Tag: Medical Meetings

IAFNS Looks Ahead at 2nd Anniversary with Focus on Food, Nutrition, Transparency

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Newswise — Washington D.C. – The Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences (IAFNS) launched two years ago and saw both growth in new members and science productivity increase. In 2022 IAFNS supported 23 peer-reviewed scientific papers and hosted over 150 speakers at 37 events. IAFNS webinars reached over 11,000 nutritionists and food safety professionals in government, industry, academia and other stakeholder groups.

In 2022 IAFNS expanded public and private sector membership, embraced the next generation of scientists with Summer Research Opportunity Fellowships, and was cited in over 270 media outlets including the San Francisco Chronicle, Yahoo!, The PBS News Hour and Forbes. IAFNS Executive Director Dr. Wendelyn Jones published 10 Op-Eds on topics as diverse as leadership and core values, the Bioeconomy, data access, climate and corn pathogens, and heavy metals. This media coverage and thought leadership demonstrates IAFNS ongoing relevance and agility in the always dynamic food and beverage ecosystem.

IAFNS created new ways to meet future opportunities by hosting its second Science Innovation Showcase highlighting plant-based proteins, the FDA’s new “healthy” food definition and a session on Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) criteria. It featured timely presentations from start-up leaders and scientific experts and included dialogue sessions on Canadian front of pack labels and lively input from NGO stakeholder groups.

In 2022 IAFNS leaders doubled down on their core values of scientific integrity centered on transparency, collaboration and public benefit. The organization’s leadership in these areas has been recognized by securing a Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar at Candid – a recognition achieved by fewer than 1 percent of nonprofits. IAFNS-supported scientists also adhere to the TOP guidelines as a signatory to the Center for Open Science – demonstrating our active shepherding of this commitment.

According to IAFNS’ Dr. Wendelyn Jones, “This has been another banner year for actionable science that advances public health as evidenced by our output and recognition by external stakeholders. We’re pleased to report that 2022 brought a 20% increase in new supporting members to IAFNS as we continue to build our science-driven programs to support evidence-based decision-making by all sectors.”

Mark your calendars as we will be hosting the IAFNS Annual Summer Science Symposium on June 13 and 14 in Washington, D.C. The event is proving to be a unique gathering of scientific and regulatory experts where connections are made and collaborations are formed to drive positive change. More details to come here.

For more on how you can engage with IAFNS, follow us on LinkedIn, sign-up for our Science Briefs, and visit our events page to learn about upcoming nutrition and food safety presentations. Learn more about joining IAFNS here.

The Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences (IAFNS) is committed to leading positive change across the food and beverage ecosystem. IAFNS is a 501(c)(3) science-focused nonprofit uniquely positioned to mobilize government, industry and academia to drive, fund and lead actionable research. iafns.org

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February 16, 2023
10th Annual Regenerative Medicine Essentials Course and World Stem Cell Summit Return to Live with Virtual Option in 2023

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Newswise — WINSTON-SALEM, NC, February 9, 2023 – The Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine (WFIRM) and the Regenerative Medicine Foundation (RMF) have announced the 20^th edition of World Stem Cell Summit will be held in conjunction with the 10th annual Regenerative Medicine Essentials Course, uniquely formatted this year for both in person and virtual attendance from June 5-9, 2023.

Produced by the non-profit RMF, and in its 20th year, the World Stem Cell Summit is the most inclusive and expansive interdisciplinary, networking, and partnering meeting in the stem cell science and regenerative medicine field. With the overarching purpose of fostering translation of biomedical research, funding, and investments targeting cures, the Summit and co-located Course serve a diverse ecosystem of stakeholders and influencers.

From the science behind pioneering discoveries and clinical applications, to regulatory and manufacturing challenges, the Summit and the Course will provide a comprehensive look at progress to date, current challenges, new “hot” topics as well as future applications.

The World Stem Cell Summit is the educational and networking focal point for scientists, business leaders, regulators, policy-makers, patient advocates, economic development officers, experts in law and ethics, and visionary gurus from around the world since 2003. The Regenerative Medicine Essentials Course, taught by prominent experts, features a foundational instruction into the field of regenerative medicine, with examination on the structure and function of damaged tissues and organs.

Joint single-track programming for the Summit and the Course – the “official course” of RMF – will be held at Wake Forest locations in the Innovation Quarter located in downtown Winston-Salem. Course founder and WFIRM Director Anthony Atala, M.D., serves as co-director with Joan Schanck, MPA, WFIRM’s Chief Education Program Officer, and RMF Executive Director Bernard Siegel, JD.

“We welcome the World Stem Cell Summit and RMF’s partnership on this venture,” Atala said. “RMF and Bernard Siegel have provided critical leadership to the field for more than 20 years, as a catalyst for the formation of valuable collaborations, while focusing upon patient advocacy, public policy issues, advancing funding initiatives, workforce development and worldwide public awareness.”

According to Schanck, the program is designed for clinicians, researchers, technicians, students, industry, investors and government representatives. Topics include stem cells, biomaterials, cell therapies, clinical trials, regulatory matters, pathways to market, bio-manufacturing technologies and much more.

“The Summit and Course showcase the entire regenerative medicine ecosystem and will provide timely information to expand knowledge and provide quality solutions to deliver effective treatments and cures, sooner rather than later – all in a spirit of friendship and cooperation,” Siegel said. “In the next weeks, WFIRM and RMF will announce the strategic partners and institutions supporting this event that will reach a global audience.”

AlphaMed Press and Stem Cells Translational Medicine, the official journal partner of RMF, endorse the Course and the Summit.

For more information about the upcoming virtual World Stem Cell Summit, please visit: www.worldstemcellsummit.com. To receive the latest information about the RME schedule, speakers and topics, bookmark this page.

About Wake Forest Institute for Regenerative Medicine: WFIRM is recognized as an international leader in translating scientific discovery into clinical therapies, with many world firsts, including the development and implantation of the first engineered organ in a patient. Over 400 people at the institute, the largest in the world, work on more than 40 different tissues and organs. A number of the basic principles of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine were first developed at the institute. WFIRM researchers have successfully engineered replacement tissues and organs in all four categories – flat structures, tubular tissues, hollow organs and solid organs – and 16 different applications of cell/tissue therapy technologies, such as skin, urethras, cartilage, bladders, muscle, kidney, and vaginal organs, have been successfully used in human patients. The institute, which is part of Wake Forest School of Medicine, is located in the Innovation Quarter in downtown Winston-Salem, NC, and is driven by the urgent needs of patients. The institute is making a global difference in regenerative medicine through collaborations with over 400 entities and institutions worldwide, through its government, academic and industry partnerships, its start-up entities, and through major initiatives in breakthrough technologies, such as tissue engineering, cell therapies, diagnostics, drug discovery, biomanufacturing, nanotechnology, gene editing and 3D printing.

About RegenMed Development Organization: The mission of the RegenMed Development Organization (ReMDO) is to accelerate the discovery and translation of regenerative medicine therapies. ReMDO is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that manages a clinical translation initiative that includes thought leaders, representatives from leading US research centers, government representatives, and companies of all sizes. ReMDO conducts research to de-risk technologies and speed up their translation to clinical practice and to the global market. ReMDO manages the world’s first and only professional organization dedicated solely to advancing the regenerative medicine field, the Regenerative Medicine Manufacturing Society (RMMS), and the Regenerative Medicine Manufacturing Innovation Consortium (RegMIC), which manages a private-public partnership of industry and academic members focused on scaling up technologies.

About the World Stem Cell Summit: The World Stem Cell Summit is a project of the nonprofit Regenerative Medicine Foundation. Since 2003, Regenerative Medicine Foundation has built the strongest, most comprehensive and trusted global network for Regenerative Medicine, uniting the world’s leading researchers, medical centers, universities, labs, businesses, funders, policymakers, experts in law, regulation and ethics, medical philanthropies and patient organizations. Our mission is to accelerate regenerative medicine to improve health and deliver cures. We are committed to the ethical advancement of an innovative medicine powered by regenerative, restorative, and curative technologies. All we do is in service of health, life, and the alleviation of human suffering.

About the Regenerative Medicine Foundation: The nonprofit Regenerative Medicine Foundation fosters strategic collaborations to accelerate the development of regenerative medicine to improve health and deliver cures. RMF unites the world’s leading researchers, medical centers, universities, labs, businesses, funders, policymakers, experts in law, regulation and ethics, medical philanthropies, and patient organizations. We maintain a trusted network of leaders and pursue our mission by producing our flagship World Stem Cell Summit series of conferences and public days, honoring leaders through the Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Action Awards, supporting our official journal partner STEM CELLS Translational Medicine (SCTM), promoting solution-focused policy initiatives both nationally and internationally and creating STEM/STEAM educational projects. For more information about RMF, please visit: www.regmedfoundation.org.

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February 9, 2023
Glaucoma Research Foundation Hosts 12th Annual Glaucoma 360 New Horizons Forum in San Francisco

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Newswise — SAN FRANCISCO, CA – January 26, 2023: Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) will host the 12^th Annual Glaucoma 360 New Horizons Forum on February 3rd at San Francisco’s iconic Westin St. Francis Hotel.

Attracting nearly 400 participants annually, this unique gathering unites leaders in the field of glaucoma for a full day of informative presentations, inspiring discussions, and vital networking opportunities. Clinicians, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, venture capital financiers, FDA representatives, key opinion leaders, glaucoma patients — all meet, learn, share ideas, and collaborate at the only event of its kind, aimed at speeding the development of new therapies and diagnostics for glaucoma patients.

Glaucoma visionary Malik Kahook, MD, Chief of the Sue Anschutz-Rogers Eye Center at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, will deliver the Drs. Henry and Frederick Sutro Memorial Lecture, the Forum’s keynote address. Dr. Kahook will shed light on advances in sustained drug delivery that can help overcome barriers to care and empower clinicians with better ways to deliver needed therapy. The lecture, “Sustained Drug Delivery for Glaucoma: From Promise to Reality,” will cover current drug delivery mechanisms as well as new ways to deliver known therapeutics to targeted tissues.

In addition to Dr. Kahook, more than 50 speakers have been invited from companies and institutions across the US and around the world.

“We will once again feature early-stage companies and their new technologies and approaches to glaucoma care. The amount of innovation that is flourishing in the glaucoma space right now is phenomenal,” said Adrienne Graves, PhD, a Glaucoma Research Foundation board member, and event co-founder.

Dr. Graves added, “As a result, there are more therapeutic options than ever before to help patients. Glaucoma 360 is an important catalyst to bring all the important elements together that can advance a promising idea into clinical use.”

Andrew Iwach, MD, Glaucoma Research Foundation board chair and co-founder of Glaucoma 360 with Dr. Graves, believes New Horizons Forum offers exclusive rewards for clinicians and others willing to visit San Francisco for some in-person, immersive networking. “One of the most important things we can do for our patients is stay up to date on new and upcoming solutions,” he says. “At New Horizons and other Glaucoma 360 events, you can do that — and help usher in the next generation of care.”

Past participants say the New Horizons Forum is a not-to-be missed meeting of the minds — an outstanding blend of basic science, clinical insight, and industry perspective, all in a congenial atmosphere conducive to collaboration.

New Horizons Forum is the centerpiece of Glaucoma 360, GRF’s signature three-day series of events planned for February 2 to 4, 2023. Glaucoma 360 kicks off with the Annual Gala to benefit GRF’s research and patient education programs and will honor leaders in glaucoma research and the visionaries and catalysts who share Glaucoma Research Foundation’s mission to cure glaucoma and restore vision through innovative research.

Glaucoma 360 concludes with two continuing medical education symposia for ophthalmologists and optometrists. At the 27^th annual Glaucoma Symposium CME on February 4, the Shaffer-Hetherington-Hoskins Keynote Lecture will be presented by Mildred M.G. Oliver, MD, Senior Associate Dean at the University of Ponce, St. Louis, and will highlight the need for improved health equity in glaucoma.

About Glaucoma Research Foundation

Founded in San Francisco in 1978, Glaucoma Research Foundation is America’s oldest and most experienced institution dedicated to its mission to cure glaucoma and restore vision through innovative research. The Foundation has a proven track record of pioneering, results-oriented research and produces definitive educational materials used by eye care professionals across the country. The Glaucoma Research Foundation website, www.glaucoma.org, provides valuable information about glaucoma to 3 million visitors annually.

For more information about Glaucoma Research Foundation and Glaucoma 360 events, please contact, Brizette Castellanos at 415.986.3162, ext. 221 or [email protected] or visit www.glaucoma360.org.

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January 26, 2023
Immunotherapy with two novel drugs shows activity in colorectal cancer

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Newswise — BOSTON –A combination of two next-generation immunotherapy drugs has shown promising clinical activity in treating patients with refractory metastatic colorectal cancer, a disease which has not previously responded well to immunotherapies, according to a Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researcher.

The results of an expanded phase 1 trial of the two drugs, botensilimab and balstilimab, are to be presented at the ASCO Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium Jan. 19-21 in San Francisco. The study is led by Benjamin L. Schlechter, MD, a senior physician in the Gastrointestinal Cancer Treatment Center at Dana-Farber.

The trial included 70 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who had been previously treated with several lines of drugs, including immunotherapies. These patients all had tumors termed microsatellite stable, or MSS, meaning that their genes for repairing certain types of DNA damage were intact. MSS colorectal tumors account for the vast majority of colorectal cancers, and the first generation of immunotherapy drugs have had little effect on them. While immunotherapy has succeeded in microsatellite unstable (MSI) colorectal cancers, only about 3-5% advanced colorectal cancers are MSI and there are no approved immunotherapies for the far more common MSS colorectal cancers.

The two-drug combination being tested in the expanded phase 1a/1b trial of patients with metastatic MSS colorectal cancers were novel, next-generation antibodies. Botensilimab is an antibody directed against the T-cell receptor cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4, or CTLA-4, which is an immune checkpoint that regulates T-cell activation. Balstilimab is a novel monoclonal antibody designed to block PD-1 – another immune checkpoint protein – from interacting with PD-L1 and PD-L2. By inhibiting this interaction, balstilimab is aimed at freeing the immune system to attack cancers.

The patients in the trial were followed for a median of 7 months after receiving the drug combination. During that period, 23% of the patients had a reduction in the size of their tumors, and the median duration of response was not reached. The disease control rate – the percentage of patients with metastatic cancer who had a complete or partial response and stable disease – was 76%. The 12-month overall survival was 63%. The main population of patients who benefited from the combination were those who did not have active metastatic cancer in their liver.

Treatment-related adverse events occurred in 91% of patients, including grade 3 in 40% and grade 4 in 3%. Twelve percent of patients discontinued both drugs because of adverse events.

The researchers concluded that “in patients with heavily pretreated metastatic MSS colorectal cancer, botensilimab plus balstilimab continues to demonstrate promising clinical activity with durable response, and was well tolerated, with no new immune-mediated safety signals.”

“Harnessing the power of immune therapy in refractory colorectal cancer has been a key goal of multiple clinical trials in advanced colorectal cancer, but in MSS colorectal cancer efforts have been universally disappointing,” said Schlechter. “These data are a meaningful and important advance in the care of this very sick population.”

Based on these findings, a randomized phase 2 trial in patients with MSS colorectal cancer is currently enrolling.

Funding for this research comes from Agenus, Inc.

About Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute is one of the world’s leading centers of cancer research and treatment. Dana-Farber’s mission is to reduce the burden of cancer through scientific inquiry, clinical care, education, community engagement, and advocacy. Dana-Farber is a federally designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School.

We provide the latest treatments in cancer for adults through Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center and for children through Dana-Farber/Boston Children’s Cancer and Blood Disorders Center. Dana-Farber is the only hospital nationwide with a top 5 U.S. News & World Report Best Cancer Hospital ranking in both adult and pediatric care.

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January 21, 2023
Novel Drug Shows Early Promise in Treating Multiple Myeloma

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Newswise — NEW ORLEANS – A first-of-its-kind drug known as modakafusp alfa has shown early potential in combating multiple myeloma, a form of bone marrow cancer, in a study presented by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania’s Abramson Cancer Center at the 2022 American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting (Abstract 565).

Patients in the Phase I/II multicenter trial (NCT03215030) receiving 1.5 milligrams of modakafusp every four weeks, 43 percent saw a partial response, or a decrease in their cancer by over 50 percent. Patients enrolled in the study had received at least three prior lines of treatment and had their disease relapsed or stopped responding following the previous therapy.

“We are excited by these findings and continue to be optimistic about the potential this treatment holds for patients with multiple myeloma,” said presenting author Dan Vogl, MD, an expert in blood cancers, medical director of the Clinical Research Unit at Penn Medicine’s Abramson Cancer Center, and an associate professor of Hematology-Oncology at the Perelman School of Medicine of the University of Pennsylvania. “We have been working with this new medication at Penn since we gave it to the first patient ever to receive it five years ago. We now see that a substantial number of patients benefit from modakafusp as a single agent, including patients whose myeloma has become resistant to other treatments, which is really impressive.”

Modakafusp (developed by Takeda Pharmaceuticals) is fusion protein that targets interferon (a pro-inflammatory hormone that is also used for treating viral infections and other cancers) to cells that have CD38, a surface marker present on myeloma cells and a variety of immune cells.

According to the American Cancer Society, about 12,640 deaths from multiple myeloma are expected to occur in the U.S. in 2022. The cancer is uncommon, affecting less than 1 percent of the population. Myeloma is currently not curable, and despite advances in treatment, all patients see their cancers relapse after initial treatment and other early lines of therapy. In this trial, modakafusp made a positive difference in people for whom drugs aimed at the same target, including well-established monoclonal antibodies like daratumumab and isatuximab, were no longer effective.

Preliminary results from the study were presented during the 2021 ASH Annual Meeting. The final safety and efficacy results presented this year confirm the drug has a manageable side effects and produces strong anti-myeloma responses.

“Modakafusp has a truly novel mechanism of action, delivering a hormonal signal directly to target cells that simultaneously is toxic to cancer cells while stimulating an immune response. We saw responses in patients whose cancer did not respond to or who experienced a relapse after receiving the anti-CD38 antibody drugs that are currently on the market,” Vogl said. “We also saw responses in patients whose myeloma had developed resistance to all currently available effective therapies.”

Most patients (87 percent) on the study experienced treatment-related adverse events, as expected for this heavily pre-treated population. The most common side effects among study participants included neutropenia, or a decrease in white blood cells and thrombocytopenia, or low blood platelet count; and about one third of patients had mild reactions after infusion of the medication.

Vogl and his colleagues are now enrolling patients in a randomized phase II study, which is designed to identify the optimal dose of modakafusp and provide more information about its effectiveness in people with myeloma.

The study was sponsored by Takeda Pharmaceuticals.

Editor’s note: Vogl has received consulting fees from Takeda.

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Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania

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December 11, 2022
Investigators Develop Model to Predict Overall Survival in Adults Diagnosed with Advanced Stage Hodgkin Lymphoma

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********** UNDER EMBARGO UNTIL Saturday, December 10 at 5:10 PM EST (4:10 PM CST) ***********

Newswise — New Brunswick, NJ and Boston, MA, December 10, 2022 – Investigators from Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey, the state’s only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and leading cancer program along with Tufts Medical Center in Boston, developed and validated the Advanced-stage Hodgkin lymphoma International Prognostication Index (A-HIPI). A-HIPI is a state-of-the-art clinical decision model to predict five-year progression-free and overall survival in adults with advanced-stage classic Hodgkin lymphoma using comprehensive individual patient data from international clinical trials and large prospective cancer registries. To enhance the use of A-HIPI, the team developed an online calculator to assist clinicians and patients in estimating individualized prognosis. This work was published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology (DOI: https://ascopubs.org/doi/full/10.1200/JCO.22.02473) simultaneously with an oral abstract presentation at the 2022 American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition.

For the last 25 years, the International Prognostic Score (IPS) has been the most commonly used risk stratification tool for patients with advanced Hodgkin lymphoma, however, more modern tools to help inform individualized treatment and promote personalized cancer care are needed. Significant debate remains about the optimal treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma patients in the modern era, in part as its treatment comes at human cost, including an increased risk of treatment-related late effects like secondary malignant neoplasms and cardiovascular disease, compromised health-related quality of life, and the potential loss of young lives.

A-HIPI is the inaugural work of the HoLISTIC project (Hodgkin Lymphoma International Study for Individual Care), building on detailed multi-source individual patient data from more than 15,000 Hodgkin lymphoma patients. A-HIPI development was performed on eight recent seminal phase 3 clinical trials conducted around the world. External validation was performed from contemporaneously treated patients in four “real-world” Hodgkin lymphoma registries across North America and Australia.

HoLISTIC is spearheaded by Andrew M. Evens, DO, MBA, MSc, associate director for clinical services at Rutgers Cancer Institute and system director of medical oncology and oncology lead, RWJBarnabas Health and Susan K. Parsons, MD, MRP, medical director of the adolescent and young adult (AYA) program and research director of the Center for Health Solutions at Tufts Medical Center, who are co-principal investigators on the work.

“Through continued collaboration with worldwide Hodgkin lymphoma clinical experts, decision scientists, statisticians, epidemiologists, and patient advocates, we’re one step closer to improving individualized prognostication and enhancing personalized medicine for Hodgkin lymphoma patients across all ages and disease stages,” notes Dr. Evens, who is also a professor of medicine at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, vice chancellor of clinical innovation and data analytics at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences. “Through HoLISTIC, we will continue to develop innovative and evidence-based decision support models to guide Hodgkin lymphoma patients and their families and healthcare providers.”

“The A-HIPI model is an exciting first step for the HoLISTIC Consortium,” notes Dr. Parsons, who is also professor of medicine and pediatrics at Tufts University School of Medicine. “The next phase of the project will be significant, as we will extend the rigorous clinical modeling methodology to early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma and relapsed/refractory disease. We will also explore the impact of treatment selection and integrate PET imaging results and important biologic factors into the model.” The investigators plan to synthesize all of this information into a comprehensive and robust clinical decision model that estimates the likelihood of cure, life expectancy, post-acute and late effects, and quality-adjusted life expectancy for individual patients across varied treatment options.

The dynamic and interactive decision support models generated by the HoLISTIC Consortium will guide individual patients and clinicians during initial diagnosis, relapse, and through survivorship in addition to serving as a strong basis for future health outcomes analyses, including patient preference and cost of care. The authors note limitations of the study include a lack of data in adults older than 65 who were treated in the clinical trials utilized for model development. Efforts are underway to identify other sources of information on older adults, as well as younger patients (adolescents and young adults), who are also often less represented in adult clinical trials.

This work was presented as an oral presentation at the 2022 American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition and is supported in part by a National Cancer Institute Grant (R01CA262265). Author acknowledgements, disclosures and other information can be found here.

About Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey As New Jersey’s only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Rutgers Cancer Institute, together with RWJBarnabas Health, offers the most advanced cancer treatment options including bone marrow transplantation, proton therapy, CAR T-cell therapy and complex surgical procedures. Along with clinical trials and novel therapeutics such as precision medicine and immunotherapy – many of which are not widely available – patients have access to these cutting-edge therapies at Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey in New Brunswick, Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey at University Hospital in Newark, as well as through RWJBarnabas Health facilities. To make a tax-deductible gift to support Rutgers Cancer Institute, call 848-932-8013 or visit www.cinj.org/giving.

About Tufts Medicine and Tufts Medical Center Tufts Medicine is the parent organization of Tufts Medical Center, a world renowned 415-bed academic medical center in Boston that cares for the sickest patients in the region, includes a level one trauma center and one of the largest heart transplant centers in New England, and also serves as the principal teaching hospital for Tufts University School of Medicine. Tufts Medicine is also the parent organization of Lowell General Hospital, MelroseWakefield Healthcare, an expansive home care and hospice network, and a large clinically integrated physician network that cares for more than one million patients per year. The health system is dedicated to providing patients with the highest quality of care as close to home as possible. 

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For patient appointments/inquiries – contact: 844-CANCERNJ (844-226-2376)

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Rutgers Cancer Institute of New Jersey

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December 10, 2022
Penn Medicine Researchers Present Advance in Re-Treatment with CAR T Therapy

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Newswise — NEW ORLEANS – Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania’s Abramson Cancer Center presented preliminary results of an ongoing Phase I clinical trial demonstrating successful re-treatment with CAR T cell therapy for patients whose cancers relapsed after previous CAR T therapy at the 2022 American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting (Abstract 2016).

CAR T therapies have revolutionized blood cancer treatment over the last decade, providing hope for patients who have run out of conventional treatment options, but patients whose cancers return or stop responding to CAR T therapy have limited options for further treatment.

The first-in-human study (NCT04684563) evaluated a novel fourth-generation CAR T therapy in patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) who had previously received CAR T therapy that failed to stop their cancer. The study is the first clinical trial in the United States with anti-CD19 CAR T cells secreting interleukin 18 (IL 18). The early results show this combination approach is safe and did not result in new or increased side effects compared to other commercially available CAR T therapies.

Senior author and CAR T pioneer Carl June, MD, led the preclinical research that demonstrated IL18 could enhance CAR T activity. “We designed an ‘armored’ CAR that secretes IL18 and tested it in mice, where we found it to have potent antitumor efficacy in our preclinical studies,” said June, who is the Richard W. Vague Professor in Immunotherapy in the department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine in the Perelman School of Medicine and director of the Center for Cellular Immunotherapies at Penn’s Abramson Cancer Center.

Among the first seven patients who received huCART19-IL18 – including those who previously did not respond to or relapsed following treatment with commercial CAR T cell therapies – all responded to the therapy (four patients had a complete response and three patients had a partial response). None of the four patients whose cancers completely responded to treatment at month three have seen their disease return, and all patients are alive at a median follow-up of eight months.

“Patients whose cancers don’t respond or become refractory to CAR T therapy tend to have poor outcomes, so we are very motivated to find new options for them,” said lead author Jakub Svoboda, MD, an associate professor of Hematology-Oncology at Penn. “Although these are preliminary results, it’s encouraging to see how well these patients have done. Our team at Penn is very excited about this ongoing project and these early results continue to motivate us.”

The study enrolled patients with CD19+ relapsed/refractory NHL or chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), who had received at least two lines of therapy, including CAR T therapy. The study is continuing to increase the dose of huCART19-IL18 and will enroll patients one at a time until the appropriate dose is determined.

Toxicities related to huCART19-IL18 were temporary and similar to those which have been observed with other CAR T products. Cytokine release syndrome occurred in four patients and neurotoxicity occurred in two patients. No grade four adverse events or study-related deaths have occurred.

Notably, with a three-day manufacturing time, huCART19-IL18 can be ready to administer more quickly than CAR T products with the typical manufacturing time of nine to 14 days, which is especially important for patients with aggressive, fast-growing disease. A previous, preclinical study found the shortened manufacturing time also may enhance the potency of the T cells.

Svoboda will present the abstract in a poster session on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. CT in Hall D.

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December 10, 2022
Fred Hutch at ASH: Global insights on AML outcomes, COVID-19 and cancer, CD19 CAR T-cell therapy updates, latest on precision oncology — and more

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Newswise — SEATTLE — Dec. 1, 2022 — The 64th Annual Meeting and Exposition of the American Society of Hematology (ASH) will take place virtually and in person Dec. 10-13 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Below are highlights of Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center research to be presented, and you can follow Fred Hutch updates on Twitter #ASH22. You can also check out Fred Hutch’s booth 2622 in the exhibit hall.

This year’s ASH press program highlights work below by Fred Hutch:

Poster presentation: An analysis of the worldwide utilization of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for acute myeloid leukemia Abstract: 3638 Presenter: Molly Tokaz Other Fred Hutch authors: Andrew Cowan and Mary-Beth Percival Sunday, Dec. 11, 6 p.m.

A global study of use of transplantation for acute myeloid leukemia led by Fred Hutch fellow Dr. Molly Tokaz will be featured in a Dec. 7 virtual-only ASH briefing, “Building Solutions to Challenges in Health Equity.”

Late-breaking session: Zanubrutinib demonstrates superior progression-free survival (PFS) compared with ibrutinib for treatment of relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia and small lymphocytic lymphoma (R/R CLL/SLL): Results from final analysis of ALPINE randomized phase 3 study Abstract: LBA-6 Senior author: Mazyar Shadman (On Twitter: @mshadman) Tuesday, Dec. 13, 8:30 a.m.

A Dec. 12 media briefing on late-breaking abstracts will include an abstract co-authored by Fred Hutch’s Dr. Mazyar Shadman, a chronic lymphocytic leukemia and lymphoma physician-investigator. The abstract gives an update on a clinical trial assessing a next-generation Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitor.

Also on the press program, Dr. Stephanie Lee, former president of ASH, will moderate the Dec. 10 briefing “New Drugs, New Targets.” Dr. Lee is a transplant physician-scientist and expert in chronic graft-vs.-host-disease and holds the David and Patricia Giuliani/Oliver Press Endowed Chair in Cancer Research at Fred Hutch.

Learn more in the ASH Annual Meeting press program.

Poster presentation: Timing of PD-L1 Blockade with Durvalumab May Affect Outcomes of CD19 CAR-T Cell Therapy for Relapsed/Refractory Large B-Cell Lymphoma Abstract: 3316 Presenter: Alexandre Hirayama (On Twitter: @xanira) Sunday, Dec. 11, 6 p.m.

Adding checkpoint blockades may make CAR T-cell therapy more effective against blood cancers, but combination trial results so far have been disappointing. This clinical trial evaluates the importance of timing of the therapies.

Poster presentation: CAR T-cell therapy for relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma using a fully human CD10-targeted single chain variable fragment: Results of a first-in-human phase I/II study Abstract: 4654 Presenter: Nicolas Gazeau (On Twitter: @NGazeau14) Monday, Dec. 12, 6 p.m.

CAR T-cell therapies targeting the marker CD19 on cancer cells achieve high response rates in patients with relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma, but durable responses are only achieved in 30-40% of patients. Based on clinical evidence showing lack of a durable response linked to a mouse-based component of the engineered cell, a phase I/II clinical trial is evaluating the effectiveness of the CAR T rebuilt with a human-based component instead.

Poster presentation: 3-Year follow-up analysis of ZUMA-5: a Phase 2 study of axicabtagene ciloleucel (Axi-Cel) in patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) indolent non-hodgkin lymphoma (iNHL)

Abstract: 4660 Co-author: David Maloney Monday Dec. 12, 6 p.m.

This is a 3-year follow-up of the ZUMA-5 study, which shows that the CAR T-cell therapy called axi-cel demonstrated continued durable responses in patients with relapsed/refractory indolent non-hodgkin’s lymphoma (R/R iNHL) with improved survival observed in patients with marginal zone lymphoma. Late progression or death due to lymphoma or study treatment were uncommon and no new safety signals arose since the 2-year analysis. The research team also looked at biomarkers related to outcomes and found that preinfusion immunosuppressive Treg-related biomarkers were associated with relapse in patients with follicular lymphoma.

Poster presentation: Circulating tumor DNA in untreated classical hodgkin lymphoma patients treated with pembrolizumab and chemotherapy: Dynamic response assessment and correlation with baseline metabolic tumor volume

Abstract: 2913 Presenter: Ryan Lynch Sunday, Dec. 11, 6 p.m.

This abstract presents updated results of a Fred Hutch single-center investigator-initiated clinical trial of the checkpoint inhibitor called pembrolizumab plus a chemotherapy for untreated classical Hodgkin lymphoma. The researchers continued to demonstrate a favorable safety profile with excellent efficacy (median follow up of 2.1 years, 2-year progression free survival of 97%). They also present new correlative data with circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for detection of minimal residual disease. It is possible that immunotherapy combinations may be associated with increased rates of uptake of residual F-fluorodeoxyglucose, which is a nonspecific imaging agent, and the team found that many of these patients have not had their cancer come back even several years later. In contrast, ctDNA was able to identify the lack of ctDNA clearance in the only patient who has relapsed today despite favorable initial PET scans. These findings indicate that ctDNA may represent a more sensitive and specific response assessment tool to be studied in larger datasets.

Oral presentation: Self-reported experiences of adult hematopoietic cell transplantation survivors with COVID-19 vaccination and infection Abstract: 378 Presenter: Emily Liang (On Twitter: @emilyliangmd) Saturday, Dec. 10, 5:15 p.m.

In a report of about 1700 stem cell transplant survivors, Fred Hutch clinicians found that vaccinated patients and their household contacts had a lower rate of COVID-19 infection compared with unvaccinated individuals (patients: 6% vs 68%, or 10-fold lower rate of infection; household contacts: 10% vs 46%, or 4-fold lower rate of infection) and were more likely to take additional safety precautions including masking and social distancing. The Fred Hutch team hopes the findings encourage others to receive the COVID-19 vaccination given the protective effect of vaccination and low rates of vaccine-related side effects.

Poster presentation: A risk model for CML patients with COVID-19: Importance of molecular response in the context of age, comorbidities and country income Abstract: 4327 Presenter: Jerry Radich Monday, Dec. 12, 6 p.m.

Researchers on the iCMLf CANDID study, a collaboration of 157 centers from 58 countries and with nearly 700 chronic myeloid leukemia patients participating, are looking for risk factors to predict which people with chronic myeloid leukemia are more likely to suffer worse outcomes from COVID-19. Dr. Jerry Radich, who holds the Kurt Enslein Endowed Chair at Fred Hutch, will report on the group’s findings, which show that age, molecular aspects of an individual’s CML, comorbidities and wealth of countries impact COVID-19 outcomes in CML patients.

Oral presentation: Anti-leukemic activity of STRO-002 a novel folate receptor-α (FR-α)-targeting ADC in relapsed/refractory CBF2AT3-GLIS2 AML Abstract: 66 Presenter: Soheil Meshinchi Saturday, Dec. 10, 10:45 a..m.

Acute myeloid leukemia remains one of the most difficult to treat pediatric cancers. Physician-scientist Dr. Soheil Meshinchi has led efforts to characterize the biology of this cancer in young patients and to identify targeted treatments that best suit their specific disease. At ASH, he will give an update on one such treatment, which was tested as part of Project Stella at Fred Hutch. His hope is that with detailed molecular testing of each patient followed by a targeted therapy, that children with the disease will go on to live long and healthy lives.

Poster presentation: Umbrella trial in myeloid malignancies: The myeloMATCH national clinical trials network precision medicine initiative Abstract: 4080 Co-author: Jerry Radich Monday, Dec. 12, 6 p.m.

Fred Hutch is part of an initiative led by the National Cancer Institute to help people newly diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndromes to have a rapid (less than 3 days) testing of the clinical and molecular makeup of their disease and then be matched with treatment trials with promising therapeutic combinations. Fred Hutch, under the leadership of Dr. Jerry Radich, has been chosen to coordinate and perform the diagnostic and monitoring aspects of this nationwide initiative.

Oral session: Allogeneic transplantation: Acute and chronic GVHD, immune reconstitution: Clinical studies exploring the immunobiology of HCT Abstract: 722 Moderator: Kate Markey (On Twitter: @katemarkey) Saturday, Dec. 10, 9:30 a.m.

New insights – bolstered by emerging technological breakthroughs – on how the immune system recovers following transplantation are increasing our understanding of post-transplant complications like graft-versus-host disease. Fred Hutch’s Dr. Kate Markey, a physician-scientist and expert on how the microbiome affects recovery from transplantation, will moderate this session that includes clinical data from groups exploring T cell recovery after transplantation and clinical reports.

Poster presentation: HSCs engraft in a stochastic pattern and form clonal pools following transplantation Abstract: 2527 Presenter: Stefan Radtke Sunday, Dec. 11, 6 p.m.

Previous Fred Hutch studies discovered a subtype of hematopoietic stem cells that give rise to all other cells in the blood and immune systems, which could be a powerful therapeutic target. But because the cells are so rare, they’ve been difficult to study. Findings in this poster used a new type of bar coding to track individual cells and reveal some of the cellular dynamics that underlie their regenerative abilities.

Poster presentation: Clinical and functional implications of MYC variants as a new class of pathogenic variants in AML Abstract: 1472 Presenter: Danielle Kirkey Saturday, Dec. 10, 5:30 p.m.

Understanding the underlying genetics of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia can help determine how best to treat this difficult to treat disease. One of the genetic players is MYC, an oncogene involved in a majority of human cancers. In this work, Fred Hutch researchers defined the presence of different MYC variants and found that some occur in about 3.5% of pediatric patients with AML. The team did additional analyses to link MYC variants with other previously known high-risk features of AML and found those associations to be linked to clinical outcomes, which will allow for more nuanced stratification of a patient’s risk and will help determine optimal treatment regimens.

Oral presentation: Treatment patterns and outcomes of patients with primary or secondary acute myeloid leukemia by type of site (academic or community government): A CONNECT® Myeloid Registry Study

Abstract: 4023 Presenter: Bart Scott Monday, Dec 12, 6 p.m.

This research was conducted to better understand management of secondary acute myeloid leukemias (SAML), which is a type of blood cancer that starts in white blood cells that grow in the bone marrow, often affecting people who have one of these blood cell diseases: myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), myeloproliferative disorder (MPD) and aplastic anemia. The Fred Hutch team evaluated treatment patterns and outcomes in patients enrolled in the CONNECT® Myeloid Disease Registry. The findings indicate that outcomes for patients with AML in the registry are consistent with previously reported outcomes. This analysis suggests that contrary to commonly held perceptions, site of care does not affect overall patient outcomes. The clinically meaningful increase in overall survival in patients receiving an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant, regardless of primary or secondary AML further emphasizes the importance of providing patients with the opportunity for transplant.

Poster presentation: Clinical outcome and treatment-related mortality in patients with acute myeloid leukemia treated at the Uganda Cancer Institute

Abstract: 4031 Presenter: Clement Dove Okello Co-author: Soheil Meshinchi Monday, Dec 12, 6 p.m.

A retrospective review of acute myeloid leukemia outcomes at the Uganda Cancer Institute examined factors associated with treatment-related mortality. Treatment of AML is similar across countries, but treatment-related mortality is significantly greater in low-income countries compared with high-income countries. This study by UCI and Fred Hutch researchers examined factors that could be contributing to greater mortality, in hopes of improving outcomes. Through the UCI-Fred Hutch Collaboration, Dr. Soheil Meshinchi, a Fred Hutch expert in AML, advised on the project.

Poster presentation: Revised prognostic index for patients with acute myeloid leukemia and other high-grade myeloid neoplasms in first relapse

Abstract: 1385 Presenter: Noam E. Kopmar Saturday, Dec 10, 5:30 p.m.

Though many patients with acute myeloid leukemia will achieve a first complete remission, most patients will relapse. Fred Hutch researchers looked at predictors of relapse and examined methods to create an improved risk stratification model that will better predict likelihood of a second complete remission and overall survival after relapse. Through a better understanding of prognosis, providers may improve their ability to determine the optimal treatment approach and also better inform the counseling provided to patients regarding prognosis.

Poster presentation: Prognostic significance of chromosomal genomic array testing in adults with newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Abstract: 4145 Presenter: Noam E. Kopmar Saturday, Dec 12, 6 p.m.

This project led by members of the acute leukemia and myeloid malignancies research group at Fred Hutch is aimed at improving prognostic capabilities at the time of either a new diagnosis or at the time of first relapse, correlating chromosomal genomic array testing results with key demographic and outcomes data. Having a better understanding of prognosis may improve the ability of providers to determine the optimal treatment approach and also better inform the counseling that is provided to patients regarding prognosis.

The disease-killing T cells of the immune system develop their capabilities in a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the chest called the thymus. The thymus can regenerate to keep its immune function strong, but it wears out from stress, infection and aging. At ASH, Fred Hutch researchers will report their latest findings on how to repair the thymus:

Oral presentation: Interleukin-18 suppresses regeneration of the thymus

Abstract: 483 Presenter: David Granadier Co-author Jarrod Dudakov (On Twitter: @Dudakov_Lab) Monday, Dec 12, 4:30 p.m.

Research by graduate student David Granadier in Dr. Jarrod Dudakov’s lab implicates the cytokine IL-18 in regulating the ability of the thymus to repair itself. This presentation will these latest insights. More on the signaling pathways involved in thymic regeneration and their implications for therapeutics in a Fred Hutch news story.

Poster presentation: The zinc-sensing receptor GPR39 is a master regulator of immune reconstitution after bone marrow transplant in the thymus and in the bone marrow

Abstract: 4581 Presenter: Lorenzo Iovino Co-author Jarrod Dudakov (On Twitter: @Dudakov_Lab) Monday, Dec 12, 6 p.m.

Zinc is well-known for its immune-boosting properties, and recently Dr. Lorenzo Iovino in Dudakov’s lab at Fred Hutch revealed how zinc supports immune function through the thymus. Iovino will give an update on the work and how it could be used to improve treatments for cancer patients.

Note: Fred Hutch and the scientists who contributed to these discoveries may stand to benefit from their future commercialization.

The clinical trials referenced above involve investigational products and/or therapies that have not been approved for commercial marketing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or any other regulatory authority. Results may vary and encouraging results from early stage clinical trials may not be supported in later stage clinical trials. No conclusions should be drawn from the information in this report about the safety, efficacy, or likelihood of regulatory approval of these investigational products and/or therapies.

# # #

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center unites comprehensive care and advanced research to provide the latest cancer treatment options and accelerate discoveries that prevent, treat and defeat cancer and infectious diseases worldwide.

Based in Seattle, Fred Hutch is an independent, nonprofit organization and the only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center in Washington. We have earned a global reputation for our track record of discoveries in cancer, infectious disease and basic research, including important advances in bone marrow transplantation, HIV/AIDS prevention, immunotherapy and COVID-19 vaccines. Fred Hutch operates eight clinical care sites that provide medical oncology, infusion, radiation, proton therapy and related services and has network affiliations with hospitals in four states. Fred Hutch also serves as UW Medicine’s cancer program.

Please note that our organization was renamed Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in April 2022, following the merger of long-time partners, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center and Seattle Cancer Care Alliance.

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December 2, 2022
Mark Your Calendars for the 2023 AANEM Annual Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona

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Newswise — Rochester, Minn. (November 18, 2022)- American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM) is excited to announce the 2023 AANEM Annual Meeting, which will be held in Phoenix, Arizona, at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge from Wednesday, November 1 to Saturday, November 4, 2023. Association President, Robert W. Irwin, MD, has chosen the plenary topic to be: Disability and NMDs: The Whole Enchilada. The AANEM Annual Meeting offers valuable in-person sessions, hands on workshops, and social events, as well as the option to participate virtually. The meeting provides opportunities for physicians, technologists, and other healthcare professionals to learn about the latest in neuromuscular, musculoskeletal, electrodiagnostic, and neuromuscular ultrasound; earn CME/CEUs; and network with colleagues from around the world. “My favorite part of the AANEM Annual Meeting is everything,” said Pushpa Narayanaswami, MD, AANEM Board of Directors member, and longtime AANEM member. “It’s a combination of a feast of learning, camaraderie, and friendship. It’s one of my favorite times of the year and a meeting I never miss.” AANEM hosted their 2017 annual meeting at the JW Marriot Desert Ridge in Phoenix, Arizona, and is looking forward to going back. “We’re excited to be back in Arizona,” said AANEM Executive Director, Shirlyn Adkins, JD. “It’s always nice when our staff knows the layout of the conference space before we invite folks to attend. It ultimately creates a more seamless experience for the meeting attendees and an overall better experience for all.” About American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM) Based in Rochester, MN, AANEM is the premier nonprofit membership association dedicated to the advancement of neuromuscular (NM), musculoskeletal, and electrodiagnostic (EDX) medicine. The organization and its members work to improve the quality of patient care and advance the science of NM diseases and EDX medicine by serving physicians and allied health professionals who care for those with muscle and nerve disorders. For more information about AANEM, visit aanem.org or Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube. ###

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November 19, 2022
Sharpen Your Ultrasound & EMG Skills at AANEM’s 2023 UltraEMG

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Newswise — Rochester, Minn. (Nov. 17, 2022) – The American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM) is excited to announce the 2023 UltraEMG meeting, which will be held February 14-17, 2023, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, at Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel. Participants will enhance their knowledge of ultrasound (US) and electromyography (EMG) at this exceptional event through front row, hands-on experiences. One of the main objectives of the meeting is to review the fundamentals of EDX medicine techniques. Expert faculty will be led by Course Director, Jeffrey A. Strakowski, MD, and include Katharine E. Alter, MD; Michael Cartwright, MD; Albert C. Clairmont, MBBS; Jon A. Jacobson, MD; William S. Pease, MD; Lawrence R. Robinson, MD; Devon I. Rubin, MD; Erik V. Stålberg, MD, PhD; and Francis O. Walker, MD. “UltraEMG has fantastic faculty that work in a close setting with attendees. There is a lot of hands-on learning, and the faculty are always open to discussing questions and working through difficult scenarios,” said 2023 UltraEMG faculty member and ABEM NMUS CAQ Examination Committee Chair, Michael Cartwright, MD. “Attending the meeting is a great resource for those in practice, or about to start their practice, because it is very practical and provides approaches for real-life frequently encountered cases.” Due to the limited number of attendees, UltraEMG is only open to MDs, DOs, or international equivalents. If you have any questions regarding 2023 UltraEMG, please contact the AANEM office by emailing [email protected] About American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine (AANEM) Based in Rochester, MN, AANEM is the premier nonprofit membership association dedicated to the advancement of neuromuscular (NM), musculoskeletal, and electrodiagnostic (EDX) medicine. The organization and its members work to improve the quality of patient care and advance the science of NM diseases and EDX medicine by serving physicians and allied health professionals who care for those with muscle and nerve disorders. For more information about AANEM, visit aanem.org or Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube. ###

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November 19, 2022
Kathleen May Installed as ACAAI President

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Newswise — LOUISVILLE, KY (November 13, 2022) – Allergist Kathleen May, MD, of Augusta, GA was installed as president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) at the ACAAI Annual Scientific Meeting on November 14 in Louisville, KY. Allergist Gailen Marshall, MD, PhD, of Jackson, MS, was elected ACAAI president-elect.

Other newly elected ACAAI officers are James Tracy, DO, Omaha, NE, vice president; and Cherie Zachary, MD, Eagan, MN as treasurer. Regents elected for three-year terms include Jeremy Katcher, MD, St. Louis, MO; Travis Miller, MD, Roseville, CA; and Meagan Shepherd, MD, Huntington, WV.

Dr. Kathleen May is Division Chief of Allergy-Immunology and Pediatric Rheumatology at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, the Betty B. Wray MD Distinguished Chair in Pediatrics, Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine, and serves as the Program Director for the Allergy-Immunology Fellowship Program. Before embarking on her teaching career in 2017 to contribute to the future of the specialty, she was in private practice for more than 20 years at Allegany Allergy and Asthma in Western Maryland.

After earning her medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University in Rootstown, Ohio, Dr. May completed her residency at East Carolina University School of Medicine in Greenville, North Carolina. She completed a fellowship in allergy and immunology at the National Jewish Research Center at the University of Colorado in Denver.

Dr. May serves on the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology’s Board of Regents, the Executive Committee, Budget/Finance Committee, Annual Meeting Program Committee, Publications Committee, and The Allergists’ Foundation Board. She is on the FIT Bowl Subcommittee, the Program Directors Committee, and the Women in Allergy Award Committee. Dr. May has been honored with the ACAAI Distinguished Fellow, Distinguished Service, and Woman in Allergy Awards. She is a past Chair (2018) of the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI), on its Board of Directors 2014-2020. She is a member of the ACGME Allergy-Immunology Review Committee (2020-2026), and serves as committee Vice Chair.

Dr. Gailen Marshall serves as the R. Faser Triplett, Sr., MD, Chair of Allergy and Immunology, Professor of Medicine, Pediatrics and Pathology, Vice Chair for Research, Director of the Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy and Chief of the Laboratory of Behavioral Immunology Research at University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC). He has been at UMMC in Jackson since 2004.

Dr. Marshall earned both a PhD in Immunology (1979) and his MD (1984) from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. He did internal medicine training at the University of Iowa and completed his residency, chief residency and allergy-immunology fellowship at the University of Tennessee at Memphis.

Dr. Marshall served the publication mission for the College for 21 years. He was a member of the Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (Annals) editorial board from 2000-04 and a member of the editorial board for AllergyWatch from 2002-05. He was appointed associate editor of the Annals in 2005 and became editor-in-chief (EIC) in 2006. He served as editor-in-chief through 2021. Dr. Marshall received the ACAAI Distinguished Service award and was recognized as a Distinguished Fellow of the College in 2009.

For more information about allergies and asthma, or to find an allergist in your area, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. The ACAAI Virtual Annual Meeting is Nov. 13-15. For more news and research from the ACAAI Scientific Meeting, go to our newsroom – and follow the conversation on Twitter #ACAAI22.

About ACAAI

The ACAAI is a professional medical organization of more than 6,000 allergists-immunologists and allied health professionals, headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill. The College fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy, and research. ACAAI allergists are board-certified physicians trained to diagnose allergies and asthma, administer immunotherapy, and provide patients with the best treatment outcomes. For more information and to find relief, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. Join us on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter.

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November 13, 2022
Kathleen May fue designada como presidenta del ACAAI

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Newswise — LOUISVILLE, KY (13 de noviembre de 2022) – La alergista Kathleen May, MD, de Augusta, GA, fue designada como presidenta del Colegio Americano de Alergia, Asma e Inmunología (ACAAI, por sus siglas en inglés) en la Reunión Científica Anual del ACAAI, el 14 de noviembre en Louisville, KY. El alergista Gailen Marshall, MD, PhD, de Jackson, MS, fue elegido presidente electo del ACAAI.

Otros directivos del ACAAI recién elegidos son James Tracy, DO, de Omaha, NE, vicepresidente; y Cherie Zachary, MD, Eagan, MN, como tesorera. Los regentes elegidos para mandatos de tres años son Jeremy Katcher, MD, de St. Louis, MO; Travis Miller, MD, de Roseville, CA; y Meagan Shepherd, MD, de Huntington, WV.

La Dra. Kathleen May es jefa de la División de Alergia-Inmunología y Reumatología Pediátrica en el Colegio Médico de Georgia de la Universidad de Augusta, la Cátedra Distinguida de Pediatría Betty B. Wray, MD, profesora asociada de Pediatría y Medicina y es la directora del Programa de Becas en Alergia-Inmunología. Antes de emprender su carrera de enseñanza en 2017 para contribuir al futuro de la especialidad, hizo prácticas privadas durante más de 20 años en Allegany Allergy and Asthma en el oeste de Maryland.

Luego de obtener su título médico de la Universidad de Medicina del Noreste de Ohio en Rootstown, Ohio, la Dra. May completó su residencia en la Escuela de Medicina de la Universidad de Carolina del Este en Greenville, Carolina del Norte. Completó una beca de investigación en Alergia e Inmunología en el Centro Nacional de Investigación Judío en la Universidad de Colorado en Denver.

La Dra. May es miembro de la Junta de Regentes del Colegio Americano de Alergias, Asma e Inmunología, del Comité Ejecutivo, del Comité de Presupuesto y Finanzas, del Comité del Programa de la Reunión Anual, del Comité de Publicaciones y de la Junta de la Fundación de Alergistas. Forma parte del Subcomité FIT Bowl, del Comité de Directores del Programa y del Comité del Premio a las Mujeres en Alergia. La Dra. May ha sido galardonada con los premios de Miembro Distinguido, de Servicio Distinguido y de Mujeres en Alergia del ACAAI. Fue presidenta (2018) de la Junta Directiva de la Junta Americana de Alergias e Inmunología (ABAI, por sus siglas en inglés), en su Junta Directiva desde 2014 hasta 2020. Es miembro del Comité de Revisión de Alergia e Inmunología del Consejo de Acreditación para la Educación Médica de Postgrado (ACGME, por sus siglas en inglés) (2020-2026), y ocupa la vicepresidencia del comité.

El Dr. Gailen Marshall ocupa la Cátedra de Alergia e Inmunología R. Faser Triplett, Sr., MD, Pediatría y Patología, es vicepresidente de Investigación, presidente de la División de Inmunología Clínica y Alergia y jefe del Laboratorio de Investigación de Inmunología del Comportamiento en el Centro Médico de la Universidad de Mississippi (UMMC, por sus siglas en inglés). Está en el UMMC de Jackson desde 2004.

El Dr. Marshall obtuvo su doctorado en Inmunología (1979) y en Medicina (1984) en la rama médica de la Universidad de Texas en Galveston. Realizó su formación en medicina interna en la Universidad de Iowa y completó su residencia, su residencia de jefe y su beca de alergia-inmunología en la Universidad de Tennessee en Memphis.

El Dr. Marshall cumplió la misión de publicación del Colegio durante 21 años. Fue miembro del consejo editorial de Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (Annals) de 2000 a 2004 y miembro del consejo editorial de AllergyWatch de 2002 a 2005. Fue nombrado editor asociado de Annals en 2005 y pasó a ser editor jefe (EIC, por sus siglas en inglés) en 2006. Fue editor jefe hasta 2021. El Dr. Marshall recibió el premio al servicio distinguido del ACAAI y fue reconocido como miembro distinguido del Colegio en 2009.

Para obtener más información sobre las alergias y el asma o para localizar un alergista en su área, visite AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. La reunión anual virtual del ACAAI se lleva a cabo del 13 al 15 de noviembre. Para conocer más noticias e investigaciones de la Reunión Científica del ACAAI, visite nuestra sala de prensa y siga la conversación en Twitter #ACAAI22.

Acerca del ACAAI

El ACAAI es una organización médica profesional de más de 6,000 alergistas-inmunólogos y profesionales paramédicos, con sede en Arlington Heights, Ill. El Colegio fomenta una cultura de colaboración y simpatía en la que sus miembros trabajan juntos y con otros para alcanzar los objetivos comunes de atención al paciente, educación, divulgación e investigación. Los alergistas del ACAAI son médicos certificados por la junta, capacitados para diagnosticar alergias y asma, administrar inmunoterapia y brindar a los pacientes los mejores resultados de tratamiento. Para obtener más información y encontrar alivio, visite AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. Síganos en Facebook, Pinterest y Twitter.

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November 13, 2022
Study Examines Total Knee Replacement in Patients Under 21

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Newswise — A new study from researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) has evaluated trends in the use of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in patients under 21 in the United States. The study was reported at the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Convergence 2022 meeting (abstract number 08780).

According to Cynthia A. Kahlenberg, MD, MPH, an orthopedic surgeon at HSS and a coauthor of the study, TKA is rarely performed in patients under 21 years old but may be done in this population due to conditions such as inflammatory arthritis or juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), malignant or non-malignant tumors, or trauma. However, the number of patients under the age of 21 undergoing TKA in the U.S. is unknown. In one of the largest U.S. studies of an institutional arthroplasty registry, only 19 TKAs were performed in patients under the age of 21 out of approximately 30,000 primary TKAs over 34 years—a majority of which were for JIA.

The researchers retrospectively analyzed the Kids’ Inpatient Database (KID), a national weighted sample of all inpatient hospital admissions of patients under 21 years old in approximately 4,200 hospitals in 46 states. The researchers used International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision (ICD-9) and ICD-10 codes to identify patients undergoing TKA from 2000-2016 and determine primary diagnosis. Descriptive statistics such as means and percentages, along with their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI), were calculated using the appropriate sample weights as recommended by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality for use with the KID dataset.

The total weighted number of TKAs performed in patients younger than 21 from 2000-2016 was 1,331; the number of TKAs performed per year in this age group remained relatively stable. The mean age of patients undergoing TKA was 14.8 years (95% CI, 14.4-15.2); 48.8% of the cohort was female. Among tumor patients, a higher proportion identified as Hispanic (22.1%) or other race (12.6%) compared to the non-tumor cohort; 70.3% of TKAs were performed for a primary diagnosis of a tumor; and the number of TKAs for malignant tumors increased slightly over the study period. In contrast, use of TKA for inflammatory arthritis / JIA decreased by more than 70% over the study period, likely due to improvements in medical management of inflammatory arthritis / JIA patients. The majority of TKAs were performed in urban teaching hospitals and in facilities with a large bed size, which likely reflects the complexity and rarity of these procedures.

“This was one of the first studies to take an in-depth look at TKA in this very young population,” said Dr. Kahlenberg. “Our study was able to confirm that tumors were the most common reason for knee arthroplasty in this population.”

“I think the biggest takeaway as a rheumatologist is that we are doing a good job treating these patients and over the years the treatments for inflammatory arthritis are really working well in this young population,” said Bella Mehta, MBBS, MS, rheumatologist at HSS and senior study author.

About HSS

HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 13th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2022-2023), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2022-2023). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a third consecutive year (2023). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 145 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.

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November 13, 2022
HSS Research Uncovers How UV Light Triggers Immune Activation and Disease Flares in Lupus

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Newswise — After sun exposure, people with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) frequently develop skin rashes, which often are accompanied by a flare of their overall disease. This connection between ultraviolet (UV) light and disease flares in lupus is well known, but the way in which UV exposure actually triggers the disease has been poorly understood.

In a new study being presented at ACR Convergence 2022, the annual meeting of the American College of Rheumatology, researchers from Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) report that they have found an underlying mechanism that explains this association: decreased lymphatic drainage, which contributes to both photosensitivity and an immune response in the lymph nodes. The research also suggests that boosting lymphatic drainage may be an effective treatment for lupus photosensitivity and autoimmunity.

“When people with lupus have a systemic flare of their disease, it can affect any organ that is part of their disease,” says senior author Theresa T. Lu, MD, PhD, who holds the St. Giles Chair for Research in the HSS Research Institute, is a faculty member in Pediatric Rheumatology and in Rheumatology at HSS and is a professor of microbiology and immunology and of pediatrics at Weill Cornell Medicine. “We wanted to look at why sun exposure at the level of the skin affects internal organs like the kidneys, heart and lungs.”

“This study sheds some light on how sun exposure and UV light cause people with lupus to have more autoantibodies in their blood,” adds first author William Ambler, MD, a former fellow at HSS in Dr. Lu’s lab who is now Metzger Scholar in Translational Medicine at the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases at the National Institutes of Health.

The skin communicates with the immune system by sending cells and molecular signals via the lymphatic vessels to the lymph nodes, where immune responses begin. The signals that the skin sends to the lymph nodes control the type of immune responses that occur. Lymphatic vessels also serve the function of removing fluid and cells from the skin. If lymphatic vessels do not work properly to bring signals from skin to lymph nodes, there can be delayed resolution of skin inflammation, leading to faulty signals being sent to the lymph nodes.

Research in the Lu lab suggests that lymphatic flow from the skin to the draining lymph nodes is reduced in people with lupus. The investigators hypothesize that this decreased flow alters lymph node immune responses, making them more pathogenic. They decided to look more closely at this communication and how it impacts immune function. The current research employed both patient samples and mouse models of SLE.

The investigators studied skin biopsies from lupus patients as well as from healthy volunteers who served as controls. When they looked at the samples from the lupus patients, they found these more dilated lymphatic vessels compared with the healthy controls. This provided evidence that people with lupus have poor lymphatic flow.

They then studied mouse models of SLE, using a dye injected into the skin to visualize the flow of lymphatic fluid. They found that when lupus mice were exposed to UV radiation, more dye remained in the skin. This provided evidence that the lymphatics were not clearing the fluid as well as they should.

Importantly, the researchers then looked to see if they could improve certain hallmarks of disease in the mice by using manual lymphatic drainage techniques to manipulate the flow of lymph fluid. This type of therapy is used in people with certain types of cancer, especially breast cancer, to prevent lymphedema (fluid accumulation and swelling) after the surgical removal of lymph nodes. They found that performing lymphatic drainage in the mice reduced the numbers of plasmablasts and germinal center B cells, types of cells that are known to be important players in lupus.

Drs. Ambler and Lu are optimistic that manual lymphatic drainage may benefit lupus patients but emphasize that clinical trials in patients are needed to confirm it would be safe and effective.

The investigators note that this research is also important because it advances the broader field of understanding how skin and organs communicate through the lymph nodes and the immune system.

About HSS

HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 13th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2022-2023), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2022-2023). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a third consecutive year (2023). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 145 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.

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November 13, 2022
Study Finds Chronic-Pain Management, Falls and Limited Access to Care Are Critical Issues Among Medically Underserved
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Newswise — To improve the health of a community, the first step is to identify its most pressing needs. To that end, in 2022 Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) implemented a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach to assess musculoskeletal health needs, identify health disparities and support the development of initiatives to address unmet needs.

Critical issues included a lack of health education and awareness in managing arthritis and other painful conditions; a high incidence of falls in the community; and limited access to care among underserved populations.

The study, “Assessing Musculoskeletal Health Needs of Underserved Patients & Community Members Using a Community Based Participatory Research Approach,” was presented virtually at ACR Convergence 2022, the annual meeting of the American College of Rheumatology in Philadelphia.

“Musculoskeletal disorders are the most prevalent health conditions in the United States, resulting in financial and social burdens, especially in underserved communities,” explained Titilayo Adeniran, MPH, director of outcomes & data analytics at the HSS Education Institute. “Studies show that musculoskeletal health disparities disproportionately affect women, older adults and racial/ethnic minorities.”

HSS researchers used a mixed-method approach to develop a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). “For quantitative data, we distributed a community survey in four languages—English, Spanish, Chinese and Russian—to assess the socio-demographic characteristics of the populations we serve; health status and quality of life; health behavior and lifestyle; use of and access to care; and health education needs,” explained Adeniran. “For qualitative data, we conducted interviews with 22 community partners, including community-based organizations, city and state agencies and universities.”

The survey was distributed in various ways, including online, via email, using Alchemer panels, in person, and through the mail over a four-week period from January 15 to February 15, 2022. A total of 18,248 patients and community members completed the surveys, with 57% representing a diverse and underserved population.

In addition to the surveys, interviews with community partners provided valuable insights into unmet health needs, Adeniran noted. Community organizations represented all five boroughs of New York City, as well as surrounding areas serving racially/ethnically diverse populations. They represented all age, gender, and socioeconomic groups.

Key findings:
- Chronic pain, osteoarthritis or another form of arthritis were the most common musculoskeletal conditions reported in the survey.
- Among respondents with a musculoskeletal condition, a lack of confidence in managing symptoms emerged as a health need, particularly among medically underserved community members.
- Almost one-third of all respondents reported falling in the past year.
- Those with chronic pain, fibromyalgia or lupus were more likely to report two or more weeks of poor physical and mental health.
- Medically underserved respondents diagnosed with lupus, chronic pain or rheumatoid arthritis were more likely to have used a prescription opioid to manage pain.
- Health education emerged as a major need, with 70% of respondents reporting no participation in health education in the past 12 months. The top reasons were fear of COVID-19 and not knowing about educational programs.
- The top issues impacting respondents’ health and well-being were COVID-19 related issues, social isolation/loneliness, limited places to exercise, and limited access to healthy foods.
- The survey identified a need to address access to healthcare, with 42% of respondents reporting they could not access healthcare in the past 12 months, compared to 8% in a previous survey conducted in 2019. The top barriers were difficulty getting an appointment, lack of affordability or a service not covered by insurance. The need for transportation was also cited among the medically underserved.
- The most common type of discrimination reported in medical settings was that a doctor or nurse was not listening to the respondent. More than half of those taking the survey cited this issue.
“Broad community engagement is crucial to the success of any CBPR approach when assessing the health needs of the community and identifying health disparities,” said Sandra Goldsmith, MA, MS, RD, assistant vice president at the HSS Education Institute. “The results of our study will enable us to raise awareness about disparities that continue to affect our diverse and underserved populations and help us develop community-based initiatives to promote health equity.”

Titilayo Adeniran, Bertilia Trieu, Sandra Goldsmith and Laura Robbins, Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY

About HSS

HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 13th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2022-2023), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2022-2023). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a third consecutive year (2023). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 145 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.
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November 13, 2022
Participation Doubles After Lupus Support Group at HSS Transitions to Virtual Format During Pandemic
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Newswise — A study at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) highlights the success of a lupus peer support and education group that transitioned to a virtual format during the pandemic. In addition to receiving high marks from group members, participation more than doubled after the meetings went remote.

“Studies have demonstrated the benefits of online peer support forums in meeting the mental health, disease self-management and coping needs of people living with a chronic illness,” explained Giselle Rodriguez, LCSW, social work program coordinator for Charla de Lupus (Lupus Chat)® at HSS. “Although in-person meetings were no longer viable during the pandemic, the virtual groups offered an effective platform for patients to continue to meet with their peers, reduce isolation and expand the reach to additional family members at home and across the country.”

Rodriguez presented the study, “Evaluating the Effectiveness & Impact of an In-Person Peer Support Group That Transitioned to a Virtual Platform During the COVID-19 Pandemic,” at ACR Convergence 2022, the annual meeting of the American College of Rheumatology, in Philadelphia on November 12.

At the monthly support group, which has been ongoing at HSS since 2001, social workers, rheumatologists and other health care professionals offer information on topics related to lupus, such as medications, nutrition, pain management and research. The bilingual social work team translates all presentations into Spanish to distribute to Spanish-speaking members prior to the Zoom meetings. In addition, all communications in the chat box are translated live during the sessions to encourage Spanish speakers to participate. In some groups, simultaneous translation is provided.

To assess the effectiveness of the meetings, members received an online survey with multiple-choice and open-ended questions after nine virtual sessions from September 2020 to June 2021. Researchers conducted a comparison analysis with surveys completed by in-person groups held in 2018-2019 to assess reach, satisfaction, knowledge, coping and disease management.

Reach increased significantly after transitioning to a virtual group, with 373 participants versus 177 in 2018-2019. Responses highlighted the benefits of a virtual group, such as removing transportation barriers, the ability to join the meeting from anywhere and ease of participation by sharing a link. Limitations included inability to connect one on one, no internet access and challenges using Zoom.

Key findings:
- 99% of respondents reported satisfaction with the virtual groups
- 98% agreed that the groups increased their understanding of lupus-related issues
- 98% agreed the program met their expectations
- 97% agreed that they would recommend this group
- 95% agreed they could apply what they learned to manage lupus
- 93% agreed the groups helped them cope with lupus
No significant differences were observed when comparing most answers from in-person groups conducted in 2018-2019 to the virtual group. However, in the virtual group, there was an 8% increase in respondents indicating that the sessions helped them cope with lupus.

Survey comments from participants demonstrated that they appreciated the virtual format:

“It was an excellent idea to transition from in-person programming to virtual. Charla should keep it virtual or a mixture of programming and virtual to keep it easy to attend all the meetings without missing any.”

“Charla has made great use of Zoom for each of their programs. Although the experience is not the same as in person, every program was just as informative.”

“I love the Zoom meeting since it is a way for everyone to stay connected from home healthy and safe.”

“I would not have been able to attend the meetings due to location.”

The monthly lupus support groups and special events continue to be hosted online through Zoom. Rodriguez and colleagues are assessing participants’ interest in a hybrid model utilizing both in-person and virtual groups going forward.

Giselle Rodriguez¹, Priscilla Calvache¹, Lillian Mendez¹, Kimberly Cabrera¹, Roberta Horton¹, Lisa Imundo² and Jillian Rose-Smith¹, ¹Hospital for Special Surgery, New York, NY, ²New York Presbyterian Hospital – Columbia Campus, New York, NY

About HSS

HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 13th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2022-2023), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2022-2023). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a third consecutive year (2023). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 145 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.
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November 12, 2022
HSS Rheumatologists, Social Worker Honored by American College of Rheumatology

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Newswise — The American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and the Association of Rheumatology Professionals (ARP) have honored two rheumatologists and a social worker at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) with prestigious awards. Each year, the ACR and ARP recognize members who have made outstanding contributions to the field of rheumatology. The ceremony took place at the ACR Convergence meeting in Philadelphia on November 12.

Michael Lockshin, MD, received the ACR Distinguished Clinician Scholar Award, which honors a rheumatologist who has made outstanding contributions in clinical medicine, clinical scholarship or education.

Melanie Smith, MD, PhD, received the ACR Distinguished Fellow Award, which recognizes clinical and research fellows who are in a rheumatology fellowship training program and have performed meritoriously.

Adena Batterman, LCSW, MSW, received the ARP Distinguished Clinician Award. It is presented to an ARP member who is engaged in clinical practice and demonstrates outstanding clinical expertise in arthritis and the rheumatic diseases.

“HSS is extremely proud of our team members who have been honored with these notable awards,” said Louis A. Shapiro, president and CEO of HSS. “We warmly congratulate them for their contributions and achievements in patient care, research, support and education.”

Michael Lockshin, MD

Dr. Lockshin’s award follows a career spanning more than four decades at HSS. When asked about receiving the honor, he said, “I think it honors those who surrounded and challenged me more than it does me—patients who asked hard questions; the team led by Charles Christian that trained me and with whom I was privileged to work; intellectually curious colleagues, students and fellows; Hospital for Special Surgery, which gave me freedom to pursue goals I thought were worthwhile; and my wonderful family.”

Director emeritus of the Barbara Volcker Center for Women and Rheumatic Disease at HSS, Dr. Lockshin is a preeminent expert in the long-term care of chronically ill patients. His research enabled him to develop special expertise in solving health-care issues associated with systemic lupus erythematosus, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome and other autoimmune diseases that predominantly affect women.

Dr. Lockshin continues to conduct research and engage in mentoring activities at HSS. His current work focuses on diagnostic uncertainty, the topic of an international conference he organized last year. He has also published a white paper and written a book on the subject.

Melanie Smith, MD, PhD

Dr. Smith describes her Distinguished Fellow award as an incredible honor. “It is a testament to the opportunities I have had during my fellowship training and the amazing group of mentors that have supported my development as both a physician and a scientist,” she said. “I am excited to embark on a career dedicated to understanding mechanisms of disease with the goal of improving care for our patients.”

Dr. Smith, now a staff rheumatologist at HSS, specializes in treating inflammatory arthritic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, Sjogren’s syndrome and gout/pseudogout. She also treats patients with osteoarthritis. Her research focuses on how cells that make up the healthy joint lining change when an individual develops rheumatoid arthritis.

Adena Batterman, LCSW, MSW

Adena Batterman, recognized with the ARP Distinguished Clinician Award, is senior manager of the Inflammatory Arthritis Support and Education Programs at HSS. “I feel honored and grateful to be recognized for clinical work and research that enhances the lives, and elevates the voices, of patients,” she said. “I’m grateful to be engaged in work made possible by colleagues and mentors that continues to have deep personal and professional meaning to me.”

Ms. Batterman develops and oversees support and education programs designed to address the multifaceted needs of patients with inflammatory arthritis during the many stages of their illness. The programs provide essential information to help participants make informed decisions about management and treatment; offer peer support and coping strategies; and create a forum in which members can share their experiences and feelings.

“I commend our HSS colleagues who have been honored by two of the foremost organizations advancing the field of rheumatology,” said S. Louis Bridges, Jr., MD, PhD, physician-in-chief and chief of the Division of Rheumatology at HSS. “Our colleagues’ hard work, skill and dedication have enabled them to excel in their respective specialties. Their contributions have helped HSS achieve a leadership role in rheumatology to improve the lives of patients with exceptional care and vital research.”

About HSS

HSS is the world’s leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 13th consecutive year), No. 3 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2022-2023), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report “Best Children’s Hospitals” list (2022-2023). In a survey of medical professionals in more than 20 countries by Newsweek, HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics for a third consecutive year (2023). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Innovation Institute works to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 145 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.

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November 12, 2022
Incluso en los estados con leyes estrictas sobre el albuterol de reserva, los administradores escolares temen la responsabilidad

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Newswise — LOUISVILLE, Kentucky (10 de noviembre de 2022) – Aunque el asma es una de las afecciones respiratorias más comunes en los niños, estos no siempre llevan consigo sus inhaladores o ni siquiera saben que tienen asma. Las legislaturas estatales han implementado programas de inhaladores de reserva para garantizar que las escuelas dispongan de un alivio del asma, como el albuterol, que pueda ser utilizado por cualquier niño que experimente dificultades respiratorias en el entorno escolar. Un nuevo estudio que se presenta en la Reunión Científica Anual del Colegio Estadounidense de Alergia, Asma e Inmunología (ACAAI, por sus siglas en inglés) de este año en Louisville, Kentucky, muestra que incluso en los estados con fuertes leyes de inhaladores/albuterol de reserva, los administradores escolares y los médicos prescriptores temen la responsabilidad al prescribir y administrar los inhaladores de reserva.

“Tener un inhalador de alivio del asma, como el albuterol, a disposición de cualquier niño que pueda estar experimentando dificultades respiratorias es vital para hacerles frente a los síntomas del asma o a las emergencias que puedan presentarse durante la jornada escolar”, dice la alergista Andrea A. Pappalardo, MD, miembro del ACAAI y autora principal del estudio. “Queríamos examinar las barreras y los facilitadores de los programas de inhaladores de reserva en las escuelas de Illinois y en todos los estados con una legislación similar para entender mejor cómo podemos mejorar el acceso a los medicamentos en todo nuestro estado, y en todo el país”.

Los investigadores llevaron a cabo 20 entrevistas a partes interesadas clave con enfermeras, médicos y administradores de escuelas en Illinois y descubrieron que el 35 % de los entrevistados citaron la dificultad para obtener prescripciones para inhaladores de reserva como una barrera para la implementación. La preocupación por la responsabilidad es uno de los motivos que explican la imposibilidad de conseguir prescripciones.

“A pesar de que Illinois tiene una redacción sólida para proteger a los prescriptores de inhaladores de reserva y a los que administran inhaladores de reserva, los prescriptores siguen siendo cautelosos a la hora de proporcionar una prescripción para inhaladores de reserva y suministros relacionados a los distritos escolares. Sin prescripción, los inhaladores de reserva no pueden implementarse en las escuelas. La mejora de la educación y la palabrería relacionada con la responsabilidad aliviarán estas preocupaciones y mejorarán la aceptación de los inhaladores de reserva en Illinois, y en otros estados”, dice la Dra. Pappalardo. “Los programas de inhaladores de reserva proporcionan un acceso crítico a los inhaladores de alivio en las escuelas, donde los niños pasan la mayor parte del día. Los niños y el personal pueden beneficiarse de tener un inhalador de reserva disponible cuando no hay uno en la escuela para esa persona debido a la falta de diagnóstico, al olvido en casa o a la imposibilidad de obtener un inhalador por una multitud de asuntos relacionados con el acceso. Disponer de medicamentos que pueden salvar la vida, tanto para las emergencias asmáticas como para los síntomas cotidianos, es fundamental para mantener a nuestros niños en clase, donde deben estar”.

Título del resumen: Responsabilidad: una barrera incomprendida para la implementación del albuterol de reserva en las escuelas de Illinois

Presentadora: Andrea A. Pappalardo, MD

Para obtener más información sobre el tratamiento del asma y el control de los síntomas del asma, o para encontrar un alergista en su zona, visite AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. Reunión Científica Anual del ACAAI, del 10 al 14 de noviembre. Para conocer más noticias e investigaciones de la Reunión Científica del ACAAI, visite nuestra sala de prensa y siga la conversación en Twitter #ACAAI22.

Acerca del ACAAI

El ACAAI es una organización médica profesional de más de 6,000 alergistas inmunólogos y profesionales paramédicos, con sede en Arlington Heights, Illinois. El Colegio fomenta una cultura de colaboración y simpatía en la que sus miembros trabajan juntos y con otros para alcanzar los objetivos comunes de atención al paciente, educación, divulgación e investigación. Los alergistas del ACAAI son médicos certificados por la junta, capacitados para diagnosticar alergias y asma, administrar inmunoterapia y brindarles a los pacientes los mejores resultados de tratamiento. Para obtener más información y encontrar alivio, visite AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. Síganos en Facebook, Pinterest y Twitter.

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November 10, 2022
Chest Pain Patients Benefit from Precision Diagnostic Testing Approach

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Newswise — DURHAM, N.C. – A study comparing two approaches for diagnosing heart disease found that a risk analysis strategy is superior to the usual approach of immediately performing functional tests or catheterization for low- to intermediate-risk patients with new-onset chest pain.

Presented Nov. 6 at the American Heart Association’s 2022 Scientific Sessions, the study bolsters a risk-analysis strategy that either defers testing among low-risk patients, or uses coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA), a CT scan with a contrast agent to assess for blockages.

The risk analysis approach has been outlined in guidelines and is championed as a means of reducing often unnecessary and costly tests. It has never been tested rigorously in a randomized trial, however, and its clinical application has lagged without definitive evidence of its effectiveness compared to various functional stress tests.

“New onset chest pain is a common clinical problem that involves a lot of testing, work and expense,” said study lead Pamela S. Douglas, M.D., a member of the Duke Clinical Research Institute and the Ursula Geller Professor of Research in Cardiovascular Diseases at Duke University School of Medicine.

“Our study provides evidence that, among low-risk patients, the tests will likely be negative for coronary artery disease and patients will go on to do well,” Douglas said. “As a result, we should be deferring testing in these low-risk people.”

Douglas and colleagues enrolled more than 2,100 patients across the U.S. and Europe with new-onset chest pain in the PRECISE clinical trial. Participants’ average age was 58, with roughly equal numbers of men and women.

Half of the patients were randomly assigned to receive usual testing — including stress echocardiogram, nuclear stress test, stress MRI or catheterization — which physicians selected at their discretion.

The other half of participants were randomized to the precision strategy, which uses a pre-test probability assessment to guide next steps, including deferred testing or CTA, with selective use of image analysis software to determine the significance of any blockages.

Within both groups, about 21% of symptomatic patients were assessed to be at low risk of heart disease. Of these low-risk patients in the usual testing group, 86% underwent some sort of test, compared to 37% in the precision strategy group.

The primary focus was whether, within a year, there were any differences between the two diagnostic approaches for any combination of the following outcomes: deaths from any cause, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or catheterizations that did not show blockages and may have been unnecessary.

The researchers found that the precision strategy substantially reduced the incidence of the composite endpoint compared to the usual stress testing approaches.

To provide a full picture of clinical value, the investigators balanced this demonstrated effectiveness with examination of any safety concerns. There were no differences in death or the composite of death and myocardial infarction, but there was a small, non-significant difference in nonfatal myocardial infarction in the precision group.

“In stable, symptomatic patients with suspected heart disease who physicians feel require testing, a precision strategy incorporating a set of actions based on guideline recommendations, will improve outcomes compared to usual testing,” Douglas said.

In addition to Douglas, study authors include Michael G. Nanna, Michelle D. Kelsey, Eric Yow, Daniel B. Mark, Manesh R. Patel, Campbell Rogers, James E. Udelson, Christopher B. Fordyce, Nick Curzen, Gianluca Pontone, Pál Maurovich-Horvat, Bernard De Bruyne, John P. Greenwood, Victor Marinescu, Jonathon Leipsic, Gregg W. Stone, Ori Ben-Yehuda, Colin Berry, Shea E. Hogan, Bjorn Redfors, Ziad A. Ali, Robert A. Byrne, Christopher M. Kramer, Robert W. Yeh, Beth Martinez, Sarah Mullen, Whitney Huey, Kevin J. Anstrom, Hussein R. Al-Khalidi, and Sreekanth Vemulapalli, for the PRECISE Investigators/

The study received funding from HeartFlow, a medical technology company.

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November 6, 2022
Strategy Suggests Combining Surrogate Markers for Kidney Disease Progression in Clinical Trials
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Highlights
- In clinical trials of patients with chronic kidney disease, combining information from the treatment effects on two markers of kidney disease progression—urinary albumin:creatinine ratio change and glomerular filtration rate slope—improves predictions of treatment effects on clinical endpoints.
- Results from the study will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2022 November 3–November 6.
Newswise — Orlando (November 5, 2022) — Change in urinary albumin:creatinine ratio (UACR) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) slope are markers that are individually used as surrogates of chronic kidney disease progression in clinical trials. Investigators recently developed a strategy that combines information from the treatment effects on the two to improve the prediction of treatments’ effects on patient outcomes. Their research will be presented at ASN Kidney Week 2022 November 3–November 6.

The scientists used data from 41 randomized controlled trials of chronic kidney disease progression to develop their strategy and then applied the results to the design of a phase 2 trial to assess design implications (such as sample size and follow-up time) for using UACR change and GFR slope individually or in combination.

The analysis revealed that in phase 2 clinical trials with sample sizes of 100–200 patients per arm or follow-up times ranging between 1 and 2 years, combining UACR change and GFR slope improves predictions of treatments’ effects on clinical endpoints.

“Currently, UACR change and GFR slope are often evaluated as separate endpoints in phase 2 trials; however, it is not clear how to integrate the information provided by these two endpoints,” said corresponding author Tom Greene, PhD, of the University of Utah. “This work presents a 2-step methodology for addressing this problem. In the first step, a Bayesian model is used to characterize the relationships among the treatment effects on UACR, GFR slope, and the clinical endpoint across previous randomized trials. In the second step, this model is used to provide a unified estimate of the probability of clinical benefit based on the estimated effects of the treatment on UACR change and GFR slope in a new phase 2 trial.”

Study: “Change in albuminuria and GFR slope as joint surrogate endpoints for kidney failure – Implications for phase 2 trials”

ASN Kidney Week 2022, the largest nephrology meeting of its kind, will provide a forum for nephrologists and other kidney health professionals to discuss the latest findings in research and engage in educational sessions related to advances in the care of patients with kidney diseases and related disorders.

Since 1966, ASN has been leading the fight to prevent, treat, and cure kidney diseases throughout the world by educating health professionals and scientists, advancing research and innovation, communicating new knowledge, and advocating for the highest quality care for patients. ASN has more than 20,000 members representing 132 countries. For more information, visit www.asn-online.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.

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American Society of Nephrology (ASN)

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November 5, 2022