Trends in the use of routine therapies in cystic fibrosis: 1995-2005

Mobile health platform for self-management of pediatric cystic fibrosis: Impact on patient-centered care outcomes

BACKGROUND

Previously, we adapted a mobile health platform (Genia) to the needs of patients and families in a pediatric CF center in the United States. In this feasibility study, we tested the impact of Genia on measures of patient-centered care.

METHODS

In a one-group pre-post study with adolescents with CF and caregivers of children with CF, we tested Genia's effect over 6 months on patient satisfaction with chronic illness care (PACIC) and shared decision-making (CollaboRate). Feasibility and acceptability were assessed with exit interviews and app analytics.

RESULTS

The intervention included 40 participants: 30 caregivers of children with CF age ≤14 years and 10 patients with CF age ≥15 years. The use of Genia was associated with increased satisfaction with care (p = 0.024), including delivery system and decision support (p = 0.017), goal setting (p = 0.006), and shared decision-making (p<0.001). The use of Genia was associated with nominal improvements in all QOL domains and symptom scales. The platform was feasible, with participants recording more than 4,400 observations (mean 84.2) and submitting 496 weekly reports (mean 13.8) and 70 quarterly reports (mean 1.8), and acceptable (95% retention rate). For participants, the most useful app feature was pre-visit reports (66.7%), and the top symptom trackers were those for cough (23.7%), appetite (21.1%), energy (18.4%), and medicines (18.4%).

CONCLUSION

The use of Genia over 6 months was feasible, acceptable, and associated with improved measures of patient-centered care. Study results support wider use of Genia in clinical settings. Efficacy for clinical outcomes should be assessed in a randomized clinical trial.

Short-acting inhaled bronchodilators for cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Respiratory disease is the main cause of morbidity and mortality in cystic fibrosis (CF), and many different therapies are used by people with CF in the management of respiratory problems. Bronchodilator therapy is used to relieve symptoms of shortness of breath and to open the airways to allow clearance of mucus. Despite the widespread use of inhaled bronchodilators in CF, there is little objective evidence of their efficacy. A Cochrane Review looking at both short- and long-acting inhaled bronchodilators for CF was withdrawn from the Cochrane Library in 2016. That review has been replaced by two separate Cochrane Reviews: one on long-acting inhaled bronchodilators for CF, and this review on short-acting inhaled bronchodilators for CF. For this review 'inhaled' includes the use of pressurised metered dose inhalers (MDIs), with or without a spacer, dry powder devices and nebulisers.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate short-acting inhaled bronchodilators in children and adults with CF in terms of clinical outcomes and safety.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis Trials Register, compiled from electronic database searches and handsearching of journals and conference abstract books on 28 March 2022 and searched trial registries for any new or ongoing trials on 12 April 2022. We also searched the reference lists of relevant articles and reviews.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We searched for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs that looked at the effect of any short-acting inhaled bronchodilator delivered by any device, at any dose, at any frequency and for any duration compared to either placebo or another short-acting inhaled bronchodilator in people with CF. We screened references as per standard Cochrane methodology.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors extracted data and assessed risk of bias using the Cochrane RoB 1 tool. Where we were not able to enter data into our analyses we reported results directly from the papers. We assessed the certainty of evidence using GRADE.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 11 trials from our systematic search, with 191 participants meeting our inclusion criteria; three of these trials had three treatment arms. Eight trials compared short-acting inhaled beta-2 agonists to placebo and four trials compared short-acting inhaled muscarinic antagonists to placebo. Three trials compared short-acting inhaled beta-2 agonists to short-acting inhaled muscarinic antagonists. All were cross-over trials with only small numbers of participants. We were only able to enter data into the analysis from three trials comparing short-acting inhaled beta-2 agonists to placebo. Short-acting inhaled beta-2 agonists versus placebo All eight trials (six single-dose trials and two longer-term trials) reporting on this comparison reported on forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), either as per cent predicted (% predicted) or L. We were able to combine the data from two trials in a meta-analysis which showed a greater per cent change from baseline in FEV1 L after beta-2 agonists compared to placebo (mean difference (MD) 6.95%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.88 to 12.02; 2 trials, 82 participants). Only one of the longer-term trials reported on exacerbations, as measured by hospitalisations and courses of antibiotics. Only the second longer-term trial presented results for participant-reported outcomes. Three trials narratively reported adverse events, and these were all mild. Three single-dose trials and the two longer trials reported on forced vital capacity (FVC), and five trials reported on peak expiratory flow, i.e. forced expiratory flow between 25% and 75% (FEF25-75). One trial reported on airway clearance in terms of sputum weight. We judged the certainty of evidence for each of these outcomes to be very low, meaning we are very uncertain about the effect of short-acting inhaled beta-2 agonists on any of the outcomes we assessed. Short-acting inhaled muscarinic antagonists versus placebo All four trials reporting on this comparison looked at the effects of ipratropium bromide, but in different doses and via different delivery methods. One trial reported FEV1 % predicted; three trials measured this in L. Two trials reported adverse events, but these were few and mild. One trial reported FVC and three trials reported FEF25-75. None of the trials reported on quality of life, exacerbations or airway clearance. We judged the certainty of evidence for each of these outcomes to be very low, meaning we are very uncertain about the effect of short-acting inhaled muscarinic antagonists on any of the outcomes we assessed. Short-acting inhaled beta-2 agonists versus short-acting inhaled muscarinic antagonists  None of the three single-dose trials reporting on this comparison provided data we could analyse. The original papers from three trials report that both treatments lead to an improvement in FEV1 L. Only one trial reported on adverse events; but none were experienced by any participant. No trial reported on any of our other outcomes. We judged the certainty of evidence to be very low, meaning we are very uncertain about the effect of short-acting inhaled beta-2 agonists compared to short-acting inhaled muscarinic antagonists on any of the outcomes we assessed.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

All included trials in this review are small and of a cross-over design. Most trials looked at very short-term effects of inhaled bronchodilators, and therefore did not measure longer-term outcomes. The certainty of evidence across all outcomes was very low, and therefore we have been unable to describe any effects with certainty.

Use of mucoactive agents in cystic fibrosis: A consensus survey of Italian specialists

Background

The goal of mucoactive therapies in cystic fibrosis (CF) is to enhance sputum clearance and to reduce a progressive decline in lung function over the patient's lifetime. We aimed to investigate the level of consensus among specialists from Italian CF Centers on appropriateness of therapeutic use of dornase alfa (rhDNase) for CF patients.

Method

A consensus on appropriate prescribing in CF mucoactive agents was appraised by an online Delphi method, based on a panel of 27 pulmonologists, coordinated by a Scientific Committee of six experts in medical care of patients with CF.

Results

Full or very high consensus was reached on several issues related to therapeutic use of dornase alfa for CF patients in clinical practice.

Conclusions

The consensus reached on a number of topics regarding use of mucoactive agents in patients with CF can help guide clinicians in daily practice based on expert experience and define the most appropriate therapeutic strategy for the individual patient.

Ivacaftor in Omani children with cystic fibrosis caused by p.Ser549Arg CFTR mutation

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystemic chronic disease caused by mutations in the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) protein. These mutations are classified in to six classes. Ivacaftor is a CFTR potentiator which partially restores the CFTR function for class III mutations. In Oman, p.Ser549Arg (class III) is the most common mutation (65% of cases). Our study prospectively evaluated the tolerance and clinical efficacy of ivacaftor.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted at the Royal Hospital, Oman. All children aged 6–18 years who are followed and carry at least one copy of the p.Ser549Arg mutation were started on Ivacaftor and included in the study. Data collected included weight, height, forced expiratory volume in first second (FEV1), sweat chloride concentration, stool elastase level and liver enzymes at baseline and at 12, 24, 36, and 48 weeks after initiation of treatment. The number of CF pulmonary exacerbations one year before and during treatment were compared.

Results

Twenty one children were started on Ivacaftor (90% homozygous for p.Ser549Arg). The mean age was 10.8 (SD ±3.5) years. When compared to baseline, FEV1 significantly improved by a mean of 10.8 (SD ±13.5) percentage points (pp) and 14.3 (SD ±7.5) pp at 12 and 48 weeks respectively. The sweat chloride level significantly dropped from a mean of 107 (SD ±8.5) mmol/l to 38.5 (SD ±22.3) mmol/l at 12 weeks and remained low. The Body Mass Index (BMI) improved by a mean of 1.37 (SD ±1.3) kg/m 2 and 1.9 (SD ±1.35) kg/m 2 at 24 and 48 weeks of treatment respectively. The number of admissions the year before and during treatment reduced significantly from a mean of 2.2 (SD± 1.9) to 0.7 (SD ±1) admission per year. Two children developed transaminitis.

Conclusion

Ivacaftor is well tolerated and resulted in a significant improvement in FEV1, BMI and sweat chloride level in children with p.Ser549Arg CFTR mutation.

Elucidating the mechanism by which synthetic helper peptides sensitize Pseudomonas aeruginosa to multiple antibiotics

The emergence and rapid spread of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria pose a serious threat to the global healthcare. There is an urgent need for new antibacterial substances or new treatment strategies to deal with the infections by MDR bacterial pathogens, especially the Gram-negative pathogens. In this study, we show that a number of synthetic cationic peptides display strong synergistic antimicrobial effects with multiple antibiotics against the Gram-negative pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa. We found that an all-D amino acid containing peptide called D-11 increases membrane permeability by attaching to LPS and membrane phospholipids, thereby facilitating the uptake of antibiotics. Subsequently, the peptide can dissipate the proton motive force (PMF) (reducing ATP production and inhibiting the activity of efflux pumps), impairs the respiration chain, promotes the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in bacterial cells and induces intracellular antibiotics accumulation, ultimately resulting in cell death. By using a P. aeruginosa abscess infection model, we demonstrate enhanced therapeutic efficacies of the combination of D-11 with various antibiotics. In addition, we found that the combination of D-11 and azithromycin enhanced the inhibition of biofilm formation and the elimination of established biofilms. Our study provides a realistic treatment option for combining close-to-nature synthetic peptide adjuvants with existing antibiotics to combat infections caused by P. aeruginosa.

Epidemiologic Study of Cystic Fibrosis: 25 years of observational research

The Epidemiologic Study of Cystic Fibrosis (ESCF) was a prospective observational study of over 32,000 people with cystic fibrosis (CF) from 250 clinical care sites in North America from 1994 to 2005. Begun as a pharmacovigilance study in connection with the approval of dornase alfa in 1993, ESCF was open to all people with CF treated at any participating site in the United States or Canada. In addition to obtaining safety and effectiveness data on dornase alfa, ESCF collected encounter-based data to characterize the natural history and management of CF with a special focus on lung disease. During the study, 32,178 patients reported at least one encounter, contributing 869,136 encounters, 622,592 pulmonary function tests, 432,896 cultures, and 118,563 pulmonary exacerbations treated with intravenous antibiotics. Although ESCF data collection concluded in 2005, through a collaboration with the U.S. Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry, additional follow-up data through 2017 was available for two-thirds of patients. This allowed for updating of CF genotype and survival information. Fifty-six peer-reviewed publications (cited over 3600 times) resulted from this study. In this manuscript we summarize the published ESCF manuscripts in thematic groups with key study findings and brief comments, and speculate on how ESCF findings will inform future data registries and patient care practices.

A Mobile Health Platform for Self-Management of Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis: Qualitative Study of Adaptation to Stakeholder Needs and Integration in Clinical Settings

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited chronic condition that requires extensive daily care and quarterly clinic visits with a multidisciplinary care team. The limited exchange of information outside of the quarterly clinic visits impedes optimal disease self-management, patient engagement, and shared decision making.

Objective

The aim of this study is to adapt a mobile health (mHealth) app originally developed in Sweden to the needs of patients, families, and health care providers in a CF center in the United States and to test it as a platform for sharing patient-generated health data with the CF health care team.

Methods

Focus groups with health care providers of patients with CF, adolescents with CF, and caregivers of children with CF were conducted to determine what modifications were necessary. Focus group data were analyzed using a thematic analysis, and emergent themes were ranked according to desirability and technical feasibility. The mHealth platform was then modified to meet the identified needs and preferences, and the flow of patient-generated health data to a secure Research Electronic Data Capture database was tested. Protocols for data management and clinical follow-up were also developed.

Results

A total of 5 focus groups with 21 participants were conducted. Recommended modifications pertained to all functionalities of the mHealth platform, including tracking of symptoms, treatments, and activities of daily care; creating and organizing medication lists and setting up reminders; generating reports for the health care team; language and presentation; sharing and privacy; and settings and accounts. Overall, health care providers recommended changes to align the mHealth platform with US standards of care, people with CF and their caregivers requested more tracking functionalities, and both groups suggested the inclusion of a mental health tracker as well as more detailed response options and precise language. Beta testers of the modified platform reported issues related to translatability to US environment and various bugs.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated the importance of identifying the needs and preferences of target users and stakeholders before adopting existing mHealth solutions. All relevant perspectives, including those of clinicians, patients, and caregivers, should be thoroughly considered to meet both end users’ needs and evidence-based practice recommendations.

Evaluation of airway and circulating inflammatory biomarkers for cystic fibrosis drug development

INTRODUCTION

Biomarkers of inflammation in blood and sputum can play a critical role in anti-inflammatory drug development in cystic fibrosis (CF). The objectives of this analysis were to examine relationships between airway and systemic measurements of inflammation, associations between inflammatory biomarkers and FEV₁, differences in airway and systemic inflammation by baseline covariates, reproducibility of serum biomarkers, and to assess the effects of freezing and delayed processing on sputum analyte measurements.

METHODS

We analyzed baseline and serial concentrations of inflammatory markers in blood and induced sputum collected from individuals with CF ages 10 years and older who participated in a multicenter clinical trial.

RESULTS

Among circulating biomarkers, serum high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and serum amyloid A (SAA) correlated most strongly with each other (r_s = 0.85). Comparing sputum-based inflammation measurements, sputum neutrophil elastase and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were the most highly correlated (r_s = 0.88). Markers most strongly correlated with ppFEV₁ were serum hsCRP (r_s = -0.55), SAA (r_s =-0.58), and sputum neutrophil elastase (r_s = -0.53). Within-subject standard deviation was consistently lower than between-subject standard deviation for all serum biomarkers. Serum calprotectin and MPO had the highest ratio of between-to-within subject variability. Freezing and delayed sputum processing were not associated with significant differences in measurements of sputum neutrophil elastase, IL-1β, or MPO.

CONCLUSIONS

Among the biomarkers analyzed, serum hsCRP and sputum neutrophil elastase are promising candidates to include in CF anti-inflammatory clinical trials to avoid redundancy, minimize variation, and serve as correlates of lung disease severity and change.

Recombinant Human Deoxyribonuclease I

Human deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) is an endonuclease that catalyzes the hydrolysis of extracellular DNA and is just one of the numerous types of nucleases found in nature. The enzymatic mechanism for a single turnover is reasonably well understood based on biochemical and structural studies that are consistent with divalent metal ion dependent nonspecific nicking of a phosphodiester bond in one of the strands of double stranded DNA. Recombinant human DNase I (rhDNase I, rhDNase, Pulmozyme^®, dornase alfa) has been expressed in mammalian cell culture in Chinese hamster ovary cells and developed clinically where it is aerosolized into the airways for treatment of pulmonary disease in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). rhDNase I hydrolyzes the DNA in purulent sputum of CF patients and reduces sputum viscoelasticity. Reduction of high molecular weight DNA into smaller fragments by treatment with aerosolized rhDNase I has been proposed as the mechanism to reduce the mucus viscosity and improve mucus clearability from obstructed airways in patients. The improved clearance of the purulent mucus enhances pulmonary function and reduces recurrent exacerbations of respiratory symptoms. rhDNase I was approved for clinical use in 1993 and has been widely used as a safe and effective therapy for CF patients. The use of rhDNase I has also been investigated in other diseases where exogenous DNA has been implicated in the disease pathology.

Cystic fibrosis clinical characteristics associated with dornase alfa treatment regimen change

BACKGROUND

When the chronic respiratory therapy dornase alfa was made commercially available for cystic fibrosis (CF) more than 20 years ago, two regimens were approved: 2.5 mg inhaled once daily (QD) or twice daily (BID). In the intervening years, there has been little guidance as to when to use each regimen. We have studied clinical practice patterns captured in the Epidemiologic Study of CF (ESCF) during the decade following dornase alfa approval (1994-2005) to better understand clinical characteristics associated with QD versus BID dornase alfa use. Methods We studied the characteristics of ESCF patients who received either dornase alfa regimen for at least 12 months and who were then switched to the alternate regimen for at least 6 months and who had adequate data available around the time of the switch. Average lung function and weight-for-age (WFA) z-scores, numbers of intravenous (IV) antibiotic-treated pulmonary exacerbations, and prevalence of signs and symptoms were determined for 6-month periods capturing the beginning (FIRST) and the end (LAST) of the initial regimen, the 6 months preceding the final 6 months of the initial regimen (PRIOR), and the beginning of the second regimen (POST). Changes in values from FIRST to LAST, PRIOR to LAST, and LAST to POST were studied to better understand clinical scenarios associated with decisions to change regimens.

RESULTS

A total of 1342 QD and 574 BID regimens were studied with median durations of 3.19 and 2.09 years, respectively. On average, patients beginning BID regimens had worse lung function and a greater number of pulmonary exacerbations treated with IV antibiotics than those beginning QD regimens. However, by the time of regimen switch, patients switching from QD to BID dornase alfa had experienced substantial deterioration with respect to pulmonary exacerbations and signs and symptoms, whereas patients switching from BID to QD had not. Interestingly, incidence of IV-treated pulmonary exacerbations and signs and symptom prevalence decreased for both populations after regimen switch.

CONCLUSIONS

We have studied populations of patients with CF receiving dornase alfa who were switched between regimens to characterize clinical course. Our results suggest that the most common clinical attribute associated with switching from QD to BID dornase alfa was a marked deterioration in stability characterized by increased incidence and frequency of pulmonary exacerbation. For this population, deterioration in lung function did not appear to be a driver for this switch. In contrast, patients receiving BID dornase alfa who were ultimately switched to QD appeared to be clinically stable, on average, suggesting that treatment burden and cost may have been drivers of the decision to switch regimens.

KB001-A, a novel anti-inflammatory, found to be safe and well-tolerated in cystic fibrosis patients infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa

BACKGROUND

Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) airways infection, exuberant local inflammation, and progressive lung function loss are hallmarks of cystic fibrosis (CF). KB001-A is an anti-PcrV PEGylated monoclonal antibody fragment to the Type III secretion system of Pa. This 16-week study evaluated KB001-A associated effect on time-to-need for antibiotics for worsening respiratory signs and symptoms, as well as safety, and treatment-associated changes in symptom scores, inflammatory markers, and spirometry.

METHODS

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, repeat-dose study in CF subjects with Pa. Intravenous 10mg/kg KB001-A or placebo infusions were administered at baseline and weeks 2, 4, 8, and 16, with a 4-week follow-up. Sputum inflammatory markers were assessed in a sub-study. Time-to-need for antibiotics was compared between groups by Kaplan Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards modeling adjusting for randomization strata.

RESULTS

Of 182 subjects, 169 received at least one infusion of KB001-A (n=83) or placebo (n=86). KB001-A was generally safe and well-tolerated as compared to placebo, with no significant emergent adverse effects other than one serious adverse event of elevated hepatic enzymes of unclear etiology. Time to need for antibiotics did not differ between groups (HR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.69, 1.45, p=0.995). A 3.2 increase in ppFEV₁ from placebo favoring KB001-A was observed at week 16 (95% CI: 1.12, 5.30, p=0.003). Mean changes from baseline in log₁₀ sputum neutrophil elastase (NE) had a non-significant decrease (-0.27, 95% CI: -0.58,0.04, p=0.084) while IL-8 concentrations at week 16 were significantly lower (-0.27, 95% CI: -0.55,0.00, p=0.048) among KB001-A subjects (n=16) relative to placebo (n=13).

CONCLUSIONS

KB001-A was safe and well-tolerated and associated with a modest FEV₁ benefit and reduction in select sputum inflammatory markers (IL-8). KB001-A was not associated with an increased time to need for antibiotics. The lack of efficacy seen with KB001-A may be due, in part, to the low levels of the type III secretion proteins previously reported in sputum of CF patients chronically infected with Pa.

Do cystic fibrosis centres with the lowest FEV1 still use the least amount of intravenous antibiotics? A registry-based comparison of intravenous antibiotic use among adult CF centres in the UK

BACKGROUND

The Epidemiologic Study of Cystic Fibrosis using 1995-1996 and 2003-2005 data found that CF centres with lowest FEV₁ tended to use fewer intravenous antibiotics. We repeated the analyses using 2013-2014 UK CF registry data to determine if this was still the case.

METHODS

Analysing data for 2013 and 2014 separately, 28 adult CF centres were ranked according to median % age-adjusted FEV₁. The top 7 centres were placed in the 'upper quarter' (best FEV₁), the bottom 7 centres in 'lower quarter' (lowest FEV₁), and the rest in 'middle half'. IV use was stratified according to %FEV₁, then compared between the three groups.

RESULTS

Centres in the 'upper quarter' and 'middle half' used significantly more IV antibiotics compared to centres in the 'lower quarter' (van Elteren test P-value<0.001). Regression analyses showed that people with CF attending centres in the 'upper quarter' or 'middle half' are 30-50% more likely to receive at least one IV course per year compared to people attending centres in the 'lower quarter'.

CONCLUSIONS

CF centres with lowest FEV₁ are still distinguished by lower use of intravenous antibiotics.

Rescue therapy within the UK Cystic Fibrosis Registry: An exploration of predictors of intravenous antibiotic use amongst adults with CF

Background and objective

Intravenous (i.v.) antibiotics are needed for rescue when preventative therapy fails to achieve stability among adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). Understanding the distribution of i.v. days can provide insight into the care that adults with CF need. We aim to determine the baseline characteristics that are associated with higher i.v. use, in particular to test the hypothesis that prior‐year i.v. use is associated with future‐year i.v. use.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional analysis of the 2013–2014 UK CF registry data. Stepwise logistic regression was performed using current‐year i.v. days as the dependent variable, and demographic variables including prior‐year i.v. days as the covariates. Based on these results, study sample was divided into clinically meaningful subgroups using analysis similar to tree‐based method.

Results

Data were available for 4269 adults in 2013 and 4644 adults in 2014. Prior‐year i.v. use was the strongest predictor for current‐year i.v. use followed by forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV₁). Adults with high prior‐year i.v. use (>14 days) continued to require high levels of i.v., regardless of FEV₁. Those with high prior‐year i.v. use and FEV₁ ≥70% had higher current‐year i.v. days compared to adults with low prior‐year i.v. use and FEV₁ <40% (28 days, interquartile range (IQR): 11–41 days vs 14 days, IQR: 0–28 days; Mann–Whitney P‐value <0.001 in 2013).

Conclusion

CF people with prior high levels of rescue often continue to need high levels of rescue even if they have good FEV₁. The reasons for this require further investigations.

Intravenous (i.v.) antibiotic is an important treatment option in cystic fibrosis and is also a marker of pulmonary exacerbations. Our study showed that previous‐year i.v. use is a strong predictor of current‐year i.v. use. This finding could help clinicians to identify people most at risk of future exacerbation.

An empirical method to cluster objective nebulizer adherence data among adults with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of using preventative inhaled treatments in cystic fibrosis is to improve health outcomes. Therefore, understanding the relationship between adherence to treatment and health outcome is crucial. Temporal variability, as well as absolute magnitude of adherence affects health outcomes, and there is likely to be a threshold effect in the relationship between adherence and outcomes. We therefore propose a pragmatic algorithm-based clustering method of objective nebulizer adherence data to better understand this relationship, and potentially, to guide clinical decisions.

METHODS TO CLUSTER ADHERENCE DATA

This clustering method consists of three related steps. The first step is to split adherence data for the previous 12 months into four 3-monthly sections. The second step is to calculate mean adherence for each section and to score the section based on mean adherence. The third step is to aggregate the individual scores to determine the final cluster ("cluster 1" = very low adherence; "cluster 2" = low adherence; "cluster 3" = moderate adherence; "cluster 4" = high adherence), and taking into account adherence trend as represented by sequential individual scores. The individual scores should be displayed along with the final cluster for clinicians to fully understand the adherence data.

THREE ILLUSTRATIVE CASES

We present three cases to illustrate the use of the proposed clustering method.

CONCLUSION

This pragmatic clustering method can deal with adherence data of variable duration (ie, can be used even if 12 months' worth of data are unavailable) and can cluster adherence data in real time. Empirical support for some of the clustering parameters is not yet available, but the suggested classifications provide a structure to investigate parameters in future prospective datasets in which there are accurate measurements of nebulizer adherence and health outcomes.

Effects of Autogenic Drainage on Sputum Recovery and Pulmonary Function in People with Cystic Fibrosis: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

To determine the effects of short- and long-term use of autogenic drainage (AD) on pulmonary function and sputum recovery in people with cystic fibrosis (CF).

METHODS

The authors conducted a systematic review of randomized and quasi-randomized clinical trials in which participants were people with CF who use AD as their sole airway clearance technique.

RESULTS

Searches in 4 databases and secondary sources using 5 key terms yielded 735 articles, of which 58 contained the terms autogenic drainage and cystic fibrosis. Ultimately, 4 studies, 2 of which were long term, were included. All measured forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and found no change. The long-term studies were underpowered to detect change in FEV1; however, the short-term studies found a clinically significant sputum yield (≥4 g).

CONCLUSION

AD has been shown to produce clinically significant sputum yields in a limited number of investigations. The effect of AD on the function of the pulmonary system remains uncertain, and questions have emerged regarding the appropriateness of FEV1 as a valid measure of airway clearance from peripheral lung regions. Further consideration should be given to the use of FEV1 as a primary measure of the effect of AD.

Cystic Fibrosis: Microbiology and Host Response

The earliest descriptions of lung disease in people with cystic fibrosis (CF) showed the involvement of 3 interacting pathophysiologic elements in CF airways: mucus obstruction, inflammation, and infection. Over the past 7 decades, our understanding of CF respiratory microbiology and inflammation has evolved with the introduction of new treatments, increased longevity, and increasingly sophisticated laboratory techniques. This article reviews the current understanding of infection and inflammation and their roles in CF lung disease. It also discusses how this constantly evolving information is used to inform current therapeutic strategies, measures and predictors of disease severity, and research priorities.

Early Childhood Risk Factors for Decreased FEV1 at Age Six to Seven Years in Young Children with Cystic Fibrosis

RATIONALE

There are limited objective measures of the severity of lung disease before children are able to routinely perform spirometry, generally at age 6 years. Identifying risk factors for reduced lung function at age 6 provides opportunities to intervene and slow the progression of cystic fibrosis (CF) lung disease.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate early childhood predictors of lung function at age 6-7 in a large U.S. CF cohort in the current era of widespread early eradication therapy for Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa).

METHODS

Participants were children with CF enrolled before age 4 in the Early Pseudomonas Infection Control (EPIC) Observational Study, a multicenter, longitudinal study that enrolled P. aeruginosa-negative children not exceeding 12 years of age. Linear regression was used to estimate the association between potential early childhood risk factors and the best FEV1% predicted at age 6-7 years.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Four hundred and eighty-four children (of 1,797 enrolled in the EPIC Observational Study) met the eligibility criteria for this analysis. Mean (SD) age at enrollment was 2.0 (1.3) years. In a multivariable model adjusted for age at enrollment, the following risk factors were significantly associated with lower mean (95% confidence interval) FEV1% predicted at age 6-7: weight percentile less than 10% during the year of enrollment (-5.3 [-9.1, -1.5]), P. aeruginosa positive during the year of enrollment (-2.8 [-5.7, 0.0]), crackles or wheeze during the year of enrollment (-5.7 [-9.4, -1.9]), mother's education of high school or less (-4.2 [-7.3, -1.2]), and mother smoked during pregnancy (-4.4 [-8.8, 0.1]).

CONCLUSIONS

In this large U.S. cohort, we identified several early childhood risk factors for lower FEV1 at age 6-7 years, most of which are modifiable. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT00097773).

Lumacaftor and ivacaftor in the management of patients with cystic fibrosis: current evidence and future prospects

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that causes multiorgan morbidity and premature death, most commonly from pulmonary dysfunction. Mutations in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene, of which almost 2000 have been described, result in a dysfunctional CFTR protein. This protein is an adenosine triphosphate binding anion channel, present primarily at the surface of epithelial cells. Loss of function mutations in this anion channel result in decreased or absent chloride/bicarbonate transport. The subsequent abnormal salt and water transport at epithelial cell surfaces leads to thickened secretions, and infection or inflammation in affected organs. In the last 20 years, therapeutics have been developed to treat the signs and symptoms of CF. However, in 2012, the small molecule drug, ivacaftor, became the first approved therapy that addresses the basic defect in CF. Ivacaftor is a potentiator of CFTR channels defective in their chloride/bicarbonate gating/conductance, but present at the epithelial cell surface. It is only approved for 10 mutations carried by approximately 7% of the population of patients with CF. F508del is the most common CFTR mutation, present in homozygosity in approximately 50% of patients with CF. The F508del mutation results in multiple CFTR channel defects that require both correction (stabilization of misfolded CFTR and trafficking to the epithelial cell membrane) and potentiation. This article reviews the in vitro and clinical trial data for the potential use of the potentiator, ivacaftor, and the corrector, lumacaftor, in patients with CF.

In Vitro Antibiotic Susceptibility of Initial Pseudomonas aeruginosa Isolates From United States Cystic Fibrosis Patients

Chronic antibiotic suppression of cystic fibrosis (CF) infections has increased in the United States, as has isolation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa with reduced antibiotic susceptibility. However, analysis of the susceptibilities of 193 initial P aeruginosa clinical isolates suggests that antibiotic susceptibilities are comparable with wild-type strains despite expanded antipseudomonal treatment in the CF community.

Pulmonary function outcomes for assessing cystic fibrosis care

BACKGROUND

Assessing cystic fibrosis (CF) patient quality of care requires the choice of an appropriate outcome measure. We looked systematically and in detail at pulmonary function outcomes that potentially reflect clinical practice patterns.

METHODS

Epidemiologic Study of Cystic Fibrosis data were used to evaluate six potential outcome variables (2002 best FVC, FEV(1), and FEF(25-75) and rate of decline for each from 2000 to 2002). We ranked CF care sites by outcome measure and then assessed any association with practice patterns and follow-up pulmonary function.

RESULTS

Sites ranked in the top quartile had more frequent monitoring, treatment of exacerbations, and use of chronic therapies and oral corticosteroids. The follow-up rate of pulmonary function decline was not predicted by site ranking.

CONCLUSIONS

Different pulmonary function outcomes associate slightly differently with practice patterns, although annual FEV(1) is at least as good as any other measure. Current site ranking only moderately predicts future ranking.

Improvements in lung function and height among cohorts of 6-year-olds with cystic fibrosis from 1994 to 2012

OBJECTIVE

To characterize spirometry and height changes in cohorts of 6-year-old children with cystic fibrosis (CF).

STUDY DESIGN

Global Lung Initiative forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and FEV1/FVC, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention height-for-age (HFA) z-scores were generated for 6-year-old children from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry each year between 1994 and 2012. Z-score mean differences were analyzed by the t test, and time trends of means were analyzed by least squares regression for all children and for subgroups of sex, F508del mutation genotype, Medicaid insurance, and prenatal/newborn screening identification. Z-score distributions were compared using the 2-sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov test.

RESULTS

A total of 11 670 children with CF were studied, of whom 50.5% were males, 50.2% had the F508del/F508del genotype, and 46.6% were insured by Medicaid. Mean HFA, FEV1, and FVC z-scores increased significantly over the period in the entire cohort and in all subgroups (P < .001), but FEV1/FVC z-scores were below normal and did not change significantly. In 2012, children identified by screening had significantly higher mean HFA (P = .002), FEV1 (P < .001), and FVC (P < .001) z-scores compared with children not screened, with 90% of FVC and 71.4% of FEV1z-scores greater than predicted by the normal distribution. FEV1/FVC z-scores were not different between the children who were and were not screened.

CONCLUSION

Consistent, significant increases in HFA, FEV1, and FVC occurred between 1994 and 2012, but FEV1/FVC, a measure of airway obstruction, did not change appreciably during this period. FVC and FEV1z-score distributions suggest that normative equation reference populations underpredict lung volumes of children with CF, but the reasons for this remain unclear.

Efficacy and safety of ivacaftor in patients with cystic fibrosis and a non-G551D gating mutation

BACKGROUND

Ivacaftor is used to treat patients with CF and a G551D gating mutation; the KONNECTION study assessed the efficacy and safety of ivacaftor in patients with CF and a non-G551D gating mutation.

METHODS

Patients with CF ≥6-years- old with non-G551D gating mutations received ivacaftor 150mg q12h or placebo for 8weeks in this 2-part, double-blind crossover study (Part 1) with a 16-week open-label extension (Part 2). The primary efficacy outcome was absolute change in FEV1 through 8 and 24weeks of ivacaftor treatment; secondary outcomes were changes in BMI, sweat chloride, and CFQ-R and safety through 8 and 24weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

Eight weeks of ivacaftor resulted in significant improvements in percent predicted FEV1, BMI, sweat chloride, and CFQ-R scores that were maintained through 24weeks. Ivacaftor was generally well tolerated.

CONCLUSIONS

Ivacaftor was efficacious in a group of patients with CF who had selected non-G551D gating mutations.

Lipid-based carriers for pulmonary products: preclinical development and case studies in humans

A number of lipid-based technologies have been applied to pharmaceuticals to modify their drug release characteristics, and additionally, to improve the drug loading for poorly soluble drugs. These technologies, including solid-state lipid microparticles, many of which are porous in nature, liposomes, solid lipid nanoparticles and nanostructured lipid carriers, are increasingly being developed for inhalation applications. This article provides a review of the rationale for the use of these technologies in the pulmonary delivery of drugs, and summarizes the manufacturing processes and their limitations, the in vitro and in vivo performance of these systems, the safety of these lipid-based systems in the lung, and their promise for commercialization.

Update on key emerging challenges in cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystem disease causing severe chronic sinopulmonary disease and loss of pancreatic exocrine function, which affects approximately 70,000 individuals worldwide. New therapeutic developments over the last few decades have resulted in a significant increase in survival, with the median predicted survival now reaching the late thirties and more and more CF patients living well into adulthood. However, with this advent of new therapies and the associated increase in survival, new challenges in CF care have also emerged. Two of these challenges, i.e. chronic methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus lung infection and patient adherence to very complicated and time-consuming therapeutic regimens, are reviewed in detail here. In addition, the ultimate challenge of treating the underlying cause of CF by correcting the dysfunction of the CF transmembrane conductance regulator chloride channel is reviewed, as agents to correct channel function will likely significantly alter CF clinical outcomes and treatment approaches in the next decade.

Nanotechnology approaches for personalized treatment of multidrug resistant cancers

The efficacy of chemotherapy is substantially limited by the resistance of cancer cells to anticancer drugs that fluctuates significantly in different patients. Under identical chemotherapeutic protocols, some patients may receive relatively ineffective doses of anticancer agents while other individuals obtain excessive amounts of drugs that induce severe adverse side effects on healthy tissues. The current review is focused on an individualized selection of drugs and targets to suppress multidrug resistance. Such selection is based on the molecular characteristics of a tumor from an individual patient that can potentially improve the treatment outcome and bring us closer to an era of personalized medicine.

Inhaled antibiotics to treat lung infection

The development of inhaled antibiotics to treat lung infection is an active field, with four approved products in the USA and more in the late stages of clinical development. The efficacies of TOBI® tobramycin (Novartis) and Cayston® aztreonam lysate (Gilead), the approved inhaled antibiotics for cystic fibrosis (CF) patients colonized with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, have been well documented. Recent approvals for a second-generation tobramycin solution, Bethkis®, and a tobramycin powder formulation in a dry-powder inhaler (DPI), TOBI Podhaler®, indicate that the inhaled antibiotic marketplace in CF is becoming very competitive. Other indications are also receiving interest. While there have been a number of recent reviews from a clinical, technical or regulatory perspective in the field of inhaled antibiotics, as well as others focused on a specific product or data from a recent clinical trial, there have not been any that describe the patent coverage of these products. This review addresses that missing piece.

Pulmonary function parameters and use of bronchodilators in patients with cystic fibrosis

OBJECTIVE

To analyze pulmonary function parameters and pharmacodynamic response to a bronchodilator, as well as the prescription of bronchodilators, in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study involving patients 6-18 years of age, diagnosed with CF, and followed at a referral center between 2008 and 2010. We evaluated only those patients who were able to perform pulmonary function tests (PFTs). We analyzed FVC, FEV1, and FEF25-75%, expressed as percentages of the predicted values, prior to and after bronchodilator tests (pre-BD and post-BD, respectively), in 312 PFTs. Repeated measures ANOVA and multiple comparisons were used.

RESULTS

The study included 56 patients, divided into two groups: those whose PFT results spanned the 2008-2010 period (n = 37); and those whose PFT results spanned only the 2009-2010 period (n = 19). In the 2008-2010 group, there were significant reductions in post-BD FEV1 between 2008 and 2010 (p = 0.028) and between 2009 and 2010 (p = 0.036), as was also the case for pre-BD and post-BD FEF25-75% in all multiple comparisons (2008 vs. 2009; 2008 vs. 2010; and 2009 vs. 2010). In the 2009-2010 group, there were no significant differences between any of the years for any of the variables studied. Among the 312 PFTs, significant responses to the bronchodilator occurred in only 24 (7.7%), all of which were from patients for whom no bronchodilator had been prescribed during the study period.

CONCLUSIONS

In the CF patients studied, there was loss of pulmonary function, indicating progressive lung disease, over time. The changes were greater for FEF25-75% than for the other variables, which suggests the initial involvement of small airways.

Targeting bacterial integration host factor to disrupt biofilms associated with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

This study aims to identify whether the bacterial protein, Integration Host Factor (IHF), is present within sputum solids collected from cystic fibrosis (CF) patients and thus might contribute to the structural stability of biofilms within the lungs.

METHODS

The presence of IHF in sputum was determined by immunohistochemistry. The role of IHF in stabilizing biofilms within sputum was tested in vitro wherein anti-IHF was used to attempt to dissolve sputum solids.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven of 44 sputum samples (84%) were positive for anti-IHF staining. Treatment with anti-IHF or DNase of 6 representative samples, dissolved sputum solids significantly better than treatment with normal saline in vitro, and strong synergism was observed when these agents were used in combination.

CONCLUSIONS

IHF was detected in the majority of sputum samples from patients with CF and in vitro treatment with anti-IHF induced dissolution of sputum solids. These data support further investigation of IHF as a potential therapeutic target for patients with CF.

Progress in cystic fibrosis and the CF Therapeutics Development Network

Cystic fibrosis (CF), the most common life-shortening genetic disorder in Caucasians, affects approximately 70 000 individuals worldwide. In 1998, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) launched the CF Therapeutics Development Network (CF-TDN) as a central element of its Therapeutics Development Programme. Designed to accelerate the clinical evaluation of new therapies needed to fulfil the CFF mission to control and cure CF, the CF-TDN has conducted 75 clinical trials since its inception, and has contributed to studies as varied as initial safety and proof of concept trials to pivotal programmes required for regulatory approval. This review highlights recent and significant research efforts of the CF-TDN, including a summary of contributions to studies involving CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators, airway surface liquid hydrators and mucus modifiers, anti-infectives, anti-inflammatories, and nutritional therapies. Efforts to advance CF biomarkers, necessary to accelerate the therapeutic goals of the network, are also summarised.

State of progress in treating cystic fibrosis respiratory disease

Since the discovery of the gene associated with cystic fibrosis (CF), there has been tremendous progress in the care of patients with this disease. New therapies have entered the market and are part of the standard treatment of patients with CF, and have been associated with marked improvement in survival. Now there are even more promising therapies directed at different components of the pathophysiology of this disease. In this review, our current knowledge of the pathophysiology of lung disease in patients with CF is described, along with the current treatment of CF lung disease, and the therapies in development that offer great promise to our patients.

An overview of international literature from cystic fibrosis registries. Part 4: update 2011

A total of 53 national cystic fibrosis (CF) patient registry studies published between July 2008 and November 2011 have been reviewed, focusing on the following topics: CF epidemiology, nutrition, microbiology, clinical complications, factors influencing diagnosis and lung disease, effects of socioeconomic status, therapeutic strategy evaluation, clinical trial methodology. The studies describe the clinical characteristics of CF patients, the incidence and prevalence of disease and role of gender gap, as well as the influence of socioeconomic status and environmental factors on clinical outcomes, covering a variety of countries and ethnic groups. Original observations describe patients as they get older, with special reference to the adult presentation of CF and long-term survival. Methodological aspects are discussed, covering the design of clinical trials, survival analysis, auxometry, measures of quality of life, follow up of lung disease, predictability of disease progression and life expectancy. Microbiology studies have investigated the role of selected pathogens, such as Burkholderia species and MRSA. Pulmonary exacerbations are discussed both as a factor influencing morbidity and an endpoint in clinical trials. Finally, some studies give insights on complications, such as CF-related diabetes and hemoptysis, and emerging problems, such as chronic nephropathy.

Outcome measures for clinical trials assessing treatment of cystic fibrosis lung disease

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a complex genetic disease characterized by death from loss of lung function. Therapies target pathophysiologic changes associated with pulmonary disease progression. Although therapeutic mechanisms differ, efficacy demonstration is limited to a few accepted outcome measures, each with shortcomings that are becoming more pronounced as CF population health improves. Pulmonary function improvement (as forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV₁]) and reduction of pulmonary exacerbation risk are commonly used outcomes. Changes in FEV₁ decline rate, quality of life, linear growth and/or weight gain are less utilized outcomes. Validated outcomes tend to work best in subjects with more aggressive or advanced lung disease and less so in healthier subjects. Assays of effects on primary therapeutic targets have yet to be validated as surrogate measures of clinical efficacy. As CF population health improves, it will become increasingly difficult to employ current clinical outcome measures to demonstrate efficacy.

Home enteral nutrition in children--2010 nationwide survey of the Polish Society for Clinical Nutrition of Children

Published epidemiologic data on the administration rates of enteral/parenteral home nutrition is very limited. The aim of this first nationwide study was to assess the availability of pediatric home enteral nutrition (HEN) services in Poland. The questionnaire was sent to all regional centers providing pediatric HEN services in Poland (n = 14). The analysis included the number of pediatric patients who received HEN in 2010, their demographic characteristics and geographical distribution. Furthermore, the distributions of indications and methods of enteral nutrition administration were analyzed, along with the reasons of withdrawal from the HEN program. The number and fraction of children receiving HEN increased in 2010, from 433 (11.34 per 1 million inhabitants) on January 1st to 525 (13.75) on December 31st. Marked differences were observed in geographical distribution of this parameter, from zero to up to 30 pediatric patients per 1 million inhabitants. Median age of patients was 6 years (range: 9 months-18 years). In most cases, HEN was prescribed due to neurological disorders (n = 337, 64.2%), and administered by means of gastrostomy (n = 450, 85.71%). This study revealed the dynamic development of pediatric HEN services in Poland but also documented their potential regional shortages.

Tobramycin administered by the TOBI(®) Podhaler(®) for persons with cystic fibrosis: a review

From its introduction, the antibiotic tobramycin has been an important tool in the management of persons with cystic fibrosis (CF) and chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections. Initially an intravenous rescue treatment for pulmonary exacerbations, tobramycin delivered by inhalation has become a mainstay of chronic suppressive CF infection management. Platforms for tobramycin aerosol delivery have steadily improved, with increased lung deposition complimented by decreased device complexities, loaded tobramycin doses, delivery times, and treatment burdens. Most recently, a unique tobramycin inhalation powder (TIP) formulation with a portable delivery system, the TOBI^® Podhaler^® (Novartis AG, Basel, Switzerland) has been developed and approved in Europe, Canada, and Chile. Four capsules, each containing 28 mg of TIP are successively pierced and inhaled via the T-326 Dry Powder Inhaler Device (Novartis AG, Basel, Switzerland). No external power source is required to deliver an efficacious tobramycin dose in minutes. By comparison, tobramycin inhalation solution (TIS) (TOBI^®; Novartis), is delivered by LC^® Plus (PARI Respiratory Equipment Inc, Midlothian, VA) jet nebulizer powered by an air compressor over 15–20 minutes. Comparative pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy studies of TIS and TIP in CF subjects with P. aeruginosa ≥ 6 years old demonstrate that: tobramycin lung deposition with 112 mg TIP is comparable to that attained with 300 mg TIS, TIP is more effective than placebo and not inferior to TIS with respect to pulmonary function benefit, and TIP has significantly faster treatment times and achieves higher patient satisfaction than TIS. TIP is associated with an increased frequency of mild to moderate local adverse events (cough, dysphonia, and dysgeusia) compared with TIS, however, these become less frequent as subjects gain TIP experience. These results suggest that the TOBI Podhaler may better meet the needs of many CF patients and families by reducing treatment time and complexity and improving patient satisfaction compared with TIS.

The use of a cystic fibrosis patient registry to assess outcomes and improve cystic fibrosis care in Germany

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Cystic fibrosis (CF) patient registries have become an important epidemiological tool for demography, networking, and quality management. This review describes recent developments in patient registries, outcome research, and pilot projects in quality improvement.

RECENT FINDINGS

National and international CF registry efforts have been producing consolidated data. Classical outcome indicators describing nutritional status and lung function are now being used in a more precise way, based on body mass index percentiles and longitudinal data. Projects involving single centers and quality groups, such as the German benchmarking project, have been showing that quality improvement is possible and that negative developments do not necessarily have to be accepted in CF.

SUMMARY

CF provides a model of the link between healthcare delivery and outcomes in patients. CF registry data can be used to improve quality in CF healthcare. Quality improvement is a continuous endeavor involving the reinforcement of standards and programs as well as individual attitudes and soft skills. One particularly powerful technique is benchmarking, that is, learning from the best.