Association of hysterectomy and invasive epithelial ovarian and tubal cancer: a cohort study within UKCTOCS

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between hysterectomy with conservation of one or both adnexa and ovarian and tubal cancer.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

Thirteen NHS Trusts in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

POPULATION

A total of 202 506 postmenopausal women recruited between 2001 and 2005 to the UK Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening (UKCTOCS) and followed up until 31 December 2014.

METHODS

Multiple sources (questionnaires, hospital notes, Hospital Episodes Statistics, national cancer/death registries, ultrasound reports) were used to obtain accurate data on hysterectomy (with conservation of one or both adnexa) and outcomes censored at bilateral oophorectomy, death, ovarian/tubal cancer diagnosis, loss to follow up or 31 December 2014. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to assess the association.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Invasive epithelial ovarian and tubal cancer (WHO 2014) on independent outcome review.

RESULTS

Hysterectomy with conservation of one or both adnexa was reported in 41 912 (20.7%; 41 912/202 506) women. Median follow up was 11.1 years (interquartile range 9.96-12.04), totalling >2.17 million woman-years. Among women who had undergone hysterectomy, 0.55% (231/41 912) were diagnosed with ovarian/tubal cancer, compared with 0.59% (945/160 594) of those with intact uterus. Multivariable analysis showed no evidence of an association between hysterectomy and invasive epithelial ovarian/tubal cancer (hazard ratio 0.98, 95% CI 0.85-1.13, P = 0.765).

CONCLUSIONS

This large cohort study provides further independent validation that hysterectomy is not associated with alteration of invasive epithelial ovarian and tubal cancer risk. These data are important both for clinical counselling and for refining risk prediction models.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Hysterectomy does not alter risk of invasive epithelial ovarian and tubal cancer.

Probing Gluon Spin-Momentum Correlations in Transversely Polarized Protons through Midrapidity Isolated Direct Photons in p^{↑}+p Collisions at sqrt[s]=200 GeV

Studying spin-momentum correlations in hadronic collisions offers a glimpse into a three-dimensional picture of proton structure. The transverse single-spin asymmetry for midrapidity isolated direct photons in p^{↑}+p collisions at sqrt[s]=200  GeV is measured with the PHENIX detector at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC). Because direct photons in particular are produced from the hard scattering and do not interact via the strong force, this measurement is a clean probe of initial-state spin-momentum correlations inside the proton and is in particular sensitive to gluon interference effects within the proton. This is the first time direct photons have been used as a probe of spin-momentum correlations at RHIC. The uncertainties on the results are a 50-fold improvement with respect to those of the one prior measurement for the same observable, from the Fermilab E704 experiment. These results constrain gluon spin-momentum correlations in transversely polarized protons.

What happened to the preserved renal parenchyma after partial nephrectomy?

e16581

Background: Partial nephrectomy (PN) is the standard therapy for small renal mass, despite various degree of ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) is always inevitable as the renal artery is usually clamped during PN. In mouse IRI model, unilateral renal artery clamped for 21 minutes results to sever kidney fibrosis in one year. However, what happened to the preserved renal parenchyma after several years since PN is still a mystery. The aim of the study is to compare the pathological chronic kidney disease (CKD) score of normal renal parenchyma before and several years after PN, as well as to explore the factors that associated with CKD score increase and GFR decline. Methods: We retrospectively collected the clinicopathologic data of 114 renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients who underwent PN and subsequent radical nephrectomy (RN) due to tumor recurrence in 19 Chinese centers and Cleveland clinic. Macroscopic normal renal parenchyma was sampled at least 5 mm away from the tumor border in PN specimen and at distal portion of the kidney in RN specimen. Pathological CKD score is a summary of glomerular, tubular, interstitial, and vascular score. MDRD2 equation was used to estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Predictive factors for CKD score increase were evaluated by logistic regression. Results: A total of 64 patients that have all the required data were included in the analysis. The median duration warm ischemia (n = 41) and hypothermia (n = 23) were both 23 min. In a median interval of 2.44 years, the CKD score arose in 73.4% (47/64) patients, with 45.3% (29/64) cases increased by ≥3. Even so, no kidney fibrosis was observed in this cohort including in those with extend warm ischemia (≥45min). There was no significant difference in the change of CKD score during patients with different ischemia time and type. However, patients with comorbidities such as hypertension, diabetes mellitus or CKD (HTN/DM/CKD) showed higher rate and extent of CKD score increase. In multivariate analysis, HTN/DM/CKD was found to be an independent predictor for the CKD score increase [OR:4.24 (1.23-14.64)]. However, the decline of GFR was mild and analogous between patients with or without CKD score increase (23.03±22.53ml/min/1.73m2 vs. 24.27±21.79ml/min/1.73m2, p = 0.856). Conclusions: In majority, preserved renal parenchyma after PN suffered pathological deterioration. Ischemia time and type seem to have limited impact on the change of CKD score of preserved renal parenchyma during PN. Patients with HTN/DM/CKD have higher risk of CKD score increase in despite of similar mild GFR deterioration.

Numerical estimates of square lattice star vertex exponents

We implement parallel versions of the generalized atmospheric Rosenbluth methods and Wang-Landau algorithms for stars and for acyclic uniform branched networks in the square lattice. These are models of monodispersed branched polymers, and we estimate the star vertex exponents σ_{f} for f stars, and the entropic exponent γ_{G} for networks with comb and brush connectivity in two dimensions. Our results verify the predicted (but not rigorously proven) exact values of the vertex exponents and we test the scaling relation [B. Duplantier, J. Stat. Phys. 54, 581 (1989)JSTPBS0022-471510.1007/BF01019770]γ_{G}-1=[under ∑]f≥1m_{f}σ_{f}for several acyclic branched networks in two dimensions.

Macrophage immunomodulation through new polymers that recapitulate functional effects of itaconate as a power house of innate immunity

Itaconate (ITA) is an emerging powerhouse of innate immunity with therapeutic potential that is limited in its ability to be administered in a soluble form. We developed a library of polyester materials that incorporate ITA into polymer backbones resulting in materials with inherent immunoregulatory behavior. Harnessing hydrolytic degradation release from polyester backbones, ITA polymers resulted in the mechanism specific immunoregulatory properties on macrophage polarization in vitro. In a functional assay, the polymer-released ITA inhibited bacterial growth on acetate. Translation to an in vivo model of biomaterial associated inflammation, intraperitoneal injection of ITA polymers demonstrated a rapid resolution of inflammation in comparison to a control polymer silicone, demonstrating the value of sustained biomimetic presentation of ITA.

Retention of radiographers: A qualitative exploration of factors influencing decisions to leave or remain within the NHS

INTRODUCTION

In many countries a widening imbalance exists between radiographer workforce supply and demand. Improving retention is a rapid method of workforce expansion which is gaining importance with policy makers and providers. To better understand the current leaver profile, this study aimed to identify why radiographers leave the NHS early, and what incentives are important in their decision to stay.

METHODS

A qualitative framework methodology used semi-structured telephone interviews to explore the perspectives of radiography managers, radiographers who have left the NHS, and those considering leaving. Purposive sampling ensured representation across radiography professional groups, geographical and organisational diversity, and stages of career.

RESULTS

Three over-arching themes were identified across all radiographer professional groups (n = 44): 1) Challenging working patterns and the impact on employee health and wellbeing; 2) Lack of flexibility in working terms and conditions; 3) Lack of timely career progression and access to CPD, and the need to feel valued. Radiographers were keen to express how they 'loved being a radiographer'; small concessions and changes to workplace culture might be the incentive to remain in radiography that some were clearly searching for. Manager participants recognised the need to offer greater flexibility in working patterns but this was challenging within financial and service delivery constraints.

CONCLUSIONS

While some influencing factors varied between radiographer professional groups, the three themes were consistent across participants. Failure to address these concerns will exacerbate the loss of experienced and highly trained staff from the NHS at a time when demand for services continues to rise.

IMPACT ON PRACTICE

Recommendations are presented related to three primary themes which will be a catalyst for sharing of best practice between radiology and radiotherapy centres.

Facilitating individuals and families affected by fragile X syndrome to participate in medication trials

BACKGROUND

Recently, there has been an increasing number of trials of medications for fragile X syndrome (FXS). In order to be adequately powered, trials have involved many centres around the world with relatively small numbers of participants recruited at each site. This study aims to understand the barriers to, and how best to facilitate participation in, medication trials in order to improve recruitment and the experience of participants with FXS.

METHODS

A mixed methods design was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Participants were invited to participate through the UK Fragile X Society, a local mailing list and through social media. Those who agreed to participate completed a quantitative questionnaire and indicated whether they would be willing to participate in a follow-up focus group.

RESULTS

The questionnaire was completed by 328 individuals who either had FXS, or were a parent, carer or family member of an individual with FXS. Over two-thirds of participants reported concern about side effects, while over one-third mentioned swallowing tablets, blood tests, financial aspects and travel as barriers to participation. Focus groups with 12 individuals highlighted themes of trial challenges, strategies to overcome these and motivating factors to participate.

CONCLUSIONS

Many of the factors, which potentially negatively influence participation in a clinical trial for FXS, could be mitigated in relatively simple ways. Easily accessible information, particularly about safety issues, the research team and the trial environment should be standard practice. Desensitisation programmes for blood testing, provision of different preparations of medication (e.g. liquid) and use of a combination of local, remote and site visits to reduce travel and time should also be considered.

Improving systems of care during and after a pregnancy complicated by hyperglycaemia: A protocol for a complex health systems intervention

BACKGROUND

Many women with hyperglycaemia in pregnancy do not receive care during and after pregnancy according to standards recommended in international guidelines. The burden of hyperglycaemia in pregnancy falls disproportionately upon Indigenous peoples worldwide, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women in Australia. The remote and regional Australian context poses additional barriers to delivering healthcare, including high staff turnover and a socially disadvantaged population with a high prevalence of diabetes.

METHODS

A complex health systems intervention to improve care for women during and after a pregnancy complicated by hyperglycaemia will be implemented in remote and regional Australia (the Northern Territory and Far North Queensland). The Theoretical Domains Framework was used during formative work with stakeholders to identify intervention components: (1) increasing workforce capacity, skills and knowledge and improving health literacy of health professionals and women; (2) improving access to healthcare through culturally and clinically appropriate pathways; (3) improving information management and communication; (4) enhancing policies and guidelines; (5) embedding use of a clinical register as a quality improvement tool. The intervention will be evaluated utilising the RE-AIM framework at two timepoints: firstly, a qualitative interim evaluation involving interviews with stakeholders (health professionals, champions and project implementers); and subsequently a mixed-methods final evaluation of outcomes and processes: interviews with stakeholders; survey of health professionals; an audit of electronic health records and clinical register; and a review of operational documents. Outcome measures include changes between pre- and post-intervention in: proportion of high risk women receiving recommended glucose screening in early pregnancy; diabetes-related birth outcomes; proportion of women receiving recommended postpartum care including glucose testing; health practitioner confidence in providing care, knowledge and use of relevant guidelines and referral pathways, and perception of care coordination and communication systems; changes to health systems including referral pathways and clinical guidelines.

DISCUSSION

This study will provide insights into the impact of health systems changes in improving care for women with hyperglycaemia during and after pregnancy in a challenging setting. It will also provide detailed information on process measures in the implementation of such health system changes.

Serial endometrial thickness and risk of non-endometrial hormone-dependent cancers in postmenopausal women in UK Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening

OBJECTIVE

Estrogen is a well-established risk factor for various cancers. It causes endometrial proliferation, which is assessed routinely as endometrial thickness (ET) using transvaginal ultrasound (TVS). Only one previous study, restricted to endometrial and breast cancer, has considered ET and the risk of non-endometrial cancer. The aim of this study was to explore the association between baseline and serial ET measurements and nine non-endometrial hormone-sensitive cancers, in postmenopausal women, using contemporary statistical methodology that attempts to minimize the biases typical of endogenous serial data.

METHODS

This was a cohort study nested within the UK Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening (UKCTOCS). In the ultrasound arm of UKCTOCS, 50639 postmenopausal women, aged 50-74, underwent annual TVS examination, of whom 38 105 had a valid ET measurement, no prior hysterectomy and complete covariate data, and were included in this study. All women were followed up through linkage to national cancer registries. The effect of ET on the risk of six estrogen-dependent cancers (breast, ovarian, colorectal, bladder, lung and pancreatic) was assessed using joint models for longitudinal biomarker and time-to-event data, and Cox models were used to assess the association between baseline ET measurement and these six cancers in addition to liver cancer, gastric cancer and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). All models were adjusted for current hormone-replacement therapy (HRT) use, body mass index, age at last menstrual period, parity and oral contraceptive pill use.

RESULTS

The 38 105 included women had a combined total of 267 567 (median, 8; interquartile range, 5-9) valid ET measurements. During a combined total of 407 838 (median, 10.9) years of follow-up, 1398 breast, 351 endometrial, 381 lung, 495 colorectal, 222 ovarian, 94 pancreatic, 79 bladder, 62 gastric, 38 liver cancers and 52 NHLs were registered. Using joint models, a doubling of ET increased significantly the risk of breast (hazard ratio (HR), 1.21; 95% CI, 1.09-1.36; P = 0.001), ovarian (HR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.06-1.82; P = 0.018) and lung (HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.02-1.54; P = 0.036) cancers. There were no statistically significant associations between ET and the remaining six cancers.

CONCLUSION

Postmenopausal women with high/increasing ET on TVS are at increased risk of breast, ovarian and lung cancer. It is important that clinicians are aware of these risks, as TVS is a common investigation. © 2019 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Erratum: Evolution of π^{0} Suppression in Au+Au Collisions from sqrt[s_{NN}]=39 to 200 GeV [Phys. Rev. Lett. 109, 152301 (2012)]

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.109.152301.

A phase Ib trial of neoadjuvant/adjuvant durvalumab +/- tremelimumab in locally advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC)

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Background: Effective neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapies are lacking in locally advanced RCC. Given robust activity of checkpoint inhibitors in mRCC, a phase Ib trial of perioperative Durvalumab (D) +/- Tremelimumab (T) in locally advanced RCC was conducted (NCT02762006). Methods: Pts with radiographic evidence of high risk localized RCC (clinical stage T2b-4 and/or N1, M0 disease), adequate performance status, and adequate laboratory values were eligible. Primary objective was safety and feasibility of neoadjuvant/adjuvant D +/- T. Results: Twenty-nine pts were enrolled. Cohorts, regimens, and immune-related adverse events (irAE) are detailed in the table. In total, 79% male, median age 61 (range, 42-84), 8%/88%/4% clinical T2/T3/T4, 27% positive clinical lymph nodes (LN+), and median time from neoadjuvant dose to surgery was 7 days. On surgical pathology: 5%/14%/77%/5% pathologic T1/T2/T3/T4, and 13% LN+. Median time from treatment to first grade (Gr) >3 irAE or any Gr irAE requiring corticosteroids was 99 days (range, 32-207). There were no treatment-related delays to nephrectomy or surgical complications. Although not meeting the protocol-defined MTD, given higher than expected irAEs, the study was suspended. Conclusions: Perioperative durvalumab in locally advanced RCC appears safe. The addition of tremelimumab is associated with higher rates of toxicity. Updated toxicity will be presented. Clinical trial information: NCT02762006 . [Table: see text]