Predictors of psychosocial adaptation in children with CHD

Survival of CHD has significantly improved, but children with CHD remain susceptible to neurodevelopmental and psychosocial impairments. Our goal was to investigate the association between socio-demographic factors and psychosocial adaptation for future intervention. A retrospective cross-sectional study of an independent children's hospital's records was conducted. Psychosocial adaptation was measured by the Pediatric Cardiac Quality of Life Inventory Psychosocial Impact score (range 0-50, higher score indicates greater psychosocial adaptation). Bivariate and regression analyses were performed to estimate relationships between Psychosocial Impact score and socio-demographic variables including Child Opportunity Index, family support, financial support, academic support, and extracurricular activities. A total of 159 patients were included. Compared to patients in high opportunity neighbourhoods, patients in low opportunity neighbourhoods had a 9.27 (95% confidence interval [-17.15, -1.40], p = 0.021) point lower Psychosocial Impact score, whereas patients in moderate opportunity neighbourhoods had a 15.30 (95% confidence interval [-25.38, -5.22], p = 0.003) point lower Psychosocial Impact score. Compared to patients with adequate family support, those with limited support had a 6.23 point (95% confidence interval [-11.82, -0.643], p = 0.029) lower Psychosocial Impact score. Patients in moderate opportunity neighbourhoods had a higher Psychosocial Impact score by 11.80 (95% confidence interval [1.68, 21.91], p = 0.022) when they also had adequate family support compared to those with limited family support. Our findings indicate that among children with CHD, psychosocial adaptation is significantly impacted by neighbourhood resources and family support structures. These findings identify possible modifiable and protective factors to improve psychosocial adaptation in this vulnerable population.

Preoperative left shoulder elevation > 1 cm is predictive of severe postoperative shoulder imbalance in early onset idiopathic scoliosis patients treated with growth-friendly instrumentation

PURPOSE

Prior research has demonstrated the influence of preoperative shoulder elevation (SE), proximal thoracic curve magnitude, and upper instrumented vertebra (UIV) on shoulder balance after PSF for AIS. Our purpose was to evaluate the impact of these factors on shoulder balance in early onset idiopathic scoliosis (EOIS) patients treated with growth-friendly instrumentation.

METHODS

This was a multicenter retrospective review. Children with EOIS treated with dual TGR, MCGR, or VEPTR and minimum 2-year follow-up were identified. Demographics and radiographic/surgical data were collected.

RESULTS

145 patients met inclusion criteria: 74 had right SE (RSE), 49 left SE (LSE), and 22 even shoulders (EVEN) preoperatively. Mean follow-up was 5.3 years (range, 2.0-13.1 years). The LSE group had a larger pre-index mean main thoracic curve (p = 0.021) but no difference was observed between groups at the post-index or most recent timepoints. RSE patients with UIV of T2 were more likely to have balanced shoulders post-index than patients with UIV of T3 or T4 (p = 0.011). Pre-index radiographic shoulder height (RSH) was predictive of post-index shoulder imbalance ≥ 2 cm in the LSE group (p = 0.007). A ROC curve showed a cut-off of 1.0 cm for RSH. 0/16 LSE patients with pre-index RSH < 1.0 cm had post-index shoulder imbalance ≥ 2 cm compared to 8/28 (29%) patients with pre-index RSH > 1.0 cm (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative LSE > 1.0 cm is predictive of shoulder imbalance ≥ 2 cm after insertion of TGR, MCGR, or VEPTR in children with EOIS. In patients with preoperative RSE, UIV of T2 resulted in a higher likelihood of balanced shoulders postoperatively.

Abstract 456: Raptamer-drug conjugates as molecularly targeted cancer therapeutics

While antibody-drug conjugates (ADC) are an attractive modality for targeted cancer therapy, they face limitations. These include a reduced volume of distribution with limited penetration into solid tumors, and an expensive, long and complicated production process, especially for large-scale manufacturing. These factors hinder the activity of these medications in certain tumors, and limit equitable access to all population segments. Use of aptamers as a therapeutic targeting moiety, holds the promise of building on the success of ADCs. Aptamers have several advantages over mAbs as a targeting moiety including: (i) smaller size that enables better tissue/tumor penetration; (ii) chemical synthesis which allows rapid and affordable scale-up; (iii) superior safety profile from lack of immunogenicity and short half-life which reduces off-target adverse events; and (iv) room temperature stability. Therefore, the use of aptamers in conjunction with drugs (similar to ADCs) holds promise for tumor management. We have recently identified a novel therapeutic target for certain cancers (COF-01) using analysis of proteomics data and immunohistochemistry from patient-derived tumors. COF-01 was shown to have highly specific increases in protein and mRNA expression in several cancers including non-small cell lung cancer, head and neck cancer and pancreatic cancer. COF-01 expression correlated with poor overall survival. Here, we present a new therapeutic approach that targets COF-01-positive cells using next generation drug conjugated aptamers. We have generated novel next-generation base-modified ssDNA aptamers (Raptamers) against COF-01 using a cell- and protein-based selection that utilizes our proprietary bead-based oligonucleotide libraries. The binding affinities of these COF-01 Raptamer candidates were determined by concentration curves using biolayer interferometry. Dissociation constants for the COF-01 Raptamers ranged from 80 nM - 200 nM. Anti-COF-01 Raptamer-drug conjugates (Rap-DCs) were developed by conjugating the Raptamers to monomethyl auristatin F via a cleavable linker. In vitro efficacy data has shown that the COF-01 Rap-DCs can selectively induce cytotoxicity in COF-01-positive human cells. There was a significant decrease in cell viability of COF-01-positive cells when compared to COF-01-negative control cells. This study provides proof-of concept for the use of high-affinity Raptamers against novel molecular targets, such as COF-01. This platform can be used to develop Raptamers against emergent neo-antigens on cancer cells that have escaped other therapies.

Citation Format: Stephanie P. Vega, Dev Chatterjee, Atul Varadhachary, Michael Ritchie, Michael Heffernan, Daniel Ciznadija. Raptamer-drug conjugates as molecularly targeted cancer therapeutics [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 456.

Abstract 5664: A novel immunotherapy for relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)

Successful treatment of ALL has been a major feat of modern medicine. Overall, 5-year survival in pediatric ALL patients approaches 90%, but 10-15% of patients will relapse. In relapse, ALL is still challenging to cure with 5-year overall survival rates being at or just below 50% and traditional therapies in this space have been highly toxic. Novel immunotherapies such as blinatumomab, inotuzumab and CAR T-cells have improved outcomes and reduced toxicities but are not curated to some of the most vulnerable patients in relapse including T-cell ALL (for which there are no FDA approved immunotherapies) and Philadelphia-like B-ALL. Thus, unmet needs remain in relapsed/refractory (r/r) ALL. The IL-7 and TSLP axes play an important role in B-ALL and T-ALL including in chemotherapy resistance. CD127 (IL7RA) is an attractive target due to limited expression in normal tissues, as confirmed with a GLP.

We are developing 4A10, a novel monoclonal antibody against CD127 which labels ALL cells for degradation via antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) and inhibiting IL-7 signaling in T-ALL. 4A10 has demonstrated robust in-vitro and in-vivo anti-cancer activity in pre-clinical PDX models. The antibody substantially reduces circulating tumor burden and organ infiltration, and prolongs overall survival in both naïve and chemotherapy resistant PDX models. Thus, 4A10 holds promise as a novel agent in patients with r/r ALL.

4A10 manufacturing has been successfully scaled up, with a stable master cell bank and good yields at the 200L scale. Our clinical formulation showed no refrigerated or frozen degradation over 3 months and minimal degradation or aggregation at 25°C. In their pre-IND guidance, FDA confirmed that our approach to physicochemical and biological characterization of 4A10 and our proposed analytical methods and tests appear acceptable for early clinical development.

4A10 was well-tolerated in rodent and non-human primate (NHP) toxicological studies with a No Observable Adverse Event Level (NOAEL) in NHPs well in excess of the expected therapeutic dose. Repeat dose NHP pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies support weekly dosing and do not indicate dose accumulation. Although pivotal GLP toxicology studies have yet to be completed, initial NHP studies do not provide any indications of concern.

We plan to initiate a Phase I/IIA study in 2023 to assess 4A10 in patients with r/r ALL. The Phase I portion of the study will determine the recommended Phase II dose, and the Phase IIA expansion cohorts have been designed to provide clinical proof of concept. The clinical study will be conducted in partnership with the Therapeutic Advances in Childhood Leukemia and Lymphoma (TACL) consortium and key adult centers. If our Phase I/IIA is successful, we expect to follow with a single pivotal Phase II trial for marketing approval.

Citation Format: Uksha Saini, Julie Hixon, Gisele Rodrigues, Christopher Foley, Leniher Castan Chibas, Ross Hamilton, Wenqing Li, Eric S. Schafer, Susan Rheingold, Michael Heffernan, Philip Breitfeld, Scott Durum, Atul Varadhachary. A novel immunotherapy for relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 5664.

Provision of a DAPT Score to Cardiologists and Extension of Dual Antiplatelet Therapy Beyond 1 Year After ACS: Randomized Substudy of the Prospective Canadian ACS Reflective II Study

Background

Extension of dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) beyond 1 year after acute coronary syndrome is associated with a reduction in ischemic events but also increased bleeding. The DAPT score identifies individuals likely to derive overall benefit or harm from DAPT extension. We sought to evaluate the impact of providing the DAPT score to treating physicians on the decision to extend DAPT beyond 1 year after non–ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Methods

Moderate to high-risk non–ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction patients were enrolled from July 2016 to May 2018 in 13 Canadian hospitals by 52 cardiologists. Participating cardiologists were randomly assigned 1:1 to receive their individual patients’ DAPT scores before the 1-year follow-up visit vs not receiving their patients’ DAPT scores. Rates of DAPT extension were compared among the randomized groups.

Results

At 1 year, 370 of the 585 (63.2%) patients discharged on DAPT were receiving DAPT. Among patients on DAPT at 1 year, the median (25th, 75th percentile) DAPT score was 2 (1,3). DAPT was extended beyond 1 year in 36.2% randomly assigned to provision of DAPT score vs 35.7% in the control group (P = 0.93). In the subgroup of patients with DAPT score ≥ 2, DAPT extension was 49.5% in the DAPT score provision arm vs 40.4% in the control arm (P = 0.22); among patients with DAPT score < 2, DAPT termination was 78.6% in the DAPT score provision arm vs 70.6% in the control arm (P = 0.26) (P value for interaction = 0.1).

Conclusions

In this exploratory randomized trial, provision of the DAPT score to treating physicians had no impact on the duration of DAPT treatment beyond 1 year.

Implementation of student experiential learning in health & wellbeing in a large university setting

Background

Healthy UCD is a health promotion initiative in University College Dublin (UCD). Working together with university academic staff, we have provided opportunities for graded experiential learning for students in health and wellbeing-related courses. This abstract presents how experiential learning was implemented in the 2020/21 academic year.

Objectives

The first objective was to provide a public health nutrition learning opportunity to MSc in Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics students through the design, implementation and evaluation of UCD Healthy Eating Week in Autumn 2020. Secondly, we aimed to facilitate the running of a wellbeing event by BSc Sport & Exercise Management students with Healthy UCD as their client in Spring 2021. The students had the additional challenge this year of delivering the content online.

Results

MSc Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics students utilised Healthy UCD's website and social media channels to deliver a virtual Healthy Eating Week. Infographics, videos, articles and podcasts were produced which generated 1,000 website visits and reached over 3,000 on social media. Most students involved agreed that the event was successful (95%) and that they were sufficiently supported by Healthy UCD and their tutors (65%). BSc Sport & Exercise Management students devised and delivered a week-long event titled “Wellbeing Your Way”, creating wellbeing seminars and live exercise classes with each receiving an average of 460 views. The students reported gaining valuable experience of the responsibilities of running a professional event and operating as a team.

Conclusions

These examples of experiential learning for credit demonstrate how university campus health promotion teams can facilitate student learning and simultaneously reap the benefit for university faculty and students. The key requirements are committed academic engagement and supported students.

Key messages

University campus health promotion provides excellent opportunities for experiential learning. Health promotion practical experience can have benefits both for students and for the university.

Phenomenological Constraints on the Transport Properties of QCD Matter with Data-Driven Model Averaging

Using combined data from the Relativistic Heavy Ion and Large Hadron Colliders, we constrain the shear and bulk viscosities of quark-gluon plasma (QGP) at temperatures of ∼150-350  MeV. We use Bayesian inference to translate experimental and theoretical uncertainties into probabilistic constraints for the viscosities. With Bayesian model averaging we propagate an estimate of the model uncertainty generated by the transition from hydrodynamics to hadron transport in the plasma's final evolution stage, providing the most reliable phenomenological constraints to date on the QGP viscosities.

Contemporary use of guideline-based higher potency P2Y12 receptor inhibitor therapy in patients with moderate-to-high risk non-ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: Results from the Canadian ACS reflective II cross-sectional study

Background

After myocardial infarction, guidelines recommend higher‐potency P2Y12 receptor inhibitors, namely ticagrelor and prasugrel, over clopidogrel.

Hypothesis

We aimed to determine the contemporary use of higher‐potency antiplatelet therapy in Canadian patients with non‐ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).

Methods

A total of 684 moderate‐to‐high risk NSTEMI patients were enrolled in the prospective Canadian ACS Reflective II registry at 12 Canadian hospitals and three clinics in five provinces between July 2016 and May 2018. Multivariable logistic regression modeling was performed to assess factors independently associated with higher‐potency P2Y12 receptor inhibitor use at discharge.

Results

At hospital discharge, 78.3% of patients were treated with a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor. Among patients discharged on a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor, use of higher‐potency P2Y12 receptor inhibitor was 61.4%. After adjustment, treatment in‐hospital with PCI (OR 4.48, 95%CI 3.34–6.03, p < .0001) was most strongly associated with higher use of higher‐potency P2Y12 receptor inhibitor, while oral anticoagulant use at discharge (OR 0.03, 95%CI 0.01–0.12, p < .0001), and atrial fibrillation (OR 0.40, 95%CI 0.17–0.98, p = .046) were most strongly associated with lower use of higher‐potency P2Y12 receptor inhibitor. Use of higher‐potency P2Y12 receptor inhibitor varied across provinces (range, 21.6%–78.9%).

Discussion

In contemporary Canadian practice, approximately 60% of moderate‐to‐high risk NSTEMI patients discharged on a P2Y12 receptor inhibitor are treated with a higher‐potency P2Y12 receptor inhibitor. In addition to factors that increase risk of bleeding, interprovincial differences in practice patterns were associated with use of higher‐potency P2Y12 receptor inhibitor at discharge. Opportunities remain for further optimization of evidence‐based, guideline‐recommended antiplatelet therapy use.

Fate of Hardware in Spinal Infections

Background: Removal of hardware with irrigation and debridement in patients with surgical site infections (SSIs) is performed commonly. However, the removal of hardware from patients with SSIs after spinal procedures is controversial. Moreover, primary spinal infections such as spondylodiscitis may require instrumentation along with surgical debridement. The purpose of this article was to evaluate critically and summarize the available evidence related to retention of hardware in patients with deep SSIs, and the use of instrumentation in surgical treatment of primary spinal infections. Methods: A literature search utilizing PubMed database was performed. Studies reporting the management of deep SSIs after instrumented spinal procedures, and of primary spinal infections using instrumentation published in peer-reviewed journals were included. Identified publications were evaluated for relevance, and data were extracted from the studies deemed relevant. Results: Because SSIs occur typically during the early post-operative period before stable bony fusion has been achieved, the removal of instrumentation may be associated with instability of the spinal column, pseudarthrosis, progressive deformity, pain, loss of function, and deterioration in the activities of daily living (ADL). Hence, early SSIs after spinal instrumentation are usually treated without removal of hardware. Moreover, primary spinal infections such as spondylodiscitis may require surgical debridement and instrumentation in cases with associated instability. Conclusions: Retaining or using instrumentation in patients with SSIs after spinal procedures or in patients with primary spinal infections, respectively, are commonly practiced in the field of spine surgery. Further evidence is required for the development of definitive algorithms to guide spine surgeons in decision making regarding the fate of instrumentation in the treatment of spinal infections.

Improving Complex Pediatric and Adult Spine Care While Embracing the Value Equation

INTRODUCTION

Value in health care is defined as the quotient of outcomes to cost. Both pediatric and adult spinal deformity surgeries are among the most expensive procedures offered today. With high variability in both outcomes and costs in spine surgery today, surgeons will be expected to consider long-term cost effectiveness when comparing treatment options.

METHODS

We summarize various methods by which value can be increased in complex spine surgery, both through the improvement of outcomes and the reduction of cost. These methods center around standardization, team-based and collaborative approaches, rigorous outcomes tracking through dashboards and registries, and continuous process improvement.

RESULTS

This manuscript reviews the expert opinion of leading spine specialists on the improvement of safety, quality and improvement of value of pediatric and adult spinal surgery.

CONCLUSION

Without surgeon leadership in this arena, suboptimal solutions may result from the isolated intervention of regulatory bodies or payer groups. The cooperative development of standardized, team-based approaches in complex spine surgery will lead to the high-quality, high-value care for patients.

Effect of Patient-Centered Transitional Care Services on Clinical Outcomes in Patients Hospitalized for Heart Failure: The PACT-HF Randomized Clinical Trial

IMPORTANCE

Health care services that support the hospital-to-home transition can improve outcomes in patients with heart failure (HF).

OBJECTIVE

To test the effectiveness of the Patient-Centered Care Transitions in HF transitional care model in patients hospitalized for HF.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

Stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial of 2494 adults hospitalized for HF across 10 hospitals in Ontario, Canada, from February 2015 to March 2016, with follow-up until November 2016.

INTERVENTIONS

Hospitals were randomized to receive the intervention (n = 1104 patients), in which nurse-led self-care education, a structured hospital discharge summary, a family physician follow-up appointment less than 1 week after discharge, and, for high-risk patients, structured nurse homevisits and heart function clinic care were provided to patients, or usual care (n = 1390 patients), in which transitional care was left to the discretion of clinicians.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary outcomes were hierarchically ordered as composite all-cause readmission, emergency department (ED) visit, or death at 3 months; and composite all-cause readmission or ED visit at 30 days. Secondary outcomes were B-PREPARED score for discharge preparedness (range: 0 [most prepared] to 22 [least prepared]); the 3-Item Care Transitions Measure (CTM-3) for quality of transition (range: 0 [worst transition] to 100 [best transition]); the 5-level EQ-5D version (EQ-5D-5L) for quality of life (range: 0 [dead] to 1 [full health]); and quality-adjusted life-years (QALY; range: 0 [dead] to 0.5 [full health at 6 months]).

RESULTS

Among eligible patients, all 2494 (mean age, 77.7 years; 1258 [50.4%] women) completed the trial. There was no significant difference between the intervention and usual care groups in the first primary composite outcome (545 [49.4%] vs 698 [50.2%] events, respectively; hazard ratio [HR], 0.99 [95% CI, 0.83-1.19]) or in the second primary composite outcome (304 [27.5%] vs 408 [29.3%] events, respectively; HR, 0.93 [95% CI, 0.73-1.18]). There were significant differences between the intervention and usual care groups in the secondary outcomes of mean B-PREPARED score at 6 weeks (16.6 vs 13.9; difference, 2.65 [95% CI, 1.37-3.92]; P < .001); mean CTM-3 score at 6 weeks (76.5 vs 70.3; difference, 6.16 [95% CI, 0.90-11.43]; P = .02); and mean EQ-5D-5L score at 6 weeks (0.7 vs 0.7; difference, 0.06 [95% CI, 0.01 to 0.11]; P = .02) and 6 months (0.7 vs 0.6; difference, 0.06 [95% CI, 0.01-0.12]; P = .02). There was no significant difference in mean QALY between groups at 6 months (0.3 vs 0.3; difference, 0.00 [95% CI, -0.02 to 0.02]; P = .98).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Among patients with HF in Ontario, Canada, implementation of a patient-centered transitional care model compared with usual care did not improve a composite of clinical outcomes. Whether this type of intervention could be effective in other health care systems or locations would require further research.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02112227.

Knowledge to action: Rationale and design of the Patient-Centered Care Transitions in Heart Failure (PACT-HF) stepped wedge cluster randomized trial

INTRODUCTION

Heart Failure (HF) is a common cause of hospitalization in older adults. The transition from hospital to home is high-risk, and gaps in transitional care can increase the risk of re-hospitalization and death. Combining health care services supported by meta-analyses, we designed the PACT-HF transitional care model.

METHODS

Adopting an integrated Knowledge Translation (iKT) approach in which decision-makers and clinicians are partners in research, we implement and test the effectiveness of PACT-HF among patients hospitalized for HF. We use a pragmatic stepped wedge cluster randomized trial design to introduce the complex health service intervention to 10 large hospitals in a randomized sequence until all hospitals initiate the intervention. The goal is for all patients hospitalized with HF to receive self-care education, multidisciplinary care, and early follow-up with their health care providers; and in addition, for high-risk patients to receive post-discharge nurse-led home visits and outpatient care in Heart Function clinics. This requires integration of care across hospitals, home care agencies, and outpatient clinics in our publicly funded health care system. While hospitals are the unit of recruitment and analysis, patients (estimated sample size of 3200) are the unit of analysis. Primary outcomes are hierarchically ordered as time to composite all-cause readmissions / emergency department (ED) visits / death at 3 months and time to composite all-cause readmissions / ED visits at 30 days. In a nested study of 8 hospitals, we measure the patient-centered outcomes of Discharge Preparedness, Care Transitions Quality, and Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY); and the 6-month health care resource use and costs. We obtain all clinical and cost outcomes via linkages to provincial administrative databases.

CONCLUSIONS

This protocol describes the implementation and testing of a transitional care model comprising health care services informed by high-level evidence. The study adopts an iKT and pragmatic approach, uses a robust study design, links clinical trial data with outcomes held in administrative databases, and includes patient-reported outcomes. Findings will have implications on clinical practice, health care policy, and Knowledge Translation (KT) research methodology.

Efficacy and Safety of Adalimumab Treatment in Patients with Moderate to Severe Psoriasis: A Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial

Background

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is pivotal in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, an immune-mediated disease. Adalimumab is a fully human, IgG1 monoclonal antibody that inhibits TNF-α.

Objectives

The aims of this study were to assess the efficacy and safety of adalimumab therapy for patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis and evaluate the duration of treatment response after withdrawal from or dosage reduction of adalimumab therapy.

Methods

In this multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis received 12-week, open-label therapy with subcutaneous adalimumab, consisting of 80 mg of adalimumab at weeks 0 and 1, followed by 40 mg weekly at weeks 2–11. At week 12, patients who had an improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score of ≥50% were randomized to blinded therapy and received either adalimumab 40 mg every other week (eow) or placebo for an additional 12 weeks.

Results

A total of 148 patients enrolled. Clinical response was rapid, with a PASI 50 response rate of 28% at week 2 of adalimumab therapy. At week 12, 91.9% (136/148) of patients had achieved ≥50% reduction in PASI (PASI 50) vs. baseline, 76.4% (113/148) had achieved PASI 75, and 47.3% (70/148) had achieved PASI 90. Of patients who were randomized to placebo at week 12, 30.9% (21/68) experienced a relapse (<PASI 50 improvement vs. baseline) by week 24, compared with 16.2% (11/68) of patients who received adalimumab 40 mg eow. In addition, 48.5% (33/68) of patients who were randomized to placebo at week 12 were PASI 75 responded at week 24, compared with 67.6% (46/68) of patients randomized to adalimumab 40 mg eow (p=0.032). And, 27.9% (19/68) of patients who were randomized to placebo at week 12 were PASI 90 responders at week 24, compared with 47.1% (32/68) of patients randomized to adalimumab 40 mg eow (p=0.028). Adalimumab was generally well-tolerated, and the rates of adverse events were comparable between the adalimumab and placebo groups.

Conclusions

Weekly adalimumab therapy rapidly improved psoriasis during an initial 12-week period. Improvement was sustained in most, but not all patients, despite dosage reduction to every other week. No patients randomized to adalimumab withdrawal (placebo at week 12) experienced rebound, and most maintained >PASI 50 improvement, relative to baseline, during the 3 months following adalimumab discontinuation. Overall, greater efficacy rates at week 24 were observed for patients randomized to continuous adalimumab therapy than for patients who were withdrawn from therapy at week 12.

Appropriate Use of Antithrombotic Medication in Canadian Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation

This national chart audit of 7,019 patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF) from 735 primary care physician practices sought to examine the management of Canadian patients with AF through an evidence-based, guideline-recommended approach. The appropriate use of oral anticoagulants (OACs) in this patient population and the potential factors guiding OAC choice were examined. Suboptimal dosing was seen. In patients on warfarin, 30.9% had not achieved a time in therapeutic range (TTR) in excess of 65% and, despite current Canadian guideline recommendations, were continued on warfarin rather than one of the novel OACs. In patients who received no antithrombotic therapy, 65.5% met criteria for treatment with an OAC. In addition, 62.8% of patients who were treated with acetylsalicylic acid monotherapy met guideline criteria for the use of an OAC. In those patients treated with an OAC, 24.8% were not on the recommended dose based on the product monograph or, if on warfarin, had a TTR <65%. Of the patients on novel OACs (NOACs), 7.4% of patients were underdosed, whereas overdosing was seen in 4.3%. Factors that may have contributed to dosing outside recommendations included underestimation of stroke risk, overestimation of bleed risk, compliance concerns, and lack of provincial reimbursement. In conclusion, significant correctable gaps remain in optimal treatment for stroke prevention in AF.

Efficacy of an early invasive strategy after fibrinolysis in ST-elevation myocardial infarction relative to the extent of coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND

A strategy of early transfer for coronary angiography and intervention is superior to a standard approach of delayed coronary angiography after fibrinolysis for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). STEMI patients with lesions in noninfarct-related arteries have a worse prognosis compared with patients with single vessel disease. This study aimed to assess whether the benefits of an early invasive strategy differ in patients with single vessel and multivessel disease.

METHODS

The Trial of Routine ANgioplasty and Stenting after Fibrinolysis to Enhance Reperfusion in Acute Myocardial Infarction (TRANSFER-AMI) randomized STEMI patients receiving fibrinolysis to a strategy of early transfer and coronary angiography vs a standard approach. In this post hoc analysis, we stratified 992 patients into 2 groups according to the presence or absence of multivessel disease. We compared the 2 groups in terms of baseline characteristics, in-hospital management, and patient outcomes, and tested for treatment heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Multivessel disease was present in 369 (37%) patients. Patients with multivessel disease had a greater rate of the primary composite end point of in-hospital death, recurrence of infarction, recurrent ischemia, shock, or heart failure at 30 days (18.2% vs 10.8%; P < 0.001). An early invasive strategy was efficacious in both groups for the primary outcome. In multivariable analysis adjusting for Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) risk score, there was no significant treatment heterogeneity (all P interaction > 0.40) for the primary end point, or death/recurrence of infarction at 6 months and 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS

Multivessel disease is present in a significant proportion of STEMI patients treated with fibrinolysis and is associated with worse outcomes. A strategy of early transfer and coronary intervention after fibrinolysis was beneficial regardless of the presence or absence of multivessel disease.

Efficacy and safety of a routine early invasive strategy after fibrinolysis stratified by glycoprotein IIb/IIIa inhibitor use during percutaneous coronary intervention: a pre-specified subgroup analysis of the TRANSFER-AMI randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

We evaluated the efficacy and safety of an early invasive strategy post-fibrinolysis in relation to glycoprotein (GP) IIb/IIIa inhibitor use.

METHODS

The Trial of Routine Angioplasty and Stenting after Fibrinolysis to Enhance Reperfusion in Acute Myocardial Infarction (TRANSFER-AMI) randomised 1059 ST elevation myocardial infarction patients to an early invasive strategy or standard therapy post-fibrinolysis. The primary end point was the composite of death, reinfarction, recurrent ischaemia, new or worsening heart failure, or cardiogenic shock at 30 days. In this pre-specified analysis, we examined efficacy and safety outcomes of an early invasive strategy after stratification by GPIIb/IIIa inhibitor use, which was permitted during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) at the discretion of the treating physician.

RESULTS

A total of 695 patients (65.6%) received GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors. There was significant heterogeneity (p<0.001) in the efficacy of an early invasive strategy compared to standard therapy, between the strata with GPIIb/IIIa inhibitor use (primary end point 9.6% vs 22.3% respectively, p<0.001) and without GPIIb/IIIa inhibitor use (primary end point 14.8% vs 10.4% respectively, p=0.21). Patients who received GPIIb/IIIa inhibitors had lower Global Registry of Acute Coronary Events (GRACE) risk scores compared to those without GPIIb/IIIa inhibitor use (median 121 vs 130, p<0.001). After adjusting for the interaction between GRACE risk score and treatment assignment, the heterogeneity in the efficacy of an early invasive strategy with respect to GPIIb/IIIa inhibitor use was no longer significant (p interaction=0.08).

CONCLUSIONS

The apparent difference in the efficacy of an early invasive strategy between GPIIb/IIIa inhibitor strata likely reflects an association between GPIIb/IIIa inhibitor use and baseline risk. GPIIb/IIIa inhibitor use during PCI at the discretion of the treating physician does not appear to modulate the efficacy of an early invasive strategy post-fibrinolysis.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

http://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00164190, NCT00164190.

Clinical outcomes and cost implications of routine early PCI after fibrinolysis: one-year follow-up of the Trial of Routine Angioplasty and Stenting after Fibrinolysis to Enhance Reperfusion in Acute Myocardial Infarction (TRANSFER-AMI) study

BACKGROUND

In patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction treated with fibrinolysis, routine early percutaneous coronary intervention (r-PCI) improves clinical outcomes at 30 days compared with a more standard approach of performing early PCI only for failed fibrinolysis (s-PCI).

METHODS

We report prespecified secondary clinical outcomes and cost implications of r-PCI compared with s-PCI from the Canadian TRANSFER-AMI trial. Average cost per patient in each arm was calculated based on a microcosting approach. Bootstrap method (5,000 samples) was used to calculate standard errors and 95% CI.

RESULTS

At 1 year, rates of death or reinfarction (10.3% vs 11.6%, P = .50), hospital readmission (15.4% vs 16.5%, P = .64) and subsequent revascularization after index hospitalization (6.9% vs 8.7%, P = .30) were similar between the r-PCI and s-PCI arms. The difference in cost per patient between r-PCI and s-PCI was CAD $1,003 (95% CI, -$247 to $2,211). Since a greater proportion of patients were transported by air (vs land) in the r-PCI arm (9.4% vs 3%), and the ratio of abciximab to eptifibatide use was higher in the r-PCI arm compared with s-PCI (2:1 vs 4:5), we undertook additional post hoc cost scenario analyses. In a scenario where patients are transported by land only and eptifibatide is used as the sole GPIIb/IIIa inhibitor, the difference in cost per patient between r-PCI and s-PCI was estimated to be CAD $108 (95% CI, -$1,114 to $1,344).

CONCLUSIONS

At 1 year, there is no difference in the clinical composite outcome of death or reinfarction between r-PCI and s-PCI strategies. Greater cost with r-PCI, although statistically insignificant, is economically important.

Efficacy of early invasive management post-fibrinolysis in men versus women with ST-elevation myocardial infarction: a subgroup analysis from Trial of Routine Angioplasty and Stenting after Fibrinolysis to Enhance Reperfusion in Acute Myocardial Infarction (TRANSFER-AMI)

BACKGROUND

The TRANSFER-AMI study demonstrated that early routine percutaneous coronary intervention post-fibrinolysis (pharmacoinvasive strategy) is superior to conservative management for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. However, it is not clear whether treatment efficacy differs between men and women.

METHODS

In this pre-specified subgroup analysis, we compared the efficacy of a pharmacoinvasive strategy in men versus women with acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction who were randomized to a pharmacoinvasive versus standard management following fibrinolysis. The primary end point was a composite of death, recurrent myocardial infarction, recurrent ischemia, heart failure and shock at 30 days. We tested for treatment heterogeneity between men and women using the Breslow-Day test. We also performed multivariable analysis adjusting for GRACE risk score and its interaction with treatment assignment, and evaluated for death/recurrent myocardial reinfarction as a secondary outcome.

RESULTS

Of the 1059 patients, 843 were men and 216 were women. Compared to men, women were older, had worse Killip class, higher GRACE risk score, and higher rates of death and death/myocardial reinfarction at 30 days. The primary end point did not differ significantly between men and women (13.4% vs 16.7%, P = .22). Compared to standard treatment, a pharmacoinvasive strategy was associated with a lower rate of the primary end point in men (17.5% vs 9.4%, respectively, P < .001), but not in women (16.2% vs 17.1%, P = .86). There was a trend toward an interaction between treatment assignment and sex for the composite primary end point (P = .06). After adjustment for the significant interaction between GRACE risk score and treatment (P < .001), there was no significant interaction between sex and treatment for all the end points (all P > .40).

CONCLUSION

The borderline heterogeneity in treatment efficacy of a pharmacoinvasive strategy in men versus women was no longer evident after adjustment for the difference in baseline risk. This suggests that sex per se was not an important determinant of the efficacy of a pharmacoinvasive strategy. Owing to the small number of women in this trial, further study in this area is needed.

Efficacy and safety of enoxaparin compared with unfractionated heparin in the pharmacoinvasive management of acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: Insights from the TRANSFER-AMI trial

AIMS

An early invasive strategy after fibrinolysis for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) improves outcomes, but the relative efficacy and safety of enoxaparin compared with unfractionated heparin (UFH) as part of this approach are unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In the TRANSFER-AMI trial, patients with high-risk STEMI received fibrinolysis and were then randomized to either standard treatment or to immediate transfer for coronary angiography. In this substudy, the outcome of patients aged <75 years treated with enoxaparin is compared with that of patients who received UFH. Logistic regression and propensity score models were used to evaluate the efficacy and safety of these anticoagulants. Enoxaparin was administered to 498 patients, and UFH, to 448 patients, at the time of fibrinolysis. Approximately 50% in each group were randomized to the early invasive strategy. The primary composite end point of death, reinfarction, recurrent ischemia, new or worsening heart failure, or cardiogenic shock at 30 days occurred in 11.9% and 11.6% of the patients who received enoxaparin and UFH, respectively (adjusted odds ratio 0.95 [95% CI 0.60-1.51], P = .84). Enoxaparin use was associated with more access site bleeding (5.0% vs 2.9%, P = .04) and mild bleeding (12.1% vs 7.8%, P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Among high-risk patients with STEMI undergoing early or late transfer for cardiac catheterization after fibrinolysis, enoxaparin was associated with similar efficacy compared with UFH, but there was more minor bleeding with enoxaparin (ClinicalTrials.gov no. NCT00164190).

Chemoprevention of nonmelanoma skin cancer with celecoxib: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Background

Preclinical studies indicate that the enzyme cyclooxygenase 2 plays an important role in ultraviolet-induced skin cancers. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of celecoxib, a cyclooxygenase 2 inhibitor, as a chemopreventive agent for actinic keratoses, the premalignant precursor of nonmelanoma skin cancers, and for nonmelanoma skin cancers, including cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs) and basal cell carcinomas (BCCs).

Methods

A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial involving 240 subjects aged 37–87 years with 10–40 actinic keratoses was conducted at eight US academic medical centers. Patients were randomly assigned to receive 200 mg of celecoxib or placebo administered orally twice daily for 9 months. Subjects were evaluated at 3, 6, 9 (ie, completion of treatment), and 11 months after randomization. The primary endpoint was the number of new actinic keratoses at the 9-month visit as a percentage of the number at the time of randomization. In an intent-to-treat analysis, the incidence of actinic keratoses was compared between the two groups using t tests. In exploratory analyses, we evaluated the number of nonmelanoma skin cancers combined and SCCs and BCCs separately per patient at 11 months after randomization using Poisson regression, after adjustment for patient characteristics and time on study. The numbers of adverse events in the two treatment arms were compared using χ² or Fisher exact tests. All statistical tests were two-sided.

Results

There was no difference in the incidence of actinic keratoses between the two groups at 9 months after randomization. However, at 11 months after randomization, there were fewer nonmelanoma skin cancers in the celecoxib arm than in the placebo arm (mean cumulative tumor number per patient 0.14 vs 0.35; rate ratio [RR] = .43, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.24 to 0.75; P = .003). After adjusting for age, sex, Fitzpatrick skin type, history of actinic keratosis at randomization, nonmelanoma skin cancer history, and patient time on study, the number of nonmelanoma skin cancers was lower in the celecoxib arm than in the placebo arm (RR = 0.41, 95% CI = 0.23 to 0.72, P = .002) as were the numbers of BCCs (RR = 0.40, 95% CI = 0.18 to 0.93, P = .032) and SCCs (RR = 0.42, 95% CI = 0.19 to 0.93, P = .032). Serious and cardiovascular adverse events were similar in the two groups.

Conclusions

Celecoxib may be effective for prevention of SCCs and BCCs in individuals who have extensive actinic damage and are at high risk for development of nonmelanoma skin cancers.

Adalimumab treatment is associated with improvement in health‐related quality of life in psoriasis: Patient‐reported outcomes from a Phase II randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis substantially impairs the health-related quality of life (HRQOL) of patients, and a comprehensive evaluation of treatment includes HRQOL measures.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the impact of adalimumab on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) of patients with moderate to severe psoriasis.

METHODS

In a Phase II, randomized, controlled trial, the efficacy and safety of two dosages of adalimumab (40 mg weekly or every other week) versus placebo were assessed for 12 weeks in the treatment of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. Patients completed the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), Short-Form 36 (SF-36) Health Survey, and EuroQOL-5D (EQ-5D) at baseline and 12 weeks. The primary endpoint was the percentage of patients achieving a > or =75% reduction in the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score (PASI 75). Investigators assessed PASI and Physician's Global Assessment (PGA) scores.

RESULTS

Adalimumab patients (either dosage) displayed significantly greater improvements versus placebo patients in DLQI, EQ-5D, and SF-36 Mental Component Summary scores, as well as in Bodily Pain, Vitality, Social Functioning, Role-Emotional, and Mental Health domains. The adalimumab 40-mg weekly group also reported significantly greater improvements in SF-36 Physical Component Summary scores versus the placebo group.

CONCLUSION

Both adalimumab dosages were efficacious in improving dermatology-specific and general PROs in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis.

Routine early angioplasty after fibrinolysis for acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Patients with a myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation who present to hospitals that do not have the capability of performing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) often cannot undergo timely primary PCI and therefore receive fibrinolysis. The role and optimal timing of routine PCI after fibrinolysis have not been established.

METHODS

We randomly assigned 1059 high-risk patients who had a myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation and who were receiving fibrinolytic therapy at centers that did not have the capability of performing PCI to either standard treatment (including rescue PCI, if required, or delayed angiography) or a strategy of immediate transfer to another hospital and PCI within 6 hours after fibrinolysis. All patients received aspirin, tenecteplase, and heparin or enoxaparin; concomitant clopidogrel was recommended. The primary end point was the composite of death, reinfarction, recurrent ischemia, new or worsening congestive heart failure, or cardiogenic shock within 30 days.

RESULTS

Cardiac catheterization was performed in 88.7% of the patients assigned to standard treatment a median of 32.5 hours after randomization and in 98.5% of the patients assigned to routine early PCI a median of 2.8 hours after randomization. At 30 days, the primary end point occurred in 11.0% of the patients who were assigned to routine early PCI and in 17.2% of the patients assigned to standard treatment (relative risk with early PCI, 0.64; 95% confidence interval, 0.47 to 0.87; P=0.004). There were no significant differences between the groups in the incidence of major bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Among high-risk patients who had a myocardial infarction with ST-segment elevation and who were treated with fibrinolysis, transfer for PCI within 6 hours after fibrinolysis was associated with significantly fewer ischemic complications than was standard treatment. (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00164190.)

Rationale and design of the Trial of Routine ANgioplasty and Stenting After Fibrinolysis to Enhance Reperfusion in Acute Myocardial Infarction (TRANSFER-AMI)

BACKGROUND

Most patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction present to hospitals without percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) facilities and receive fibrinolysis. The role of routine early PCI after fibrinolysis, using stents and contemporary pharmacotherapy, has not been studied in a large adequately powered randomized trial.

OBJECTIVE

To compare a pharmacoinvasive strategy of transfer for routine PCI within 6 hours after fibrinolysis with standard treatment after fibrinolysis (including predefined criteria for rescue PCI and delayed cardiac catheterization for patients who do not require rescue PCI).

METHODS

A total of 1200 patients with high-risk ST-elevation myocardial infarction presenting to non-PCI centers will be randomized to a pharmacoinvasive strategy (transfer for routine PCI within 6 hours of fibrinolysis) or to standard treatment after fibrinolysis. The primary end point is the 30-day composite of death, reinfarction, recurrent ischemia, heart failure, or shock.

RESULTS

More than 900 patients have been enrolled as of April 2007. An interim safety analysis of the first 536 patients demonstrated no safety concerns. Enrolment is expected to be completed in late 2007.

CONCLUSIONS

This study will provide important data on whether routine early PCI within 6 hours after fibrinolysis is safe and superior to the standard treatment of fibrinolysis with rescue PCI or delayed cardiac catheterization.

Transfer for urgent percutaneous coronary intervention early after thrombolysis for ST-elevation myocardial infarction: the TRANSFER-AMI pilot feasibility study

BACKGROUND

Most hospitals in Canada do not have percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) facilities and use thrombolysis as reperfusion therapy for ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). Urgent PCI after thrombolysis may optimize reperfusion and prevent reinfarction and recurrent ischemia.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the feasibility of transferring high-risk STEMI patients from community hospitals in Ontario to PCI centres for urgent PCI within 6 h of thrombolysis.

METHODS

Patients with anterior or high-risk inferior STEMI received tenecteplase and were urgently transferred to PCI centres. PCI was performed if at least 70% stenosis was present in the infarct-related artery, regardless of flow, using coronary stents. Transfer of stable patients back to community hospitals was encouraged 24 h to 48 h after PCI.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients were transferred and underwent PCI a median of 3.9 h (range 2.7 h to 6.4 h) after thrombolysis. No complications occurred during transfer. One death occurred that was related to failed reperfusion and cardiogenic shock. Minor access-site bleeding occurred in five patients. Fifteen patients were transferred back to their community hospitals within 24 h of PCI. There were no further deaths or reinfarctions at one-year follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Transfer of high-risk STEMI patients for urgent PCI within 6 h after thrombolysis appears feasible. The randomized trial phase of the Trial of Routine ANgioplasty and Stenting after Fibrinolysis to Enhance Reperfusion in Acute Myocardial Infarction (TRANSFER-AMI) will compare this strategy with standard treatment after thrombolysis.

Clinical response to adalimumab treatment in patients with moderate to severe psoriasis: Double-blind, randomized controlled trial and open-label extension study

BACKGROUND

Tumor necrosis factor is pivotal in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Adalimumab is a fully human monoclonal immunoglobulin G1 antibody that neutralizes tumor necrosis factor.

OBJECTIVES

We sought to assess the efficacy and safety of adalimumab in patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.

METHODS

In this multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 147 patients received adalimumab (40 mg every other week or 40 mg/wk) or placebo. After 12 weeks of blinded therapy, patients taking adalimumab could continue their assigned dosages in a 48-week extension trial; patients taking placebo were switched to adalimumab (40 mg every other week).

RESULTS

At week 12, 53% of patients taking adalimumab every other week, 80% of patients taking adalimumab weekly, and 4% of patients taking placebo achieved 75% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score (P < .001). Responses were sustained for 60 weeks. No new safety signals were noted compared with the existing adalimumab clinical safety database.

LIMITATIONS

The study was insufficiently powered to detect rare adverse events associated with adalimumab.

CONCLUSIONS

Adalimumab significantly improved psoriasis and was well tolerated for 60 weeks.

Non ST segment elevation acute coronary syndromes: A simplified risk-orientated algorithm

Non-ST segment elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTE ACS) include a clinical spectrum that ranges from unstable angina to NSTE myocardial infarction. Management goals aim to prevent recurrent ACS and improve long-term outcomes by choosing a treatment strategy according to an estimate of the risk of an adverse outcome. Recent registry data suggest that patients with NSTE ACS frequently do not receive recommended treatment, and that risk stratification is not used to determine either the choice of treatment or the speed of access to coronary angiography. The present article evaluates the evidence for recommended treatment using information from recent trials and guidelines published by the major cardiac organizations in Europe and North America. Using this information, a multidisciplinary group developed a simplified algorithm that uses risk stratification to select an optimal early management strategy. Long-term outcomes are improved by a multi-faceted vascular protection strategy that is initiated at the time of hospitalization for NSTE ACS.

Myocardial recovery using ventricular assist devices: prevalence, clinical characteristics, and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Ventricular assist devices (VADs) are important bridges to cardiac transplantation. VAD support may also function as a bridge to ventricular recovery (BTR); however, clinical predictors of recovery and long-term outcomes remain uncertain. We examined the prevalence, characteristics, and outcomes of BTR subjects in a large single center series.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We implanted VADs in 154 adults at the University of Pittsburgh from 1996 through 2003. Of these implants, 10 were BTR. This included 2/80 (2.5%) ischemic patients (supported 42 and 61 days, respectively). Both subjects had surgical revascularization, required perioperative left VAD support, and were alive and transplant-free at follow up (232 and 1319 days, respectively). A larger percentage of nonischemic patients underwent BTR (8/74, 11%; age 30+/-14; 88% female; left ventricular ejection fraction 18+/-6%; supported 112+/-76 days). Three had myocarditis, 4 had post-partum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), and 1 had idiopathic cardiomyopathy. Five received biventricular support. After explantation, ventricular function declined in 2 PPCM patients who then required transplantation. Ventricular recovery in the 6 nonischemic patients surviving transplant-free was maintained (left ventricular ejection fraction 54+/-5%; follow-up 1.5+/-0.9 years). Overall, 8 of 10 BTR patients are alive and free of transplant (follow-up 1.6+/-1.1 years).

CONCLUSIONS

In a large single center series, BTR was evident in 11% of nonischemic patients, and the need for biventricular support did not preclude recovery. For most BTR subjects presenting with acute inflammatory cardiomyopathy, ventricular recovery was maintained long-term. VAD support as BTR should be considered in the care of acute myocarditis and PPCM.

Scleromyxoedema: treatment of cutaneous and systemic manifestations with high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin

Scleromyxoedema is a rare disease characterized by cutaneous sclerosis, mucin deposition and paraproteinaemia. Internal disease is common, particularly musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal and central nervous system involvement. We report a series of three consecutive patients with scleromyxoedema treated with high-dose intravenous immunoglobulin (hdIVIg). Each of the three patients had relatively low levels of a highly basic IgG-lambda paraprotein, and each has demonstrated a sustained response of both their cutaneous and extracutaneous disease to hdIVIg. As all patients had perioral skin involvement and microstomia, one measure of cutaneous improvement was the increase in intraincisor distance. Extracutaneous manifestations of scleromyxoedema that improved included ureteral stricture, vocal strength and dysphagia.

A putative RUNX1 binding site variant between SLC9A3R1 and NAT9 is associated with susceptibility to psoriasis

Psoriasis (OMIM 177900) is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder of unknown pathogenesis affecting approximately 2% of the Western population. It occurs more frequently in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus, and 20-30% of individuals with psoriasis have psoriatic arthritis. Psoriasis is associated with HLA class I alleles, and previous linkage analysis by our group identified a second psoriasis locus at 17q24-q25 (PSORS2; ref. 7). Linkage to this locus was confirmed with independent family sets. Additional loci have also been proposed to be associated with psoriasis. Here we describe two peaks of strong association with psoriasis on chromosome 17q25 separated by 6 Mb. Associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the proximal peak lie in or near SLC9A3R1 (also called EBP50 and NHERF1) and NAT9, a new member of the N-acetyltransferase family. SLC9A3R1 is a PDZ domain-containing phosphoprotein that associates with members of the ezrin-radixin-moesin family and is implicated in diverse aspects of epithelial membrane biology and immune synapse formation in T cells. The distal peak of association is in RAPTOR (p150 target of rapamycin (TOR)-scaffold protein containing WD-repeats). Expression of SLC9A3R1 is highest in the uppermost stratum Malpighi of psoriatic and normal skin and in inactive versus active T cells. A disease-associated SNP lying between SLC9A3R1 and NAT9 leads to loss of RUNX1 binding. This is the second example of loss of a RUNX1 binding site associated with susceptibility to an autoimmune disease. It also suggests defective regulation of SLC9A3R1 or NAT9 by RUNX1 as a susceptibility factor for psoriasis.

Prognosis of endodontically treated teeth? Point

The success rate of a restored, endodontically treated tooth is of interest to the dentist and patient when planning the treatment of a tooth requiring endodontics. The reported success rate for nonsurgical root canal treatment is varied within the dental literature. An alternative measure is tooth survival. This will include other factors related to endodontic treatment that result in poorer tooth survival. An understanding of the survival of endodontically treated teeth compared with alternative treatment modalities, such as dental implants, will provide for a more informed treatment plan.

Incidence of cryptorchidism in dogs and cats

Over a period of 54 months, 3518 dogs and 3806 cats were castrated; 240 of the dogs and 50 of the cats were cryptorchid. Pedigree dogs, in particular the German shepherd dog, boxer and chihuahua were over-represented. Among the dogs, right-sided inguinal cryptorchidism was the most common form, followed by right-sided abdominal cryptorchidism. The location of the affected testicle(s) was most variable in the boxer. Among the cats, left- or right-sided inguinal cryptorchidism were the most common forms of the condition.

Template fabrication for a midpalatal orthodontic implant: technical note

An implant has been developed as an adjunct to conventional orthodontic anchorage. Planning is advisable to determine the available bone and soft tissue thickness and the optimum position for orthodontic utilization. A simple method is described for fabrication of a radiographic and surgical template to aid in optimal placement of the implant.