Esophageal chemoradiotherapy with concurrent nivolumab: Pilot results in the palliative treatment of oligometastatic disease

AIMS

Many patients diagnosed with esophageal cancer have dysphagia from their primary tumor and de novo metastatic disease. The purpose of this study was to test the safety and efficacy of nivolumab given concurrently with hypofractionated chemoradiotherapy to patients with oligometastatic and obstructing esophageal tumors.

METHODS

Patients were enrolled in a planned single-arm, phase 2 clinical trial. Eligible participants had previously untreated oligometastatic (≤5 metastases on fludeoxyglucose-18 positron emission tomography scan outside the primary tumor radiotherapy field) esophageal or gastroesophageal carcinoma, dysphagia, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0-1. Treatment was with 2 weeks of concurrent hypofractionated radiotherapy (30 Gy/10#) to the primary tumor, weekly carboplatin AUC2, weekly paclitaxel 50 mg/m2, and q2weekly nivolumab 240 mg, followed by nivolumab 480 mg continuing q4weekly until disease progression or 24 months total. A single metastasis was treated with stereotactic radiotherapy (SBRT) (24 Gy/3#) in week 7.

RESULTS

Five patients were recruited before trial closure to new participants for logistical reasons. Existing participants continued treatment per protocol as a pilot study at one center. All five patients completed chemoradioimmunotherapy and SBRT. All patients derived an improvement in their dysphagia. Two patients completed 24 months of nivolumab without disease progression. Grade 3 adverse events (AEs) occurred in 3 patients, however, there were no grade 4 AEs, AEs due to SBRT, or AEs of special interest as defined by the protocol.

CONCLUSION

Pilot results from five patients at one center found that treatment was well tolerated and effective for dysphagia relief. The efficacy of hypofractionated chemoradiotherapy with concurrent checkpoint inhibition should be tested in a multicentre study.

Maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index and risk of preterm birth: a collaboration using large routine health datasets

BACKGROUND

Preterm birth (PTB) is a leading cause of child morbidity and mortality. Evidence suggests an increased risk with both maternal underweight and obesity, with some studies suggesting underweight might be a greater factor in spontaneous PTB (SPTB) and that the relationship might vary by parity. Previous studies have largely explored established body mass index (BMI) categories. Our aim was to compare associations of maternal pre-pregnancy BMI with any PTB, SPTB and medically indicated PTB (MPTB) among nulliparous and parous women across populations with differing characteristics, and to identify the optimal BMI with lowest risk for these outcomes.

METHODS

We used three UK datasets, two USA datasets and one each from South Australia, Norway and Denmark, together including just under 29 million pregnancies resulting in a live birth or stillbirth after 24 completed weeks gestation. Fractional polynomial multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the relationship of maternal BMI with any PTB, SPTB and MPTB, among nulliparous and parous women separately. The results were combined using a random effects meta-analysis. The estimated BMI at which risk was lowest was calculated via differentiation and a 95% confidence interval (CI) obtained using bootstrapping.

RESULTS

We found non-linear associations between BMI and all three outcomes, across all datasets. The adjusted risk of any PTB and MPTB was elevated at both low and high BMIs, whereas the risk of SPTB was increased at lower levels of BMI but remained low or increased only slightly with higher BMI. In the meta-analysed data, the lowest risk of any PTB was at a BMI of 22.5 kg/m2 (95% CI 21.5, 23.5) among nulliparous women and 25.9 kg/m2 (95% CI 24.1, 31.7) among multiparous women, with values of 20.4 kg/m2 (20.0, 21.1) and 22.2 kg/m2 (21.1, 24.3), respectively, for MPTB; for SPTB, the risk remained roughly largely constant above a BMI of around 25-30 kg/m2 regardless of parity.

CONCLUSIONS

Consistency of findings across different populations, despite differences between them in terms of the time period covered, the BMI distribution, missing data and control for key confounders, suggests that severe under- and overweight may play a role in PTB risk.

The relationship between timing of onset of menarche and depressive symptoms from adolescence to adulthood

AIMS

Girls who experience an earlier onset of menarche than their peers are at increased risk of depressive symptoms in mid-adolescence, but it is unclear if this association persists into adulthood. This study examines whether longitudinal patterns of depressive symptoms from adolescence to adulthood vary according to timing of menarche.

METHODS

About 4,864 female participants in the UK Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children provided data on age at onset of menarche (assessed in repeated questionnaires from 8 to 17 years) and depressive symptoms across nine time points (13 to 26 years) using the Short Mood and Feelings Questionnaire. We compared patterns of depressive symptoms in girls with 'early' (<11.5 years), 'normative' (11.5 to 13.5 years) and 'late' (≥13.5 years) menarche using a linear spline multilevel growth curve model adjusted for indicators of socioeconomic position, father absence and body mass index.

RESULTS

Early, compared with normative, menarche was associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms at age 14 (imputed adjusted estimated difference = 0.94, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.44, 1.45), but the association attenuated at 24 years (0.24 [-0.72, 1.19]). Late menarche, compared with normative, was associated with a lower level of depressive symptoms at age 14 (-0.69 [-1.10, -0.29]), but this association also attenuated at 24 years (-0.15 [-0.92, 0.62]).

CONCLUSIONS

This study did not find a persistent effect of early menarche, compared to normative, on depressive symptoms. However, our findings are consistent with the level of depressive symptoms increasing at the onset of menarche irrespective of timing. The late onset girls 'catch up' with their peers who experience menarche earlier in terms of depressive symptoms. Future studies should continue to assess the impact of timing of menarche further into adulthood.

Antimicrobial usage in farm animal practices in the UK: A mixed-methods approach

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing One Health problem. Monitoring antimicrobial usage in farm animals is crucial for tackling AMR. A cohort study using the electronic clinical records during 2019 from 23 farm animal veterinary practices across the UK belonging to two corporate groups, with a range of 2-14 veterinarians per practice, estimated the usage of antimicrobials and highest priority critically important antimicrobials (HP-CIAs). Risk factors for using HP-CIAs were evaluated using hierarchical mixed-effects logistic regression modelling with practice ID and farm ID added as random effects. Using a qualitative approach, veterinarians from one of the participating practice groups were recruited for a qualitative study to explore the barriers and facilitators in relation to antimicrobial use. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants and analysed thematically. During the year 2019, 98,824 antimicrobial prescribing events overall were recorded from the treatment records of the 23 participating practices. The median count of antimicrobial events per practice was 3226 (range 263-22,159). There were 17,111/98,824 (17.3%) HP-CIAs events overall, with a median of 15.4% at practice level (range 4.8-22.1%). Penicillins were the most frequently used antimicrobials 29,539/98,824 (29.9%) followed by tetracyclines 19,015/98,824 (19.2%). HP-CIA use was strongly clustered, with more clustering seen at the farm level (intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC)= 0.56) than at the practice level (ICC= 0.32). Country, route of administration, season and practice type were significantly associated with the usage of HP-CIAs. Four main themes were identified from the analysis of the veterinarians' interviews: pressure from the industry, drug-related factors, knowledge level of veterinarians and clinical factors. Supermarket contracts and farm assurance schemes were facilitators for reducing antimicrobial use and the use of HP-CIAs. Ease of administration and the withdrawal period of the antimicrobials influenced veterinarians' choice of antimicrobials. The clinical condition and clinical signs presented on farm were reported to influence participating veterinarians' prescribing decision. Participants showed a good understanding of AMR, responsible use of antimicrobials and the term 'critically important antimicrobials'. In conclusion, integrating the quantitative and qualitative findings can inform policymaking on antimicrobials stewardship in farm practice. By estimating the relative levels of clustering of antimicrobial use at the practice and farm level, as well as identifying major risk factors for using HP-CIAs, more targeted interventions can be designed to promote responsible antimicrobial use in farm practice. Furthermore, better understanding the industry pressures on farms to reduce antimicrobials usage could reduce the barriers for responsible antimicrobial use by veterinarians.

Chemoradiotherapy with concurrent durvalumab for the palliative treatment of oligometastatic oesophageal and gastrooesophageal carcinoma with dysphagia: a single arm phase II clinical trial (PALEO, sponsored by the Australasian Gastro-Intestinal Trials Group)

BACKGROUND

Oesophageal and gastrooesophageal junction (GOJ) carcinoma frequently present with dysphagia and de novo metastatic disease. There is scope to improve treatment paradigms to both address symptoms and improve survival. One method is integrating immune checkpoint inhibition with novel treatment combinations.

METHODS

PALEO is a single arm, phase II clinical trial in patients with previously untreated, oligometastatic or locoregionally advanced oesophageal or GOJ carcinoma and dysphagia. PALEO is sponsored by the Australasian Gastro-Intestinal Trials Group (AGITG). Participants receive 2 weeks of therapy with concurrent hypofractionated radiotherapy of 30Gy in 10 fractions to the primary tumour, weekly carboplatin AUC2, weekly paclitaxel 50 mg/m² and durvalumab 1500 mg q4 weekly, followed by durvalumab monotherapy continuing at 1500 mg q4weekly until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity or 24 months of therapy. A single metastasis is treated with stereotactic radiotherapy of 24Gy in 3 fractions in week 7. The trial primary endpoint is the progression free survival rate at 6 months. Secondary endpoints include duration of dysphagia relief, nutritional status change, quality of life, response rate, toxicity, progression free survival and overall survival. The tertiary endpoint is prediction of outcome based on biomarkers identified from patient serial blood samples collected pre- and post-radiotherapy.

DISCUSSION

This unique investigator-initiated clinical trial is designed to simultaneously address the clinically relevant problems of dysphagia and distant disease control. The overarching aims are to improve patient nutrition, quality of life and survival with low toxicity therapy. AGITG PALEO is a multidisciplinary collaboration and will add to the understanding of the relationship between radiotherapy and the anti-tumour immune response.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12619001371189 , registered 8 October 2019.

Development of a core descriptor set for Crohn's anal fistula

AIM

Crohn's anal fistula (CAF) is a complex condition, with no agreement on which patient characteristics should be routinely reported in studies. The aim of this study was to develop a core descriptor set of key patient characteristics for reporting in all CAF research.

METHOD

Candidate descriptors were generated from published literature and stakeholder suggestions. Colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists and specialist nurses in inflammatory bowel disease took part in three rounds of an international modified Delphi process using nine-point Likert scales to rank the importance of descriptors. Feedback was provided between rounds to allow refinement of the next ratings. Patterns in descriptor voting were assessed using principal component analysis (PCA). Resulting PCA groups were used to organize items in rounds two and three. Consensus descriptors were submitted to a patient panel for feedback. Items meeting predetermined thresholds were included in the final set and ratified at the consensus meeting.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty three respondents from 22 countries completed round one, of whom 67.0% completed round three. Ninety seven descriptors were rated across three rounds in 11 PCA-based groups. Forty descriptors were shortlisted. The consensus meeting ratified a core descriptor set of 37 descriptors within six domains: fistula anatomy, current disease activity and phenotype, risk factors, medical interventions for CAF, surgical interventions for CAF, and patient symptoms and impact on quality of life.

CONCLUSION

The core descriptor set proposed for all future CAF research reflects characteristics important to gastroenterologists and surgeons. This might aid transparent reporting in future studies.

POS1497-HPR FEASIBILITY OF A PHYSIOTHERAPIST LED, BEHAVIOUR CHANGE INTERVENTION TO IMPROVE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN PEOPLE WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Background

Physical activity (PA) is an important component in the management of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (1). Interventions incorporating Behaviour Change (BC) theory are needed to target physically inactive people with RA. The study Physiotherapist-led Intervention to Promote Physical Activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis (PIPPRA) was designed using the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) and a pilot study of feasibility undertaken (ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03644160).

Objectives

To obtain reliable estimates regarding recruitment rates; participant retention; protocol adherence and possible adverse events, and to producing estimates of the potential effect sizes of the BC intervention on changes in outcomes of physical activity; fatigue; disability and quality of life.

Methods

Participants were recruited at University Hospital (UH) rheumatology clinics and randomly assigned to control group (physical activity information leaflet) or intervention group (four BC physiotherapy sessions in eight weeks). Inclusion criteria were diagnosis of RA (ACR/EULAR 2010 classification criteria), aged 18+ years and classified as insufficiently physically active. Ethical approval was obtained from the UH research ethics committee. Participants were assessed at baseline (T0), 8-weeks (T1), and 24-weeks (T2). Descriptive statistics and t-tests were used to analyse the data with SPSS v22.

Results

320 participants were identified through chart review with direct contact then with people meeting the inclusion criteria at rheumatology clinics. Of the clinic attendees n=183 (57%) were eligible to participate and n=58 (55%) of those consented to participate. The recruitment rate was 6.4 per month and refusal rate was 59%. Due to impact of COVID-19 on the study n=25 (43%) participants completed the study (n=11 (44%) in intervention and n=14 (56%) in control). Of the 25, n= 23 (92%) were female, mean age was 60 years (sd 11.5). Intervention group participants completed 100% of BC sessions 1 & 2, 88% session 3 and 81% session 4. No serious adverse events were reported. Secondary outcome measures data is Table 1.

Table 1.

Mean (sd) for secondary outcome measures in PIPPRA feasibility study

Outcomes and instrumentsInterventionControlBaseline Mean (sd)Time 1 Mean (sd)Time 2 Mean (sd)Baseline Mean (sd)Time 1 Mean (sd)Time 2 Mean (sd)Physical Activity – self report (YPAS1)146.27 (193.73)120.88 (70.80)132.00 (70.65)91.75 (85.86)58.03 (50.61)124.31 (69.75)Physical Activity – objective (Step Count)32,616.9132,190.0027,793.3330,476.1542,117.2534,288.77(11,415.85)(9,291.57)(7,426.92)(12,642.97)(21,714.67)(17,677.90)Pain (VAS2)4.184.904.503.715.104.79(2.40)(1.91)(1.90)(2.55)(2.77)(4.50)Disability (HAQDI3)0.850.941.030.710.711.52(0.57)(0.57)(0.65)(0.56)(0.52)(0.69)Fatigue (BRAF MDQ4)18.1814.82 (13.15)18.55 (11.84)15.71 (12.29)13.93 (15.27)20.21 (10.85)(8.98)Psychological Constructs (TPB5)22.0019.91 (7.76)20.27 (8.63)21.79 (5.67)15.50 (11.43)25.36 (6.86)(4.84)Quality of Life (RA QoL6)15.1814.73 (7.23)17.09 (7.33)18.4311.50 (10.02)14.86 (6.47)(6.08)(5.06)Sleep (PSQI7)11.558.509.9110.219.0910.14(3.56)(3.27)(3.62)(3.47)(4.32)(4.42)

1YPAS – Yale Physical Activity Scale

2VAS – Visual Analogue Scale

3HAQDI – Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index

4BRAF MDQ - Bristol Rheumatoid Arthritis Fatigue Multidimensional Questionnaire

5TPB – Theory of Planned Behaviour Questionnaire

6RA QoL – Rheumatoid Arthritis Quality of Life Scale

7PSQI – Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index

Conclusion

The PIPPRA study designed using the BCW to improve promote physical activity was feasible and safe. This pilot study provides a framework for larger intervention studies and based on these findings a fully powered trial is recommended.

References

[1]Rausch Osthoff A, Niedermann K, Braun J, et al. (2018) EULAR recommendations for physical activity in people with inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases 77:1251-1260.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

POS1511-HPR “I LEARNT SO MUCH ABOUT MY APPROACH TO BEING ACTIVE”: EXPERIENCES OF PEOPLE WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS ON THE IMPACT OF A PHYSIOTHERAPIST LED INTERVENTION TO PROMOTE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Background

Physical activity is an important component in the management of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) [1]. A Physiotherapist-led Intervention to Promote Physical Activity in people with RA (PIPPRA) was undertaken using the Behaviour Change Wheel, with the aim of examining the feasibility of promoting physical activity in RA. This qualitative study involved participants and health care professionals who participated and were involved in a behaviour change pilot RCT intervention.

Objectives

To determine, qualitatively, the acceptability of PIPPRA to participants with RA and health care professionals, in order to capture their reality.

Methods

A qualitative study design of face-to-face semi-structured interviews was undertaken. The interview schedule explored the following areas: experience of the intervention; unintended consequences; experience and suitability of outcome measures used; views regarding the intervention; perceptions of behaviour change and physical activity. Interviews were transcribed verbatim by a professional transcriber. Thematic analysis was used as an analytical approach [2]. The research team searched for patterns, analysed and coded the data, and generated themes and sub-themes. Themes were reviewed by the research team to check if they worked in relation to the coded extracts and the entire data set. The COREQ checklist provided guidance throughout [3].

Results

Fourteen participants [13 female/1 male; mean age of 59 (SD 6.3); mean RA diagnosis of 8.6 (SD 6.8) years; moderate to severe disability (HAQ-DI: 1.4 (SD 0.50)] and 8 healthcare staff [4 female/4 male; mean age of 41 (SD 5.6)] participated. Three main themes were generated from participants:- 1) Positive experience of behaviour change intervention - “I found it very knowledgeable to help you get stronger”; 2) Improvement in self-management - “…….motivate me maybe to go back to doing a little bit more exercise”; 3) Negative impact of COVID-19 on intervention – “I don’t think doing it online again would be really good at all”. Two main themes from health care professionals:- 1) Positive learning experience of behaviour change delivery – “Really made me realise the importance of discussing physical activity with patients”; 2) Positive approach to recruitment – “Very professional team showing the importance of having a study member on site”.

Conclusion

The findings demonstrated that participants had a positive experience of being involved in a behaviour change intervention in order to improve their physical activity and found it acceptable as an intervention. However, if given the choice they would prefer the intervention delivery face to face rather than telehealth. Healthcare professionals also had a positive experience and in particular found it beneficial to their own development, in particular the importance of recommending PA to patients.

References

[1]Rausch Osthoff A, Niedermann K, Braun J, et al. (2018) EULAR recommendations for physical activity in people with inflammatory arthritis and osteoarthritis. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases 77:1251-1260

[2]Clarke, V. and Braun, V., 2014. Thematic analysis. In Encyclopedia of critical psychology (pp. 1947-1952). Springer, New York, NY

[3]Tong, A., Sainsbury, P. and Craig, J., 2007. Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ): a 32-item checklist for interviews and focus groups. International journal for quality in health care, 19(6), pp.349-357

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

Change in prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder in the two years following trauma: a meta-analytic study

BACKGROUND

Understanding the course of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the factors that impact this is essential to inform decisions about when and for whom screening and intervention are likely to be beneficial.

OBJECTIVE

To provide meta-analytic evidence of the course of recovery from PTSD in the first year following trauma, and the factors that influence that recovery.

METHOD

We conducted a meta-analysis of observational studies of adult PTSD prevalence which included at least two assessments within the first 12 months following trauma exposure, examining prevalence statistics through to 2 years post-trauma. We examined trauma intentionality (intentional or non-intentional), PTSD assessment method (clinician or self-report), sample sex distribution, and age as moderators of PTSD prevalence over time.

RESULTS

We identified 78 eligible studies including 16,484 participants. Pooled prevalence statistics indicated that over a quarter of individuals presented with PTSD at 1 month post-trauma, with this proportion reducing by a third between 1 and 3 months. Beyond 3 months, any prevalence changes were detected over longer intervals and were small in magnitude. Intentional trauma, younger age, and female sex were associated with higher PTSD prevalence at 1 month. In addition, higher proportions of females, intentional trauma exposure, and higher baseline PTSD prevalence were each associated with larger reductions in prevalence over time.

CONCLUSIONS

Recovery from PTSD following acute trauma exposure primarily occurs in the first 3 months post-trauma. Screening measures and intervention approaches offered at 3 months may better target persistent symptoms than those conducted prior to this point.

HIGHLIGHTS

PTSD rates in the immediate aftermath of trauma exposure decline from 27% at 1 month to 18% at 3 months post-trauma, showing significant spontaneous recovery.Problems appear to stabilize after 3 months.Screening/intervention for PTSD at 3 months post-trauma is indicated.

Left atrial conduit flow rate at baseline and during exercise: an index of impaired relaxation in patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction

Introduction

In healthy subjects, adrenergic stimulation augments left ventricular (LV) long-axis shortening/lengthening, and increases left atrial (LA) to LV intracavitary pressure gradients in early diastole. Lower increments are observed in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Purpose

We hypothesized that exercise in HFpEF would similarly impair passive LV filling in early-mid diastole, during conduit flow from pulmonary veins.

Methods

Twenty HFpEF patients (67.8±9.8 years; 11 women), diagnosed according to 2007 ESC recommendations, underwent ramped semi-supine bicycle exercise to submaximal target heart rate (∼100) or symptoms. Seventeen asymptomatic subjects (64.3±8.9 years; 7 women) served as controls. Simultaneous LA and LV volumes were measured from pyramidal 3D echocardiographic full-volume datasets acquired from apical window at baseline and during stress, together with brachial arterial pressure. LA conduit function was computed, from minimum LV volume to ECG P wave, as [LV volume (time) – LV minimum volume] – [LA maximum volume – LA volume (time)] and expressed as average flow rate. The slope of the single-beat preload recruitable stroke work (PRSW) quantified LV inotropic state.

Results

There were divergent responses in conduit flow rate, which increased by 40% during exercise in control subjects (+17.8±37.3 ml/s) but decreased by 18% in patients with HFpEF (−9.6±42.3 ml/s) (p=0.046); increments during stress correlated with PRSW slope changes (p=0.003).

Conclusion

In HFpEF conduit flow rate decreases when diastolic dysfunction develops during exercise, in parallel with LV inotropic state changes, thereby contributing to impaired stroke volume reserve. Conduit flow can be measured as a marker of LV relaxation.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

The challenge of using routinely collected data to compare hospital admission rates by ethnic group: a demonstration project in Scotland

BACKGROUND

Recording patients' ethnic group supports efforts to achieve equity in health care provision. Before the Equality Act (2010), recording ethnic group at hospital admission was poor in Scotland but has improved subsequently. We describe the first analysis of the utility of such data nationally for monitoring ethnic variation.

METHODS

We analysed all in-patient or day case hospital admissions in 2013. We imputed missing data using the most recent ethnic group recorded for a patient from 2009 to 2015. For episodes lacking an ethnic code, we attributed known ethnic codes proportionately. Using the 2011 Census population, we calculated rates and rate ratios for all-cause admissions and ischaemic heart diseases (IHDs) directly standardized for age.

RESULTS

Imputation reduced missing ethnic group codes from 24 to 15% and proportionate redistribution to zero. While some rates for both all-cause and IHD admissions appeared plausible, unexpectedly low or high rates were observed for several ethnic groups particularly amongst White groups and newly coded groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Completeness of ethnicity recoding on hospital admission records has improved markedly since 2010. However the validity of admission rates based on these data is variable across ethnic groups and further improvements are required to support monitoring of inequality.

AB0916-PARE KNOWLEDGE OF DISEASE, DIAGNOSIS, ADHERENCE AND IMPACT OF RESEARCH IN PATIENTS WITH INFLAMMATORY ARTHRITIS

Background:

The diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory arthritis has been transformed largely by the development of drugs that target specific molecules of the immune system. However, these changes have increased the complexity of the mechanisms of disease, its treatment and patients understanding. Patient education is needed in this area to facilitate decision making and to facilitate strong patient-partnerships in research.

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to examine the level of understanding of inflammatory arthritis patients and the need for strong patient-partnership in research.

Methods:

An online anonymous survey addressed questions about diagnosis, routine tests, medications and how they work, medication adherence, disease flare, heredity, pregnancy, and patient involvement in research.

Results:

There were 1,873 respondents, 1416 of which had inflammatory arthritis (IA)-RA (65.8%) and PsA (34.2%). They were predominantly female (RA 86%, PsA 85 %), aged 55±13 and 50±12. Less than 35% of patients had an understanding of diagnostic tests, what was measured and the implication for disease, with 75.5% also concerned about heredity. There was a high level of understanding of how specific medications treat inflammatory arthritis (72.9%). Adherence was also very high (>87%), with the main reasons for stopping medication without the advice of their clinician, ‘feeling better’ and ‘side effects’ however a significant proportion of patients (69.9%) reported a disease-flare following cessation of medication. Patients of childbearing age (69%) were also concerned that inflammatory arthritis reduced their chances of getting pregnant, with only 8% believing arthritis medications were safe to take during pregnancy. Finally, only 9% of patients had ever been asked to participate in a research study.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates a need for the development of stronger patient-partnerships with clinicians and researchers in relation to patient education and engagement with research, to create a platform where patients can have meaningful input and involvement in future research studies.

Acknowledgements:

We wish to thank all the patients who contributed to this study

Disclosure of Interests:

Mary Canavan: None declared, Viviana Marzaioli: None declared, Alex Donnelly: None declared, Siobhan Wade: None declared, Alexander Fraser: None declared, Tim O’Sullivan: None declared, Sinead Harney: None declared, Arthritis Ireland: None declared, Douglas Veale Speakers bureau: Abbvie, Janssen, Novartis, MSD, Pfizer, UCB, Consultant of: Abbvie, Janssen, Novartis, MSD, Pfizer, UCB, Grant/research support from: Janssen, Abbvie, Pfizer, UCB, Ursula Fearon Speakers bureau: Abbvie, Grant/research support from: Janssen, Abbvie, Pfizer, UCB

AB0872-HPR IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON A PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FEASIBILITY PILOT STUDY: THE PIPPRA EXPERIENCE

Background:

The PIPPRA (Physiotherapist-led Intervention to Promote Physical Activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis) project is a feasibility project examining the impact of a physical activity behaviour change intervention in people who have rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The PIPPRA study recruitment commenced in October 2019, with participant assessment and intervention commencing in November 2019. In the Republic of Ireland people who have RA are categorised as high risk category for Covid-19, due to immunosuppression [1], although this categorisation contrasts with EULAR’s provisional recommendations [2].

Objectives:

To examine the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and public health restrictions on a pilot randomised controlled feasibility study in 2020.

Methods:

Participants (aged 18 years+, diagnosis of RA, independently mobile and low levels of physical activity [3]) were recruited from a rheumatology clinic at an urban hospital. Target recruitment was four participants per month for one year (N=48). Assessments were planned at baseline, eight and twenty-four weeks (N=144). Participants were randomised to intervention group or control group. The intervention group received four 1:1 sixty minute sessions with a physiotherapist (N=96). The intervention was delivered over eight weeks. Intervention and control groups received a physical activity information leaflet.

Results:

The Covid-19 pandemic and associated public health restrictions forced the study to be formally paused in April 2020 and the study formally resumed in August 2020. N=48 participants were recruited between October 2019 and March 2020 (six months). N=20 participants have commenced in the study, N=16 are awaiting baseline assessment, N=6 withdrew and N=6 were lost to follow-up prior to baseline. Trial protocol planned for the delivery of N=55 assessments and N=36 intervention sessions for participants who had commenced in the study. N=22 assessments and N=26 intervention sessions were delivered between November 2019 and March 2020. N=5 assessments and N=6 intervention sessions were conducted between August and October 2020. No assessment or intervention delivery occurred in November-December 2020 due to participant hesitancy in attending for assessment and/or intervention with increased public health restrictions. The impact of Covid-19 restrictions resulted in N=33 (60%) deviations from assessment protocol and N=10 (27%) deviations from intervention delivery protocol (Figure 1).

Figure 1.

Deviations from assessment and intervention protocol in the PIPPRA study

Conclusion:

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the delivery of the PIPPRA study. Feasibility study outcomes, including participant retention rate, and study delivery as per protocol, have been affected due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Participant reluctance to attend face-to-face sessions demonstrates the need to consider alternative methods of delivery, e.g. virtual delivery of interventions, where attending in person is not acceptable to participants [4], in future studies.

References:

[1]Health Service Executive. (2019). People at higher risk from COVID-19.Accessed 5th Jan 2020 https://www2.hse.ie/conditions/coronavirus/people-at-higher-risk.html.

[2]Landewé RB et al (2020). EULAR provisional recommendations for the management of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases in the context of SARS-CoV-2. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases 79:851-858.

[3]Godin, G. (2011). The Godin-Shephard leisure-time physical activity questionnaire. The Health & Fitness Journal of Canada, 4(1):18-22.

[4]Inan, OT et al. (2020). Digitizing clinical trials. npj Digit. Med. 3:10.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

POS1162 PREDICTORS OF HOSPITALISATION IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATIC DISEASE AND COVID-19 IN IRELAND: DATA FROM THE COVID-19 GLOBAL RHEUMATOLOGY ALLIANCE PHYSICIAN-REPORTED REGISTRY

Background:

There is limited data regarding the risk of hospitalisation in patients with rheumatic disease and COVID-19 in Ireland.

Objectives:

We used the COVID-19 Global Rheumatology Alliance (GRA) registry data to study outcomes and their predictors.

Methods:

We examined data on patients and their disease-related characteristics entered into the COVID-19 GRA provider registry from Ireland (24th March 2020 to 31st August 2020). Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the association of demographic and clinical characteristics with hospitalisation.

Results:

Of 105 patients, 47 (45.6%) were hospitalised and 10 (9.5%) died. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed age (OR=1.06, 95%CI 1.01 to 1.10), number of comorbidities (OR=1.93, 95%CI 1.11 to 3.35), and glucocorticoid use (OR=15.01, 95%CI 1.77 to 127.16) were significantly associated with hospitalisation. A diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis was associated with a lower odds of hospitalisation (OR=0.09, 95%CI 0.02 to 0.32).

All significant variable modelMost parsimonious modelUnadjusted OR (95% CI)Adjusted OR (95%CI)*Adjusted p-value*Adjusted OR (95%CI)&Adjusted p-value&Female0.45 (0.20-1.02)0.33 (0.05-2.23)0.34 (0.09-1.36)0.128Age (years)1.08 (1.05-1.11)1.04 (0.97-1.10)0.2241.06 (1.01-1.10)0.010Inflammatory arthritis0.11 (0.05-0.28)0.14 (0.02-0.95)0.0440.09 (0.02-0.32)<0.001Connective Tissue Disease and Other1.56 (0.62 - 3.92)No comorbidities0.11 (0.04-0.30)0.76 (0.09-6.58)0.802Most common comorbiditiesCOPD / asthma4.77 (1.23-18.54)3.09 (0.16-60.07)0.456CVD3.40 (1.31-8.85)0.11 (0.01-1.88)0.129Hypertension3.71 (1.52-9.08)0.56 (0.04-7.94)0.668Obesity0.58 (0.10-3.30)Number of comorbidities (Median, IQR)3.01 (1.92-4.72)2.99 (0.59-15.02)0.1841.93 (1.11-3.35)0.020Never Smokerref.0.889Ever Smoker3.17 (1.18-8.89)1.19 (0.10-13.68)Medication prior to COVID-19 diagnosisGlucocorticoids9.26 (1.95-43.89)18.14 (1.13-290.81)0.04115.01 (1.77-127.16)0.013csDMARD monotherapy0.42 (0.17-1.00)b/tsDMARD (monotherapy or in combination with csDMARD)0.24 (0.10-0.58)1.36 (0.19-9.72)0.557

Conclusion:

Increasing age, comorbidity burden, and glucocorticoid use were associated with hospitalisation, while a diagnosis of inflammatory arthritis was associated with lower odds of hospitalization.

Disclosure of Interests:

Richard Conway Speakers bureau: Janssen, Roche, Sanofi, Abbvie, Elena Nikiphorou Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Eli-Lilly, Gilead, Celltrion, Pfizer, Sanofi, Christiana Demetriou: None declared, Candice Low: None declared, Kelly Leamy: None declared, John Ryan: None declared, Ronan Kavanagh: None declared, Alexander Fraser: None declared, John Carey: None declared, Paul O’Connell: None declared, Rachael Flood: None declared, Ronan Mullan: None declared, David Kane: None declared, Philip Robinson Speakers bureau: UCB, Roche, Pfizer, Gilead, Janssen, Novartis, Eli Lilly, Abbvie, Grant/research support from: Abbvie, UCB, Novartis, Janssen, Pfizer, Jean Liew Grant/research support from: Pfizer, Rebecca Grainger Speakers bureau: Pfizer, Cornerstones, Janssen, Novartis, Abbvie, Geraldine McCarthy: None declared.

Increased case-finding and uptake of direct-acting antiviral treatment essential for micro-elimination of hepatitis C among people living with HIV: a national record linkage study

OBJECTIVES

Micro-elimination of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in people living with HIV (PLHIV) and co-infected with HCV has been proposed as a key contribution to the overall goal of HCV elimination. While other studies have examined micro-elimination in HIV-treated cohorts, few have considered HCV micro-elimination among those not treated for HIV or at a national level.

METHODS

Through data linkage of national and sentinel surveillance data, we examined the extent of HCV testing, diagnosis and treatment among a cohort of PLHIV in Scotland identified through the national database of HIV-diagnosed individuals, up to the end of 2017.

RESULTS

Of 5018 PLHIV, an estimated 797 (15%) had never been tested for HCV and 70 (9%) of these had undiagnosed chronic HCV. The odds of never having been tested for HCV were the highest in those not on HIV treatment [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 7.21, 95% confidence interval (CI): 5.15-10.10). Overall HCV antibody positivity was 11%, and it was at its highest among people who inject drugs (49%). Most of those with chronic HCV (91%) had attended an HCV treatment clinic but only half had been successfully treated (54% for those on HIV treatment, 12% for those not) by the end of 2017. The odds of never having been treated for HCV were the highest in those not on HIV treatment (aOR = 3.60, 95% CI: 1.59-8.15).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data demonstrate that micro-elimination of HCV in PLHIV is achievable but progress will require increased effort to engage and treat those co-infected, including those not being treated for their HIV.

Efficacy of novel aqueous photo-chlorine dioxide against a human norovirus surrogate, bacteriophage MS2 and Clostridium difficile endospores, in suspension, on stainless steel and under greenhouse conditions

AIMS

The efficacy of a novel photochemical method for generating chlorine dioxide (photoClO₂ ) was evaluated against human noroviruses (HuNoV) surrogate, bacteriophage MS2, and Clostridium difficile endospores.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Chlorine dioxide was generated by mixing 1% sodium chlorite with 10 parts-per-million (ppm) Eosin Y and irradiating with a photo-activator-excitable light. PhotoClO₂ efficacy was assessed against bacteriophage MS2 and C. difficile endospores in suspension, on hard surfaces and greenhouse conditions under soiled and unsoiled conditions. The estimated effective photoClO₂ produced and consumed was 20·39 ± 0·16 ppm at a rate of 8·16 ppm per min in a 1% sodium chlorite solution. In suspension, MS2 phage was reduced by 3·35 and >5·10 log₁₀ PFU per ml in 120 and 90 min, with and without soil, respectively. At the same time, when dried on stainless steel surface, MS2 phage was reduced by >4·53 log₁₀ PFU per carrier in 30 min under both conditions. On the other hand, C. difficile endospores in suspension were reduced by 2·26 and 3·65 log₁₀ CFU per ml in 120 min with and without soiling, respectively. However, on stainless steel surface, maximal reductions of the C. difficile endospores were 0·8 and 1·5 log₁₀ CFU per carrier with and without soiling, respectively, and a maximal reduction of 2·97 log₁₀ CFU per carrier under greenhouse conditions at 24 h.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, photoClO₂ showed promise as a technology to control HuNoV contamination on environmental surfaces but requires further optimization and testing against C. difficile endospores.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Results from this investigation will serve as a model for how to generate and quantify photoClO₂ and how to appropriately evaluate this new class of disinfectants against environmentally resilient pathogens: viruses and bacterial endospores.

OP0267-HPR “I NEVER THOUGHT EXERCISE COULD HELP IMPROVE MY SLEEP”: EXPERIENCES OF PEOPLE WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS ON THE IMPACT OF EXERCISE ON SLEEP

Background:

OMERACT has identified sleep quality as one of the key outcomes for people with RA [1]. Poor sleep and reduced total sleep time (TST) are common complaints among people with RA. Poor sleep can in turn lead to deterioration in function, reduce activity levels and also impact mental health. Although sleep and mental health outcomes have been identified as important, they are frequently not measured in clinical trials. Involving key stakeholders, like people with RA, is important when designing exercise interventions as it allows consideration of particular issues that may influence future intervention delivery. This study involved people with RA who participated in a pilot RCT group exercise class to improve sleep quality.

Objectives:

To explore participants experiences of an exercise intervention in improving sleep quality and TST, to capture their reality.

Methods:

A descriptive qualitative study design of face-to-face semi-structured interviews was employed. The interview schedule explored a number of areas: experience of the intervention; outcome measures used; views regarding the intervention; perceptions regarding exercise and sleep and the impact on sleep. Interviews were transcribed verbatim by a professional transcriber. Inductive thematic analysis was used as an analytical approach. Interview transcripts were read, notes made, and ideas formulated to facilitate coding. The research team searched for patterns, analysed and coded the data, and generated themes and sub-themes. Themes were reviewed by the research team to check if they worked in relation to the coded extracts and the entire data set. The COREQ checklist provided guidance.

Results:

Twelve females participated with a mean age of 58 (SD 7.4); mean RA diagnosis of 9.9 (SD 7.4) years; moderate to severe disability (HAQ-DI: 1.5 (SD 0.60). Four main themes were generated: 1) Positive impact of exercise on sleep -“I really didn’t think any type of exercise would help me sleep better if I’m honest.”;2) Positive experiences of exercise intervention to improve sleep-“I learnt so much regarding walking that I didn’t even think about.”;3) Clear mental health benefits –“If you don’t sleep well then it will have a knock-on effect to your mental health”; 4) Achieving empowerment and ownership when exercising -“I feel empowered now and confident that I’m not doing harm to myself”.The findings demonstrated that participants were clearly surprised that exercise could improve sleep.

Conclusion:

In a variety of inflammatory conditions exercise is recommended as an effective intervention for the treatment of sleeping disorders. Although there is a growing consensus that exercise will benefit sleep, research is severely lacking in those with RA. This study demonstrates that participants were clearly surprised that exercise could improve their sleep. Due to the multifactorial nature of RA, engaging in exercise may not only improve sleep quality but also mitigate some of its symptoms.

References:

[1]Kirwan JR, Boonen A, Harrison MJ, Hewlett SE, et al (2011) OMERACT 10 Patient Perspective Virtual Campus: Valuing health; measuring outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis fatigue, RA sleep, arthroplasty, and systemic sclerosis; and clinical significance of changes in health. The Journal of Rheumatology;38:1728–34.

Disclosure of Interests:

None declared

Rapid Screening Assay for Beta-Lactam Antibiotics in Milk: Collaborative Study

A 15 min assay for beta-lactam antibiotics has been used by dairies for several years as a screening procedure for testing milk tankers before they unload. The test is based on a competition between 14C-penicillin and beta-lactam antibiotics in the milk samples for sites on a microbial cell wall that specifically binds beta-lactam. In a collaborative study, 11 laboratories correctly distinguished 10 coded zero penicillin G samples and 10 coded 0.01 IU/mL samples. The proposed test is qualitative, positive or negative, and can detect the presence of beta-lactam antibiotics at the 0.01 IU/mL level. The control point for determining positive or negative samples is more than 3 standard deviations from the mean of 0.01 IU/mL. The method has been adopted official first action.

4950Adiposity gain from 17 to 25 years has a substantial effect on cardiac structure, independent of haemodynamics

Introduction

Body mass index (BMI) is independently associated with increased left ventricle mass (LVM) and remodeling in children. However associations from adolescence to emerging adulthood are unknown.

Purpose

To investigate associations between the change (Δ) in BMI to Δ in cardiac structure from 17 to 25 yrs using a large population-based sample of echocardiography in youth, and to explore the role of possible haemodynamic mediators.

Methods

901 participants (61% female) underwent echocardiography, anthropometry and sitting blood pressure (BP) measurements aged 17 yrs and had repeated measures aged 25 yrs. BMI, LVM, concentricity0.67 (LVM/end-diastolic volume0.67), total arterial compliance (TACI), peripheral resistance (TPR) and effective arterial elastance (Ea) were calculated. Regression analysis was used to investigate associations between ΔBMI and ΔLVM indexed to height2.7 (ΔLVMI) and Δconcentricity0.67.

Results

From 17 to 25 yrs BMI increased by 2.05±2.1 g/m2 in males and 1.80±3.1 kg/m2 in females, LVMI increased by 3.10±6.2g/m2.7 and 2.01±6.0g/m2.7 and concentricity0.67 increased by 0.91±1.2g/ml0.67 and 0.03±1.1g/ml0.67. ΔBMI was associated with ΔLVMI and Δconcentricity0.67 independently of age, socioeconomic status (SES) and smoking status. Haemodynamic measures did not substantially mediate these associations.

Table 1 ΔLVMI (g/m2.7) ΔConcentricity0.67 (g/m0.67) Males Females Males Females Model 1: Age, SES and smoking @25 0.78±0.15** 0.53±0.08** 0.12±0.03** 0.083±0.02** + ΔSystolic BP (mmHg) 0.68±0.16** 0.46±0.09** 0.10±0.03* 0.069±0.016** + ΔDiastolic BP (mmHg) 0.83±0.16** 0.47±0.08** 0.12±0.03** 0.074±0.015** + ΔMean Arterial Pressure (mmHg) 0.77±0.17** 0.46±0.08** 0.11±0.03** 0.069±0.015** + ΔPulse Pressure (mmHg) 0.72±0.15** 0.54±0.08** 0.11±0.03** 0.083±0.015** + ΔTACI (ml/m2/mmHg) 0.68±0.16** 0.53±0.08 0.12±0.03** 0.091±0.015** + ΔTPR (mmHg/min/L) 0.76±0.17** 0.65±0.08** 0.10±0.03* 0.072±0.016** + ΔEa (mmHg/ml) 0.73±0.17** 0.54±0.08** 0.11±0.03** 0.083±0.015** Data are β±SE. *p<0.01, **p<0.0001.

Discussion

BMI gain from adolescence to emerging adulthood has a substantial effect on cardiac structure, independent of haemodynamics. These findings highlight the importance of weight control in early adulthood for good cardiovascular health.

Acknowledgement/Funding

BHF

P1609Adverse left ventricular remodeling in descending thoracic vs ascending aorta banding in novel porcin model. cMRI study

Background

Based on differences in the timing of left ventricular (LV) peak systolic pressure, distinction between early from late LV systolic loading is made. Reduced ascending aortic compliance results with chronic early LV systolic loading. Chronic late LV systolic loading associates with end-systolic wave refection's and developing earlier heart failure. The LV remodeling in chronic late vs early systolic loading has not been studied previously in a porcine model.

Objective

To develop novel porcin model and to study the LV hypertrophic remodeling in chronic late vs early LV systolic loading, during thoracic aorta banding.

Methods

Domestic male pigs (28±3.4kg, n=14) underwent thoracic aorta banding. Ascending aorta banding (PB, n=6) induced chronic early LV systolic loading. Descending thoracic aorta banding (DB n=8) provoked chronic late LV systolic loading. 3T cMRI with T1 mapping was performed at baseline, 4 and 8 weeks. Hemodynamic measurements were obtained using 5Fr Millar P-V catheter in LabChart, after 4 and 8 weeks. ANOVA two-way for repeated measurements was performed (R studio 3.5.1). Leven and Shapiro-Wilk normality testing was done. Analysis of variance of aligned rank transformed data was performed. Linear regression showed correlation between relevant parameters.

Results

Hemodynamic measurements are presented as means±se and means±sd for cMRI, for significant p<0.05. After 8 weeks of thoracic aorta banding, the timing of peak systolic LV pressure was prolonged in DB (PB 159±6 msec; DB 329±16 msec; p<0.01), correlating with LV dPdtmax (p=0.017, r=−0.8), Ea (p=0.04, r=0.73), LVEF (p=0.035, r=−0.74) and native T1 (p=0.01, r=−0.83) in DB. Tau was not different (p=0.8), correlated with the timing of peak LV pressure in DB (p=0.015, r=0.81). The gradients were not different (PB 25±5mmHg; DB 16±1mmHg; p=0.88) and LV systolic pressure (p=0.61). The isovolumic contraction phase was prolonged in DB (PB 34±4msec; DB 56±4msec, p<0.01). LV mass index increased (p=0.013) and was not different between the groups (PB 95±14g/m2; DB 89±12g/m2; p=0.89). RWT was different within (p<0.01) and between the groups (p=0.02),correlating with LVEFas dPdtmax (p=0.013, r=−0.82), whilst with dPdtmin (p=0.018, r=0.8) in DB. There was an interaction for site of aortic constriction and LV remodeling (RWT 0.067±0.08 in PB; 0.45±0.04 in DB, p=0.004; posterior LV wall thickness (PWT) p=0.012). RWT correlated with native T1 in PB (p=0.04) and DB (p<0.01, r=−0.8).

Des. aorta banding in late LV loadining

Conclusion

The LV hypertrophic remodeling, defined by RWT, PWT and hemodynamic correlates is different between chronic late and early LV systolic loading, in this novel porcine model. The timing of peak LV afterload associates with increased LV afterload and adverse LV remodeling in presence of chronic late LV systolic loading, in the porcin model of descending thoracic aorta banding. Increased RWT ratio associates with adverse LV remodeling in the porcine model of descending thoracic aortic constriction.

Bridging the academic and practice/policy gap in public health: perspectives from Scotland and Canada

This article presents a critical commentary of specific organizational models and practices for bridging 'the gap' between public health research and policy and practice. The authors draw on personal experiences of such models in addition to the wider knowledge translation and exchange literature to reflect on their strengths and weaknesses as implemented in Scotland and Canada since the early 1990s.

Birth weight and cardiac function assessed by echocardiography in adolescence: Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children

OBJECTIVE

Maternal hemodynamics in pregnancy is associated with fetal growth and birth weight, which in turn are associated with offspring cardiovascular disease later in life. The aim of this study was to quantify the extent to which birth weight is associated with cardiac structure and function in adolescence.

METHODS

A subset of offspring (n = 1964; 55% female) of the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children were examined with echocardiography at a mean age of 17.7 (SD, 0.3) years. The associations of birth-weight Z-score for sex and gestational age with cardiac structure (assessed by relative wall thickness, left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and left atrial diameter index), systolic function (assessed by ejection fraction and left ventricular wall velocity) and diastolic function (assessed by early/late mitral inflow velocity (E/A) and early mitral inflow velocity/mitral annular early diastolic velocity (E/e')) were evaluated. Linear regression models were adjusted for several potential confounders, including maternal prepregnancy body mass index, age, level of education and smoking during pregnancy.

RESULTS

Higher birth-weight Z-score was associated with lower E/A (mean difference, -0.024; 95% CI, -0.043 to -0.005) and E/e' (mean difference, -0.05; 95% CI, -0.10 to -0.001) and higher LVMI (mean difference, 0.38 g/m2.7 ; 95% CI, 0.09 to 0.67). There was no or inconsistent evidence of associations of birth-weight Z-score with relative wall thickness, left atrial diameter and measurements of systolic function. Further analyses suggested that the association between birth-weight Z-score and LVMI was driven mainly by an association observed in participants born small-for-gestational age and it did not persist when risk factors in adolescence were accounted for.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher birth weight adjusted for sex and gestational age was associated with differences in measures of diastolic function in adolescence, but the observed associations were small. It remains to be determined the extent to which these associations translate into increased susceptibility to cardiovascular disease later in life. © 2018 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Protocol for a Randomised controlled trial to Evaluate the effectiveness and cost benefit of prescribing high dose FLuoride toothpaste in preventing and treating dEntal Caries in high-risk older adulTs (reflect trial)

BACKGROUND

Dental caries in the expanding elderly, predominantly-dentate population is an emerging public health concern. Elderly individuals with heavily restored dentitions represent a clinical challenge and significant financial burden for healthcare systems, especially when their physical and cognitive abilities are in decline. Prescription of higher concentration fluoride toothpaste to prevent caries in older populations is expanding in the UK, significantly increasing costs for the National Health Services (NHS) but the effectiveness and cost benefit of this intervention are uncertain. The Reflect trial will evaluate the effectiveness and cost benefit of General Dental Practitioner (GDP) prescribing of 5000 ppm fluoride toothpaste and usual care compared to usual care alone in individuals 50 years and over with high-risk of caries.

METHODS/DESIGN

A pragmatic, open-label, randomised controlled trial involving adults aged 50 years and above attending NHS dental practices identified by their dentist as having high risk of dental caries. Participants will be randomised to prescription of 5000 ppm fluoride toothpaste (frequency, amount and duration decided by GDP) and usual care only. 1200 participants will be recruited from approximately 60 dental practices in England, Scotland and Northern Ireland and followed up for 3 years. The primary outcome will be the proportion of participants receiving any dental treatment due to caries. Secondary outcomes will include coronal and root caries increments measured by independent, blinded examiners, patient reported quality of life measures, and economic outcomes; NHS and patient perspective costs, willingness to pay, net benefit (analysed over the trial follow-up period and modelled lifetime horizon). A parallel qualitative study will investigate GDPs' practises of and beliefs about prescribing the toothpaste and patients' beliefs and experiences of the toothpaste and perceived impacts on their oral health-related behaviours.

DISCUSSION

The Reflect trial will provide valuable information to patients, policy makers and clinicians on the costs and benefits of an expensive, but evidence-deficient caries prevention intervention delivered to older adults in general dental practice.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN: 2017-002402-13 registered 02/06/2017, first participant recruited 03/05/2018. Ethics Reference No: 17/NE/0329/233335. Funding Body: Health Technology Assessment funding stream of National Institute for Health Research. Funder number: HTA project 16/23/01. Trial Sponsor: Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL. The Trial was prospectively registered.

A content analysis of hand hygiene materials targeting elementary-age children

Millions of dollars have been spent on the design and dissemination of educational materials to improve handwashing to prevent infectious diseases. School-age children have been the focus of many of these efforts; yet little is known about the content of these materials. This study uses content analysis to examine the theoretical and motivational trends as well as the communication approach used in a sample of hand hygiene intervention materials targeting elementary-age children. Two trained coders analyzed 144 communication materials. Study results indicate that educational materials infrequently exhibit information consistent with theories of communication for behavior change, commonly use fear-based messaging, and rarely recommend using technology in the design of the interventions. Implications for future research and the design of more strategic, child-focused hand hygiene interventions are discussed.

Impact of previous hepatitis B infection on the clinical outcomes from chronic hepatitis C? A population-level analysis

Chronic coinfection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) is associated with adverse liver outcomes. The clinical impact of previous HBV infection on liver disease in HCV infection is unknown. We aimed at determining any association of previous HBV infection with liver outcomes using antibodies to the hepatitis B core antigen (HBcAb) positivity as a marker of exposure. The Scottish Hepatitis C Clinical Database containing data for all patients attending HCV clinics in participating health boards was linked to the HBV diagnostic registry and mortality data from Information Services Division, Scotland. Survival analyses with competing risks were constructed for time from the first appointment to decompensated cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and liver-related mortality. Records of 8513 chronic HCV patients were included in the analyses (87 HBcAb positive and HBV surface antigen [HBsAg] positive, 1577 HBcAb positive and HBsAg negative, and 6849 HBcAb negative). Multivariate cause-specific proportional hazards models showed previous HBV infection (HBcAb positive and HBsAg negative) significantly increased the risks of decompensated cirrhosis (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.29, 95% CI: 1.01-1.65) and HCC (HR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.09-2.49), but not liver-related death (HR: 1.02, 95% CI: 0.80-1.30). This is the largest study to date showing an association between previous HBV infection and certain adverse liver outcomes in HCV infection. Our analyses add significantly to evidence which suggests that HBV infection adversely affects liver health despite apparent clearance. This has important implications for HBV vaccination policy and indications for prioritization of HCV therapy.

Comparing cardiovascular risk factors, disease and treatment in participants with rheumatoid arthritis and without arthritis in a population based stud

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is associated with a significant increase in mortality compared to the general population, with cardiovascular disease (CVD) the leading cause of death. The aim of this study is to compare the prevalence and treatment of modifiable CV risk factors and history of CVD in those with RA and those without arthritis in Ireland. Data from the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), a population-representative cohort study of people in Ireland aged 50 or over, was used. Participants with RA (n=457) were twice as likely to be obese (OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.99 to 2.06) compared to those without arthritis (n=4,063). Participants with RA were also more likely to be physically inactive (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.69 to 1.76) and taking antihypertensive medication than those without arthritis. Exercise can have a beneficial impact on CVD and specific interventions to increase physical activity in those with RA may be warranted.

A matched comparison study of hepatitis C treatment outcomes in the prison and community setting, and an analysis of the impact of prison release or transfer during therapy

Prisoners are a priority group for hepatitis C (HCV) treatment. Although treatment durations will become shorter using directly acting antivirals (DAAs), nearly half of prison sentences in Scotland are too short to allow completion of DAA therapy prior to release. The purpose of this study was to compare treatment outcomes between prison- and community-based patients and to examine the impact of prison release or transfer during therapy. A national database was used to compare treatment outcomes between prison treatment initiates and a matched community sample. Additional data were collected to investigate the impact of release or transfer on treatment outcomes. Treatment-naïve patients infected with genotype 1/2/3/4 and treated between 2009 and 2012 were eligible for inclusion. 291 prison initiates were matched with 1137 community initiates: SVRs were 61% (95% CI 55%-66%) and 63% (95% CI 60%-66%), respectively. Odds of achieving a SVR were not significantly associated with prisoner status (P=.33). SVRs were 74% (95% CI 65%-81%), 59% (95% CI 42%-75%) and 45% (95% CI 29%-62%) among those not released or transferred, transferred during treatment, or released during treatment, respectively. Odds of achieving a SVR were significantly associated with release (P<.01), but not transfer (P=.18). Prison-based HCV treatment achieves similar outcomes to community-based treatment, with those not released or transferred during treatment doing particularly well. Transfer or release during therapy should be avoided whenever possible, using anticipatory planning and medical holds where appropriate.

Circulating CXCR5+CD4+helper T cells in systemic lupus erythematosus patients share phenotypic properties with germinal center follicular helper T cells and promote antibody production

OBJECTIVE

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies. Recently, a specific highly activated T helper cell subset, follicular helper T (Tfh) cell, has emerged as a key immunoregulator of germinal center (GC) formation and high-affinity antibody production. To identify the pathophysiological role of Tfh cells in SLE patients, we compared the phenotypic and functional properties of circulating Tfh-like cells in lupus patients to GC-Tfh cells, and correlated the percentage of Tfh-like cells with autoantibody production and SLE disease activity.

METHODS

Peripheral blood was collected from 29 lupus patients and 25 healthy controls. Tonsils were obtained surgically from non-SLE controls and used as a source of GC-Tfh cells. Tfh cells were defined by their signature surface markers (CXCR5, ICOS, CD57, PD-1 and BTLA) via flow cytometry. IL-21 expression levels from Tfh cells were measured by real-time PCR and intracellular staining. The function of Tfh cells was carried out by co-culture of Tfh cells and autologous B cells in vitro. IgG in the culture supernatant was detected by ELISA.

RESULTS

The frequency of circulating Tfh-like cells was significantly increased in SLE patients compared to healthy controls (p < 0.05). The Tfh-like cells not only display similar phenotypes and signature cytokines with GC-Tfh cells, but also are capable of driving B cells to differentiate into IgG-secreting plasma cells in vitro. In addition, the frequency of Tfh-like cells correlated positively with the percentage of circulating plasmablasts, levels of serum anti-dsDNA antibodies and ANA.

CONCLUSION

The accumulated circulating Tfh-like cells in lupus patients share phenotypic and functional properties with GC-Tfh cells. Tfh-like cells may serve as perpetuators in the pathogenesis of SLE by enhancing the self-reactive B cell clones to further differentiate into auto antibody-producing plasmablasts, and ultimately cause autoimmunity.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes for pregnancies before and after gastric bypass surgery

BACKGROUND

Interaction between maternal obesity, intrauterine environment and adverse clinical outcomes of newborns has been described.

METHODS

Using statewide birth certificate data, this retrospective, matched-control cohort study compared paired birth weights and complications of infants born to women before and after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RYGB) and to matched obese non-operated women in several different groups. Women who had given birth to a child before and after RYGB (group 1; n=295 matches) and women with pregnancies after RYGB (group 2; n=764 matches) were matched to non-operated women based on age, body mass index (BMI) prior to both pregnancy and RYGB, mother's race, year of mother/s birth, date of infant births and birth order. In addition, birth weights of 13 143 live births before and/or after RYGB of their mothers (n=5819) were compared (group 3).

RESULTS

Odds ratios (ORs) for having a large-for-gestational-age (LGA) neonate were significantly less after RYGB than for non-surgical mothers: ORs for groups 1 and 2 were 0.19 (0.08-0.38) and 0.33 (0.21-0.51), respectively. In contrast, ORs in all three groups for risk of having a small for gestational age (SGA) neonate were greater for RYGB mothers compared to non-surgical mothers (ORs were 2.16 (1.00-5.04); 2.16 (1.43-3.32); and 2.25 (1.89-2.69), respectively). Neonatal complications were not different for group 1 RYGB and non-surgical women for the first pregnancy following RYGB. Pregnancy-induced hypertension and gestational diabetes were significantly lower for the first pregnancy of mothers following RYGB compared to matched pregnancies of non-surgical mothers.

CONCLUSION

Women who had undergone RYGB not only had lower risk for having an LGA neonate compared to BMI-matched mothers, but also had significantly higher risk for delivering an SGA neonate following RYGB. RYGB women were less likely than non-operated women to have pregnancy-related hypertension and diabetes.

Attendance at specialist hepatitis clinics and initiation of antiviral treatment among persons chronically infected with hepatitis C: examining the early impact of Scotland's Hepatitis C Action Plan

Primary goals of the Hepatitis C Action Plan for Scotland Phase II (May 2008-March 2011) were to increase, among persons chronically infected with the hepatitis C (HCV) virus, attendance at specialist outpatient clinics and initiation on antiviral therapy. We evaluated progress towards these goals by comparing the odds, across time, of (a) first clinic attendance within 12 months of HCV diagnosis (n = 9747) and (b) initiation on antiviral treatment within 12 months of first attendance (n = 5736). Record linkage between the national HCV diagnosis (1996-2009) and HCV clinical (1996-2010) databases and logistic regression analyses were conducted for both outcomes. For outcome (a), 32% and 45% in the respective pre-Phase II (before 1 May 2008) and Phase II periods attended a specialist clinic within 12 months of diagnosis; the odds of attendance within 12 months increased over time (OR = 1.05 per year, 95% CI: 1.04-1.07), but was not significantly greater for persons diagnosed with HCV in the Phase II era, compared with the pre-Phase II era (OR = 1.1, 95% CI: 0.9-1.3), after adjustment for temporal trend. For outcome (b), 13% and 28% were initiated on treatment within 12 months of their first clinic attendance in the pre-Phase II and Phase II periods, respectively. Higher odds of treatment initiation were associated with first clinic attendance in the Phase II (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.5-2.4), compared with the pre-Phase II era. Results were consistent with a positive impact of the Hepatitis C Action Plan on the treatment of chronically infected individuals, but further monitoring is required to confirm a sustained effect.

Prison and community outbreak of severe respiratory infection due to adenovirus type 14p1 in Tayside, UK

BACKGROUND

This report describes the investigation and public health management of a community-based outbreak of severe adenovirus serotype 14p1 respiratory infection affecting the Tayside area during 2011. It is the first report of an adenovirus outbreak involving prisons.

METHODS

An outbreak-based/incident management approach was carried out. Alerts were sent out to local doctors, general practitioners, prison healthcare staff and consultants so that cases could be identified prospectively. Sequencing of hexon, fibre and E1A regions of adenovirus were carried out to genotype the viruses.

RESULTS

Fifteen cases were identified in total, including 13 confirmed cases and 2 possible cases. There were 3 deaths amongst the 13 confirmed cases, with a case fatality rate of 23%. Eight of the cases had a direct association with one of the two prisons in the area.

CONCLUSIONS

We advise that surveillance measures for adenovirus infection and guidelines for the management of critically ill patients should be developed in order to identify outbreaks at an early stage and allow patients to receive appropriate treatment. Adenovirus infection should be borne in mind as a cause of severe pneumonia in closed settings such as prisons.