Cross sectional epidemiological study of the severity of buccal ulceration and sharp enamel points in ridden and unridden horses

The process of domestication of the horse introduced changes limiting accessibility to graze land and roughage while increasing highly digestible carbohydrates content of meal-fed rations. We have tested whether the effect of a higher degree of human contact impacts horses' welfare by assessing the development of sharp enamel points (SEP) and buccal ulcerations (BU) in ridden and unridden horses. We were able to fit logistic regression models significantly differentiating the impact of these two conditions in both groups of horses (p < 0.001 for SEP and p < 0.01 for BU). The impact is higher in ridden horses for both conditions. These two conditions were found to correlate positively (ρ = 0.63, p < 0.001). We argued that human contact may impact on horses' welfare. Further studies may help to clarify this impact with more detail. Dentistry may be helpful to provide improved welfare conditions; however, without regular access to grazed land, the stabled horses' welfare may be at stake.

ISCEV and IPS guideline for the full-field stimulus test (FST)

The full-field stimulus test (FST) is a psychophysical technique designed for the measurement of visual function in low vision. The method involves the use of a ganzfeld stimulator, as used in routine full-field electroretinography, to deliver full-field flashes of light. This guideline was developed jointly by the International Society for Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision (ISCEV) and Imaging and Perimetry Society (IPS) in order to provide technical information, promote consistency of testing and reporting, and encourage convergence of methods for FST. It is intended to aid practitioners and guide the formulation of FST protocols, with a view to future standardisation.

Effects of empagliflozin on progression of chronic kidney disease: a prespecified secondary analysis from the empa-kidney trial

BACKGROUND

Sodium-glucose co-transporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors reduce progression of chronic kidney disease and the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in a wide range of patients. However, their effects on kidney disease progression in some patients with chronic kidney disease are unclear because few clinical kidney outcomes occurred among such patients in the completed trials. In particular, some guidelines stratify their level of recommendation about who should be treated with SGLT2 inhibitors based on diabetes status and albuminuria. We aimed to assess the effects of empagliflozin on progression of chronic kidney disease both overall and among specific types of participants in the EMPA-KIDNEY trial.

METHODS

EMPA-KIDNEY, a randomised, controlled, phase 3 trial, was conducted at 241 centres in eight countries (Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, the UK, and the USA), and included individuals aged 18 years or older with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 20 to less than 45 mL/min per 1·73 m2, or with an eGFR of 45 to less than 90 mL/min per 1·73 m2 with a urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) of 200 mg/g or higher. We explored the effects of 10 mg oral empagliflozin once daily versus placebo on the annualised rate of change in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR slope), a tertiary outcome. We studied the acute slope (from randomisation to 2 months) and chronic slope (from 2 months onwards) separately, using shared parameter models to estimate the latter. Analyses were done in all randomly assigned participants by intention to treat. EMPA-KIDNEY is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03594110.

FINDINGS

Between May 15, 2019, and April 16, 2021, 6609 participants were randomly assigned and then followed up for a median of 2·0 years (IQR 1·5-2·4). Prespecified subgroups of eGFR included 2282 (34·5%) participants with an eGFR of less than 30 mL/min per 1·73 m2, 2928 (44·3%) with an eGFR of 30 to less than 45 mL/min per 1·73 m2, and 1399 (21·2%) with an eGFR 45 mL/min per 1·73 m2 or higher. Prespecified subgroups of uACR included 1328 (20·1%) with a uACR of less than 30 mg/g, 1864 (28·2%) with a uACR of 30 to 300 mg/g, and 3417 (51·7%) with a uACR of more than 300 mg/g. Overall, allocation to empagliflozin caused an acute 2·12 mL/min per 1·73 m2 (95% CI 1·83-2·41) reduction in eGFR, equivalent to a 6% (5-6) dip in the first 2 months. After this, it halved the chronic slope from -2·75 to -1·37 mL/min per 1·73 m2 per year (relative difference 50%, 95% CI 42-58). The absolute and relative benefits of empagliflozin on the magnitude of the chronic slope varied significantly depending on diabetes status and baseline levels of eGFR and uACR. In particular, the absolute difference in chronic slopes was lower in patients with lower baseline uACR, but because this group progressed more slowly than those with higher uACR, this translated to a larger relative difference in chronic slopes in this group (86% [36-136] reduction in the chronic slope among those with baseline uACR <30 mg/g compared with a 29% [19-38] reduction for those with baseline uACR ≥2000 mg/g; ptrend<0·0001).

INTERPRETATION

Empagliflozin slowed the rate of progression of chronic kidney disease among all types of participant in the EMPA-KIDNEY trial, including those with little albuminuria. Albuminuria alone should not be used to determine whether to treat with an SGLT2 inhibitor.

FUNDING

Boehringer Ingelheim and Eli Lilly.

Impact of primary kidney disease on the effects of empagliflozin in patients with chronic kidney disease: secondary analyses of the EMPA-KIDNEY trial

BACKGROUND

The EMPA-KIDNEY trial showed that empagliflozin reduced the risk of the primary composite outcome of kidney disease progression or cardiovascular death in patients with chronic kidney disease mainly through slowing progression. We aimed to assess how effects of empagliflozin might differ by primary kidney disease across its broad population.

METHODS

EMPA-KIDNEY, a randomised, controlled, phase 3 trial, was conducted at 241 centres in eight countries (Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, the UK, and the USA). Patients were eligible if their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 20 to less than 45 mL/min per 1·73 m2, or 45 to less than 90 mL/min per 1·73 m2 with a urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (uACR) of 200 mg/g or higher at screening. They were randomly assigned (1:1) to 10 mg oral empagliflozin once daily or matching placebo. Effects on kidney disease progression (defined as a sustained ≥40% eGFR decline from randomisation, end-stage kidney disease, a sustained eGFR below 10 mL/min per 1·73 m2, or death from kidney failure) were assessed using prespecified Cox models, and eGFR slope analyses used shared parameter models. Subgroup comparisons were performed by including relevant interaction terms in models. EMPA-KIDNEY is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03594110.

FINDINGS

Between May 15, 2019, and April 16, 2021, 6609 participants were randomly assigned and followed up for a median of 2·0 years (IQR 1·5-2·4). Prespecified subgroupings by primary kidney disease included 2057 (31·1%) participants with diabetic kidney disease, 1669 (25·3%) with glomerular disease, 1445 (21·9%) with hypertensive or renovascular disease, and 1438 (21·8%) with other or unknown causes. Kidney disease progression occurred in 384 (11·6%) of 3304 patients in the empagliflozin group and 504 (15·2%) of 3305 patients in the placebo group (hazard ratio 0·71 [95% CI 0·62-0·81]), with no evidence that the relative effect size varied significantly by primary kidney disease (pheterogeneity=0·62). The between-group difference in chronic eGFR slopes (ie, from 2 months to final follow-up) was 1·37 mL/min per 1·73 m2 per year (95% CI 1·16-1·59), representing a 50% (42-58) reduction in the rate of chronic eGFR decline. This relative effect of empagliflozin on chronic eGFR slope was similar in analyses by different primary kidney diseases, including in explorations by type of glomerular disease and diabetes (p values for heterogeneity all >0·1).

INTERPRETATION

In a broad range of patients with chronic kidney disease at risk of progression, including a wide range of non-diabetic causes of chronic kidney disease, empagliflozin reduced risk of kidney disease progression. Relative effect sizes were broadly similar irrespective of the cause of primary kidney disease, suggesting that SGLT2 inhibitors should be part of a standard of care to minimise risk of kidney failure in chronic kidney disease.

FUNDING

Boehringer Ingelheim, Eli Lilly, and UK Medical Research Council.

Academic clinician frontline-worker wellbeing and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic experience: Were there gender differences?

Prior research suggests COVID-19 has amplified stress on Academic Clinician Frontline-Workers (ACFW). The aim of this paper is: (1) to better understand the experiences of ACFW during the COVID-19 pandemic including their mental-emotional wellbeing, academic productivity, clinical experiences, and (2) to examine any gender differences. A cross-sectional survey was administered to University of Minnesota/M Health Fairview systems' faculty February-June 2021. Of the 291 respondents, 156 were clinicians, with 91 (58 %) identifying as Frontline-Workers (ACFW). Faculty wellbeing was assessed using validated measures in addition to measures of productivity and sociodemographics. For example, ACFW reported a higher Work-Family Conflict (WFC) scores compared to non-ACFW (26.5 vs. 24.1, p = 0.057) but did not report higher Family-Work Conflict (FWC) scores (17.7 vs. 16.3, p = 0.302). Gender sub-analyses, revealed that women ACFW compared to men ACFW reported higher WFC scores (27.7 vs. 24.1, p = 0.021) and FWC (19.3 vs. 14.3, p = 0.004). Academically, ACFW reported submitting fewer grants and anticipated delays in promotion and tenure due to the COVID-19 (p = 0.035). Results suggest COVID-19 has exacerbated ACFW stress and gender inequities. Reports of anticipated delay in promotion for ACFW may pose a challenge for the long-term academic success of ACFW, especially women ACFW. In addition, women may experience higher FWC and WFC as compared to men. Schools of academic medicine should consider re-evaluating promotion/tenure processes and creating resources to support women ACFW as well as ACFW caregivers.

Multiorgan MRI findings after hospitalisation with COVID-19 in the UK (C-MORE): a prospective, multicentre, observational cohort study

INTRODUCTION

The multiorgan impact of moderate to severe coronavirus infections in the post-acute phase is still poorly understood. We aimed to evaluate the excess burden of multiorgan abnormalities after hospitalisation with COVID-19, evaluate their determinants, and explore associations with patient-related outcome measures.

METHODS

In a prospective, UK-wide, multicentre MRI follow-up study (C-MORE), adults (aged ≥18 years) discharged from hospital following COVID-19 who were included in Tier 2 of the Post-hospitalisation COVID-19 study (PHOSP-COVID) and contemporary controls with no evidence of previous COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antibody negative) underwent multiorgan MRI (lungs, heart, brain, liver, and kidneys) with quantitative and qualitative assessment of images and clinical adjudication when relevant. Individuals with end-stage renal failure or contraindications to MRI were excluded. Participants also underwent detailed recording of symptoms, and physiological and biochemical tests. The primary outcome was the excess burden of multiorgan abnormalities (two or more organs) relative to controls, with further adjustments for potential confounders. The C-MORE study is ongoing and is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04510025.

FINDINGS

Of 2710 participants in Tier 2 of PHOSP-COVID, 531 were recruited across 13 UK-wide C-MORE sites. After exclusions, 259 C-MORE patients (mean age 57 years [SD 12]; 158 [61%] male and 101 [39%] female) who were discharged from hospital with PCR-confirmed or clinically diagnosed COVID-19 between March 1, 2020, and Nov 1, 2021, and 52 non-COVID-19 controls from the community (mean age 49 years [SD 14]; 30 [58%] male and 22 [42%] female) were included in the analysis. Patients were assessed at a median of 5·0 months (IQR 4·2-6·3) after hospital discharge. Compared with non-COVID-19 controls, patients were older, living with more obesity, and had more comorbidities. Multiorgan abnormalities on MRI were more frequent in patients than in controls (157 [61%] of 259 vs 14 [27%] of 52; p<0·0001) and independently associated with COVID-19 status (odds ratio [OR] 2·9 [95% CI 1·5-5·8]; padjusted=0·0023) after adjusting for relevant confounders. Compared with controls, patients were more likely to have MRI evidence of lung abnormalities (p=0·0001; parenchymal abnormalities), brain abnormalities (p<0·0001; more white matter hyperintensities and regional brain volume reduction), and kidney abnormalities (p=0·014; lower medullary T1 and loss of corticomedullary differentiation), whereas cardiac and liver MRI abnormalities were similar between patients and controls. Patients with multiorgan abnormalities were older (difference in mean age 7 years [95% CI 4-10]; mean age of 59·8 years [SD 11·7] with multiorgan abnormalities vs mean age of 52·8 years [11·9] without multiorgan abnormalities; p<0·0001), more likely to have three or more comorbidities (OR 2·47 [1·32-4·82]; padjusted=0·0059), and more likely to have a more severe acute infection (acute CRP >5mg/L, OR 3·55 [1·23-11·88]; padjusted=0·025) than those without multiorgan abnormalities. Presence of lung MRI abnormalities was associated with a two-fold higher risk of chest tightness, and multiorgan MRI abnormalities were associated with severe and very severe persistent physical and mental health impairment (PHOSP-COVID symptom clusters) after hospitalisation.

INTERPRETATION

After hospitalisation for COVID-19, people are at risk of multiorgan abnormalities in the medium term. Our findings emphasise the need for proactive multidisciplinary care pathways, with the potential for imaging to guide surveillance frequency and therapeutic stratification.

FUNDING

UK Research and Innovation and National Institute for Health Research.

Binding affinity predictions with hybrid quantum-classical convolutional neural networks

Central in drug design is the identification of biomolecules that uniquely and robustly bind to a target protein, while minimizing their interactions with others. Accordingly, precise binding affinity prediction, enabling the accurate selection of suitable candidates from an extensive pool of potential compounds, can greatly reduce the expenses associated to practical experimental protocols. In this respect, recent advances revealed that deep learning methods show superior performance compared to other traditional computational methods, especially with the advent of large datasets. These methods, however, are complex and very time-intensive, thus representing an important clear bottleneck for their development and practical application. In this context, the emerging realm of quantum machine learning holds promise for enhancing numerous classical machine learning algorithms. In this work, we take one step forward and present a hybrid quantum-classical convolutional neural network, which is able to reduce by 20% the complexity of the classical counterpart while still maintaining optimal performance in the predictions. Additionally, this results in a significant cost and time savings of up to 40% in the training stage, which means a substantial speed-up of the drug design process.

Backbone Conformational Equilibrium in Mismatched DNA Correlates with Enzyme Activity

T:G mismatches in mammals arise primarily from the deamination of methylated CpG sites or the incorporation of improper nucleotides. The process by which repair enzymes such as thymine DNA glycosylase (TDG) identify a canonical DNA base in the incorrect pairing context remains a mystery. However, the abundant contacts of the repair enzymes with the DNA backbone suggest a role for protein-phosphate interaction in the recognition and repair processes, where conformational properties may facilitate the proper interactions. We have previously used 31P NMR to investigate the energetics of DNA backbone BI-BII interconversion and the effect of a mismatch or lesion compared to canonical DNA and found stepwise differences in ΔG of 1-2 kcal/mol greater than equivalent steps in unmodified DNA. We have currently compared our results to substrate dependence for TDG, MBD4, M. HhaI, and CEBPβ, testing for correlations to sequence and base-pair dependence. We found strong correlations of our DNA phosphate backbone equilibrium (Keq) to different enzyme kinetics or binding parameters of these varied enzymes, suggesting that the backbone equilibrium may play an important role in mismatch recognition and/or conformational rearrangement and energetics during nucleotide flipping or other aspects of enzyme interrogation of the DNA substrate.

A289 EXPLORING THE LIVED EXPERIENCES OF ADULT USING HOME ENTERAL NUTRITION AND THEIR CAREGIVERS: A QUALITATIVE SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Background

Home enteral nutrition allows individuals to receive food and water through a tube at home when they are unable to meet their needs by mouth. To date, systematic literature reviews to date have focused on specific insertion methods, coordinated community care models, and prophylactic vs. reactive use. Few qualitative systematic reviews exist and those that do have only explored the lived experiences of sub-populations of adults using home enteral nutrition, such as those with head and neck cancers. Given healthcare services often serve adult home enteral nutrition populations with various underlying conditions, a synthesis describing the lived experiences of all adult using home enteral nutrition and caregivers is needed.

Purpose

To conduct a meta-aggregation systematic review to evaluate lived experiences of home enteral nutrition in adult users and their caregivers.

Method

A systematic search of Medline, PsychINFO, EmBase and CINAHL was conducted September 2021. Only studies with a full-text and published in English were included. Study quality was assessed using the Johanna Briggs Institute meta-aggregation methodology. Details of the study design, participants, and experiences were recorded, and themes across all studies collatedCollated themes were reviewed with a team of healthcare providers, home enteral nutrition users and a caregiver to ensure trustworthiness.

Result(s)

A total of 38 studies representing 702 participants were included. Using the meta-aggregative approach, three different synthesized findings were identified: (1) positive experiences, (2) negative experiences, and (3) facilitators and coping mechanisms. While, overall, the findings reported more negative experiences than positive experiences, users and caregivers who had developed coping mechanisms or had access to supportive services tended to share more positive experiences with home enteral nutrition. In contrast, those with few to no supports or coping mechanisms reported greater dissatisfaction and negative experiences.

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Conclusion(s)

Home enteral nutrition impacts the lived experience of users and their caregivers. While more negative than positive experiences were reported by adults and their caregivers using home enteral nutrition, overall, they still view home enteral nutrition as a positive intervention if they are adequate supported or developed adequate coping mechanisms. It is imperative that healthcare providers working with adults using home enteral nutrition explore and understand their patients’ and caregivers’ needs, in order to ensure community programs are designed to provide the necessary supports to maximize users experiences.

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Disclosure of Interest

None Declared

PANCREATIC DISORDERS

Measurement of the ν_{e}-Nucleus Charged-Current Double-Differential Cross Section at ⟨E_{ν}⟩=2.4 GeV Using NOvA

The inclusive electron neutrino charged-current cross section is measured in the NOvA near detector using 8.02×10^{20} protons-on-target in the NuMI beam. The sample of GeV electron neutrino interactions is the largest analyzed to date and is limited by ≃17% systematic rather than the ≃7.4% statistical uncertainties. The double-differential cross section in final-state electron energy and angle is presented for the first time, together with the single-differential dependence on Q^{2} (squared four-momentum transfer) and energy, in the range 1  GeV≤E_{ν}<6  GeV. Detailed comparisons are made to the predictions of the GENIE, GiBUU, NEUT, and NuWro neutrino event generators. The data do not strongly favor a model over the others consistently across all three cross sections measured, though some models have especially good or poor agreement in the single differential cross section vs Q^{2}.

A study of non small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with brain metastasis: A single centre experience

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death with the majority of cases being non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) [1]. A common complication of NSCLC is brain metastasis (BM) [2, 3], where the prognosis remains poor despite new treatments. Real world data complements data gained from clinical trials, providing information on patients excluded from prospective research [4]. However, information from patient notes may prove incomplete and difficult to extract. We developed an algorithm to identify patients in our clinical database with brain metastasis from the electronic health record (EHR).

METHODS

We retrospectively extracted data from the EHR of patients managed at a large teaching hospital between 2007 and 2018. Using the ICD-10 code C34, for lung cancer, our algorithm used phrases associated with BMs to search the unstructured text of radiology reports. Summary statistics and univariant analysis was performed for overall survival.

RESULTS

818 patients were identified as potentially having BM and 453 patients were confirmed on clinical review of their records. The median age of patients was 69 years, 50% were female and 66% had a performance status of >2. 12.2% had an identifiable mutation and 11.5% were identified as PD-L1 positive. In the first line setting, 65% of patients received symptomatic treatment, 23% received systemic anticancer therapy (SACT), 6.1% surgery and 10% radiotherapy, of which 6.5% had external beam and 3.5% stereotactic radiosurgery. Regarding those treated with SACT, 35% had an intracranial response to treatment (3% had complete response, 32% had a partial response). Median survival was 2 months (1.9 - 2.4 months 95% CI).

CONCLUSION

The real-world prognosis for NSCLC patients with BMs is poor. By using an algorithm, we have reported outcomes on a comprehensive cohort of patients which helps identify those for whom an active treatment approach is appropriate.

Clinical characteristics with inflammation profiling of long COVID and association with 1-year recovery following hospitalisation in the UK: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

No effective pharmacological or non-pharmacological interventions exist for patients with long COVID. We aimed to describe recovery 1 year after hospital discharge for COVID-19, identify factors associated with patient-perceived recovery, and identify potential therapeutic targets by describing the underlying inflammatory profiles of the previously described recovery clusters at 5 months after hospital discharge.

METHODS

The Post-hospitalisation COVID-19 study (PHOSP-COVID) is a prospective, longitudinal cohort study recruiting adults (aged ≥18 years) discharged from hospital with COVID-19 across the UK. Recovery was assessed using patient-reported outcome measures, physical performance, and organ function at 5 months and 1 year after hospital discharge, and stratified by both patient-perceived recovery and recovery cluster. Hierarchical logistic regression modelling was performed for patient-perceived recovery at 1 year. Cluster analysis was done using the clustering large applications k-medoids approach using clinical outcomes at 5 months. Inflammatory protein profiling was analysed from plasma at the 5-month visit. This study is registered on the ISRCTN Registry, ISRCTN10980107, and recruitment is ongoing.

FINDINGS

2320 participants discharged from hospital between March 7, 2020, and April 18, 2021, were assessed at 5 months after discharge and 807 (32·7%) participants completed both the 5-month and 1-year visits. 279 (35·6%) of these 807 patients were women and 505 (64·4%) were men, with a mean age of 58·7 (SD 12·5) years, and 224 (27·8%) had received invasive mechanical ventilation (WHO class 7-9). The proportion of patients reporting full recovery was unchanged between 5 months (501 [25·5%] of 1965) and 1 year (232 [28·9%] of 804). Factors associated with being less likely to report full recovery at 1 year were female sex (odds ratio 0·68 [95% CI 0·46-0·99]), obesity (0·50 [0·34-0·74]) and invasive mechanical ventilation (0·42 [0·23-0·76]). Cluster analysis (n=1636) corroborated the previously reported four clusters: very severe, severe, moderate with cognitive impairment, and mild, relating to the severity of physical health, mental health, and cognitive impairment at 5 months. We found increased inflammatory mediators of tissue damage and repair in both the very severe and the moderate with cognitive impairment clusters compared with the mild cluster, including IL-6 concentration, which was increased in both comparisons (n=626 participants). We found a substantial deficit in median EQ-5D-5L utility index from before COVID-19 (retrospective assessment; 0·88 [IQR 0·74-1·00]), at 5 months (0·74 [0·64-0·88]) to 1 year (0·75 [0·62-0·88]), with minimal improvements across all outcome measures at 1 year after discharge in the whole cohort and within each of the four clusters.

INTERPRETATION

The sequelae of a hospital admission with COVID-19 were substantial 1 year after discharge across a range of health domains, with the minority in our cohort feeling fully recovered. Patient-perceived health-related quality of life was reduced at 1 year compared with before hospital admission. Systematic inflammation and obesity are potential treatable traits that warrant further investigation in clinical trials.

FUNDING

UK Research and Innovation and National Institute for Health Research.

Evaluation of prognostic risk models for postoperative pulmonary complications in adult patients undergoing major abdominal surgery: a systematic review and international external validation cohort study

BACKGROUND

Stratifying risk of postoperative pulmonary complications after major abdominal surgery allows clinicians to modify risk through targeted interventions and enhanced monitoring. In this study, we aimed to identify and validate prognostic models against a new consensus definition of postoperative pulmonary complications.

METHODS

We did a systematic review and international external validation cohort study. The systematic review was done in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. We searched MEDLINE and Embase on March 1, 2020, for articles published in English that reported on risk prediction models for postoperative pulmonary complications following abdominal surgery. External validation of existing models was done within a prospective international cohort study of adult patients (≥18 years) undergoing major abdominal surgery. Data were collected between Jan 1, 2019, and April 30, 2019, in the UK, Ireland, and Australia. Discriminative ability and prognostic accuracy summary statistics were compared between models for the 30-day postoperative pulmonary complication rate as defined by the Standardised Endpoints in Perioperative Medicine Core Outcome Measures in Perioperative and Anaesthetic Care (StEP-COMPAC). Model performance was compared using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROCC).

FINDINGS

In total, we identified 2903 records from our literature search; of which, 2514 (86·6%) unique records were screened, 121 (4·8%) of 2514 full texts were assessed for eligibility, and 29 unique prognostic models were identified. Nine (31·0%) of 29 models had score development reported only, 19 (65·5%) had undergone internal validation, and only four (13·8%) had been externally validated. Data to validate six eligible models were collected in the international external validation cohort study. Data from 11 591 patients were available, with an overall postoperative pulmonary complication rate of 7·8% (n=903). None of the six models showed good discrimination (defined as AUROCC ≥0·70) for identifying postoperative pulmonary complications, with the Assess Respiratory Risk in Surgical Patients in Catalonia score showing the best discrimination (AUROCC 0·700 [95% CI 0·683-0·717]).

INTERPRETATION

In the pre-COVID-19 pandemic data, variability in the risk of pulmonary complications (StEP-COMPAC definition) following major abdominal surgery was poorly described by existing prognostication tools. To improve surgical safety during the COVID-19 pandemic recovery and beyond, novel risk stratification tools are required.

FUNDING

British Journal of Surgery Society.

Abstract 581: bbT369, a dual-targeted and CBLB gene-edited autologous CART product, demonstrates anti-lymphoma activity in preclinical mouse models

Anti-CD19 CAR T cell therapies have improved outcomes for non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) patients. However, only 30-40% of patients treated with commercially available CART cell therapies obtain long term remission, highlighting the need for more efficacious and durable therapies. Emerging clinical data suggest several failure modes for CD19 CAR T cell therapies: including loss or downregulation of CD19 antigen, loss of co-stimulation pathways on tumor cells, exhaustion of CAR-T cells, and immunosuppressive microenvironments. To overcome these hurdles, we devised the next-generation autologous CAR-T cell therapy bbT369. bbT369 is dual targeted (CD79a/CD20) CAR T cell therapy that uses an OR gate design to limit antigen escape, has split 41BB and CD28 co-stimulatory domain architecture to augment T cell activation, and contains a knock-out of the CBLB gene to enhance potency and reduce T cell exhaustion. Here we report the first results with bbT369, demonstrating anti-lymphoma activity in in vitro assays and in vivo using xenograft mouse models.

We demonstrate that CD79a and CD20 expression is B cell lineage restricted in normal human tissue and confirm that these proteins are co-expressed in diffuse large B cell samples. To target these antigens, we show a split dual-targeting CAR configuration is optimal for bbT369-directed tumor cell killing. Using an engineered megaTAL, we demonstrate high on-target activity of greater than 75% insertions and deletions (Indels) at the CBLB target site using clinical-scale manufacturing processes and low off-target activity (all off-targets less than 0.2%). In in vitro tumor co-culture assays, we show that inclusion of the CBLB gene edit in bbT369 increases Interleukin (IL)-2 production relative to an unedited anti-CD79a/CD20 CAR T cell control. Using various xenograft mouse models, we showed that bbT369 has similar or improved efficacy compared to anti-CD19 CAR drug product, including in low tumor-antigen models. In the Toledo subcutaneous xenograft model, bbT369 showed a 3-fold increase in T cell expansion compared with an unedited anti-CD79a/CD20 dual-targeting CAR T cell control. Furthermore, while a fraction of mice (3/5) receiving the unedited anti-CD79a/CD20 dual-targeting CAR T cells experienced late relapses (between 60-80 days following initial tumor clearance), all mice (n=5) receiving bbT369 were fully protected from late relapses (up to day 104 of follow-up). Collectively, the data support a first-in-human trial for bbT369 to evaluate initial safety and efficacy in NHL patients.

Citation Format: Michael Certo, Christopher Baldeviano, Sharlene Adams, Martin Asimis, Alexander Astrakhan, Andy Chavkin, Maria L. Cabral, Jimmy Chu, Marie Debrue, Devina Desai, John Evans, Pinky Htun, Amanda Iniguez, Jordan Jarjour, Carl Johnson, Harini Kantamneni, Sema Kurtulus, Michael Magee, Unja Martin, Seamus McKenney, Sara Miller, Prashant Nambiar, Vinh Khang Nguyen, Mauris Nnamani, Jen Obrigewitch, Lisa Pechilis, Molly Perkins, Christopher Petersen, Jason Pinger, Cindy Rogers, Nick Rouillard, Kendal Sanson, Emily Thompson, Collin Walter, Roslyn Yi, Sarah Voytek, Philip Gregory. bbT369, a dual-targeted and CBLB gene-edited autologous CART product, demonstrates anti-lymphoma activity in preclinical mouse models [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 581.

Feasibility of fNIRS in Children with Developmental Coordination Disorder

Introduction

Balance deficits are heterogeneous among children with Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD). Balance performance depends on different balance domains, each associated with specific underlying neurological systems. In DCD, any of these domains can be affected, but the control mechanisms are poorly understood. The mirror neuron system (MNS) seems to play a key-role in DCD-related deficits. To understand the role of MNS as a control mechanism underlying the balance deficits, simultaneous registration of cortical MNS activity while performing balance tasks is imperative. Therefore, a protocol for combining real-time registration of cortical MNS activity during functional balance tasks in children with DCD, CP and TD is introduced. Methods: Children with DCD, CP and TD (n=108) aged 5-10yr perform preselected tasks of the Kids-BESTest, representing specific balance domains (mixed design): leaning with eyes closed (stability limits/verticality), single-leg-stance, alternate stair touching (anticipatory balance), in-place response, compensatory stepping backward (reactive balance) and walking over obstacles (gait stability). Simultaneously, functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) monitors cortical activity involving the MNS: premotor, inferior and superior parietal cortex and supplementary motor area. An 8-8-optode bundle, making 22 channels, targets this region of interest. Outcome measures are: (de)oxygenated hemoglobin concentration changes per task per channel. Results: In this ongoing research, the protocol was already feasible in 19 children (7.52±1.19). Conclusion: Simultaneous registration of cortical MNS activity (fNIRS) and Kids-BESTest scores will help increase the understanding of the control mechanisms underlying the heterogeneous balance problems in DCD. Consequently, first steps are made to confirm whether DCD shows deviant or delayed development.

Disclosure

No significant relationships.

POS0930 SAFETY AND EFFICACY OF IXEKIZUMAB TREATMENT IN PATIENTS WITH AXIAL SPONDYLOARTHRITIS: 3-YEAR CLINICAL TRIAL RESULTS FROM THE COAST PROGRAMME

Background

Ixekizumab (IXE) has demonstrated efficacy at week (wk) 16 which was maintained through 2 years (yrs) and was associated with a consistent safety profile in patients (pts) with r- and nr-axSpA, who are bDMARD-naïve and TNFi-experienced.1-3

Objectives

To report safety and efficacy from the COAST programme at 3 yrs: 1 yr of the originating studies (COAST-V/W/X) and 2 yrs of COAST-Y.

Methods

COAST-Y (NCT03129100) is the phase 3, long-term extension study of the 3 originating studies COAST-V/W/X. Pts continued with the dose received at the end of the originating trial at week (wk) 52: either with 80 mg IXE every 4 wks (Q4W) or every 2 wks (Q2W). Pts assigned to adalimumab (ADA) or placebo (PBO) were re-randomised to IXE Q4W or Q2W at wk 16 in COAST-V and -W. Pts who received PBO for 52 wks in COAST-X were switched to IXE Q4W to continue in COAST-Y. Starting at wk 116 (wk 64 of COAST-Y), pts receiving IXE Q4W could have their dose escalated to Q2W. This analysis focused on pts receiving ≥1 dose of IXE Q4W, observed data while on IXE Q2W dose escalation are excluded. Continuous data are summarised as observed. Safety data while on IXE were analysed for pts who received ≥1 dose of IXE; observed data while on PBO or ADA are excluded.

Results

A total of 932 pts received ≥1 dose of IXE, 414 received ≥1 dose of IXE Q4W, and 562/932 (60%) pts completed 3 yrs of follow-up (PBO→IXE Q4W, 63/119 (53%); ADA→IXE Q4W, 29/44 (66%); and IXE Q4W→IXE Q4W, 114/251(45%)). Through 3 yrs, the most frequently reported treatment-emergent adverse events were infections [incidence rate (IR) 25.7/100 patient years (PY)] and injection site reactions [IR 7.4/100 PY]; the majority of which were mild/moderate in severity. Serious adverse events were reported at an IR of 4.8/100 PY, of which osteoarthritis was the most frequent at 0.4/100 PY. A total of 3 deaths were reported among all pts who received ≥1 dose of IXE [IR 0.1/100 PY]. For all pts, baseline disease activity (Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score; ASDAS) was high (see Table 1). The 3 yr mean (SD) change from baseline (observed) in ASDAS among bDMARD-naïve pts with r-axSpA, TNFi-experienced pts with r-axSpA, and bDMARD-naïve pts with nr-axSpA is presented in the Table 1. A consistent disease control through 3 yrs was confirmed across additional efficacy endpoints (Table 1).

Table 1.

Baseline demographics and disease activity characteristics through 3 yrs. Data presented as mean (SD) unless otherwise specified.

COAST-VCOAST-WCOAST-XPBO (N=87)ADA (N=90)IXE Q4W (N=81)PBO (N=104)IXE Q4W (N=114)PBO (N=105)IXE Q4W (N=96)Age43 (12)42 (11)41 (12)47 (13)47 (13)40 (12)41 (15)Male, n (%)71 (83)73 (81)68 (84)87 (84)91 (80)44 (42)50 (52)Symptom duration (years)16.6 (10.1)15.6 (9.3)15.8 (11.2)19.9 (11.6)18.8 (11.6)10.1 (8.3)11.3 (10.7)HLA-B27, n (%)76 (89)82 (91)75 (93)86 (83)91 (80)77 (74)71 (75)ASDAS3.9 (0.7)3.7 (0.8)3.7 (0.7)4.1 (0.8)4.2 (0.9)3.8 (0.9)3.8 (0.8)BASDAI6.8 (1.2)6.7 (1.5)6.8 (1.3)7.3 (1.3)7.5 (1.3)7.2 (1.5)7.0 (1.5)3 years (observed)PBO→ADA→IXEPBO→IXEIXEIXE Q4WIXE Q4WQ4W→IXE Q4WQ4W→PBO→Q4W→N=42N=44IXE Q4WN=46IXE Q4WIXE Q4WIXE Q4WN=81N=114N=31N=56ASDAS CFB-1.9 (0.9)-1.5 (0.9)-1.9 (0.9)-1.6 (1.0)-1.7 (1.0)1.8 (1.0)-1.7 (1.4)ASDAS LDA, n (%)13/24 (54)21/29 (72)33/44 (75)7/20 (35)16/41 (39)13/19 (68)19/29 (66)BASDAI CFB-3.9 (1.9)-3.5 (2.3)-4.0 (2.2)-3.7 (1.7)-3.4 (2.2)-4.4 (2.1)-3.4 (2.7)BASDAI50, n (%)15/24 (63)18/29 (62)31/44 (71)9/20 (45)20/41 (49)12/19 (63)16/29 (55)ASAS40, n (%)13/24 (54)18/29 (62)30/44 (68)10/20 (50)23/41 (56)15/19 (79)17/29 (59)

Conclusion

This analysis of a subset of pts in COAST-Y demonstrated that the safety profile is consistent with the established safety profile, with no new safety signals observed. IXE Q4W was efficacious (observed data) in all patients studied who remained on the treatment through 3 yrs.

References

[1]Dougados et al. Ann Rheum Dis 2020;79.

[2]Deodhar et al. Lancet 2020; 395.

[3]Braun et al. Ann Rheum Dis, 2021; 80: supp 1

Figure 1.

Observed mean CFB in ASDAS for pts treated with IXE Q4W in COAST-V. At wk 16, PBO pts received IXE Q4W.

Acknowledgements

The authors thank So Young Park, PhD, of Eli Lilly and Company for statistical review, and Edel Hughes, PhD, of Eli Lilly and Company for writing and process support.

Disclosure of Interests

Atul Deodhar Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly and Company, Janssen, Novartis, Pfizer, UCB, Consultant of: AbbVie, Amgen, Boehringer Ingelheim, Bristol Myers Squibb, Celgene, Eli Lilly and Company, Galapagos, Glaxo Smith & Kline, Janssen, Novartis, Pfizer, UCB, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Eli Lilly and Company, Glaxo Smith & Kline, Novartis, Pfizer, UCB, Denis Poddubnyy Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Eli Lilly and Company, MSD, Novartis, Pfizer, and UCB, Consultant of: AbbVie, Biocad, Eli Lilly and Company, Gilead, GlaxoSmithKline, Janssen, MSD, Novartis, Pfizer, Samsung Bioepis, and UCB, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Eli Lilly and Company, MSD, Novartis, and Pfizer, Proton Rahman Speakers bureau: Abbott, AbbVie, Amgen, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Celgene, Eli Lilly and Company, Janssen, Novartis, and Pfizer., Grant/research support from: Janssen, Novartis, Rebecca Bolce Shareholder of: Eli Lilly and Company, Employee of: Eli Lilly and Company, Soyi Liu Leage Shareholder of: Eli Lilly and Company, Employee of: Eli Lilly and Company, Andris Kronbergs Shareholder of: Eli Lilly and Company, Employee of: Eli Lilly and Company, Caroline Johnson Shareholder of: Eli Lilly and Company, Employee of: Eli Lilly and Company, Ann Leung Employee of: Employee of Syneos Health, and a contractor for Eli Lilly and Company, Désirée van der Heijde Consultant of: AbbVie, Bayer, BMS, Cyxone, Eisai, Galapagos, Gilead, Glaxo-Smith-Kline, Janssen, Eli Lilly and Company, Novartis, Pfizer, UCB Pharma, and Director of Imaging Rheumatology BV.

Radiotherapy Quality Assurance in the PORTEC-3 (TROG 08.04) Trial

AIMS

Quality assurance in radiotherapy (QART) is essential to ensure the scientific integrity of a clinical trial. This paper reports the findings of the retrospective QART assessment for all centres that participated in PORTEC-3; a randomised controlled trial that compared pelvic radiotherapy with concurrent chemoradiotherapy to the pelvis followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. The trial showed an overall survival benefit for the addition of the chemotherapy in the management of women with high-risk endometrial cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Clinicians were invited to upload a randomly selected case/s treated at each of the participating sites. Panel reviewers analysed the contours to certify that the target volumes and organ at risk structures were contoured according to guidelines. The results were categorised into acceptable, minor variation, major variation or unevaluable. The radiotherapy plans were dosimetrically evaluated using the well-established Trans-Tasman Radiation Oncology Group (TROG) protocol.

RESULTS

Between August 2010 and January 2018, data from 146 patients of 686 consecutively treated patients were retrospectively reviewed. All 16 Australia and New Zealand and 71 of 77 international centres uploaded data for evaluation. In total, 3514 dosimetric and contour variables were reviewed. Of these, 3136 variables were deemed acceptable (89.2%), with 335 minor (9.6%) and 43 major variations (1.2%). Major contour variations included the clinical target volume vaginal vault, clinical target volume parametria and differential planning target volume vault expansion.

CONCLUSION

The results of the QART assessment confirmed high uniformity and low rates of both minor and major deviations in contouring and dosimetry in all sites. This supports the safe introduction of the PORTEC-3 treatment protocol into routine clinical practice.

Search for Active-Sterile Antineutrino Mixing Using Neutral-Current Interactions with the NOvA Experiment

This Letter reports results from the first long-baseline search for sterile antineutrinos mixing in an accelerator-based antineutrino-dominated beam. The rate of neutral-current interactions in the two NOvA detectors, at distances of 1 and 810 km from the beam source, is analyzed using an exposure of 12.51×10^{20} protons-on-target from the NuMI beam at Fermilab running in antineutrino mode. A total of 121 of neutral-current candidates are observed at the far detector, compared to a prediction of 122±11(stat.)±15(syst.) assuming mixing only between three active flavors. No evidence for ν[over ¯]_{μ}→ν[over ¯]_{s} oscillation is observed. Interpreting this result within a 3+1 model, constraints are placed on the mixing angles θ_{24}<25° and θ_{34}<32° at the 90% C.L. for 0.05  eV^{2}≤Δm_{41}^{2}≤0.5  eV^{2}, the range of mass splittings that produces no significant oscillations at the near detector. These are the first 3+1 confidence limits set using long-baseline accelerator antineutrinos.

Measurements of Argon-39 from locations near historic underground nuclear explosions

Measurement of radioactive gas seepage from an underground nuclear explosion is one of the primary methods to confirm whether an event was nuclear in nature. Radioactive noble gas indicators that are commonly targeted by such measurements (e.g. ¹³³Xe, ³⁷Ar) have half-lives of 35 days or less. Argon-39, an activation product similar to ³⁷Ar, is produced by the interaction between neutrons and potassium in the surrounding geology and has a half-life of 269 years. Measurements taken at three sites near three historic underground nuclear test locations at the Nevada National Security Site have all shown highly elevated levels of ³⁹Ar in soil gas decades after the test events. Elevated levels of ³⁹Ar were also detected in atmospheric air collected near two of these sites, and outside the entrance of the one tunnel site. These measurements demonstrate that ³⁹Ar has the potential to be a long-term signature of an underground nuclear event which can be reliably detected at the surface or in the shallow subsurface. This radionuclide detection of an underground nuclear event decades after the event takes place is in contrast to the commonly held assumption that detecting underground nuclear events via radionuclides at the surface needs to be done in a matter of months. Depending upon what further studies show about the robustness of this signature in a variety of geological settings, it may in fact be easy to detect underground nuclear events at the surface for a very long time post-detonation.

P–289 Progesterone receptor is not downregulated in endometrial epithelial compartment during embryo receptivity phase in assisted reproductive cycles

Study question

Is progesterone receptor (PGR) downregulation disrupted within endometrial epithelial compartment, during embryo receptivity phase in assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles?

Summary answer

PGR is not downregulated in endometrial epithelial cells from ART cycles during embryo receptivity phase.

What is known already

Progesterone (P4) promotes the downregulation of its own progesterone receptor (PGR). During the mid-luteal phase, PGR is downregulated in endometrial epithelial cells (EEC), a critical process for embryo implantation. Embryos are unable to attach to the maternal surface when PGR expression is sustained in EEC. Non-physiologic ovarian steroid produced or employed in ART cycles may alter endometrial development compromising its receptivity. Scarce information is available whether PGR is downregulated in EEC from ARTs including ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles or hormonal endometrial preparation for frozen thawed embryo transfer (HEP-FET).

Study design, size, duration

Cross sectional study including endometrial samples from fertile women during natural cycle (FNC, n = 23), from infertile women submitted to IVF (n = 19) and from infertile women who underwent mock HEP-FET (n = 35). Samples were obtained between 2018–2019. Sample size was calculated considering a power of 90%, alpha error=0.05, an expected PGR expression of 2 and 0.5 in ART and FNC groups, respectively, having a standard deviation=0.9. At least 9 patients would be necessary in each group.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Endometrial samples were obtained during mid-luteal phase scheduled 7 days after ovulation in FNC, 5 days after oocyte retrieval in IVF without embryo transfer or 5 days after P4 supplementation in HEP-FET. Immunohistochemistry was employed to quantify PGR using histologic score (Hscore). PGR mRNA levels were determined by qRT-PCR from EEC dissected by laser capture microdissection. Anova test was used for comparing means of Hscore and mRNA among groups. Statistical significance was established as P &lt; 0.05.

Main results and the role of chance

No statistical differences were found in demographic characteristics including age, body mass index or endometrial thickness. The PGR expression was reduced in FNC compared to IVF and HP-FET endometria (0.6 ± 0.1, 1.9 ± 0.9 and 2.2 ± 0.9 respectively; P &lt; 0.0001). The PGR mRNA levels from ECC dissected by laser capture microdissection were higher in IVF and HP-ET cycles compared to FNC (10.6 ± 3.1, 13.6 ± 2.3 and 0.8 ± 0.1 respectively; P &lt; 0.0001) corroborating the elevated PGR Hscore in EEC from ART cycles.

Limitations, reasons for caution

This is a descriptive study reporting failure of PGR downregulation in endometria from ART cycles with vaginal P4 supplementation during the luteal-phase. Whether interference or resistance to P4 signal is the mechanism involved in the failure of PGR down regulation in ART cycles needs to be determined

Wider implications of the findings: PGR downregulation within EEC was shown in FNC. The retained PGR expression detected in most ART cycles may interfere with embryo implantation and might explain the restricted pregnancy success. Future studies might reveal whether PGR evaluation in EEC can predict embryo implantation.

Trial registration number

Not Aplicable

Subpolar North Atlantic western boundary density anomalies and the Meridional Overturning Circulation

Changes in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, which have the potential to drive societally-important climate impacts, have traditionally been linked to the strength of deep water formation in the subpolar North Atlantic. Yet there is neither clear observational evidence nor agreement among models about how changes in deep water formation influence overturning. Here, we use data from a trans-basin mooring array (OSNAP-Overturning in the Subpolar North Atlantic Program) to show that winter convection during 2014-2018 in the interior basin had minimal impact on density changes in the deep western boundary currents in the subpolar basins. Contrary to previous modeling studies, we find no discernable relationship between western boundary changes and subpolar overturning variability over the observational time scales. Our results require a reconsideration of the notion of deep western boundary changes representing overturning characteristics, with implications for constraining the source of overturning variability within and downstream of the subpolar region.

238 Colorectal Cancer Surveillance In IBD: An Audit of a Large NHS Healthcare Trust

Aim: To investigate compliance with endoscopic screening guidelines for patients with Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in a large English Foundation Trust.

Method

A database of pathology specimens coded with a diagnosis of IBD since 2012, was cross-referenced with trust-wide colorectal cancer database.

NICE guidelines (2011) provided audit standard: Low risk require 5 yearly, moderate risk 3 yearly, and high-risk yearly colonoscopies. A randomised sample of IBD patients (n = 50) and all patients with both IBD and colorectal cancer (n = 4) were compared to this standard.

Results

Compliance to the audit standard within the population (n = 54) was only 50%, and only 25% within sub-group with both IBD and Colorectal cancer (n = 4).

Conclusions

Only 4 cases of colorectal cancer within our IBD population were on record since 2012, suggesting incomplete patient identification, perhaps due to unreliable coding.

The importance of optimising cancer screening programmes has only increased following the burden of the COVID-19 pandemic. Compliance within the audit population (n = 54) was only 50%, these findings promote a review of the screening process within the trust and advocate further complementary audits of additional NHS healthcare trusts.

Prospects for beyond the Standard Model physics searches at the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment: DUNE Collaboration

The Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE) will be a powerful tool for a variety of physics topics. The high-intensity proton beams provide a large neutrino flux, sampled by a near detector system consisting of a combination of capable precision detectors, and by the massive far detector system located deep underground. This configuration sets up DUNE as a machine for discovery, as it enables opportunities not only to perform precision neutrino measurements that may uncover deviations from the present three-flavor mixing paradigm, but also to discover new particles and unveil new interactions and symmetries beyond those predicted in the Standard Model (SM). Of the many potential beyond the Standard Model (BSM) topics DUNE will probe, this paper presents a selection of studies quantifying DUNE's sensitivities to sterile neutrino mixing, heavy neutral leptons, non-standard interactions, CPT symmetry violation, Lorentz invariance violation, neutrino trident production, dark matter from both beam induced and cosmogenic sources, baryon number violation, and other new physics topics that complement those at high-energy colliders and significantly extend the present reach.

Inequality in access to hearing care for older adults in residential homes

BACKGROUND

The population of older people in residential homes is projected to rise. There are unrecognized hearing difficulties among residents and prevalence of hearing loss in this population is underreported. This can result in an overestimation of levels of cognitive impairment. Untreated hearing loss is associated with social isolation, depression, disruptive behaviour and cognitive decline. This study aimed to explore the provision of hearing care (hearing assessment, rehabilitation and staff training) in Scottish care homes for older people.

METHODS

A survey comprising 18 questions was distributed to the managers (or designated staff members) of 659 care homes across Scotland.

RESULTS

Responses were obtained from 154 care homes. The results support existing evidence that hearing is not assessed in the majority of homes, resulting in under detection of hearing loss. Staff lack training in supporting residents' hearing needs. Access to hearing care in residential homes differs across health board areas.

CONCLUSIONS

There is an urgent requirement for hearing assessment of older adults on admission to residential care. Care providers require this information to construct effective care plans and mitigate the effects of hearing loss. Those responsible for providing hearing rehabilitation services require information about service users to address any unmet need.

Comparative efficacy and acceptability of psychological interventions for the treatment of adult outpatients with anorexia nervosa: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

No consistent first-option psychological interventions for adult outpatients with anorexia nervosa emerges from guidelines. We aimed to compare stand-alone psychological interventions for adult outpatients with anorexia nervosa with a specific focus on body-mass index, eating disorder symptoms, and all-cause dropout rate.

METHODS

In this systematic review and network meta-analysis, we assessed randomised controlled trials about stand-alone pharmacological or non-pharmacological treatments of adult outpatients with anorexia nervosa, defined according to standardised criteria, with data for at least two timepoints relating to either body-mass index or global eating disorder psychopathology. We searched Cochrane CENTRAL, CINAHL, MEDLINE, and PsychINFO for published and unpublished literature from inception until March 20, 2020. The primary outcomes were the change in body mass index and clinical symptoms, and the secondary outcome was all-cause dropout rate, which were all assessed for treatment as usual, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), Maudsley anorexia treatment for adults, family-based treatment, psychodynamic-oriented psychotherapies, a form of CBT targeting compulsive exercise, and cognitive remediation therapy followed by CBT. Global and local inconsistencies for the network meta-analysis were measured, and CINeMA was used to assess the confidence in evidence for primary outcomes. The protocol is registered in PROSPERO (CRD42017064429).

FINDINGS

Of 14 003 studies assessed for their title and abstract, 16 (0·1%) randomised controlled trials for psychological treatments were included in the systematic review, of which 13 (0·1%) contributed to the network meta-analysis, with 1047 patients in total (of whom 1020 [97·4%] were female). None of the interventions outperformed treatment as usual in our primary outcomes, but the all-cause dropout rate was lower for CBT than for psychodynamic-oriented psychotherapies (OR 0·54, 95% CI 0·31-0·93). Heterogeneity or inconsistency emerged only for a few comparisons. Confidence in the evidence was low to very low.

INTERPRETATION

Compared with treatment as usual, specific psychological treatments for adult outpatients with anorexia nervosa can be associated with modest improvements in terms of clinical course and quality of life, but no reliable evidence supports clear superiority or inferiority of the specific treatments that are recommended by clinical guidelines internationally. Our analysis is based on the best data from existing clinical studies, but these findings should not be seen as definitive or universally applicable. There is an urgent need to fund new research to develop and improve therapies for adults with anorexia nervosa. Meanwhile, to better understand the effects of available treatments, participant-level data should be made freely accessible to researchers to eventually identify whether specific subgroups of patients are more likely to respond to specific treatments.

FUNDING

Flinders University, National Institute for Health Research Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre.

Modified HEART score, utilising a single high-sensitive troponin sample, allows early, safe discharge of suspected acute coronary syndrome: a prospective multicentre cohort study of 3016 patients

Background

Combining HSTnT (high sensitive troponin T) values at low levels with composite risk scores may improve early safe, discharge in suspected acute coronary syndromes (ACS). We tested this hypothesis by a prospective study of 3016 consecutive patients with suspected ACS in 2 large hospitals.

Methods

Consecutive chest pain (CP) presentations with HSTnT sampled and ECG undertaken at presentation were prospectively defined in 2 time periods (2011-12, n=1642 [derivation] 2018, n=1376 [validation]).

The HstnT input was modified: dichotomous HSTnT input was lowered to &lt;5 (limit of detection, LOD) or ≥5ng/l (mod TIMI and GRACE), HEART score was re-calibrated (&lt;5 = 0 [LOD], ≥5–14 = 1, &gt;14 = 2 [99th percentile]). All biomarker positive CP index and re-admissions to any regional hospital (catchment population 2.6 million) were independently adjudicated for MI by 2 experienced physicians. Primary outcome was MACE (adjudicated type 1 MI, unplanned coronary revascularisation and all cause death) at 6 weeks.

Results

In the 2 cohorts demographic factors were similar: median age 59 and 56, male 52% and 52%, previous MI 20% and 14% for 2011-12 and 2018 respectively. At 6 weeks 180 (11%) and 75 (5.4%) suffered type 1 MI and 211 (12.9%) and 92 (6.7%) patients suffered MACE in the 2011-12 and 2018 cohorts respectively.

Only Mod HEART ≤3 and undetectable HSTnT, with a nonischaemic ECG, achieved prespecified NPV of &gt;99.5% in both derivation and validation cohorts (table). However Modified HEART ≤3 score could discharge approximately 12% more patients as compared to undetectable HSTnT strategy.

Conclusion

Modified HEART score ≤3, with the use of a single HSTnT, appears the optimum early discharge strategy for suspected ACS

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Liverpool university Hospitals, North-West Educational Cardiac Group

IER5, a DNA damage response gene, is required for Notch-mediated induction of squamous cell differentiation

Notch signaling regulates squamous cell proliferation and differentiation and is frequently disrupted in squamous cell carcinomas, in which Notch is tumor suppressive. Here, we show that conditional activation of Notch in squamous cells activates a context-specific gene expression program through lineage-specific regulatory elements. Among direct Notch target genes are multiple DNA damage response genes, including IER5, which we show is required for Notch-induced differentiation of squamous carcinoma cells and TERT-immortalized keratinocytes. IER5 is epistatic to PPP2R2A, a gene that encodes the PP2A B55α subunit, which we show interacts with IER5 in cells and in purified systems. Thus, Notch and DNA-damage response pathways converge in squamous cells on common genes that promote differentiation, which may serve to eliminate damaged cells from the proliferative pool. We further propose that crosstalk involving Notch and PP2A enables tuning and integration of Notch signaling with other pathways that regulate squamous differentiation.

Organic osmolytes increase expression of specific tight junction proteins in skin and alter barrier function in keratinocytes

BACKGROUND

The epidermal barrier is important for water conservation, failure of which is evident in dry-skin conditions. Barrier function is fulfilled by the stratum corneum, tight junctions (TJs, which control extracellular water) and keratinocyte mechanisms, such as organic osmolyte transport, which regulate intracellular water homeostasis. Organic osmolyte transport by keratinocytes is largely unexplored and nothing is known regarding how cellular and extracellular mechanisms of water conservation may interact.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to characterize osmolyte transporters in skin and keratinocytes, and, using transporter inhibitors, to investigate whether osmolytes can modify TJs. Such modification would suggest a possible link between intracellular and extracellular mechanisms of water regulation in skin.

METHODS

Immunostaining and quantitative polymerase chain reaction of organic osmolyte-treated organ-cultured skin were used to identify changes to organic osmolyte transporters, and TJ protein and gene expression. TJ functional assays were performed on organic osmolyte-treated primary human keratinocytes in culture.

RESULTS

Immunostaining demonstrated the expression of transporters for betaine, taurine and myo-inositol in transporter-specific patterns. Treatment of human skin with either betaine or taurine increased the expression of claudin-1, claudin-4 and occludin. Osmolyte transporter inhibition abolished this response. Betaine and taurine increased TJ function in primary human keratinocytes in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

Treatment of skin with organic osmolytes modulates TJ structure and function, which could contribute to the epidermal barrier. This emphasizes a role for organic osmolytes beyond the maintenance of intracellular osmolarity. This could be harnessed to enhance topical therapies for diseases characterized by skin barrier dysfunction.