Low Dose Splenic Radiotherapy for Myeloproliferative Neoplasms prior to Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE(S)

Myeloproliferative neoplasms including primary and secondary myelofibrosis (MF) are a rare spectrum of chronic myeloproliferative disorders in which nearly 90% of patients experience splenomegaly. Importantly, splenic radiotherapy (SRT) may be used in combination with allogeneic stem cell transplant (alloSCT) to improve symptoms related to splenomegaly, though there currently is no consensus SRT dose/fractionation protocol reported in the literature for use in combination with alloSCT. We sought to report our institutional experience utilizing low dose SRT prior to alloSCT in the post-Jakafi era.

MATERIALS/METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of all patients diagnosed with MF at our institution from 2017-2022 who received reduced intensity alloHCT. Patients who underwent total lymphoid or body irradiation were excluded. Descriptive demographic and clinical characteristics of patients were summarized by means, medians, standard deviations, ranges and proportions as appropriate.

RESULTS

We identified 39 patients with MF who underwent reduced intensity conditioning (RIC) consisting of fludarabine/melphalan in preparation for alloHCT (median age 64.5, 12/16 males, median follow up 21 months). 16 patients with Jakafi-resistant splenomegaly completed low dose SRT prior to transplant (median spleen size: 24.5cm) with a median dose of 5Gy delivered in 5 fractions. 3D conformal therapy was used for all patients. All patients completed the planned total radiation course without treatment break or dose limiting acute toxicity. Thrombocytopenia was the most reported toxicity (CTCAE v5.0; 2 patients experienced grade 1, 1 patient experienced grade 2). No patients experienced grade 3 or higher acute cytopenias nor required transfusion during radiotherapy. All patients successfully received alloHCT a median of 7 days (range: 2-11) after the completion of SRT with a 94% (15/16) engraftment rate. Median neutrophil recovery (ANC > 500 × 3 days) time was 18 days (range: 13-31); median length of hospital stay was 23 days (range: 20-129). Overall survival was 75% in the SRT cohort (12/16, 2 with persistent disease, 2 due to other causes). Symptom burden data was available for 14/16 patients; 79% (11/14) of patients reported improvement in symptoms associated with splenomegaly or reduction in splenic size on physical examination.

CONCLUSION

In the largest reported experience of a low dose SRT only cohort to date, we observe low dose SRT is feasible, safe in combination with alloHCT with high engraftment rates, and may reduce symptoms related to splenomegaly thereby improving patient quality of life without compromising transplant related outcomes. A prospective study validating this protocol is currently underway.

The association between levator plate integrity and pelvic floor defaecatory dysfunction

AIMS

Levator ani deficiency has been implicated in anterior pelvic floor pathology but its association with pelvic floor defaecatory dysfunction is less clear. The aim was to examine the relationship of levator ani deficiency with anatomical abnormalities (rectocoele, intussusception, enterocoele, perineal descent) and patient symptoms (bowel, vagina) in patients with pelvic floor defaecatory dysfunction.

METHODS

The prospective observational case series of 223 women presenting to a tertiary colorectal pelvic floor unit with defaecatory dysfunction. Each underwent assessment with symptom severity and quality of life (QoL) scores, integrated total pelvic floor ultrasound (PFUS) (transvaginal, transperineal) and defaecation proctography (DP). Rectocoele, intussusception, enterocoele and perineal descent were assessed on both. Levator ani deficiency was scored using endovaginal ultrasound (score 0-18; mild [0-6], moderate [>6-12], severe [>12-18]).

RESULTS

The proportion of patients with rectocoele, enterocoele, and intussusception increased with increasing levator ani damage (mild, moderate, severe). There was a weakly positive correlation between size of rectocoele and levator ani deficiency. On PFUS, there was a weakly positive correlation between severity of intussusception and enterocoele with levator ani deficiency. On DP, there was a weakly positive correlation between perineal descent and levator ani deficiency. There was no association between bowel symptom and QoL scores and levator ani deficiency. Vaginal symptoms were associated with levator ani deficiency.

CONCLUSIONS

Anatomical abnormalities which are implicated in pelvic floor defaecatory dysfunction (rectocoele, intussusception, enterocoele, perineal descent) were associated with worsening levator ani deficiency. There was no association between bowel symptoms and levator ani deficiency. Vaginal symptoms were associated with levator ani deficiency.

Exploring the impact of pulse oximeter selection within the COVID-19 home-use pulse oximetry pathways

Background

During the COVID-19 pandemic, portable pulse oximeters were issued to some patients to permit home monitoring and alleviate pressure on inpatient wards. Concerns were raised about the accuracy of these devices in some patient groups. This study was conducted in response to these concerns.

Objectives

To evaluate the performance characteristics of five portable pulse oximeters and their suitability for deployment on home-use pulse oximetry pathways created during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study considered the effects of different device models and patient characteristics on pulse oximeter accuracy, false negative and false positive rate.

Methods

A total of 915 oxygen saturation (s_pO₂) measurements, paired with measurements from a hospital-standard pulse oximeter, were taken from 50 patients recruited from respiratory wards and the intensive care unit at an acute hospital in London. The effects of device model and several patient characteristics on bias, false negative and false positive likelihood were evaluated using multiple regression analyses.

Results and conclusions

All five portable pulse oximeters appeared to outperform the standard to which they were manufactured. Device model, patient s_pO₂ and patient skin colour were significant predictors of measurement bias, false positive and false negative rate, with some variation between models. The false positive and false negative rates were 11.2% and 24.5%, respectively, with substantial variation between models.

102 Online Supportive Conversations & Reflection Sessions [OSCARS] with Care Home Staff Following A Resident’s Death: Improving Coping Mechanisms, Team Cohesion and Communication

Introduction

COVID-19 Trauma Guidance suggests opportunities for structured, time-limited discussions about challenging experiences should be offered. It is unknown if such discussions can be effectively delivered online by palliative care specialists to support care home (CH) staff in relation to death/dying. Funded by Scotland’s Chief Scientist Office COVID-19 “rapid research” fund, online OSCaRS is being piloted.

Methods

Fortnightly OSCaRS delivered to small groups of CH staff via a secure online platform in three local CHs over 10 weeks. Sessions are digitally recorded. The shortened version of the Chesney coping self-efficacy questionnaire is completed by all staff pre/post. Additional post-study questions asked of OSCaRS participants and in-depth staff interviews will be undertaken (n = 10). Thematic analysis of the recorded sessions and interviews will be undertaken and related to the staff questionnaire and context of each CH.

Results

New learning on the feasibility and acceptability of providing OSCaRS to frontline staff. The benefit of OSCaRS to CH staff coping mechanisms, team cohesion and communicaton with relatives during the COVID-19 pandemic will be presented. Initial results show that OSCaRS are feasible, valued by all care home staff and support staff in coping with the challenges of COVID-19/.

Key Conclusions

The analysis will inform future practice, and an Implementation Guide for OSCaRS in CHs will be produced. Key learning on the potential for online support in relation to death/dying during the pandemic and beyond will contribute to future education, training and staff wellbeing resources. It will also inform the role of such sessions in developing individual coping mechanisms and team working alongside communication with relatives during lockdown.

101 Avoiding Burnout of the Care Home Workforce During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Beyond: Sharing National Learning and Local Initiatives

Introduction

COVID-19 in care homes has heightened the risk of staff burnout, undermining already problematic staff retention and low morale. There has been an associated proliferation of resources and online initiatives to support frontline workers, however, few of these are directly targeted at the care home workforce. Care home workers are highly skilled in caring for people with complex needs, but have very variable levels of formal training, and just over half of care homes in Scotland include registered nurses. This project will rapidly collate existing resources and identify, direct from care home workers, their best practice, initiatives, and resources used to support resilience and retention during this pandemic and moving forward.

Methods

1) Rapid review of care home specific evidence and resources (including published research and social media); 2) Online survey of Enabling Research in Care Homes (ENRICH) members across Scotland (n = 55); 3) Case studies within six care homes to identify what is working well and what is not in terms of promoting resilience and emotional support.

Results

The rapid review has identified a wide range of resources directed at supporting staff working in care homes; the survey and case studies will provide data on the key learning and resources that have supported staff, and outline the challenges identified. There are many resources available but staff do not access these. The role of the care home manager is key.

Key conclusions

This comprehensive review of resources and initiatives will make a valuable contribution to policy and practice designed to reduce burnout and foster retention not just in care homes but more widely across health and social care.

3D ultrasound to quantify lateral hip displacement in children with cerebral palsy: a validation study

AIM

To assess the validity of a new index, lateral head coverage (LHC), for describing hip dysplasia in a population of children with cerebral palsy (CP).

METHOD

LHC is derived from 3D ultrasound assessment. Twenty-two children (15 males, seven females; age 4-15y) with CP undergoing routine hip surveillance were recruited prospectively for the study. Each participant had both a planar radiograph acquired as part of their routine care and a 3D ultrasound assessment within 2 months. Reimer's migration percentage (RMP) and LHC were measured by the same assessor, and the correlation between them calculated using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The repeatability of LHC was investigated with three assessors, analysing each of 10 images three times. Inter- and intra-assessor variation was quantified using intraclass correlation coefficients.

RESULTS

LHC was strongly correlated with RMP (Spearman's rank correlation coefficient=-0.86, p<0.001). LHC had similar inter-assessor reliability to that reported for RMP (intraclass correlation coefficient=0.97 and intra-assessor intraclass correlation coefficient=0.98).

INTERPRETATION

This is an initial validation of the use of 3D ultrasound in monitoring hip development in children with CP. LHC is comparable with RMP in estimating hip dysplasia with similar levels of reliability that are reported for RMP.

Abdominal cryptococcosis in dogs and cats: 38 cases (2000-2018)

INTRODUCTION

To report the clinical presentation, laboratory and imaging findings, treatment and outcome of abdominal cryptococcosis in dogs and cats in Australia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Canine and feline cases from Australia were retrospectively identified (2000 to 2018) via laboratory and referral centre searches for abdominal cryptococcosis diagnosed by cytology (needle aspirates) or histopathology (biopsy or necropsy) of abdominal organs/tissues. Signalment, presenting complaints, clinical signs, laboratory findings, medical imaging, latex cryptococcal antigen agglutination test (LCAT) titres, treatment and outcome data was collected.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight cases were included (35 dogs, three cats) in the study. Median age of presentation was 2 years for dogs and 6 years for cats. Common presenting complaints included vomiting (23/38), lethargy (19/38) and inappetence/anorexia (15/38). Abdominal ultrasound (25/38 cases) revealed mesenteric and intestinal lesions in most of the cases. On surgical exploration, seven cases had an intestinal lesion associated with an intussusception. Nineteen cases had a pre-treatment LCAT performed, with a median initial titre of 1:2048 (range 1:2 to 65,536). Twenty-four cases (23 dogs, one cat) received treatment, either medical, surgical or both. Median survival time for cases with combined medical and surgical treatment, surgical treatment alone or medical treatment alone was 730, 140 and 561 days, respectively. Eleven remain alive at the time of follow up.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Abdominal cryptococcosis although rare should be a considered as a diagnostic possibility in an especially young dog presenting with gastro-intestinal signs. Older dogs can also present with this condition and should not be euthanised based on imaging alone due to the likenesses with neoplasia. With appropriate treatment and monitoring many dogs may have a prolonged survival period and some may be cured.

Severe metabolic acidosis due to acetazolamide intoxication in a dog

CASE REPORT

This case report describes the clinical signs and case management of a 1-year-old neutered male Siberian Husky that accidentally ingested 635 mg/kg of oral acetazolamide (a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor). The dog presented with severe tachypnoea due to the development of hyperchloraemic metabolic acidosis and associated hypokalaemia that persisted for 7 days. Clinical and biochemical changes resolved with intravenous and subsequent oral supplementation of sodium bicarbonate and potassium. Complete recovery occurred within 9 days of presentation.

CONCLUSION

To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case that reports overdosage of an oral carbonic anhydrase inhibitor in a dog and subsequent recovery with adequate supplementation and supportive care.

Boot camps in neonatal-perinatal medicine fellowship programs: A national survey

BACKGROUND

Simulation is widely used in graduate medical education. A prior survey showed that 80% of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine (NPM) fellowship programs in the U.S. use simulation. There are multiple ways to provide simulation-based education. One such method is through intensive simulation-based education sessions held at the beginning of a training program, common called 'boot camps'. The aim of this study was to describe the use of simulation-based boot camps in NPM fellowship programs.

METHODS

Survey study of Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) accredited NPM fellowships in the U.S.

RESULTS

Fifty-nine of 98 programs (60%) responded. Thirty six (61%) participated in 1st year fellow boot camps, which focused on procedural skills and newborn resuscitation. Nearly half of programs participated in regional boot camps. Most boot camps were one or two days long. Eleven programs (19%) held 2nd or 3rd year fellow boot camps, which focused on advanced resuscitation and communication. Barriers included lack of faculty protected time (57%), funding (39%), and lack of faculty experience (31%).

CONCLUSIONS

A majority of ACGME accredited NPM fellowships participate in 1st year fellows' boot camps. Many participate in regional boot camps. A few programs have 2nd or 3rd year fellow boot camps. Lack of time, funding, and faculty experience were common barriers.

Comparison of gait kinematics in total and unicondylar knee replacement surgery

INTRODUCTION

This study is aimed to compare kinematic gait data of patients who have undergone total and unicondylar knee replacement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This single-surgeon retrospective cohort study evaluated 13 patients with unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and 14 unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA). Gait analysis was carried out using a Vicon motion analysis system. The limits of knee flexion during stance phase, at heel strike and at loading response were measured.

RESULTS

The total range of motion of the UKA knees was significantly greater than the TKA knees. UKA knees exhibited significantly greater knee extension during the stance phase than the TKA knees. Unlike TKA, UKA knees demonstrated improved knee flexion during the gait cycle when compared to the contralateral non-operated knee. The hips also demonstrated near normal hip flexion in UKA patients. Predictably, UKA knees had significantly greater varus compared with TKA in the coronal plane. Spatiotemporal variables demonstrated similar walking speed and step length to aid a fair comparison between knee replacement groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The UKA knees moved more physiologically in the sagittal plane with a greater range of motion during gait. Despite having a stiff gait pattern, the patients undergoing TKA demonstrated a more neutral alignment in the coronal plane. Neither type of knee arthroplasty restored knee kinematics to those of the non-operated side.

The National Advisory Committee on Infection Prevention and Control (NAC-IPC)

This paper describes the work of the National Advisory Committee on Infection Prevention and Control (NAC-IPC), previously Infection Prevention and Control Expert Working Group, a longstanding external advisory body that provides subject matter expertise and advice to the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) on the prevention and control of infectious diseases in Canadian health care settings. Originally established by Health Canada as the Infection Control Guidelines Steering Committee in 1992, this advisory board has been providing expert advice on infection prevention and control (IPC) guideline development for over 25 years. The NAC-IPC provides advice to inform the development of comprehensive or concise guidelines, quick reference guides and interim guidelines (usually for emerging pathogens), working closely with PHAC's national Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs) surveillance programs for Canadian health care facilities. PHAC's HAI-IPC professionals conduct the necessary literature research, data extraction, evidence synthesis, evidence grading (where applicable) and scientific writing for the guidelines. Due to the paucity of clinical trials and high quality observational studies to inform recommendations for emerging pathogens, expert opinion is critical for interpreting available evidence. .

Improving neonatal intubation safety: A journey of a thousand miles

Neonatal intubation is one of the most common procedures performed by neonatologists, however, the procedure is difficult and high risk. Neonates who endure the procedure often experience adverse events, including bradycardia and severe oxygen desaturations. Because of low first attempt success rates, neonates are often subjected to multiple intubation attempts before the endotracheal tube is successfully placed. These factors conspire to make intubation one of the most dangerous procedures in neonatal medicine. In this commentary we review key elements in the journey to improve neonatal intubation safety. We begin with a review of intubation success rates and complications. Then, we discuss the importance of intubation training. Next, we examine quality improvement efforts and patient safety research to improve neonatal intubation safety. Finally, we evaluate new tools which may improve success rates, and decrease complications during neonatal intubation.

Comparison of gait kinetics in total and unicondylar knee replacement surgery

Introduction The aim of this study was to compare kinetical data from gait analysis of patients who have undergone total and uni-condylar knee replacement. Materials and methods Thirteen patients with unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and 13 unicondylar knee arthroplasty (UKA), were included, all performed by the same surgeon more than one year prior. The Vicon gait analysis system was used. Statistical power was calculated using SPSS. Results No significant difference was found in the spatiotemporal parameters of gait and survival years of the knee prosthesis between the two groups. The UKA group was found to have significantly larger moments than the TKA group in knee adduction on the operated side and knee flexion moment on the unoperated side during the loading phase. The maximum and minimum sagittal plane moments of the operated sides in the TKA group were significantly lower than the unoperated side. The difference was most significant at pre-swing. The maximum and minimum moments on the operated sides in the UKA group were significantly lower for the knee flexion and adduction moments when compared with the unoperated side and were most prevalent during the loading phase. Conclusions These results are relevant in terms of prosthesis wear. The TKA knees had smaller magnitude moments than the UKA knees in the sagittal and coronal planes. This could explain the higher revision rates for UKA. In both groups, the non-operated knees had significantly larger moments than the operated knees, which implies that after unilateral knee replacement of either type, the non-operated knee is being put under greater stress.

Stress and distress in parents of neonates admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit for cardiac surgery

BACKGROUND

Parents of infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) are at risk of psychological distress and NICU-related stress. However, parents of infants admitted to NICU for cardiac surgery are an under-researched population.

AIMS

Identify levels of NICU-related stress, and levels of psychological distress, reported by parents of infants admitted to the NICU for cardiac surgery.

STUDY DESIGN

Observational study.

SUBJECTS

69 parents of infants admitted to the NICU for cardiac surgery (cardiac group) and 142 parents of healthy infants (control group).

OUTCOME MEASURES

Questionnaire packs provided to parents prior to discharge (time-point 1), and at six and 12months corrected age included: Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations, and Family Support Scale. The Parental Stressor Scale:NICU was administered to the cardiac group at time-point 1.

RESULTS

The cardiac group reported (i) that parental role alteration was the most stressful aspect of the NICU and (ii) higher scores for anxiety and depression than the control group at all three time-points, with the highest levels reported during the NICU stay. Correlation analyses indicated (i) stress associated with the sights and sounds of the NICU, and the appearance and behaviour of the infant in the NICU, had a significant positive association with anxiety and depression, and (ii) a significant negative relationship between anxiety and task-focused coping.

CONCLUSIONS

An individualised parent-targeted intervention aimed at reducing stress associated with the NICU and enhancing task-focused coping style may help to reduce levels of anxiety and depression within this group of parents.

Transdiagnostic versus disorder-specific and clinician-guided versus self-guided internet-delivered treatment for Social Anxiety Disorder and comorbid disorders: A randomized controlled trial

Disorder-specific (DS-CBT) and transdiagnostic (TD-CBT) cognitive behaviour therapy have both been used to treat social anxiety disorder (SAD). This study compared internet-delivered DS-CBT and TD-CBT for SAD across clinician-guided (CG-CBT) and self-guided (SG-CBT) formats. Participants with SAD (n=233) were randomly allocated to receive internet-delivered TD-CBT or DS-CBT and CG-CBT or SG-CBT. Large reductions in symptoms of SAD (Cohen's d≥1.01; avg. reduction≥30%) and moderate-to-large reductions in symptoms of comorbid depression (Cohen's d≥1.25; avg. reduction≥39%), generalised anxiety disorder (Cohen's d≥0.86; avg. reduction≥36%) and panic disorder (Cohen's d≥0.53; avg. reduction≥25%) were found immediately post-treatment and were maintained or further improved to 24-month follow-up. No marked differences were observed between TD-CBT and DS-CBT or CG-CBT and SG-CBT highlighting the potential of each for the treatment of SAD and comorbid disorders.

Neonatal-perinatal medicine fellow procedural experience and competency determination: results of a national survey

OBJECTIVE

Ensuring that neonatal-perinatal medicine (NPM) fellows attain competency in performing neonatal procedures is a requirement of training-competent neonatologists.

STUDY DESIGN

A survey of NPM fellows was performed to determine the procedural experience of current fellows, investigate techniques used to track procedural experience and examine the methods programs use to verify procedural competency.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty-three fellows in 57 accredited training programs responded to the survey. Reported number of procedures provide contemporary normative data on procedural experience during training. The majority of fellows reported using an online reporting system to track experience. The most common technique to verify procedural competency was supervised practice until an arbitrary number of procedures had been performed.

CONCLUSIONS

NPM fellow procedural experience increases significantly for most, but not all, procedures duration training. We speculate that supplemental simulation training for rare neonatal procedures would help ensure the competency of graduating NPM fellows. Experience alone is insufficient to verify competency. Further work on the accurate tracking of experience and verification of procedural competency is needed.

A prospective examination of Axis I psychiatric disorders in the first 5 years following moderate to severe traumatic brain injury

BACKGROUND

Psychiatric disorders commonly emerge during the first year following traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, it is not clear whether these disorders soon remit or persist for long periods post-injury. This study aimed to examine, prospectively: (1) the frequency, (2) patterns of co-morbidity, (3) trajectory, and (4) risk factors for psychiatric disorders during the first 5 years following TBI.

METHOD

Participants were 161 individuals (78.3% male) with moderate (31.2%) or severe (68.8%) TBI. Psychiatric disorders were diagnosed using the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV, administered soon after injury and 3, 6 and 12 months, and 2, 3, 4 and 5 years post-injury. Disorder frequencies and generalized estimating equations were used to identify temporal relationships and risk factors.

RESULTS

In the first 5 years post-injury, 75.2% received a psychiatric diagnosis, commonly emerging within the first year (77.7%). Anxiety, mood and substance-use disorders were the most common diagnostic classes, often presenting co-morbidly. Many (56.5%) experienced a novel diagnostic class not present prior to injury. Disorder frequency ranged between 61.8 and 35.6% over time, decreasing by 27% [odds ratio (OR) 0.73, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.65-0.83] with each year post-injury. Anxiety disorders declined significantly over time (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.63-0.84), whilst mood and substance-use disorder rates remained stable. The strongest predictors of post-injury disorder were pre-injury disorder (OR 2.44, 95% CI 1.41-4.25) and accident-related limb injury (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.03-3.07).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggest the first year post-injury is a critical period for the emergence of psychiatric disorders. Disorder frequency declines thereafter, with anxiety disorders showing greater resolution than mood and substance-use disorders.

Disorder-specific versus transdiagnostic and clinician-guided versus self-guided internet-delivered treatment for panic disorder and comorbid disorders: A randomized controlled trial

Transdiagnostic cognitive behaviour therapy (TD-CBT) aims to target the symptoms of multiple disorders whereas disorder-specific CBT (DS-CBT) targets the symptoms of principal disorders. This study compared the relative benefits of internet-delivered TD-CBT and DS-CBT when provided in clinician-guided (CG-CBT) and self-guided (SG-CBT) formats for people with a principal diagnosis of Panic Disorder (PD). Participants (n=145) were randomly allocated to receive TD-CBT or DS-CBT and CG-CBT or SG-CBT. Large reductions in symptoms of PD (Cohen's d ≥ 0.71; avg. reduction ≥ 36%) and moderate-to-large reductions in symptoms of comorbid depression (Cohen's d ≥ 0.71; avg. reduction ≥ 33%), generalised anxiety disorder (Cohen's d ≥ 0.91; avg. reduction ≥ 34%) and social anxiety disorder (Cohen's d ≥ 0.50; avg. reduction ≥ 15%) were found over the 24-month follow-up period. Highlighting their efficacy and acceptability, no marked and consistent differences were observed between TD-CBT and DS-CBT or CG-CBT and DS-CBT.

Abstract P6-10-12: Volumetric breast density better predicts tumour characteristics associated with poor prognosis compared to visual BI-RADS

Purpose:

Early detection of breast cancer through mammography screening reduces breast cancer mortality. To improve outcomes from screening, more than half of invasive cancers and a third of high grade cancers should be small at detection (&lt;15mm), and more than 70% of all cancers should be node negative at diagnosis. Although breast density is associated with reduced mammographic sensitivity, it is unclear whether certain tumor characteristics associated with poorer prognosis are more prevalent in women with denser breasts. The study investigated associations between visually- or volumetrically-assessed breast density and tumor characteristics related to poor prognosis.

Methods:

Our IRB-approved study included 755 DCIS, invasive ductal or invasive lobular breast cancers diagnosed in women (aged over 40) between January 2009 and December 2012. Information on the patients' tumor characteristics including stage, size, receptor, grade and lymph node status was collected retrospectively. Women were excluded if they had a previous history of breast cancer or breast surgery, or if they were missing tumour size data or raw digital mammograms taken within 24 months of the cancer diagnosis. For women with multiple cancers, only the first diagnosed cancer was included. Breast density was assessed using visual BI-RADS density categories and Volpara Density Grades (VDG; an automated equivalent to 4th Edition BI-RADS, assigned using preset cut-offs of volumetric breast density: 4.5, 7.5, 15.5 and &gt;15.5%). VDG was calculated from both breasts if the prior negative mammogram was available, and the contralateral breast for positive mammograms.

Results:

Overall, 55% of invasive tumors and 33% of grade 3 tumors were smaller than 15 mm and 83% were node negative. Mean tumor size increased significantly with increasing VDG (VDG 1 = 12.8, 2 = 14.7, 3 = 16.1, 4 = 20.4 mm, p&lt;0.001) and increasing BI-RADS (1 = 12.2, 2 = 13.9, 3 = 16.8, 4 = 18.2 mm, p=0.01). The proportion of node positive tumors also increased significantly with increasing VDG (5.1%, 12.8%, 19.3%, 26.1%, p&lt;0.001) and BI-RADS (0%, 10.6%, 19.5%, 26%, p=0.01). There was a significant increase in grade 3 tumors (11%, 16.1%, 21.7%, 21.7%, p =0.02) and HER-2 positive tumors (5.6%, 10.5%, 13.3%, 14.3%, p=0.02) with increasing VDG that was not seen with visual BI-RADS assessment (p=0.4). Increasing VDG was also significantly associated with increased proportions of larger (i.e. &gt;15mm) node positive cancers (1.7%, 6.3%, 10.5%, 16%, p=0.004) that were not seen with BI-RADS (p=0.2).

Conclusion:

We found that tumour size and node status differed significantly with breast density as measured by VDG and visual BI-RADS. However, grade 3, HER-2 positive and large/node-positive cancers were all significantly associated with increasing VDG, but not BI-RADS density grade. Further research is needed to investigate whether automated volumetric breast density can be used to predict which women are more likely to be diagnosed with tumours that have poorer prognostic features.

Citation Format: Johnston L, Chan A, Arieno A, Morgan R, Highnam R, Destounis S. Volumetric breast density better predicts tumour characteristics associated with poor prognosis compared to visual BI-RADS. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-10-12.

Transdiagnostic versus disorder-specific and clinician-guided versus self-guided internet-delivered treatment for generalized anxiety disorder and comorbid disorders: A randomized controlled trial

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) can be treated effectively with either disorder-specific cognitive behavior therapy (DS-CBT) or transdiagnostic CBT (TD-CBT). The relative benefits of DS-CBT and TD-CBT for GAD and the relative benefits of delivering treatment in clinician guided (CG-CBT) and self-guided (SG-CBT) formats have not been examined. Participants with GAD (n=338) were randomly allocated to receive an internet-delivered TD-CBT or DS-CBT intervention delivered in either CG-CBT or SG-CBT formats. Large reductions in symptoms of GAD (Cohen's d ≥ 1.48; avg. reduction ≥ 50%) and comorbid major depressive disorder (Cohen's d ≥ 1.64; avg. reduction ≥ 45%), social anxiety disorder (Cohen's d ≥ 0.80; avg. reduction ≥ 29%) and panic disorder (Cohen's d ≥ 0.55; avg. reduction ≥ 33%) were found across the conditions. No substantive differences were observed between DS-CBT and TD-CBT or CG-CBT and SG-CBT, highlighting the public health potential of carefully developed TD-CBT and SG-CBT.

Disorder-specific versus transdiagnostic and clinician-guided versus self-guided treatment for major depressive disorder and comorbid anxiety disorders: A randomized controlled trial

Disorder-specific cognitive behavior therapy (DS-CBT) is effective at treating major depressive disorder (MDD) while transdiagnostic CBT (TD-CBT) addresses both principal and comorbid disorders by targeting underlying and common symptoms. The relative benefits of these two models of therapy have not been determined. Participants with MDD (n=290) were randomly allocated to receive an internet delivered TD-CBT or DS-CBT intervention delivered in either clinician-guided (CG-CBT) or self-guided (SG-CBT) formats. Large reductions in symptoms of MDD (Cohen's d≥1.44; avg. reduction≥45%) and moderate-to-large reductions in symptoms of comorbid generalised anxiety disorder (Cohen's d≥1.08; avg. reduction≥43%), social anxiety disorder (Cohen's d≥0.65; avg. reduction≥29%) and panic disorder (Cohen's d≥0.45; avg. reduction≥31%) were found. No marked or consistent differences were observed across the four conditions, highlighting the efficacy of different forms of CBT at treating MDD and comorbid disorders.

Functional expression of KCNQ (Kv7) channels in guinea pig bladder smooth muscle and their contribution to spontaneous activity

Background and Purpose

The aim of the study was to determine whether KCNQ channels are functionally expressed in bladder smooth muscle cells (SMC) and to investigate their physiological significance in bladder contractility.

Experimental Approach

KCNQ channels were examined at the genetic, protein, cellular and tissue level in guinea pig bladder smooth muscle using RT-PCR, immunofluorescence, patch-clamp electrophysiology, calcium imaging, detrusor strip myography, and a panel of KCNQ activators and inhibitors.

Key Results

KCNQ subtypes 1–5 are expressed in bladder detrusor smooth muscle. Detrusor strips typically displayed TTX-insensitive myogenic spontaneous contractions that were increased in amplitude by the KCNQ channel inhibitors XE991, linopirdine or chromanol 293B. Contractility was inhibited by the KCNQ channel activators flupirtine or meclofenamic acid (MFA). The frequency of Ca²⁺-oscillations in SMC contained within bladder tissue sheets was increased by XE991. Outward currents in dispersed bladder SMC, recorded under conditions where BK and K_ATP currents were minimal, were significantly reduced by XE991, linopirdine, or chromanol, and enhanced by flupirtine or MFA. XE991 depolarized the cell membrane and could evoke transient depolarizations in quiescent cells. Flupirtine (20 μM) hyperpolarized the cell membrane with a simultaneous cessation of any spontaneous electrical activity.

Conclusions and Implications

These novel findings reveal the role of KCNQ currents in the regulation of the resting membrane potential of detrusor SMC and their important physiological function in the control of spontaneous contractility in the guinea pig bladder.

Matching residency numbers to the workforce needs

Matching the number of surgeons to the demands for orthopedic services has been notoriously difficult. Not only does one need to evaluate current trends in the supply and provision of services but anticipate the impact of future reforms on these variables. The British Orthopaedic Association has aspired to provide consultant to population ratio of 1:15,000 by 2020. Currently, the orthopedic community is tasked with providing care for an aging population with soaring levels of obesity; with both of these factors set to grow and also with an overall decline in productivity. Orthopedic surgeons must brace themselves for an explosion in demand. At the same time, a paradigm shift has occurred in the delivery of services with the creation of specialist centers. We are amidst a generational shift in the demographics and psychology of the orthopedic workforce. The orthopedic community must be aware of the effects of these far-reaching changes when tailoring the supply of surgeons for the future needs.

Prevalence of graft versus host disease and cytomegalovirus infection in patients post-haematopoietic cell transplantation presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms

BACKGROUND

There is lack of consensus regarding whether both upper and lower endoscopic examinations are required for diagnosis of gastrointestinal acute graft versus host disease (GI-AGVHD).

AIM

To evaluate the impact of endoscopic procedures on the diagnosis of GI-AGVHD.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective case-control study of recipients of allogeneic haematopoetic cell transplant (HCT) from 2000 to 2011, who presented with GI symptoms between 20 and 125 days post-HCT. GI-AGVHD status was based on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) clinical grading system.

RESULTS

One hundred and twenty-nine clinical GI-AGVHD cases and 184 controls underwent endoscopic examinations. Diarrhoea was present in 73% of cases and 38% of controls (P < 0.0001); 99% of patients with nausea ± vomiting and diarrhoea underwent bidirectional endoscopy. Histology had a sensitivity of 92% and specificity of 91% compared to the clinical criteria. The sensitivity for GI-AGVHD was 80% or greater when upper endoscopy (EGD) was performed with either sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy, or if lower endoscopic examinations were performed alone. The sensitivity of EGD alone was only 48% (P = 0.003). Sensitivity was highest with biopsy of the terminal ileum (79%), followed by the ascending (74%), transverse/descending (73%) and sigmoid colons (69%). Diagnostic yield for cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection was equivalent for biopsies from both upper and lower GI tracts. Patients found to have concurrent GI-AGVHD and CMV infection (N = 18) had a poorer overall prognosis.

CONCLUSION

In patients post-HCT with GI symptoms, sigmoidoscopy alone had equivalent diagnostic yield for GI-AGVHD and CMV infection, compared with the addition of EGD or performance of full colonoscopy.

HIV, hepatitis and syphilis prevalence and correlates of condom use during anal sex among men who have sex with men in the Republic of Moldova

Limited data on HIV prevalence and related risks among men who have sex with men (MSM) exist in the Republic of Moldova. In Chisinau and Balti, 188 and 209, respectively, men who reported having anal or oral sex in the last six months with another man, aged ≥16 years were recruited into a study in 2010 using respondent-driven sampling methods. MSM reported having multiple male and female partners and inconsistent condom use. In Chisinau, 2% of MSM were HIV seropositive, 3.7% had antibodies to hepatitis C (HCV), 5.7% had antibodies to hepatitis B (HBV) and 12.1% had syphilis. In Balti, less than 1% of MSM were HIV seropositive, 1.2% had antibodies to HCV, 3.2% had antibodies to HBV and only 0.5% had syphilis. MSM who used a condom at last anal sex with a man were less likely to reside in Chisinau, to have casual sex partners and to have had an HIV test in the last year and were more likely to know where to get an HIV test. Although HIV prevalence was low, MSM practice a number of risky sexual behaviours that may heighten the risk of further HIV transmission in this population and to the wider population.