Objectives/Goals: The gut microbiome and its metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), are dysregulated in rheumatoid arthritis (RA); however, the significance of this observation and its implications in pathogenesis and therapeutics is unclear. Here, we explore the role of the SCFA, butyrate, in treatment efficacy in new-onset rheumatoid arthritis. Methods/Study Population: We designed a proof-of-principle study to determine the effects of butyrate supplementation in new-onset RA (NORA) patients that fulfilled 2010 ACR/EULAR RA criteria. We evaluated the effects of methotrexate (MTX) plus butyrate in NORA (n = 17; 1 gm butyrate, 3 times daily) compared to MTX alone (n = 19) over 4 months. MTX responders were defined by a change in disease activity score (DAS)-28 ESR of > 1.8 at 4 months. Fecal samples were collected at baseline and followed up for 16s rRNA sequencing and metabolite quantification by 1H NMR spectroscopy. Unpaired-t, paired-t, Wilcox and Fisher’s exact test were performed as appropriate. Results/Anticipated Results: MTX responders in the MTX-only group had a higher concentration of fecal butyrate than nonresponders at baseline (p = 0.045). Fecal butyrate concentration decreased over time in treatment responders in MTX group (p = 0.05), whereas butyrate concentration remained similar in MTX/butyrate group. Prior to treatment, both MTX and MTX/butyrate groups demonstrated similar levels of gut bacterial alpha diversity (Shannon index), yet only the MTX/butyrate group demonstrated a significant increase in alpha diversity by 4 months (p = 0.022). LefSe analysis demonstrated increased abundances of Bacteroides, Clostridium, and Phascolarctobacterium in responders in the MTX/butyrate group by 4 months. Ten (52.6%) patients in MTX and 11 (64.7%) in MTX/butyrate group were considered MTX responders by 4 months (p = 0.516). Discussion/Significance of Impact: Butyrate supplementation increased gut microbial diversity in patients and led to increased abundance of Bacteroides, which has been implicated in efficacy of methotrexate, a first line medication in rheumatoid arthritis. Butyrate may have implications for the maximization of therapeutic effectiveness in rheumatoid arthritis.

Objectives/Goals: Evaluate the impact of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) on neonatal brain development using magnetoencephalography (MEG) and correlate findings with NICU Network Neurobehavioral scale (NNNS) scores at 1 month Methods/Study Population: In this prospective cohort study, we will enroll 30 participants, consisting of 15 neonates diagnosed with IUGR and 15 healthy controls, matched by gestational age, from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. We will perform MEG scans at three key developmental stages: during fetal life, at 1 month, and at 3 months of age and a Bayley IV exam at 12 months of age. The NNNS assessments will be conducted at the 1-month visit to evaluate neurobehavioral outcomes. All MEG data will be synchronized with clinical evaluations and maternal health records to ensure comprehensive analysis. Results/Anticipated Results: We anticipate that the study will reveal significant differences in brain maturation and neural activity patterns between IUGR-affected infants and healthy controls. Specifically, we expect to find altered neural connectivity and delayed maturation in the delta and theta frequency bands during the early neonatal period in the IUGR group. These anticipated neuroimaging findings will be correlated with NNNS scores to assess functional implications of the observed brain activity differences. If our hypotheses are confirmed, the study will provide robust biomarkers for early identification of neurodevelopmental delays in IUGR-affected infants, paving the way for targeted early interventions. Discussion/Significance of Impact: This study could significantly enhance early detection and intervention strategies for IUGR, potentially reducing long-term neurodevelopmental challenges and improving clinical outcomes

Objectives/Goals: The National Research Mentoring Network Coordination Center (NRMN CC) received funding from NIH to create an Online Community of Practice (OCoP) for Research Managers (RM). These RM contributed to advancing the research on the science of mentorship in STEMM. In a Proof of Concept, RM explored various aspects of their mentorship research support work. Methods/Study Population: An OCoP met 18 times across the 5-year grant to share experiences working to advance the science of mentorship in STEMM. Topics, frequency, and length of meetings were selected based upon several needs assessments surveys from the RM community. RM were invited to join the OCoP based on their roles as the point people for administrative activities in research projects (e.g., finances, budgets, training, and project management). RM often supervised staff, collected data, monitored IRB protocol compliance, and conducted research. RM played a pivotal role in the gathering and sharing of common measures across the 11 U01 studies to allow for greater confidence in research findings on mentorship (McConnell, 2021). Results/Anticipated Results: Our primary goal was to provide a supportive community for RM contributing to mentorship research and data sharing. The results from several needs assessments exemplified a request for this support from the community to engage in an OCoP focused on their professional development. Therefore, the OCoP served as a starting point to explore the duties, functions, roles and responsibilities of RM, and extended into providing professional development. Although the number of RM attending decreased as the grant entered the no-cost extension phase, a subgroup of RM expressed interest in continuing the OCoP to focus on dissemination of research findings, further supporting the need for this community. Discussion/Significance of Impact: RM supported 11 research projects and contributed to the data collection for over 6,000 participants. Few opportunities exist to create an OCoP for large scale data collection on experiences with mentorship in STEMM. RM were pivotal in their role with the NRMN to enhance the training and career development of individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Objectives/Goals: Trainees in clinical and translational science (CTS) take courses in biostatistics, epidemiology, and other quantitative areas. To be most successful, trainees require competency in algebra. We developed a quantitative assessment and study guide to assess trainee’s quantitative skills and provide review material to address weaknesses. Methods/Study Population: The Tufts CTS Graduate Program is the training core of the Tufts CTSI and its associated pre- and post-doctoral T32 awards. Approximately 10 trainees with a range of backgrounds (e.g., physicians, medical students, master’s-level researchers, and basic science PhDs) and varying math education experiences matriculate each year. We wanted to address the resulting range of quantitative skills to help students succeed in our program. In Spring 2023, we met with faculty teaching quantitative courses to identify core algebra concepts needed to succeed in their classes. A graduate student in computational mathematics with extensive tutoring experience then drafted assessment questions, a comprehensive study guide, and brief cheat sheet. The material was reviewed and revised with input from quantitative faculty. Results/Anticipated Results: We developed a 20-item quantitative assessment covering properties of operators; identity elements and inverses; simplification of arithmetic and algebraic expressions; solving algebraic equations; functions; equations of a line; and exponents/logarithms. A cheat sheet provided trainees with a brief refresher for these topics. A study guide provided more detailed instruction, example exercises and solutions, and referenced publicly available, online resources (e.g., Khan Academy). During the introductory summer course for the Tufts CTS Program, trainees were allowed to use the cheat sheet and were given 1 hour to complete the assessment. Trainees who got questions incorrect were directed to relevant sections in the study guide. We anticipate collecting formal feedback to evaluate the material. Discussion/Significance of Impact: Trainees must have adequate foundational algebra skills to succeed in CTS graduate programs and as future researchers. Developing a quantitative assessment allowed us to identify areas of weakness resulting from educational disparities or reflecting other aspects of their backgrounds and to provide material to reinforce their preparation.

Objectives/Goals: Community engagement is critical to promoting equity for those affected by clinical and translational research. Despite its importance, investigators rarely involve community stakeholders in ancillary projects such as secondary analyses. I use a study example to demonstrate how to meaningfully partner with communities in ancillary research. Methods/Study Population: Using data collected in a previous study, the aim of this secondary analysis was to examine whether pregnant women’s reports of social adversity during the third trimester were associated with their infant’s resting cortisol level at 1, 6, and 12 months of age. Community engagement at the study design phase included consultation with an institutional Community Advisory Board (CAB) whose expertise included lived experiences relevant to the context of the study (i.e., social adversity and pregnancy). Community engagement at the analysis and dissemination stage included deeper collaboration with three community research consultants (CRCs) from the CAB; all identified as women of color and mothers with relevant lived experiences. CRCs received compensation for time and effort and an invitation for co-authorship. Results/Anticipated Results: Consultations included written review as well as a live presentation and discussion with the CAB for feedback on the study proposal prior to submission for IRB approval. The focus of discussion was around the use of inclusive terminology and ensuring respectful and equitable representation of all participants in the original study, including those who reported experiences with social adversity during pregnancy. After receiving study approval, statistical analyses were finalized and CRCs actively engaged in discussions with the PI around the interpretation of results. CRCs significantly contributed to the development of solutions-oriented implications for practice, policy, and future research. All CRCs were co-authors on the study manuscript that was published in a top-tier international journal. Discussion/Significance of Impact: Community engagement in ancillary research is feasible and essential. True equitable collaboration requires partnership during all study activities, including critical phases (e.g., developing aims, data analysis). Researchers also should prioritize the use of datasets from studies that incorporated community partnership and engagement.

Objectives/Goals: • To determine the impact of liraglutide on inflammation and organ injury during sepsis. • To investigate the protective effects of liraglutide on microvascular dysfunction in a clinically relevant model of sepsis. • To provide evidence for the potential therapeutic use of GLP-1 receptor agonists in endothelial dysfunction in sepsis. Methods/Study Population: Sepsis was induced in mice (N = 34) by intraperitoneal injection of cecal contents (1.8 mg/g body weight) and 24-hour hyperoxia (FiO2 90–95%). Mice received saline or liraglutide (0.1 mg/kg) at 6 and 18 hours post-injection and fluids and antibiotics at 12 hours. At 24 hours, mice were euthanized for plasma, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL), and tissue collection. Plasma inflammatory markers, organ injury markers, and BAL components were measured. In vitro, primary human lung microvascular endothelial cells (HLMVECs) were treated with saline or liraglutide for 24 hours before exposure to saline or LPS (100 ng/mL). HLMVEC barrier dysfunction was evaluated using express permeability testing (XPerT) and electric cell-substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) to measure transendothelial electrical resistance (TER). Results/Anticipated Results: In murine sepsis, illness severity scores and lung injury were improved in mice pretreated with liraglutide (N = 10). Plasma blood urea nitrogen (BUN; P = 0.0036), alanine transaminase (ALT; P = 0.0311) and vascular inflammatory markers MCP-1 (P = 0.0172), ICAM-1 (P = 0.0356), and Pecam-1 (P = 0.0493) in plasma were reduced in mice treated with liraglutide. In HLMVECs, liraglutide (1.5 nM) significantly reduced LPS-induced barrier dysfunction measured by XPerT assay (P = 0.0030) and ECIS (P = 0.0075). Discussion/Significance of Impact: Liraglutide reduces illness severity, vascular inflammation, and organ injury in a two-hit model of sepsis. Liraglutide has direct effects in the microvascular endothelium, limiting LPS-mediated barrier dysfunction. These findings support a protective role for GLP-1 receptor agonism in sepsis, mediated through the microvasculature.

Objectives/Goals: To identify gaps in policy that influence enrollment trends of patients with multimorbidity in Phase III clinical trials. We aim to propose policy recommendations for increasing use of real-world evidence (RWE) that increases safety and efficacy information for patients with multimorbidities. Methods/Study Population: Conduct a systematic policy analysis on the current regulatory landscape of RWE, referencing the 2020 FDA Guidance “Enhancing the Diversity of Clinical Trial Populations.” Evaluate guidelines using the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) 2016 Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) Framework. Utilize the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research’s New Molecular Entity Database to identify novel hypertensive drugs approved after 2006, and assess clinical studies’ alignment with the 2020 Guidance. Review additional policies, FDA guidelines, and ICH documents to establish baseline compliance. Two case studies will evaluate past policy impacts on drug development. Assess costs and benefits of increasing multimorbid patient enrollment to inform a policy framework. Results/Anticipated Results: Anticipated results include all components of the HHS’s RIA and a policy framework informed by the assessment. To identify problems, an analysis of clinical trial exclusion criteria in novel hypertensive drugs will be conducted to show diversity and enrollment gaps in regulatory policy, referencing the FDA’s 2020 Guidance. The RIA’s cost–benefit analysis will highlight costs faced for utilizing RWE and expanding enrollment criteria in Phase III studies. The cost–benefit analysis, RIA, and case studies will inform a policy framework that explains dynamics between stakeholders and outline policies that increase clinical trial representation in ways that are less burdensome to sponsors and patients. Discussion/Significance of Impact: By understanding the barriers to enrolling participants with multimorbid conditions, we can outline incentives to increase diverse trial populations, helping healthcare providers choose more treatments for complex conditions. This research supports policy recommendations to make drugs more representative of conditions the population faces.

Objectives/Goals: This study aim to identify cervical cancer prevention barriers and facilitators, assess the associations between social determinants of health factors and cervical cancer prevention, and examine the association between levels of health literacy and willingness to undertake HPV vaccine and cervical cancer screening among Black and Hispanic women. Methods/Study Population: To achieve Aim 1, we will conduct a quantitative survey on barriers and facilitators to cancer prevention among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic women. For Aim 2, we will assess the relationship between Social Determinants of Health and HPV vaccination/cervical cancer screening using the AHC Health-Related Social Needs Screening Tool. For Aim 3, health literacy will be measured using the SAHL–S&E test and its association with willingness to vaccinate or cervical cancer screening. We will analyze the results using chi-square and logistic regression models. Participants will be recruited through multiple methods. We will recruit 250 individuals who were assigned female at birth and identify as non-Hispanic Black or Hispanic, aged 18–26 years, from Caddo and Bossier Parishes. Results/Anticipated Results: We expect to identify several barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer prevention among non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic women, including factors like access to care, cultural beliefs, and knowledge gaps. Social determinants of health (SDOH), such as income, education, and healthcare access, will likely show a strong association with lower HPV vaccination, Pap smear, and HPV screening rates. Additionally, we anticipate that lower health literacy will correlate with reduced willingness to vaccinate or screen for HPV. These findings can bridge the gap between research and practical health applications by guiding the design of community-based behavioral interventions that enhance cervical cancer prevention among minority populations. Discussion/Significance of Impact: This research is the first to assess how SDOH factors impact cervical cancer prevention among Blacks and Hispanic women in North Louisianawhile also exploring the role of health literacy in HPV vaccination and screening. Findings will drive practical interventions to reduce disparities and improve outcomes.

Objectives/Goals: Mathematical models of airborne virus transmission lack supporting field and clinical data such as viral aerosol emission rates and airborne infectious doses. Here, we aim to measure inhalation exposure to influenza aerosols in a room shared with persons with community-acquired influenza and estimate the infectious dose via inhalation. Methods/Study Population: We recruited healthy volunteer recipients and influenza donors with polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed community-acquired infection. On admission to a hotel quarantine, recipients provided sera to determine baseline immunity to influenza virus, and donor infections were confirmed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Donors and recipients were housed in separate rooms and interacted in an “event room” with controlled ventilation (0.2 – 0.5 air changes/hour) and relative humidity (20–40%). We collected ambient bioaerosol exposure samples using NIOSH BC-251 samplers. Donors provided exhaled breath samples collected by a Gesundheit-II (G-II). We analyzed aerosol samples using dPCR and fluorescent focus assays for influenza A and sera by hemagglutinin inhibition assay (HAI) against donor viruses and vaccine strains. Results/Anticipated Results: Among two cohorts (24b and 24c), we exposed 11 recipients (mean age: 36; 55% female) to 5 donors (mean age: 21; 80% female) infected with influenza A H1N1 or H3N2. Eight G-II and two NIOSH bioaerosol samples (1–4 µm and ≥4 µm) were PCR positive. We cultured virus from one G-II sample. Based on previous literature, we hypothesized that ~50% of immunologically naïve people (HAI Discussion/Significance of Impact: We demonstrated that it is feasible to recruit donors with community-acquired influenza and expose recipients to measurable virus quantities under controlled conditions. However, baseline immunity was high among volunteers. Our work sets the stage for designing studies with increased sample sizes comprising immunologically naïve volunteers.

Objectives/Goals: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has limited treatments and an extremely high rate of clinical trial failure. Through a collaborative effort, Agomelatine (AGO) was identified as having repurposing potential for AD. This study sets out to evaluate the preclinical potential of AGO for the treatment of AD. Methods/Study Population: The TgF344-AD rat model (expresses human mutant “Swedish” amyloid-precursor protein and a Δ exon 9 presenilin 1) was used to test AGO’s potential to reduce cognitive deficits and neuropathology. The model was chosen due to its age-dependent progressive AD pathology and cognitive decline. Treatment with AGO at ~10 mg/kg body weight/day began at 5 months of age (pre-pathology) and continued until 11 months of age when cognitive testing (active place avoidance task) and tissue collection occurred. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate amyloid beta plaque burden and microglial response in the hippocampus. Results/Anticipated Results: AGO-treated female TgF344-AD rats showed reduced cognitive deficits with an increased latency to first entrance in aPAT testing compared to nontreated transgenic littermates. There were no differences between the cognitive performance of AGO treated and untreated male TgF344-AD rats. Interestingly, this reduced cognitive deficit did not correlate with decreased amyloid beta pathology in female AGO-treated rats yet male transgenic treated rats did have decreased amyloid burden in the dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus. AGO modulated microglial activation in the DG of female transgenic rats. Discussion/Significance of Impact: AGO reduced cognitive deficits in females, but did not change their amyloid burden. This suggests that AGO could increase resilience to amyloid deposition in female rats. With the recent development of amyloid targeting drugs, novel non-amyloidogenic treatments have a large translational potential.

Objectives/Goals: Baseline lung allograft dysfunction (BLAD) is defined as the failure to attain normal lung function after transplant and has been associated with impaired survival. BLAD has no consensus definition and assessment of varying thresholds of abnormality may identify an impact on survival or development of chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD). Methods/Study Population: This is a retrospective cohort analysis of bilateral lung transplant recipients who were transplanted between 1/1/2012 and 12/31/2022 who have complete pulmonary function data posttransplant. Thresholds of BLAD including percent predicted levels of FEV1 and FVC at 80%, 75%, 70%, 65%, and 60% were assessed. Outcomes evaluated include survival, development of CLAD, and association of key risk factors with the development of BLAD including donor, recipient, operative, and postoperative characteristics. Results/Anticipated Results: Totally, 680 bilateral lung transplant recipients were identified. Prevalence of BLAD ranged from 41.9% to 9.7% at specified thresholds. We anticipate performing survival analyses and evaluating development of CLAD in patients with BLAD at varying thresholds. We are assessing key donor, recipient, operative, and postoperative variables for association with BLAD. Preliminary analyses demonstrate significant associations of BLAD with recipient-donor height mismatch, prolonged mechanical ventilation time posttransplant, increased length of hospitalization posttransplant, the use of cardiopulmonary bypass intraoperatively and surgical allograft downsizing. Discussion/Significance of Impact: A threshold of BLAD at 70% predicted FEV1 and FVC or lower suggests importance for developing CLAD. Key characteristics associated with BLAD suggest importance of height mismatch, operative complexity, frailty, and severity of disease at time of transplant and immediately postoperatively.

Objectives/Goals: This project (1) assesses provider behavior at the Galveston Secure Against the Fentanyl Epidemic (G-SAFE) Clinic in providing evidence-based care for underserved patients in our community and (2) implements evidence-based anti-stigma intervention in local health care. Methods/Study Population: The efficacy and impact of G-SAFE on healthcare utilization, health outcomes, and patient satisfaction will be determined. Evaluations assessing provider behavior will be made across at least 25 clinic patient visits, taking note of medical students, clinicians, and health providers’ interactions with patients related to decision-making, care plan creation, and communication. Health provider discussion groups will provide essential data in understanding the successful management of SUDs, management of safety and risk, and how best to pilot and assess interventions that promote greater trust-building and a harm-reduction approach to clinical care for patient empowerment and positive outcomes. Results/Anticipated Results: Observations in the clinic will be turned into interventions to improve diagnostics and therapeutics for SUD medical care and behavioral change. We will recruit 40 medical students (with/without exposure to UTMB’s free clinics) as well as 20 clinicians in the G-SAFE Clinic, Emergency Medicine, and Primary Care. Baseline stigma will be measured with the Medical Condition Regard Scale and the Drug and Drug Problems Questionnaire alongside measures of care approaches. The data collected and the educational intervention for medical students and clinicians will make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by SUDs and serve as a model for future interventions on a larger scale. Discussion/Significance of Impact: Health provider’s SUDs stigma undermines both care quality, patient empowerment, and recovery success. Addressing provider stigma is crucial for necessitating a shift toward collaborative, responsive, and creative clinical decision-making to tackle the ethical challenges posed by the opioid crisis.

Objectives/Goals: MyCTSC harmonizes data from many sources into one database for evaluation, marketing, and CTSC member management to address current disparate collection and siloed use of data. It simplifies report creation with real-time dashboards so administrators and leadership can view progress quickly and plan for improvements based on real-time data. Methods/Study Population: MyCTSC is built using open-source software like Python, Django, MariaDB, Bootstrap, and Chart.js, and integrates data from sources such as systems for consult requests, pilot/voucher applications, and REDCap surveys. Each data source is imported into the warehouse either automatically via API, if available, or via manual file upload. De-duplication and other data cleaning are performed as well. Customized, real-time dashboards are developed based on the needs of administrators and leadership. While MyCTSC does not have a study population, it does have the stakeholders mentioned above as well as leadership. The development timeline spans three years: initial development and data warehouse population in Year 1, data cleaning and dashboard creation in Year 2, and full rollout to all CTSC members in Year 3. Results/Anticipated Results: MyCTSC aims to create a seamless data and member management system to resolve issues stemming from multiple data sources. Demographic challenges are addressed by implementing data cleaning and consolidating duplicate identities into a single profile. The initiative will enhance stakeholder buy-in by presenting evaluation use cases that show the impacts of CTSC resources. For example, workforce development needs will be met through surveys and integration of a course catalog. MyCTSC will also facilitate targeted resource and event advertising, and support investigator outreach and collaboration by utilizing dashboards and reports. Furthermore, it will serve as the consolidated data source for all CTSC modules, promoting greater interaction and collaboration across administration and modules. Discussion/Significance of Impact: MyCTSC integrates multiple sources, consolidates identities, and simplifies reporting for outreach and collaboration. It enhances interaction with researchers and community members, advancing translational science by linking projects and publications. MyCTSC, built with open-source software, can be made available to other CTSA hubs.

Objectives/Goals: This study tests the REDCap Clinical Data Interoperability Service (CDIS) for streamlined data extraction from electronic health records (EHRs) for research. Managed by Clinical and Translational Science Institute, IU Health, and Eskenazi Health, CDIS offers real-time data syncing, automated workflows, and HIPAA-compliant data security. Methods/Study Population: The REDCap CDIS uses the Fast Health Interoperability Resource (FHIR) Application Programming Interface (API) to extract data from EHRs. It includes the Clinical Data Pull (CDP), which automatically pulls EHR data into user-defined REDCap fields, and the Clinical Data Mart (CDM), which collects longitudinal patient data. Three use cases were selected to assess the CDIS’s effectiveness in extracting data from the IUH Cerner and Eskenazi Epic EHR systems. The technical team set up clinical data mapping and adjudication processes, simplifying complex manual data extraction. Results/Anticipated Results: The CDIS successfully achieved real-time data synchronization during pilot testing with each EHR system. We extracted demographics, drugs, procedures, labs, and conditions. The mapping interface supports many-to-one data point mapping for the study data dictionary, and the adjudication process ensures data quality before integration into the REDCap database. The CDIS also improved data security and HIPAA compliance. An implementation intake process was developed for Indiana University investigators, allowing them to use the service for affordable clinical data extraction from EHR systems. Discussion/Significance of Impact: The implementation and testing of the REDCap CDIS demonstratesits effectiveness in streamlining EHR data extraction for research. The CDIS facilitates real-time data synchronization, automated workflows, and enhanced data security, offering a cost-effective solution through collaborative oversight with research teams.

Objectives/Goals: Hearing loss (HL) can result from environmental and genetic factors. Some genetic variants may be more prevalent in populations living in geographic or cultural isolation. This study explores the genetic variants associated with HL in Puerto Rico and correlates these with auditory and balance disorders to uncover novel variants. Methods/Study Population: After obtaining individual informed consent and assent for a minor when applicable, we will collect clinical audiological data and biological samples (n  =  600) from families across Puerto Rico with a history of severe to profound HL. Genomic DNA will be extracted, and exome and mitochondrial genome sequencing will be conducted to identify causal variants in genes associated with HL. The study will assess the prevalence of both novel and reported variants in genes associated with HL and investigate founder variants in the Puerto Rican population. Involvement of genes so far not associated with HL will also be considered when a genetic diagnosis cannot be established. Auditory phenotypes will be correlated with genetic findings, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of genetic contributions to HL in this population. Results/Anticipated Results: This research will advance understanding of the genetic causes of HL in Puerto Rico, leading to more accurate diagnoses, personalized treatment options, and the discovery of novel genes associated with HL. It will also serve as an evidence-based reference to analyze the adequacy of current neonatal hearing screening protocols in PR. Recruitment and sample collection have begun, and we expect our findings to uncover population-specific variants. These results will provide a foundation for further genetic studies aiming at identifying the causes of HL in Puerto Ricans regardless of age of onset. Discussion/Significance of Impact: This study will enhance our understanding of hereditary HL and serve as a basis for developing population-specific diagnostic tools and interventions, particularly in the Puerto Rican population. The research will support future genetic studies and address health disparities in HL in the island.

Objectives/Goals: This pilot study aims to assess the implementation of the DataDay app in memory clinics for patients with MCI or dementia, focusing on usability, user satisfaction, and impact on health outcomes. We seek to identify barriers and facilitators to implementation and evaluate its effect on reducing unnecessary hospital stays. Methods/Study Population: This mixed-methods study will involve 50 participants, 25 diads of patients with MCI or mild-to-moderate dementia and their caregivers from the community. Participants will use DataDay for 12 weeks, receiving reminders to log daily activities such as nutrition, mood, cognition, and physical activity. Baseline demographic data will be collected from self-reported surveys. Participants will receive training on app use, with follow-up interviews at 4, 8, and 12 weeks to gather feedback. Quantitative data analysis will include repeated measures analysis of variance to compare pre- and post-intervention outcomes, such as medication use and ER visits. Thematic analysis will be conducted on interview transcripts to understand user experiences. Results/Anticipated Results: We anticipate the study will demonstrate the feasibility of the DataDay app for self-management in individuals with MCI or dementia. Expected outcomes include improved medication adherence, reduced emergency room visits, and increased user engagement with daily health monitoring. Qualitative feedback is expected to highlight user satisfaction with the app’s reminders and ease of integration into daily routine. We also expect potential challenges to be identified such as initial learning difficulties and technology-related frustration. The data will help refine the app for better usability and inform strategies for widespread implementation in memory assessment clinics. Discussion/Significance of Impact: The study will provide insights into the practicality of implementing DataDay in memory clinics. The results will highlight necessary adjustments and provide key factors for successful adoption in other clinics. DataDay aims to allow individuals with MCI or dementia to manage their condition at home and enhance their quality of life.

Objectives/Goals: The University of Minnesota (UMN) CTSI and Medical School sought to increase the diversity of translational research-intensive faculty by recruiting highly promising new-to-UMN tenure track faculty in the Medical School. Increased resources and career development will increase recruitment and address barriers to their promotion and success. Methods/Study Population: In 2019, the Medical School Dean committed to fund 15 Early Career Research Awards (ECRA) Scholars to recruit outstanding new-to-UMN, tenure track faculty. Supplementing usual departmental recruitment packages, ECRA Scholars receive: 75% salary and fringe benefit support for 3 years; an additional $500,000 of research funds; and augmented mentoring and coaching with required participation in the relevant CTSI career development program. Department Chairs propose meritorious candidates for Review Committee consideration based on the Chair nomination letter, scientific plan, mentoring plan, CV, and additional letters of recommendation. To foster community building, there is an annual mini-retreat for the ECRA Scholars and other underrepresented CTSI Scholars with an external visiting professor. Results/Anticipated Results: Fifteen tenure-track faculty have been recruited as ECRA Scholars since 2019 into 9 different departments. One additional Scholar has been accepted and three have completed the program. Three ECRA Scholars were K awardees at the time of recruitment. The CTSI career development programs utilized were the K Accelerator (10), KL2 Scholar (2), and K-R01 (5) Programs, with 3 involved in two programs. The Scholar degrees include 10 PhDs, 3 MD/PhDs, and 2 MDs, with additional MPH/MS (5), MSW (1), and DPT (1) degrees. ECRA Scholars have been awarded multiple NIH R21, Foundation, and internal grants currently under review include Ks and R01s with 5 additional K, 2 new R01, and 1 revised R01 submissions planned for the 2024–2025 academic year. Discussion/Significance of Impact: The ECRA program has successfully augmented recruitment of outstanding underrepresented research-oriented early-stage faculty to the University of Minnesota School of Medicine, contributing to many Departments. The CTSI has provided career development, networking, and a broader community of Scholars, with increased diversity in CTSI programs.

Objectives/Goals: Discovery Day aims to bring diverse and underrepresented groups of potential biomedical research participants into research spaces to increase transparency, knowledge of the research process, trust in research, and interest in STEM fields. Methods/Study Population: Discovery Days are one-day events held on Saturdays at a large hospital in the Midwest. Attendees are recruited through flyers, social media, and other media. Recruitment targets communities that are predominantly underrepresented in research, such as Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino. Events included lunch, presentations, interactive lab demonstrations, Q&A sessions, and a tour of the BioBank research facility. Families completed surveys assessing demographics, trust in research, understanding of research, and interest in STEM careers. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize findings. Results/Anticipated Results: At a Discovery Day held in May 2024, 58 individuals attended. Each family (N  =  30) completed a 15-item survey. Most (70%) participants identified with diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, with the largest group identifying as Black/African American. Five diverse neighborhoods were represented, as expected for our recruitment strategy. Following Discovery Day, 73.3% of participants reported their trust in research increased, and 93.1% of participants indicated their understanding of research increased. 37.5% reported interest in learning about STEM jobs or internships, and 100% of participants would recommend Discovery Day to friends and family. Discussion/Significance of Impact: We hope that by increasing transparency and trust around the research process, community members that may benefit from research (e.g., genetic research on chronic diseases) may be more likely to participate. Additional findings and future goals for Discovery Day will be discussed.

Objectives/goals: This project will focus on identifying the barriers that result in low adherence to quality care indicators that establish effective and efficient pediatric emergency care. The overall objective is to understand motivations behind adherence (or lack thereof) and find solutions to facilitate compliance. Methods/Study Population: This study will use a mixed-methods design to investigate the barriers. Quantitative data will be collected through a survey provided to healthcare providers involved in pediatric emergency care, including physicians, nurses, and administrative staff in both pediatric and general hospitals. Qualitative data will be collected through semi-structured interviews with a group of respondents to gain insight on their experience regarding compliance. Quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical analyses while qualitative data will undergo a thorough thematic analysis. Both sets of data will be reviewed to identify themes and differences in barriers across hospital types and healthcare roles. Results/Anticipated Results: We will have gathered insights and perspectives from key stakeholders that are relevant to our study to ensure a comprehensive understanding of any potential implications that may arise from our study. We anticipate that the specific results will highlight key differences in adherence between pediatric and general hospitals. The study is expected to identify specific barriers hindering compliance with established guidelines in both settings. The results may be used to increase adherence to critical quality indicators and improve patient care. Discussion/Significance of Impact: Pediatric injury care prioritizes the immediacy of care for children with acute illness and injury. With certain hospital protocols not being adhered to, there is a risk of wasting crucial time and resources that can affect patient care outcomes. The results would provide recommendations to improve and increase efficiency in pediatric injury care.

Objectives/Goals: Adults from minority groups report more severe and pervasive pain than those in majority groups, resulting in a disproportionate burden of pain. Whether race disparities in pain outcomes exist in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS) is unknown. We examined the association of race with pain intensity, pain interference, and pain phenotypes in MS. Methods/Study Population: Ambulatory adults with medically documented MS completed a comprehensive survey battery including demographics and clinical data. Pain outcomes were assessed with four measures: Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System (PROMIS) pain intensity and pain interference short forms, the American College of Rheumatology Fibromyalgia Survey Criteria (a surrogate of degree of nociplastic pain), and the PainDETECT (a surrogate of neuropathic pain). Participants were categorized as either Black/African American or White based on their self-reported race. Four sets of unadjusted and adjusted (including sex, age, years since diagnosis, MS subtype and Patient Determined Disease Steps—PDDS score) linear regression models were built to examine the associations between race and pain outcomes. Results/Anticipated Results: A total of 258 participants (200 White and 58 Black), with a mean age of 51 ± 12 years, mostly female (77%), an average of 15 ± 10 years since diagnosis, a PDDS score ranging from 0 to 6, and mostly diagnosed with RRMS (79%), were included in the analyses. Unadjusted regression models indicated that pain intensity (β  =  5.20; 95% CI 2.73 – 7.66, p < 0.001), pain interference (β  =  5.17; 95% CI 2.29 – 8.06, p < 0.001), and nociplastic pain (β  =  2.41; 95% CI 0.40 – 4.42, p  =  0.019) were all higher for Black/African American participants compared to White participants. The differences remained statistically significant in adjusted models. No differences in neuropathic pain were observed between Black/African American and White participants in both unadjusted and adjusted models. Discussion/Significance of Impact: We highlight an increased burden of pain in Black/African American with MS compared with their White counterparts. The findings illuminate potential future targets of interventions to reduce disparities in the experience and impact of pain. A comprehensive examination of the role of social determinants in pain outcomes in MS is further warranted.