Asociación de floraciones de algas nocivas y Vibrio spp. en áreas de pesca y acuicultura de bivalvos de moluscos en las bahías de Sechura y Pisco, Perú

Entre febrero de 2010 y mayo de 2014 se realizaron 22 evaluaciones en Pisco y 16 en Sechura; ambas áreas importantes en Perú para la extracción de moluscos y maricultura. La incidencia de Vibrio en el agua de mar fue monitoreada durante las floraciones de algas y en épocas normales. Se midieron parámetros ambientales tales como temperatura y nutrientes. En Sechura, Pseudo-nitzschia seriata y Protoperidinium depressum causaron floraciones de algas y fueron dominantes durante todo el período de evaluación. Las temperaturas en esta zona oscilaron entre 21.8 y 25.3 °C. En Pisco, la concentración Akashiwo sanguinea, Messodinium rubrum y Prorocentrum mínimum y el dinoflagelado Cochlodinium polikrykoides fueron los más frecuentes. Las floraciones de algas nocivas ocurrieron cuando las temperaturas estaban entre 17.1 y 23.3 °C, concentraciones de fosfatos que oscilaban entre 1.22 - 6.85 μM y nitratos 0.15 - 7.85 μM. En mayo de 2012, el dinoflagelado Alexandrium peruvianum causó una floración algal, bajo temperaturas de 18.0 a 23.2 °C, valores de fosfato de 0.73 a 11.56 μM y nitratos de 0.76 a 9.81 μM. Los coliformes fueron bajos < 2 – 23 MPN/100 mL, en ambas bahías durante todo el período de estudio. Vibrio alginolyticus fue la especie dominante. Mientras que V. vulnificus y V. parahaemolyticus se detectaron en Pisco, donde las temperaturas del mar comúnmente son mayores y los casos de infecciones graves por ingestión de mariscos se han asociado con el patógeno V. parahaemolyticus.

Outcome of Patients with Venous Thromboembolism and Factor V Leiden or Prothrombin 20210 Carrier Mutations During the Course of Anticoagulation

BACKGROUND

Individuals with factor V Leiden or prothrombin G20210A mutations are at a higher risk to develop venous thromboembolism. However, the influence of these polymorphisms on patient outcome during anticoagulant therapy has not been consistently explored.

METHODS

We used the Registro Informatizado de Enfermedad TromboEmbólica database to compare rates of venous thromboembolism recurrence and bleeding events occurring during the anticoagulation course in factor V Leiden carriers, prothrombin mutation carriers, and noncarriers.

RESULTS

Between March 2001 and December 2015, 10,139 patients underwent thrombophilia testing. Of these, 1384 were factor V Leiden carriers, 1115 were prothrombin mutation carriers, and 7640 were noncarriers. During the anticoagulation course, 160 patients developed recurrent deep vein thrombosis and 94 patients developed pulmonary embolism (16 died); 154 patients had major bleeding (10 died), and 291 patients had nonmajor bleeding. On multivariable analysis, factor V Leiden carriers had a similar rate of venous thromboembolism recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 1.16; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.82-1.64), half the rate of major bleeding (adjusted HR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.25-0.99) and a nonsignificantly lower rate of nonmajor bleeding (adjusted HR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.43-1.01) than noncarriers. Prothrombin mutation carriers and noncarriers had a comparable rate of venous thromboembolism recurrence (adjusted HR, 1.00; 95% CI, 0.68-1.48), major bleeding (adjusted HR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.42-1.34), and nonmajor bleeding events (adjusted HR, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.77-1.57).

CONCLUSIONS

During the anticoagulation course, factor V Leiden carriers had a similar risk for venous thromboembolism recurrence and half the risk for major bleeding compared with noncarriers. This finding may contribute to decision-making regarding anticoagulation duration in selected factor V Leiden carriers with venous thromboembolism.

The Clinical Course of Venous Thromboembolism May Differ According to Cancer Site

BACKGROUND

We hypothesized that the clinical course of venous thromboembolism in patients with active cancer may differ according to the specificities of primary tumor site.

AIM AND METHODS

We used data from RIETE (international registry of patients with venous thromboembolism) to compare the clinical venous thromboembolism-related outcomes during the course of anticoagulation in patients with one of the 4 more frequent cancers (breast, prostate, colorectal, or lung cancer).

RESULTS

As of September 2014, 3947 cancer patients were recruited, of whom 938 had breast, 629 prostate, 1189 colorectal, and 1191 lung cancer. Overall, 55% had metastatic disease (42%, 36%, 53%, and 72%, respectively). During the course of anticoagulant therapy (mean duration, 139 days), the rate of thromboembolic recurrences was similar to the rate of major bleeding in patients with breast (5.6 [95% confidence interval (CI), 3.8-8.1] vs 4.1 [95% CI, 2.7-5.9] events per 100 patient-years) or colorectal cancer (10 [95% CI, 7.6-13] vs 12 [95% CI, 9.4-15] per 100 patient-years). In contrast, in patients with prostate cancer, the rate of venous thromboembolic recurrences was half the rate of major bleeding (6.9 [95% CI, 4.4-10] vs 13 [95% CI, 9.2-17] events per 100 patient-years), whereas in those with lung cancer, the rate of thromboembolic recurrences was twofold higher than the rate of major bleeding (27 [95% CI, 22-23] vs 11 [95% CI, 8.6-15] per 100 patient-years).

CONCLUSIONS

Significant differences in the clinical profile of venous thromboembolic-related outcomes were observed according to the site of cancer. These findings suggest the development of cancer-specific anticoagulant strategies as an area for further research.

Exploring the effects of substituting basketball players in high-level teams

Substituting basketball players during competition is a key process to optimise collective performance. Available research on this topic is scarce, probably due to the difficulty in isolating these effects; thus, the aim of this study was to identify the temporal effects of substitutions in basketball (Spanish professional basketball league). The sample was composed of 1118 substitutions gathered from 21 basketball games. The analysed variables were coach-controlled (player and team's personal fouls, player in and player out roles, player's in and out minutes on-court and timeout situation); on-court (foul committed, free throws, 2- and 3-point field-goal effectiveness) and situational variables (scoreline, quality of opposition, game location and game quarter). The results showed positive scoring performances after the substitution for all the analyses. During the first quarter, there were significant effects for fouls committed, scoreline and game location after the substitution. The player's out personal fouls, free-throw effectiveness, player in, minutes on-court player in, timeout situation and 3-point field-goal effectiveness were significant during the second quarter. The team's personal fouls, game location, and scoreline were identified as important in the third quarter. The fourth quarter did not show significant effects on the independent variables. Current findings allow optimising coaches' plans and team management of on-court and bench players throughout the game.

Effectiveness during ball screens in elite basketball games

Ball screens are one of the most frequently used tactical behaviour in elite basketball games. The aim of the present study was to identify their predictors of success related to time, space, players, and tasks performed. The sample was composed of 818 ball screens corresponding to 20 close games (mean differences in score of 3.1 ± 0.8 points) randomly selected from the playoff games of the Spanish Basketball League (2008-2011). Classification tree analysis (CHAID) was used to analyse which variable or combination of variables, better predicts effectiveness during ball screens. The main results allowed identifying interactions with dribbler actions after the screen and the orientation of the screen on the ball. The results showed no interaction with game quarter and quarter minute temporal-related variables in both analyses. The present findings allow improving coaches' strategic plans that involve selecting the most appropriate offensive approach when performing ball screens.

Examining choking in basketball: effects of game outcome and situational variables during last 5 minutes and overtimes

This study examined choking in basketball by identifying the effects of game outcome and situational variables during the last 5 min. and overtimes of close games. The sample consisted of two 5 min. segments (last 5 min. of the game, n = 147, of which 97 did not go into overtime; 5 min. of overtime, n = 50) drawn from 147 games from the Spanish Professional Basketball League (2007 to 2011). The following game-related statistics were gathered: 3- and 2-point field goals and free-throws (both successful and unsuccessful), offensive and defensive rebounds, assists, recovered balls, turnovers, blocks (both made and received), and fouls committed and received. The results suggested the need to account for the temporal structure and multi-skilled nature of the task when devising appropriate interventions.

A prognostic score to identify low-risk outpatients with acute deep vein thrombosis in the lower limbs

BACKGROUND

No prior studies have identified which patients with deep vein thrombosis in the lower limbs are at a low risk for adverse events within the first week of therapy.

METHODS

We used data from the Registro Informatizado de la Enfermedad TromboEmbólica (RIETE) to identify patients at low risk for the composite outcome of pulmonary embolism, major bleeding, or death within the first week. We built a prognostic score and compared it with the decision to treat patients at home.

RESULTS

As of December 2013, 15,280 outpatients with deep vein thrombosis had been enrolled. Overall, 5164 patients (34%) were treated at home. Of these, 12 (0.23%) had pulmonary embolism, 8 (0.15%) bled, and 4 (0.08%) died. On multivariable analysis, chronic heart failure, recent immobility, recent bleeding, cancer, renal insufficiency, and abnormal platelet count independently predicted the risk for the composite outcome. Among 11,430 patients (75%) considered to be at low risk, 15 (0.13%) suffered pulmonary embolism, 22 (0.19%) bled, and 8 (0.07%) died. The C-statistic was 0.61 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.57-0.65) for the decision to treat patients at home and 0.76 (95% CI, 0.72-0.79) for the score (P = .003). Net reclassification improvement was 41% (P < .001). Integrated discrimination improvement was 0.034 for the score and 0.015 for the clinical decision (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Using 6 easily available variables, we identified outpatients with deep vein thrombosis at low risk for adverse events within the first week. These data may help to safely treat more patients at home. This score, however, should be validated.

Ball possession effectiveness in men's and women's elite basketball according to situational variables in different game periods

The aim of the present study was to identify the importance of basketball performance indicators in predicting the effectiveness of ball possessions in men's and women's basketball, when controlling for situational variables and game periods. The sample consisted of 7234 ball possessions, corresponding to 40 games from the Spanish professional leagues. The effects of the predictor variables on successful ball possessions according to game period were analysed using binary logistic regressions. Results from men's teams show interactions with number of passes and ending player during the first five minutes, with starting and ending zone, defensive systems, screens used and possession duration during the middle thirty minutes, and there were interactions with passes used, possession duration and players involved during the last five minutes. Results from women's teams show interactions with starting and ending zone, passes used, defensive systems and ending player during the first five minutes, and with starting and ending zone, and screens used during the middle thirty minutes. The results show no interaction with situational variables in men's basketball, while league stage was important during the middle thirty minutes and last five minutes in women's basketball, whereas match status was only important during the last five minutes.

Using molecular markers for pedigree reconstruction of the greater amberjack (Seriola dumerili) in the absence of parental information

Ensuring appropriate levels of genetic diversity in captive populations is essential to avoid inbreeding and loss of rare alleles by genetic drift. Pedigree reconstruction and parentage analysis in the absence of parental genotypes can be a challenging task that relies in the assignment of sibship relationships among the offspring. Here, we used eight highly variable microsatellite markers and three different assignment methods to reconstruct the most likely genotypes of a parental group of wild Seriola dumerili fish based on the genotypes of six cohorts of their offspring, to assess their relative contributions to the offspring. We found that a combination of the four most variable microsatellites was enough to identify the number of parents and their contribution to the offspring, suggesting that the variability of the markers can be more critical than the number of markers. Estimated effective population sizes were lower than the number of breeders and variable among years. The results suggest unequal parental contribution that should be accounted for breeding programs in the future.

Effects of a diet lacking HUFA on lipid and fatty acid content of intestine and gills of male gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.) broodstock at different stages of the reproductive cycle

A feeding experiment was carried out to determine the effect of a diet lacking n-3 and n-6 highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA) on lipid and fatty acid content in intestine and gills of male gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.) broodstock at different stages of the reproductive cycle: November (pre-spermatogenesis), March (spermatogenesis), and June (post-spermatogenesis). For this purpose, gilthead seabream broodstock were fed either a control diet (C) or an n-3 and n-6 HUFA-deficient diet (D). The results showed no changes in fatty acid content of polar lipids of intestine and gills from fish fed diet C at different stages of the reproductive cycle. However, significant changes were observed in the fatty acid content of neutral lipids in intestine but not in gills in this group. Thus, between November and March, saturates and n-3 HUFA decreased while monoenes increased. In June, the contents of these fatty acids had returned to their initial values (November). Moreover, in fish fed diet D, the fatty acid content of neutral lipid changed in both intestine and gills. In intestine NL, a decrease in saturates and n-3 HUFA and an increment in monoenes were observed from November to June. In gills, a decrease was also observed in n-3 HUFA from NL along the cycle. Nevertheless, n-6 HUFA content remained unchanged. These results show both tissue specificity in seasonal mobilization of fatty acids linked to reproductive processes and the influence of dietary fatty acids on body composition.

Emigration to western industrialized countries: A risk factor for developing inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

A higher incidence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in industrialized areas has been previously reported, but the effect of emigrating to western industrialized countries for a period of time and returning to the country of origin is unknown. Aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of emigrating to another country and returning to the place of origin on the risk of IBD.

METHODS

A prospective case-control study was performed. Inclusion criteria were all patients >18 years diagnosed with Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) in the last 10 years. Healthy, unrelated controls, matched by sex, age and smoking habits, with no family history of IBD were included. All patients and controls were interviewed and emigration was defined as living for at least one year in another country.

RESULTS

242 consecutive patients with IBD (105 CD and 137 UC) and 242 controls were included. Patients who had previously emigrated developed more frequently IBD than controls (OR 1.93, 95%CI 1.19-3.15, p<0.01). Patients who emigrated to European countries developed more frequently IBD than controls (OR 1.91, 95%CI 1.07-3.47, p=0.02), but not those who had emigrated to Latin America (OR 1.48, 95%CI 0.67-3.27, p=0.32). Emigration plays a significant role in the development of UC (OR 2.24, 95%CI:1.29-3.88, p<0.01), but not in CD (OR 1.56, 95%IC:0.83-2.92, p=0.15).

CONCLUSIONS

People who emigrate to westernised countries have a higher risk for developing IBD, especially UC. Environmental factors related with industrialization seem to play an important role in the pathogenesis of these diseases.

NOD2, CD14 and TLR4 mutations do not influence response to adalimumab in patients with Crohn's disease: a preliminary report

INTRODUCTION

Adalimumab is a recombinant fully-human monoclonal immunoglobulin (IgG1) antibody utilized in the treatment of Crohn's disease. Unfortunately no clinical or genetic markers exist to predict response to anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF) therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between selected genes involved in cytokine regulation and response to adalimumab treatment in Crohn's disease.

METHODS

twenty-four patients with Crohn's disease either naïve (n = 8) or had lost response or were unable to tolerate the chimeric anti-TNF antibody infliximab (n=16) were enrolled in the study. Patients were genotyped for main polymorphisms in NOD2, CD14 and TLR4 genes. Response to adalimumab treatment was defined as a decrease of Crohn's disease activity index of at least 100 points or a closure of at least 50% of fistulas in case of fistulizing Crohn's disease.

RESULTS

overall, 75% of patients did respond to treatment. However, no statistically significant association was found between any of the genotypes and the response to adalimumab.

CONCLUSIONS

In our small study group no association between the studied polymorphisms and response to adalimumab was apparent. Systematic studies to search for genetic markers of response to anti-TNF therapy are necessary.

Game related statistics which discriminate between winning and losing under-16 male basketball games

The aim of the present study was to identify the game-related statistics which discriminate between winning and losing teams in under-16 years old male basketball games. The sample gathered all 122 games in the 2004 and 2005 Under-16 European Championships. The game-related statistics analysed were the free-throws (both successful and unsuccessful), 2- and 3-points field-goals (both successful and unsuccessful) offensive and defensive rebounds, blocks, assists, fouls, turnovers and steals. The winning teams exhibited lower ball possessions per game and better offensive and defensive efficacy coefficients than the losing teams. Results from discriminant analysis were statistically significant and allowed to emphasize several structure coefficients (SC). In close games (final score differences below 9 points), the discriminant variables were the turnovers (SC = -0.47) and the assists (SC = 0.33). In balanced games (final score differences between 10 and 29 points), the variables that discriminated between the groups were the successful 2-point field-goals (SC = -0.34) and defensive rebounds (SC = -0. 36); and in unbalanced games (final score differences above 30 points) the variables that best discriminated both groups were the successful 2-point field-goals (SC = 0.37). These results allowed understanding that these players' specific characteristics result in a different game-related statistical profile and helped to point out the importance of the perceptive and decision making process in practice and in competition. Key pointsThe players' game-related statistical profile varied according to game type, game outcome and in formative categories in basketball.The results of this work help to point out the different player's performance described in U-16 men's basketball teams compared with senior and professional men's basketball teams.The results obtained enhance the importance of the perceptive and decision making process in practice and in competition.

An analysis of defensive strategies used by home and away basketball teams

The aim of the present study was to identify differences in defensive strategies used during basketball games, to compare the defensive strategies used by home and away basketball teams, and to analyze the effectiveness of home and away ball possessions when playing against each defensive strategy. The sample was composed of 10 games of the Spanish men's 2005-2006 regular basketball season (N = 1,785 ball possessions). The analyzed variables were the number of types of defenses used, points per possession, foul percentage, and turnover percentage according to the type of defensive strategy and game location. The game location main effect was significant in points per possession, with home teams having lower values than away teams. The defensive strategy main effect was significant in number of types of defenses used, with man-to-man as the most frequently utilized defense, and foul percentages with higher values in zone defenses. There was a statistically significant interaction in turnover percentages, with significantly lower values for man-to-man defense and home games. Overall, it is suggested that team performance for the studied variables changed according to the factors and, thus, it may be beneficial to change defensive (and offensive) strategies according to game location.

Neurodegeneration and prolonged immediate early gene expression throughout cortical areas of the rat brain following acute administration of dizocilpine

N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist drugs (NMDA-A), such as dizocilpine (MK801), induce long-lasting behavioral disturbances reminiscent to psychotic disorders in humans. To identify cortical structures affected by NMDA-A, we used a single dose of MK801 (10 mg/kg) that caused low and high neurodegeneration in intact and orchiectomized male rats, respectively. Degenerating somas (neuronal death) and axonal/synaptic endings (terminal degeneration) were depicted by a silver technique, and functionally affected cortical neuronal subpopulations by Egr-1, c-Fos, and FosB/DeltaFosB-immunolabeling. In intact males, MK801 triggered a c-Fos induction that remained high for more than 24 h in selected layers of the retrosplenial, somatosensory and entorhinal cortices. MK801-induced neurodegeneration reached its peak at 72 h. Degenerating somas were restricted to layer IV of the granular subdivision of the retrosplenial cortex, and were accompanied by suppression of Egr-1 immunolabeling. Terminal degeneration extended to selected layers of the retrosplenial, somatosensory and parahippocampal cortices, which are target areas of retrosplenial cortex. Induction of FosB/DeltaFosB by MK801 also extended to the same cortical layers affected by terminal degeneration, likely reflecting the damage of synaptic connectivity. In orchiectomized males, the neurodegenerative and functional effects of MK801 were exacerbated. Degenerative somas in layer IV of the retrosplenial cortex significantly increased, with a parallel enhancement of terminal degeneration and FosB/DeltaFosB-expression in the mentioned cortical structures, but no additional areas were affected. These observations reveal that synaptic dysfunction/degeneration in the retrosplenial, somatosensory and parahippocampal cortices might underlie the long-lasting impairments induced by NMDA-A.

Effects of Consecutive Basketball Games on the Game-Related Statistics that Discriminate Winner and Losing Teams

The aim of the present study was to identify the game-related statistics that discriminated basketball winning and losing teams in each of the three consecutive games played in a condensed tournament format. The data were obtained from the Spanish Basketball Federation and included game-related statistics from the Under-20 league (2005-2006 and 2006-2007 seasons). A total of 223 games were analyzed with the following game-related statistics: two and three-point field goal (made and missed), free-throws (made and missed), offensive and defensive rebounds, assists, steals, turnovers, blocks (made and received), fouls committed, ball possessions and offensive rating. Results showed that winning teams in this competition had better values in all game-related statistics, with the exception of three point field goals made, free-throws missed and turnovers (p ≥ 0.05). The main effect of game number was only identified in turnovers, with a statistical significant decrease between the second and third game. No interaction was found in the analysed variables. A discriminant analysis allowed identifying the two-point field goals made, the defensive rebounds and the assists as discriminators between winning and losing teams in all three games. Additionally to these, only the three-point field goals made contributed to discriminate teams in game three, suggesting a moderate effect of fatigue. Coaches may benefit from being aware of this variation in game determinant related statistics and, also, from using offensive and defensive strategies in the third game, allowing to explore or hide the three point field-goals performance. Key pointsOverall team performances along the three consecutive games were very similar, not confirming an accumulated fatigue effect.The results from the three-point field goals in the third game suggested that winning teams were able to shoot better from longer distances and this could be the result of exhibiting higher conditioning status and/or the losing teams' exhibiting low conditioning in defense.

Game Related Statistics Discriminating Between Starters and Nonstarters Players in Women'S National Basketball Association League (WNBA)

The aim of the present study was to identify the game-related statistics that allow discriminating between starters and nonstarter players in women's basketball when related to winning or losing games and best or worst teams. The sample comprised all 216 regular season games from the 2005 Women's National Basketball Association League (WNBA). The game-related statistics included were 2- and 3- point field-goals (both successful and unsuccessful), free-throws (both successful and unsuccessful), defensive and offensive rebounds, assists, blocks, fouls, steals, turnovers and minutes played. Results from multivariate analysis showed that when best teams won, the discriminant game-related statistics were successful 2-point field-goals (SC = 0.47), successful free-throws (SC = 0.44), fouls (SC = -0.41), assists (SC = 0.37), and defensive rebounds (SC = 0.37). When the worst teams won, the discriminant game-related statistics were successful 2-point field- goals (SC = 0.37), successful free-throws (SC = 0.45), assists (SC = 0.58), and steals (SC = 0.35). The results showed that the successful 2-point field-goals, successful free-throws and the assists were the most powerful variables discriminating between starters and nonstarters. These specific characteristics helped to point out the importance of starters' players shooting and passing ability during competitions. Key pointsThe players' game-related statistical profile varied according to team status, game outcome and team quality in women's basketball.The results of this work help to point out the different player's performance described in women's basketball compared with men's basketball.The results obtained enhance the importance of starters and nonstarters contribution to team's performance in different game contexts.Results showed the power of successful 2-point field-goals, successful free-throws and assists discriminating between starters and nonstarters in all the analyses.

Psychological impact of Crohn's disease on patients in remission: anxiety and depression risks

BACKGROUND

the role of anxiety and depression in CD patients in remission has been poorly investigated.

OBJECTIVE

the aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency of anxiety and depression symptoms in CD patients in remission, and potential factors influencing the development of these symptoms.

METHODS

CD patients older than 18 years in remission for at least 6 months before study entry were included. CD remission was defined as a Crohn s Disease Activity Index (CDAI) < 150 points together with C-reactive protein < 5 mg/L. A demographic questionnaire was filled in, and all patients were clinically classified. The therapy maintaining remission was also recorded. A Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HAD) was administered to all patients. Results are shown as OR and 95% CI, and analyzed by logistic regression.

RESULTS

92 consecutive patients were included (48 male, mean age 37 years, range from 18 to 71 years). One patient failed to correctly fill in the questionnaire. Anxiety and depression symptoms were present in 36 (39%) and 22 (24%) patients, respectively. Infliximab therapy was the only factor associated with anxiety (OR = 3.11; 95% CI: 1.03-9.43; p < 0.05). In contrast, the presence of depressive symptoms is less frequent in patients under infliximab therapy (OR = 0.16; 95% CI: 0.02-0.97; p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

despite clinical remission, an important number of CD patients present with anxiety or depressive symptoms. Infliximab therapy in CD patients is associated to more anxiety but fewer depressive symptoms. CD patients in remission would probably benefit from psychological support.

Docetaxel and carboplatin followed by sequential capecitabine as first line treatment in patients with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer

Abstract #2155

Background: Anthracyclines and docetaxel (D) are the most active agents in metastatic breast cancer (BC). New regimens are being assesed to improve chemotherapy efficacy. D and carboplatin (C) has shown to be an active treatment in metastatic BC. Capecitabine (X) and D is also an active combination, despite the fact the toxicity profile needs to be improved. Sequential administration of D and X could lead to an improved toxicity profile compared with concomitant administration. We designed this study to evaluate activity and toxicity profile of treatment with D and C followed by sequential X in patients with locally advanced or metastatic BC.&#x2028; Methods: Patients with locally advanced or metastatic BC, at least one measurable lesion, age ≥ 18 years, ECOG PS ≤ 2, and adequate bone marrow and hepatic functions, were included in the study. Prior chemotherapy or radiotherapy for advanced disease was not allowed. Patients received 6 cycles of D 75 mg/m2 iv D1 and C AUC5 iv D1, every 21 days followed by 12 cycles of X 2000 mg/m2/day o.r. D1-14 in a 21 days course.&#x2028; Results: twenty patients have been analyzed. Median age was 55 years old (range 36-73), ECOG PS 0-1 94.4%; 90.0% of patients had infiltrating ductal carcinoma and 57.9% of patients had stage I-II at diagnosis. Main sites of metastatic disease were bone (35.0%), liver (25.0%) and lung (25.0%). Conservative surgery was performed in 35% of patients and mastectomy in 40%. Previous radiotherapy and chemotherapy was administered in 50.0% and 70.0% of patients, respectively. A total of 108 cycles of D and C (median 6, range 2-6) and 71 cycles of X (median 6, range 2-10) were administered. Median relative dose intensity was 96% for D and C and 95% for X. Over 17 evaluable patients for efficacy, 2 achieved complete response and 4 partial response; the ORR was 35.3% (95% CI:12.6-58.1). During D and C treatment, grade III/IV toxicities per patient were neutropenia (25.0%), leucopenia (10.0%), mucositis (5.0%), oedema (5.0%), febrile neutropenia (5.0%) and thrombophlebitis (5.0%). Most common grade II toxicities were nausea (20.0%), vomiting (15.0%) and asthenia (20.0%). During X treatment, grade III/IV toxicities per patient were neutropenia (7.1%) and hand-foot syndrome (7.1%). Main grade II toxicity was hand-foot syndrome (14.3%). Two patients finished treatment after 2 and 6 cycles of X due to diarrhea, oedema and anorexia, and hand-foot syndrome.&#x2028; Conclusion: In this preliminary analysis, D and C followed by sequential X seems to be an active and well-tolerated regimen as first line treatment in patients with locally advanced or metastatic BC.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 2155.

Game-related statistics that discriminated winning and losing teams from the Spanish men's professional basketball teams

The purpose of the present study was to analyse men's basketball competitions, trying to identify which game-related statistics allow to discriminate winning and losing teams. The sample used corresponded to 306 games from the 2004-2005 Regular Season of the Spanish Men's Professional League. The game-related statistics gathered were: 2 and 3 points field-goals (both successful and unsuccessful), free-throws (both successful and unsuccessful), offensive and defensive rebounds, blocks, assists, fouls, turnovers and steals. The data were analysed in two groups: balanced games (final score differences equal or below 12 points) and unbalanced games (final score differences above 12 points). Discriminant analysis allowed to conclude the following: (i) in balanced games, the variable that best differentiate both groups were the defensive rebounds; (ii) in unbalanced games, the variables that discriminate between both groups were the successful 2 points field-goals, the defensive rebounds and the assists; and (iii) in all games, the statistical analysis identified two variables that discriminate winning and losing teams (defensive rebounds and assists). The defensive rebounds were the only game-related statistic that discriminates both groups in all performed analysis. Coaches and players should be aware of these different profiles in order to increase knowledge about game cognitive and motor solicitation and, therefore, to enhance specificity at the time of practice and game planning.

P. Differences in Game-Related Statistics of Basketball Performance by Game Location for Men's Winning and Losing Teams

The aim of the present study was to identify game-related statistics that differentiate winning and losing teams according to game location. The sample included 306 games of the 2004–2005 regular season of the Spanish professional men's league (ACB League). The independent variables were game location (home or away) and game result (win or loss). The game-related statistics registered were free throws (successful and unsuccessful), 2- and 3-point field goals (successful and unsuccessful), offensive and defensive rebounds, blocks, assists, fouls, steals, and turnovers. Descriptive and inferential analyses were done (one-way analysis of variance and discriminate analysis). The multivariate analysis showed that winning teams differ from losing teams in defensive rebounds ( SC = .42) and in assists ( SC = .38). Similarly, winning teams differ from losing teams when they play at home in defensive rebounds ( SC = .40) and in assists ( SC = .41). On the other hand, winning teams differ from losing teams when they play away in defensive rebounds ( SC = .44), assists ( SC = .30), successful 2-point field goals ( SC = .31), and unsuccessful 3-point field goals ( SC = –.35). Defensive rebounds and assists were the only game-related statistics common to all three analyses.

Analysis of the efficacy of possessions in boys' 16-and-under basketball teams: differences between winning and losing teams

The purpose of this study was to analyze the ball possessions of winning and losing basketball teams in formative years (16 years and under). The sample was 3,897 ball possessions from 24 games of the boys' 16-and-under finals of the Andalusion Championship, Spain. The variables studied were game outcome, participation, and the initiation and end of each ball possession. Winning teams used more fast breaks and fewer set offenses in their ball possessions. Winning teams had shorter ball possessions and more passes and participating players. Dynamic game styles are necessary in youth basketball, focusing on continuously off-balancing the opponent through fast breaks and a high number of passes in set offenses.

A multicenter pilot study of adjuvant docetaxel, epirubicin and cyclophosphamide (TEC) in patients (p) with stage II/III and node-positive breast cancer (BC)

11029

Background: Based on wide experience with docetaxel, adriamicin and cyclophosphamide (TAC regimen) for adjuvant therapy of node-positive BC but taking into account the high incidence of febrile neutropenia and mucositis, we performed the present study with TEC aiming for a better toxicity profile at doses equipotent to TAC. Methods: 300 p with histological diagnosis of stage II-III BC, positive axillary lymph nodes, age 18 year old, ECOG PS 0–2 and adequate bone marrow, renal, hepatic and cardiac function were accrued after surgery. Prior chemotherapy, hormone therapy and radiotherapy for BC were not allowed. Treatment: T 75 mg/m2 iv d1, E 75 mg/m2 iv d1 and C 500 mg/m2 iv d1 every 21 days for 6 cycles. G-CSF 5 mcg/Kg /day s.c. was given on days 5 to 9. Results: Two hundred and one p having completed adjuvant therapy have been evaluated in this interim analysis. Median age: 53 years (range 25–77), ECOG PS 0/1 89%/11%, infiltrating ductal carcinoma 77%. Hormone receptor status was ER+ 79% and PR+ 60%. Surgery was mastectomy in 49% and conservative surgery in 51% of pts. Median number of positive axillary lymph nodes was 3. To date, 1,085 cycles were administered (median 6). Median relative dose intensity was 99% for T and 98% for E and C. There were 11 dose reductions for non- hematological toxicity and 4 for hematological toxicity. Toxicity: grade 3–4 neutropenia occurred in 15 p (7.5%), 8 of them were episodes of febrile neutropenia (4.0%). Other grade 3–4 toxicities per p were: leukopenia (7.0%), thrombocytopenia (0.5%), asthenia (6.5%), vomiting (4.5%), nausea (3.5%) and diarrhoea (3.0%). Four p (2.0%) discontinued therapy due to toxicity: 1 p with toxicodermic reaction, 1 p with hematological toxicity, 1 p with febrile neutropenia and 1 p with an allergic reaction to T. After study treatment, radiotherapy was administered to 63% of p and hormonotherapy to 66% of p. Conclusions: These preliminary results show that adjuvant TEC in p with stage II/III BC and positive axillary lymph nodes is feasible and well tolerated.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Discriminative game-related statistics between basketball starters and nonstarters when related to team quality and game outcome

The aim of the present paper was to examine the differences in game-related statistics between basketball players who are selected for the starting five of the team (starters) and those who are not (nonstarters) when related to game outcome (winning and losing) and team quality (best teams, teams classified for the playoffs; and worst teams, teams who miss playoff classification). Archival data were gathered for all 2002-2003 regular season games from the Portuguese Professional League (N = 156). Discriminant analysis was used to identify the game-related statistics that differentiate between starters and nonstarters and interpreted by the examination of the structure coefficients (SC). When the best teams won the games, results described differences between starters and nonstarters with an emphasis on defensive rebounds (SC = .32), assists (SC = .32) and committed fouls (SC = -.68). When the worst teams won the games, results described differences between starters and nonstarters with an emphasis on 2-point field goals successful (SC = .47) and unsuccessful (SC = .48), defensive rebounds (SC =.39), successful free throws (SC =.32), and committed fouls (SC = -.55). An also important finding was that, in best teams, the nonstarters' performance was worse in the games that the team lost, whereas in worst teams, it was the starters' performance that was worse in the games that the team lost.

Lipid and fatty acid content in wild white seabream (Diplodus sargus) broodstock at different stages of the reproductive cycle

The lipid and fatty acid content of the gonads, liver and muscle of wild white seabream males and females was studied at different stages of the reproductive cycle. Samples were taken from mature white seabream at pre-spawning (November), mid-spawning (March) and post-spawning (June) stages. The results showed that lipid accumulates in gonads and muscle from November to March. The gonadosomatic index (GSI) was also increased during this period. Male gonads showed a greater increase in polar lipid (PL) than neutral (NL), while female gonads displayed the reverse. The increase in both neutral and polar lipid was higher in the muscle of males than in females. In the same period, male livers showed no changes either in lipid content or the hepatosomatic index (HSI), while female livers registered an increase in both lipid content and HSI. Between March and June, in both males and females, total, neutral and polar lipid decreased sharply in the gonads and muscle. Muscular lipid content reduction was more pronounced in males than females. On the other hand, the lipid content of the liver in males and females remained relatively constant. In general terms, the amounts of major fatty acids (16:0, 18:1n-9, 20:5n-3 and 22:6n-3) in gonadal and muscular polar and neutral lipid in both males and females increased from November to March and declined thereafter. Variations of the liver fatty acid content were less extreme. In the period from mid-spawning to post-spawning, the presence of 20:4n-6 in polar and neutral lipid increased to a notable extent in all organs studied.

Association of NOD2/CARD15 mutations with previous surgical procedures in Crohn's disease

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to assess the importance of NOD2/CARD15 gene mutations as prognostic factors for surgical indications in Crohn's disease. PATIENTS AND EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN: A total of 165 Crohn s disease patients were studied, considering previous surgery related to Crohn's disease. We analyzed for previous surgery in global procedures as well as separately for the two main surgical indications: ileal resection and fistula treatment. The need for appendectomy was also studied. All patients were genotyped for the three CARD15 mutations, and association studies were developed using Chi-square statistics and Fisher's exact test whenever appropriate.

RESULTS

Carriers of the G908R or 1007fs mutation needed surgery more frequently, both for ileal resection and fistula repair. In contrast, appendectomy was not associated with CARD15 mutations.

CONCLUSIONS

As previously reported in this population, the R702W mutation does influence parameters of disease or need of surgery. The need for Crohn's disease-related surgery is higher in carriers of the G908R or 1007fs CARD15 mutation in the Galician population. Nevertheless, the frequency of these mutations does not allow their use to predict the course of disease.

Lipid dynamics and plasma level changes of 17β-estradiol and testosterone during the spawning season of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) females of different ages

The present study was undertaken to evaluate whether the age of brood stock females of Sparus aurata affects the mobilization of lipids from muscle and liver towards the gonads to aid in oocyte development. Taking into account the role some hormones play in lipid mobilization the production of 17beta-estradiol (E2) and testosterone (T) was also measured throughout the spawning season. Four groups of fish were established consisting of 3-, 4-, 5- and 6-year-old females (1.3, 1.5, 2.3 and 2.8 kg average weight, respectively), maintained in separate tanks together with a number of two-year-old males. The results for all four groups showed no variations in fish total length between the beginning and end of the experimental period. However, losses were recorded both of body weight and condition factor. In general terms, there were no significant differences in the plasma levels of E2, T and the gonadosomatic (GSI) and hepatosomatic (HSI) index among the four groups throughout the spawning season. In all groups, the plasma levels of E2, T, GSI and HSI were at their lowest at the end of spawning. Between December (pre-spawning) and March (mid-spawning), all groups suffered depletion of the lipid content of liver and muscle, while gonad lipid content remained constant. The mobilization of lipids from liver and muscle to contribute to the upkeep of the gonadal lipid involved the mobilization of all the fatty acid groups, saturates, monoenes, n-6, n-3, and n-3 HUFA. A good correlation existed between the percentage of the various fatty acid groups transferred from muscle and the age of the reproductive females. However, the greater lipid mobilization from muscle matching the greater age of the reproductive females did not result in greater lipid gonadal reserves or greater body size, suggesting that reproduction on the part of older females requires greater effort. Despite this, the results as a whole indicated that lipogenic capacity, considered as the mobilization of lipids from muscle and liver towards the gonad for the development of oocytes, is unaffected by age in reproductive 3- to 6-year-old gilthead seabream females.

Schistosoma: Cross-reactivity and antigenic community among different species

It is not unusual to find common molecules among different species of the genus Schistosoma. When those molecules are antigenic, they may be used in immunodiagnosis and vaccines, but they could also be applied to taxonomic and evolutionary studies. To study cross-reactivity and antigenic community among different species of schistosomes, plasmas from laboratory animals infected with Schistosoma bovis, S. guineensis, S. rodhaini, S. haematobium, and four strains of S. mansoni were evaluated with a crude extract of adult worms of S. mansoni by Western blot. Using the multiple antigen blot assay, plasmas from these infected animals were exposed to a selected group of synthetic peptides from Sm28GST, Sm28TPI, Sm elastase, Sm97, Sm32, Sm31, and Sm Cathepsin L. The results presented herein demonstrate differential cross-reactivity and antigenic community among the Mansoni and Haematobium groups of schistosomes, which is of relevance as an additional new tool for phylogenetic studies of schistosomes as well as for diagnosis and vaccine purposes.