups took part in the process, including patients and the public, healthcare practitioners and consent researchers.

Results

36 outcome domains were synthesised through systematic review and organised into a consent taxonomy. 41 semi-structured interviews were performed with all consent stakeholders groups. 164 participants from all stakeholder groups across 8 countries completed Delphi Round 1 and 125 completed Round 2. 11 outcomes met the ‘consensus in’ criteria. 6 met ‘consensus in’ all stakeholder groups and were included directly in the final core outcome set. 5 remaining outcomes meeting ‘consensus in’ were ratified over two consensus webinars. 9 core outcomes were included in the final core outcome set: Satisfaction with the quality and amount of information, Patient feeling that there was a choice, Patient feeling that the decision to consent was their own, Confidence in the decision made, Satisfaction with communication, Trust in the clinician, Patient satisfaction with the consent process, Patient rated adequacy of time and opportunity to ask questions.

Conclusion

This international mixed-methods qualitative study is the first of its kind to define a core outcome set for informed consent for intervention. It defines what outcomes are of importance to key stakeholders in the consent process and is a forward step towards standardising future consent research.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12910-022-00820-w.

Deeply Virtual Compton Scattering Cross Section at High Bjorken x_{B}

We report high-precision measurements of the deeply virtual Compton scattering (DVCS) cross section at high values of the Bjorken variable x_{B}. DVCS is sensitive to the generalized parton distributions of the nucleon, which provide a three-dimensional description of its internal constituents. Using the exact analytic expression of the DVCS cross section for all possible polarization states of the initial and final electron and nucleon, and final state photon, we present the first experimental extraction of all four helicity-conserving Compton form factors (CFFs) of the nucleon as a function of x_{B}, while systematically including helicity flip amplitudes. In particular, the high accuracy of the present data demonstrates sensitivity to some very poorly known CFFs.

Creation and evaluation of full-text literature-derived, feature-weighted disease models of genetically determined developmental disorders

There are >2500 different genetically determined developmental disorders (DD), which, as a group, show very high levels of both locus and allelic heterogeneity. This has led to the wide-spread use of evidence-based filtering of genome-wide sequence data as a diagnostic tool in DD. Determining whether the association of a filtered variant at a specific locus is a plausible explanation of the phenotype in the proband is crucial and commonly requires extensive manual literature review by both clinical scientists and clinicians. Access to a database of weighted clinical features extracted from rigorously curated literature would increase the efficiency of this process and facilitate the development of robust phenotypic similarity metrics. However, given the large and rapidly increasing volume of published information, conventional biocuration approaches are becoming impractical. Here, we present a scalable, automated method for the extraction of categorical phenotypic descriptors from the full-text literature. Papers identified through literature review were downloaded and parsed using the Cadmus custom retrieval package. Human Phenotype Ontology terms were extracted using MetaMap, with 76-84% precision and 65-73% recall. Mean terms per paper increased from 9 in title + abstract, to 68 using full text. We demonstrate that these literature-derived disease models plausibly reflect true disease expressivity more accurately than widely used manually curated models, through comparison with prospectively gathered data from the Deciphering Developmental Disorders study. The area under the curve for receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves increased by 5-10% through the use of literature-derived models. This work shows that scalable automated literature curation increases performance and adds weight to the need for this strategy to be integrated into informatic variant analysis pipelines. Database URL: https://doi.org/10.1093/database/baac038.

Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome-related pain symptoms and their impact on sexual functioning

INTRODUCTION

The present study sought to examine a new model to evaluate the mechanistic pathways between pain and sexual dysfunction in men with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), incorporating cognitive and emotional factors.

METHODS

Men with a self-reported diagnosis of CP/CPPS (n=94, 24-69 years, Mage=44.22, standard deviation 11.25) were recruited through social media, support groups, and urology clinics and completed an online questionnaire of demographic, pain, cognitive, psychological, and sexual variables. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and serial mediation analyses assessed variable associations.

RESULTS

Almost half of participants reported mild to severe erectile dysfunction (47.4%). Sexual dysfunction was associated with greater pain symptom severity and pain catastrophizing, as well as depressive symptoms (p<0.01 for all). While pain did not independently predict levels of sexual dysfunction, the addition of pain catastrophizing and depressive symptoms into the pathway explained the association between increased pain symptoms and decreased sexual functioning (p<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Beyond generally poor sexual functioning in the current sample, it appears as if cognitive and emotional factors play a role in the association between pain symptoms and sexual functioning in these men with CP/CPPS. The findings of how pain catastrophizing and depression impact the association of pain severity and decreased sexual functioning is important for improving patient care.

094 Measuring neutralising antibodies (NAbs) to interferon-beta (IFNB) for multiple sclerosis (MS): a neglected practice?

Objective

To determine frequency of testing for NAbs to IFNB in our MS population and adherence to international (EFNS) guidelines.

Background

IFNB was the first approved MS disease modifying therapy (DMT). NAbs diminish efficacy regarding relapse rate, lesion load and disease progression.

Methods

In August 2019, the Northern Ireland (NI) DMT database was interrogated for patients currently or previously receiving IFNB. The NI Electronic Care Record and regional laboratory database were reviewed to verify if NAb testing ever undertaken, results, outcomes of positive results and reasons for treatment cessation.

Results

488 patients were currently on IFNB, 21.6% of the DMT population (IFNB1a intramuscularly - 210, pegylated IFNB1a - 71, IFNB1a subcutaneously - 175, IFNB1b subcutaneously - 32). Overall, 20.1% had NAbs checked (11.2% positive). Additionally, 288 patients had ceased treatment in the past 13 years, 273 having available records, 32 (11.7%) with NAb testing including 7 (21.9%) testing positive. 62/273 patients had discontinued due to relapse or disease progression - only 9 (14.5%) of these had ever had NAbs checked.

Conclusions

These data suggest that guidelines are poorly observed in this population. Improved testing could identify potential treatment failures earlier, avoiding adverse outcomes and facilitating more effective DMT decision making.

jon

mckee@doctors.org.uk

72

Tangential cranial gunshot wound in an infant in historical context: illustrative case

BACKGROUND

Military neurosurgeons have long known that tangential cranial gunshot wounds can be associated with intracranial complications out of proportion to the external appearance of the injury. This phenomenon seems not to have been described in infancy.

OBSERVATIONS

An infant suffered a massive, acute subdural hemorrhage from a contralateral tangential gunshot wound that did not facture the skull.

LESSONS

Similar to adults, infants are subject to catastrophic intracranial injury from gunshots that do not penetrate the skull. The nature of the injury in this case reflected distinctive aspects of the tissue characteristics and proportions of the infant head.

Form Factors and Two-Photon Exchange in High-Energy Elastic Electron-Proton Scattering

We present new precision measurements of the elastic electron-proton scattering cross section for momentum transfer (Q^{2}) up to 15.75  (GeV/c)^{2}. Combined with existing data, these provide an improved extraction of the proton magnetic form factor at high Q^{2} and double the range over which a longitudinal or transverse separation of the cross section can be performed. The difference between our results and polarization data agrees with that observed at lower Q^{2} and attributed to hard two-photon exchange (TPE) effects, extending to 8  (GeV/c)^{2} the range of Q^{2} for which a discrepancy is established at >95% confidence. We use the discrepancy to quantify the size of TPE contributions needed to explain the cross section at high Q^{2}.

International Consensus Statement on the diagnosis, multidisciplinary management and lifelong care of individuals with achondroplasia

Achondroplasia, the most common skeletal dysplasia, is characterized by a variety of medical, functional and psychosocial challenges across the lifespan. The condition is caused by a common, recurring, gain-of-function mutation in FGFR3, the gene that encodes fibroblast growth factor receptor 3. This mutation leads to impaired endochondral ossification of the human skeleton. The clinical and radiographic hallmarks of achondroplasia make accurate diagnosis possible in most patients. However, marked variability exists in the clinical care pathways and protocols practised by clinicians who manage children and adults with this condition. A group of 55 international experts from 16 countries and 5 continents have developed consensus statements and recommendations that aim to capture the key challenges and optimal management of achondroplasia across each major life stage and sub-specialty area, using a modified Delphi process. The primary purpose of this first International Consensus Statement is to facilitate the improvement and standardization of care for children and adults with achondroplasia worldwide in order to optimize their clinical outcomes and quality of life.

68Ga-prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography/computed tomography for patients with favorable intermediate-risk prostate cancer

INTRODUCTION

Current guidelines don't support the use of pretreatment imaging in patients with favorable intermediate-risk prostate cancer. ⁶⁸Ga-prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PSMA PET/CT) is more accurate than conventional imaging for preoperative staging. We aimed to evaluate whether pretreatment ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA PET/CT is beneficial for identifying pathological lymph node involvement (LNI) and adverse pathology among patients with favorable intermediate-risk prostate cancer.

METHODS

We reviewed 88 patients with favorable intermediate-risk prostate cancer who underwent ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA PET/CT prior to radical prostatectomy and lymph node dissection from 2016-2020. The primary endpoint was the presence of pathological LNI. Association between pretreatment characteristics and outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

Preoperative ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA PET/CT showed suspicious uptake in lymph nodes in 4/88 patients (5%), hence, 20 patients would need to be scanned to identify a patient with a positive lymph node on imaging. Two patients had pathological LNI, only one of whom showed ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA PET/CT uptake prior to surgery. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values of ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA PET/CT for identifying LNI were 50%, 97%, 25%, and 99%, respectively. After surgery, four patients had evidence of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) persistence. The rate of PSA persistence was higher among patients with LNI on preoperative ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA PET/CT (2/4, 50% vs. 2/84, 2%, p=0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative imaging of favorable intermediate-risk prostate cancer patients using ⁶⁸Ga-PSMA PET/CT showed a low yield for identifying patients at higher risk. Consistent with current guidelines, our findings do not support the routine use of PET/CT in this group of patients. Future prospective studies are needed to validate our findings.

Decreased mobility, lack of social support, haemosiderosis and use of antidepressant medications may predict recurrent venous leg ulcers within 12 months of healing: A prospective longitudinal study

AIM

To identify clinical, medical and psychosocial predictors of venous leg ulcer recurrence within 12 months of healing.

METHODS

A multi-site study was conducted in Australia in community and hospital outpatient settings. Adults with venous leg ulcers were recruited within 4 weeks of healing and data were collected on preventative treatments and health, medical, clinical and psychosocial factors. Follow-up data on recurrences were collected every 3 months until ulcer recurrence, or until 12 months after healing pending which occurred first. Factors associated with time to recurrence were analysed using a Cox proportional hazards regression model.

DESIGN

Secondary data analysis of a multi-site, prospective longitudinal study to validate a risk assessment tool for recurrence.

RESULTS

A sample of 143 participants was recruited (51% male, M^age = 73 years, SD 13.6). Almost half (49.6%) had an ulcer recurrence within 12 months, with a mean time to ulcer recurrence of 37 weeks (SE 1.63, 95% CI 33.7-40.1). Factors measured at the time of healing that were significant independent predictors of recurrence were: prescribed antidepressant medications (p = .035), presence of haemosiderosis (p = .006), decreased mobility (longer sitting times) (p = .007) and lower social support scale scores (p = .002). Participants who wore compression systems providing 20 mmHg or higher for at least 5 days/week were less likely to recur, although not reaching statistical significance (p = .06).

CONCLUSION

Results provide evidence that antidepressant medications, haemosiderosis, decreased mobility and lack of social support are risk factors associated with ulcer recurrence; therefore, these variables are modifiable and could guide early intervention.

582. Risk Factors for Progression to Hospitalization in Adolescents Presenting with Mild or Moderate COVID-19

Background

Most adolescents (age 12-17 years) with COVID-19 have mild disease. However, certain comorbidities may be risk factors for disease progression, and hospitalization rates for this age group have increased. Adolescents and adults with mild to moderate COVID-19 are eligible for monoclonal antibody therapy. To identify subgroups likely to benefit from this intervention, we evaluated the relationship between comorbidities and need for hospitalization in US adolescents presenting with mild to moderate COVID-19.

Methods

We analyzed presence of comorbidities and need for hospitalization within 28 days of diagnosis for adolescents in the PIDTRAN registry, a multicenter retrospective cohort of US pediatric patients with COVID-19. Comorbidities assessed included obesity, chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes (DM), immunosuppressive disease or treatment (IS), sickle cell disease (SCD), congenital/acquired heart disease (CHD), neurologic disease/neurodevelopmental disorders (ND), medical-related technology dependence (MTD), and pulmonary disease requiring daily inhaled corticosteroids (PD). We used multivariable logistic regression to determine race/ethnicity-adjusted associations between comorbidities and hospitalization.

Results

1574 patients met inclusion criteria, of whom 180 (11.4%) were hospitalized within 28 days of COVID-19 diagnosis. In a race/ethnicity-adjusted model, the following comorbidities were independently associated with increased odds of hospitalization: IS (OR 10.8 [95%CI 5.4 – 21.7]); CKD (OR 5.1 [95%CI 1.0 – 25.6]); DM (OR 4.2 [95%CI 1.7 – 10.6]); SCD (OR 3.4 [95%CI 1.1 – 10.6]). ND (OR 3.0 [95%CI 1.7 – 5.4]); and obesity (OR 2.0 [95%CI 1.1 – 3.9]). Notably, CHD, MTD, and PD were not independently associated with hospitalization. There was no effect modification of race/ethnicity on the association between obesity or DM and hospitalization.

Table 1: Characteristics of adolescents in our cohort

Figure 1. Association between comorbidities and hospitalization. Model 1: comorbidities only. Model 2: comorbidities, adjusted for race/ethnicity. Abbreviations: CKD – chronic kidney disease; SCD – sickle cell disease; ICS – inhaled corticosteroids.

Conclusion

IS, CKD, DM, SCD, ND, and obesity were associated with increased odds of hospitalization in adolescents presenting with mild to moderate COVID-19. Adolescents with these comorbidities should be prioritized for consideration of treatment with monoclonal antibodies.

Disclosures

Gabriella S. Lamb, MD, MPH, Nothing to disclose

655. Patterns of Interferon-Gamma Release Assay (IGRA) Testing for Tuberculosis in Patients Less Than 2 Years Old

Background

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends use of Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRAs) to diagnose tuberculosis (TB) infection in patients ≥2 years old. However, IGRAs are not currently recommended in younger patients due to limited data and concerns of invalid/indeterminate test results, which occur if there is a positive or negative control failure. We sought to characterize the patterns of IGRA use in clinical practice and results of IGRAs in patients < 2 years old.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of children < 2 years old at two large health systems in the Boston area who had IGRA and/or tuberculin skin test (TST) performed from October 1, 2015 – January 31, 2021. We reviewed medical records to determine IGRA test type, IGRA result (positive, negative, invalid/indeterminate) and location of testing (outpatient primary care, outpatient subspecialty, inpatient). We summarized test interpretability, location, and changes in proportion of IGRA vs. TST.

Results

We identified 330 IGRA (268 T-SPOT.TB, 62 QuantiFERON Gold) and 2029 TST results among 1982 patients who were < 2 years old (range: 11 days – 1.9 years). Monthly proportion of IGRAs among all TB tests ordered increased from 2015 to 2021 (Figure 1) (Pearson correlation coefficient 0.85, P < 0.001). Among IGRA results, 314 (95%) were negative, 3 (1%) were positive, and 13 (4%) were invalid/indeterminate (11 T-SPOT.TB, 2 QuantiFERON Gold). Of 324 IGRA tests for which testing location was known, 233 (72%) and 91 (28%) were ordered in outpatient and inpatient settings, respectively. Of tests in outpatient settings, 132 (57%) were ordered in primary care offices, 53 (23%) were ordered in subspecialist offices, and 48 (21%) were obtained in outpatient labs of unidentified clinics.

Tuberculosis infection tests and proportion IGRA.

Total number of tests and proportion of IGRA:TST obtained by month, from October 2015-January 2021.

Conclusion

While most TB infection tests in this age group were TSTs, the monthly proportion of tests that were IGRAs increased over time between 2015-2021. IGRAs were obtained in varied clinical settings. In this low-burden setting, rates of invalid/indeterminate IGRAs were low among children < 2 years old, which suggests that IGRAs are reasonable TB testing options for patients < 2 years old, and may be preferred given limitations of TSTs.

Disclosures

Gabriella S. Lamb, MD, MPH, Nothing to disclose

646. Increasing Use of Interferon-Gamma Release Assay to Test for Pediatric Tuberculosis in a Low-Burden Setting

Background

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends tuberculin skin tests (TSTs) or interferon gamma release assays (IGRAs) to test for tuberculosis (TB) infection in children ≥2 years old, and prioritizes IGRA testing in Bacille Calmette-Guérin vaccine recipients due to cross-reactivity. TSTs require a return visit, which frequently results in loss to follow up. Growing evidence supports accuracy of IGRA testing in pediatric patients, including young children, leading to calls for preferential use of IGRA over TST. We sought to evaluate trends in IGRA use in children over time.

Methods

We identified all TB infection tests conducted in children 5-17 years old at 2 academic medical systems in Boston from October 2015–January 2021. TSTs were identified using medication administration records, and IGRAs were identified using laboratory records. We computed the proportion of tests per month that were IGRA and TST. We used Pearson correlation to determine the association between month of testing and proportion of tests that were IGRAs.

Results

21,471 TB infection tests were obtained from 16,778 patients during our timeframe. Median age of testing was 13.4 years (IQR 9.2 – 16.2 years). During the study period, there was a significant increase in the monthly proportion of TB infection tests that were IGRAs (Pearson correlation coefficient 0.92, P < 0.001). The total number of tests performed per month also increased, with seasonal increases in testing in late summer and early fall and a substantial decline in testing early in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tuberculosis infection tests and proportion IGRA.

Total number of tuberculosis infection tests per month and proportion of tests that were interferon gamma release assays, from October 2015 - January 2021.

Conclusion

Use of IGRAs among patients age 5-17 years of age increased significantly overall and compared to TST in two large Boston healthcare systems over a 5-year period. These results suggest a shift towards blood-based TB infection testing in a low-burden setting, which may improve completion of the pediatric TB infection care cascade. Future research is needed to determine reasons for changing testing modalities, and similar patterns in other settings.

Disclosures

Gabriella S. Lamb, MD, MPH, Nothing to disclose

Canadian Urological Association guideline: Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) impacts the wellness and quality of life of millions of Canadians. An evaluation focused on the identification of reversible and irreversible underlying factors is recommended for patients presenting with ED. Through a shared decision-making model framework, the goal of ED treatment is to improve functional outcomes and enhance sexual satisfaction while minimizing adverse effects associated with treatment. Given that ED is assessed and treated by multiple different types of health practitioners, the purpose of this guideline is to provide the best available evidence to facilitate care delivery through a Canadian lens. After a narrative review of ED assessment and treatment for general readership, five key clinical questions relating to priority areas of ED are assessed using the GRADE and evidence-to-decision-making frameworks.

Deep Exclusive Electroproduction of π^{0} at High Q^{2} in the Quark Valence Regime

We report measurements of the exclusive neutral pion electroproduction cross section off protons at large values of x_{B} (0.36, 0.48, and 0.60) and Q^{2} (3.1 to 8.4  GeV^{2}) obtained from Jefferson Lab Hall A experiment E12-06-014. The corresponding structure functions dσ_{T}/dt+εdσ_{L}/dt, dσ_{TT}/dt, dσ_{LT}/dt, and dσ_{LT^{'}}/dt are extracted as a function of the proton momentum transfer t-t_{min}. The results suggest the amplitude for transversely polarized virtual photons continues to dominate the cross section throughout this kinematic range. The data are well described by calculations based on transversity generalized parton distributions coupled to a helicity flip distribution amplitude of the pion, thus providing a unique way to probe the structure of the nucleon.

P–253 Description of a rare spontaneous monozygotic blastocyst splitting into two discrete euploid blastocysts in vitro detected with time-lapse imaging and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT)

Study question

Can spontaneous and complete blastocyst splitting into two, in vitro, be investigated using time-lapse imaging and biopsy of each trophectoderm, for inference of ploidy?

Summary answer

Time-lapse imaging combined with PGT-A gives insights into the incidence, dynamics and timing of rare blastocyst splitting and the ploidy status of each resulting blastocyst.

What is known already

It is well known that multiple births occur more often with Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) than spontaneous conception, even after single embryo transfer. The mechanism of Monozygotic Twinning (MZT) during ART is still unclear but cryopreservation, extended culture, PGT, maternal age and assisted hatching are reported risk factors. MZT is a rare phenomenon, with an incidence of 0.4% in natural conception compared with up to 4.9% in ART. The timing of embryo splitting dictates the type of twinning, in terms of chorionicity and amnionicty, and this is officially determined using ultrasound scanning.

Study design, size, duration

This is a case study describing the detection of the complete splitting of an IVF blastocyst at 140 hours post insemination (hpi), using time-lapse imaging.

The 40-year-old patient previously experienced biochemical pregnancy and several miscarriages; an ectopic molar pregnancy and a probable cornual ectopic. The 39-year-old male partner was normozoospermic.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Facilitative laser breaching was performed, according to standard operating procedure, of the morula at 96hpi of embryo development, prior to PGT. Images were collected every 10 minutes and developmental events and embryos morphology annotated using the EmbryoScope+™ time lapse incubator and software.

Main results and the role of chance

Over 50,000 hatching blastocysts have been time-lapse imaged, scrutinised and annotated within this group of fertility clinics. This is the first time that such a rare blastocyst splitting event has been recorded and studied.

Following observation of two pronuclei following IVF and typical cleavage development to blastocyst, with facilitative zona breaching on, at 106.7hpi, the full blastocyst’s trophectoderm (TE) began to herniate and hatch. By 114.3hpi a second internal blastocoel cavity formed appearing to divide the inner cell mass (ICM) within the zona pellucida (ZP). This resulting blastocyst proceeded to hatch as its discrete ICM migrated out of the ZP, along with its TE. TE cells from the original blastocyst then began to hatch at 117.5hpi at the same breached site in the ZP with its ICM visibly evacuating the ZP.

By 140hpi the blastocyst had split into two discrete blastocysts while hatching from the ZP. Both resulting blastocysts had clear and separate ICMs and TEs present. Biopsy of approximately 5 cells was performed for each TE, and the blastocysts were vitrified individually. Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) reported both blastocysts to be euploid.

Limitations, reasons for caution

This case may have been detectable without time-lapse imaging, as the splitting was completed prior to biopsy. More expert scrutiny of the images may result in earlier signs of twinning in progress being detected.

Wider implications of the findings: The nature of this detectable in vitro blastocyst splitting, indicates these embryos (if they implanted) to be monozygotic, dichoriol-diamniotic ‘identical’ twins. However – as single embryo transfer is the preferred treatment plan; they may be born years apart. These observations could shed light on the debated models of monozygotic twinning.

Trial registration number

Not applicable

O-083 Non-invasive, label-free optical analysis to detect aneuploidy within the inner cell mass of the preimplantation embryo

Study question

Can we separate between control and reversine-treated cells within the inner cell mass (ICM) of the mouse preimplantation embryo by using label-free and non-invasive hyperspectral microscopy?

Summary answer

Hyperspectral microscopy is able to discern between control and reversine-treated cells using cellular autofluorescence in the complete absence of fluorescence tags.

What is known already

Embryo mosaicism (containing cells that are euploid (46 chromosomes) and aneuploid (deviation from the expected number of chromosomes)) affects up to 17.3% of human blastocyst embryos. Current diagnosis of aneuploidy in the IVF clinic involves a biopsy of trophectoderm (TE) cells or spent media followed by sequencing. In some blastocyst embryos these approaches will fail to diagnose of the proportion of aneuploid cells within the fetal lineage (ICM).

Study design, size, duration

The impact of aneuploidy on cellular metabolism was assessed by using cellular autofluoresence and hyperspectral microscopy (broad spectral profile). Two models were employed: (i) Primary human fibroblast cells with known karyotypes (4-6 independent replicates, euploid n = 467; aneuploid n = 969) and reversine induced aneuploidy in mouse embryos (5-8 independent replicates, 30-44 cells per group). Both models were subjected to hyperspectral imaging to quantify native cell fluorescence.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

The human model is comprised of euploid (male and female) and aneuploid (triploid and trisomies: 13, 18, 21, XXX, and XXY) primary human fibroblast cells. For the mouse model, we treated embryos with reversine, a reversible spindle assembly checkpoint inhibitor, during the 4- to 8-cell division. Individual blastomeres were dissociated from control and reversine treated 8-cell embryos. Blastomeres were either imaged directly or used to generate chimeric blastocysts with differing ratios of control:reversine-treated cells.

Main results and the role of chance

Following unsupervised linear unmixing, the relative abundance of metabolic cofactors was quantified: reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD(P)H) and flavins with the subsequent calculation of the optical redox ratio (ORR: Flavins/[NAD(P)H + Flavins]). Primary human fibroblast cells displayed an increase in the relative abundance of NAD(P)H with a decrease in flavins, leading to a significant reduction in the ORR for aneuploid cells (P &lt; 0.05). The mouse embryos displayed an identical trend as the human model between control and reversine-treated embryos. Mathematical algorithms were applied and able to distinguish between (i) euploid and aneuploid primary human fibroblast cells, (ii) control and reversine-treated mouse blastomeres and (iii) chimeric blastocysts with differing ratios of control and reversine-treated cells. The accuracy of these separations was supported by receiver operating characteristic curves with areas under the curve. We also showed that hyperspectral imaging of the preimplantation embryo does not impact on embryo developmental competence, pregnancy outcome and offspring health in a mouse model. We believe the role of chance is low as both human somatic cells and mouse embryos showed a consistent shift in cellular metabolism in response to human fibroblast cells that are aneuploid and reversine treated mouse embryos.

Limitations, reasons for caution

Further validation of our approach could include sequencing of the ICM of individual blastocysts to determine the proportion of aneuploid cells in ICM and correlate this with the metabolic profile obtained through hyperspectral imaging.

Wider implications of the findings

With hyperspectral imaging able to discriminate between (i) euploid and aneuploid human fibroblast cells and (ii) control and reversine-treated mouse embryos, this could be an accurate, non-invasive and label-free optical imaging approach to assess mosaicism within the ICM of mouse embryos, potentially leading to a new diagnostic tool for embryos.

Trial registration number

Not applicable

Pressure ulcer healing with an intensive nutrition intervention in an acute setting: a pilot randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility of recruitment, retention, intervention delivery and outcome measurement in a nutritional intervention to promote pressure ulcer healing in an acute setting.

METHOD

Some 50 tertiary hospital patients with stage II or greater pressure ulcer were randomised to receive either individualised nutritional care by a dietitian, including prescription of wound healing supplements; or standard nutritional care. Relevant nutritional and pressure ulcer (PU) parameters were collected at day 5, 10, 15, 22 and then weekly or until discharge.

RESULTS

The median length of hospital stay was 14 days (1-70) with 29 patients discharged by day 15. There were 24 patients discharged before their PU fully healed. Per cent change in valid PU area and score measures from baseline to day 15 were chosen for outcome data analysis to account for varying initial size and severity of the wound and length of stay. There was a larger percentage reduction in PU measures in the intervention group, but this was not statistically significant. Little difference was found in nutritional intake between the control and intervention groups indicating a requirement to focus on effective delivery of the intervention in future studies. Future studies in the acute setting need to account for length of stay and ideally follow patients until full healing.

CONCLUSION

Results indicate a positive association with nutrition intervention and PU healing and that a rigorously designed and adequately powered study is feasible.

The mouse Gene Expression Database (GXD): 2021 update

The Gene Expression Database (GXD; www.informatics.jax.org/expression.shtml) is an extensive and well-curated community resource of mouse developmental gene expression information. For many years, GXD has collected and integrated data from RNA in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR, northern blot, and western blot experiments through curation of the scientific literature and by collaborations with large-scale expression projects. Since our last report in 2019, we have continued to acquire these classical types of expression data; developed a searchable index of RNA-Seq and microarray experiments that allows users to quickly and reliably find specific mouse expression studies in ArrayExpress (https://www.ebi.ac.uk/arrayexpress/) and GEO (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/geo/); and expanded GXD to include RNA-Seq data. Uniformly processed RNA-Seq data are imported from the EBI Expression Atlas and then integrated with the other types of expression data in GXD, and with the genetic, functional, phenotypic and disease-related information in Mouse Genome Informatics (MGI). This integration has made the RNA-Seq data accessible via GXD’s enhanced searching and filtering capabilities. Further, we have embedded the Morpheus heat map utility into the GXD user interface to provide additional tools for display and analysis of RNA-Seq data, including heat map visualization, sorting, filtering, hierarchical clustering, nearest neighbors analysis and visual enrichment.

Do 5-alpha reductase inhibitors decrease the risk of recurrent gross hematuria in patients who have had a transurethral prostatectomy?

NA

1643. A scoping review of pediatric latent tuberculosis care cascades: Initial steps are lacking

Background

Each year an estimated 1 million children develop and ~200,000 die from tuberculosis (TB). The WHO has named identification and treatment of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) one of the cornerstones of efforts to eliminate TB by 2030. Identification and treatment of pediatric LTBI requires completion of a complex care cascade. While attention has been given to LTBI care cascades in adults, to date there has been no attempt to map literature on the pediatric LTBI care cascade.

Facilitators and barriers to retention in steps of the pediatric LTBI care cascade

Methods

We systematically searched PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane and Embase databases for papers and abstracts describing screening, diagnosis, and treatment of pediatric LTBI. We categorized literature using seven step-offs in the pediatric LTBI care cascade, extrapolated from prior studies focused on adults: 1) intention to screen to initial test, 2) initial test to receipt of results, 3) receipt to referral for evaluation, 4) referral to completion of evaluation, 5) completion to treatment recommendation, 6) recommendation to treatment acceptance/initiation, and 7) initiation to treatment completion. Our aim was to assess factors that facilitated and inhibited completion of each cascade step, and to identify knowledge gaps in this literature.

Results

We identified 137 studies that met inclusion criteria. Most studies described multiple step-offs in the care cascade, although the focus of most (120/137 studies) was on initiation and completion of LTBI therapy (the final step in the care cascade). Several effective strategies to improve medication adherence were described, including selective use of nursing visits, directly observed therapy, shorter treatment regimens, and peer counseling. Reports of facilitators and barriers for retention in upstream step-offs in the cascade were scarce, revealing a lack of published evidence for how to retain children from pre-screening to treatment initiation (Table).

Conclusion

While existing literature describes LTBI treatment initiation and completion in children, our analysis reveals a lack of data guiding retention of children from LTBI screening through treatment initiation. This review highlights the need to further understand early steps of the care cascade, in order to help alleviate the burden of TB in children.

Disclosures

Jessica Haberer, MD, MS, Merck (Consultant)

82. Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children and non-sars-cov-2 Infections: A Retrospective Cross-sectional Study

Background

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) has been described in areas with high Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) burden. Clinical features included in the MIS-C case definition (e.g fever, elevated inflammatory markers) overlap with features of other childhood infections. The prevalence of non-SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients evaluated for MIS-C has not been described.

Patients evaluated for MIS-C, and therapies administered.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients < 21 years of age admitted to a freestanding children’s hospital in Boston, MA from May 14-June 6, 2020 who were evaluated for MIS-C. We identified patients undergoing Rheumatology consultation and echocardiogram (per the hospital’s protocol for evaluating children with suspicion for MIS-C). We tabulated patients evaluated for MIS-C found to have non-SARS-CoV-2 infection detected on standard microbiologic testing.

Results

39 patients met inclusion criteria. Median age was 5 years (IQR 2–12 years). Of evaluated patients, 19/39 (49%) were diagnosed with MIS-C according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health case definition; 10/39 (26%) required ICU admission. Non-SARS-CoV-2 infections were identified in 7/39 (18%), of whom 5/7 (71%) had bacterial infections, 1/7 (14%) had viral infection, and 1/7 (14%) had viral and bacterial co-infections; no fungal or parasitic infections were identified. Of patients diagnosed with MIS-C, 2/19 (11%) were found to have non-SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, 5/19 (26%) had a positive polymerase chain reaction test for SARS-CoV-2 at time of MIS-C diagnosis, of whom 4/5 (80%) received remdesivir. Of patients evaluated for MIS-C, 17/39 (44%) received intravenous immune globulin, 14/39 (36%) aspirin, 4/39 (10%) anakinra, and 14/39 (36%) methylprednisolone. Additionally, 21/39 (54%) received antibacterial and 5/39 (13%) antiviral therapy (Table).

Conclusion

In this study, non-SARS-CoV-2 infections were diagnosed in 18% of children evaluated for MIS-C. Clinicians should consider alternative or concomitant infectious diagnoses in patients undergoing MIS-C evaluation. Research is needed to identify clinical and laboratory features that may distinguish patients with MIS-C from those with non-SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Disclosures

All Authors: No reported disclosures