Multiantigen print immunoassay (MAPIA) for the diagnosis of neurocysticercosis: a single-center diagnostic optimization and accuracy study in Lima, Peru

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is the most common helminthic infection of the human central nervous system. The antibody detection assay of choice is the enzyme-linked immunoelectrotransfer blot assay using lentil-lectin purified parasite antigens (LLGP-EITB, Western blot), an immunoassay with exceptional performance in clinical samples. However, its use is mainly restricted to a few research laboratories because the assay is labor-intensive and requires sophisticated equipment, expertise, and large amounts of parasite material for preparation of reagents. We report a new immunoprint assay (MAPIA) that overcomes most of these barriers. We initially compared the performance of five different antigen combinations in a subset of defined samples in the MAPIA format. After selecting the best-performing assay format (a combination of rGP50 + rT24H + sTs14 antigens), 148 archived serum samples were tested, including 40 from individuals with parenchymal NCC, 40 with subarachnoid NCC, and 68 healthy controls with no evidence of neurologic disease. MAPIA using three antigens (rGP50 + rT24H + sTs14) was highly sensitive and specific for detecting antibodies in NCC. It detected 39 out of 40 (97.5%) parenchymal NCC cases and 40/40 (100%) subarachnoid cases and was negative in 67 out of 68 (98.53%) negative samples. MAPIA using three recombinant and synthetic antigens is a simple and economical tool with a performance equivalent to the LLGP-EITB assay for the detection of specific antibodies to NCC. The MAPIA overcomes existing barriers to adoption of the EITG LLGP and is a candidate for worldwide use.

Circulating proteins to predict COVID-19 severity

Predicting COVID-19 severity is difficult, and the biological pathways involved are not fully understood. To approach this problem, we measured 4701 circulating human protein abundances in two independent cohorts totaling 986 individuals. We then trained prediction models including protein abundances and clinical risk factors to predict COVID-19 severity in 417 subjects and tested these models in a separate cohort of 569 individuals. For severe COVID-19, a baseline model including age and sex provided an area under the receiver operator curve (AUC) of 65% in the test cohort. Selecting 92 proteins from the 4701 unique protein abundances improved the AUC to 88% in the training cohort, which remained relatively stable in the testing cohort at 86%, suggesting good generalizability. Proteins selected from different COVID-19 severity were enriched for cytokine and cytokine receptors, but more than half of the enriched pathways were not immune-related. Taken together, these findings suggest that circulating proteins measured at early stages of disease progression are reasonably accurate predictors of COVID-19 severity. Further research is needed to understand how to incorporate protein measurement into clinical care.

The dynamic changes and sex differences of 147 immune-related proteins during acute COVID-19 in 580 individuals

INTRODUCTION

Severe COVID-19 leads to important changes in circulating immune-related proteins. To date it has been difficult to understand their temporal relationship and identify cytokines that are drivers of severe COVID-19 outcomes and underlie differences in outcomes between sexes. Here, we measured 147 immune-related proteins during acute COVID-19 to investigate these questions.

METHODS

We measured circulating protein abundances using the SOMAscan nucleic acid aptamer panel in two large independent hospital-based COVID-19 cohorts in Canada and the United States. We fit generalized additive models with cubic splines from the start of symptom onset to identify protein levels over the first 14 days of infection which were different between severe cases and controls, adjusting for age and sex. Severe cases were defined as individuals with COVID-19 requiring invasive or non-invasive mechanical respiratory support.

RESULTS

580 individuals were included in the analysis. Mean subject age was 64.3 (sd 18.1), and 47% were male. Of the 147 proteins, 69 showed a significant difference between cases and controls (p < 3.4 × 10-4). Three clusters were formed by 108 highly correlated proteins that replicated in both cohorts, making it difficult to determine which proteins have a true causal effect on severe COVID-19. Six proteins showed sex differences in levels over time, of which 3 were also associated with severe COVID-19: CCL26, IL1RL2, and IL3RA, providing insights to better understand the marked differences in outcomes by sex.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe COVID-19 is associated with large changes in 69 immune-related proteins. Further, five proteins were associated with sex differences in outcomes. These results provide direct insights into immune-related proteins that are strongly influenced by severe COVID-19 infection.

Oviposition dynamics of Aedes aegypti in Central Argentina

Aedes (Stegomyia) aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) is the vector of multiple arboviruses. To evaluate the association between environmental factors and the oviposition activity of Ae. aegypti in Argentina, data on the presence and abundance of eggs were collected using ovitraps, between September of 2018 and May of 2019, in the cities of Villa María, Río Cuarto and Salsipuedes (Córdoba province, Argentina). We analysed the relationships between oviposition and five environmental factors: Temperature, precipitation, vegetation cover, human population density and distance to sites with a potential high density of larval habitats, like cemeteries and trash dumps. Environmental factors' data were collected using satellite image products. The oviposition activity was randomly distributed in three cities. Using generalized linear mixed models, we show that the house where each ovitrap was placed was a source of variability in oviposition, suggesting the relevance of microsite factors and the importance of domestic control actions. Ae. aegypti oviposition was positively correlated with night-time temperature of the previous 3 weeks, and in a context-dependent manner, it was positively correlated with human population density, vegetation cover and precipitation. The consistency and magnitude of these relationships varied between cities, indicating that oviposition is related to a complex system of environmental variables.

Monte Carlo simulations and phantom validation of low-dose radiotherapy to the lungs using an interventional radiology C-arm fluoroscope

PURPOSE

To use MC simulations and phantom measurements to investigate the dosimetry of a kilovoltage x-ray beam from an IR fluoroscope to deliver low-dose (0.3-1.0 Gy) radiotherapy to the lungs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PENELOPE was used to model a 125 kV, 5.94 mm Al HVL x-ray beam produced by a fluoroscope. The model was validated through depth-dose, in-plane/cross-plane profiles and absorbed dose at 2.5-, 5.1-, 10.2- and 15.2-cm depths against the measured beam in an acrylic phantom. CT images of an anthropomorphic phantom thorax/lungs were used to simulate 0.5 Gy dose distributions for PA, AP/PA, 3-field and 4-field treatments. DVHs were generated to assess the dose to the lungs and nearby organs. Gafchromic film was used to measure doses in the phantom exposed to PA and 4-field treatments, and compared to the MC simulations.

RESULTS

Depth-dose and profile results were within 3.2% and 7.8% of the MC data uncertainty, respectively, while dose gamma analysis ranged from 0.7 to 1.0. Mean dose to the lungs were 1.1-, 0.8-, 0.9-, and 0.8- Gy for the PA, AP/PA, 3-field, and 4-field after isodose normalization to cover ∼ 95% of each lung volume. Skin dose toxicity was highest for the PA and lowest for the 4-field, and both arrangements successfully delivered the treatment on the phantom. However, the dose distribution for the PA was highly non-uniform and produced skin doses up to 4 Gy. The dose distribution for the 4-field produced a uniform 0.6 Gy dose throughout the lungs, with a maximum dose of 0.73 Gy. The average percent difference between experimental and Monte Carlo values were -0.1% (range -3% to +4%) for the PA treatment and 0.3% (range -10.3% to +15.2%) for the 4-field treatment.

CONCLUSION

A 125 kV x-ray beam from an IR fluoroscope delivered through two or more fields can deliver an effective low-dose radiotherapy treatment to the lungs. The 4-field arrangement not only provides an effective treatment, but also significant dose sparing to healthy organs, including skin, compared to the PA treatment. Use of fluoroscopy appears to be a viable alternative to megavoltage radiation therapy equipment for delivering low-dose radiotherapy to the lungs.

Evaluation of VIDAS Listeria monocytogenes II (LMO2) Immunoassay Method for the Detection of Listeria monocytogenes in Foods: Collaborative Study

A multilaboratory study was conducted to compare the VIDAS®Listeria monocytogenes II (LMO2) immunoassay and the standard cultural methods for the detection of Listeria monocytogenes in foods. Five food types—vanilla ice cream, brie cheese, cooked roast beef, frozen green beans, and frozen tilapia fish—at 3 levels were analyzed by each method. A total of 26 laboratories representing government and industry participated. In this study, 1404 test portions were analyzed of which 1152 were used in the statistical analysis. There were 448 positive by the VIDAS LMO2 assay and 457 positive by the standard culture methods. A χ2 analysis of each of the 5 food types, at the 3 inoculation levels tested, was performed. The resulting χ2 value, 0.36, indicates that overall, there are no statistical differences between the VIDAS LMO2 assay and the standard methods at the 5% level of significance.

A reliable method to assess the water permeability of a dialysis system: the global ultrafiltration coefficient

Background

Recent randomized controlled trials suggest that sufficiently high convection post-dilutional haemodiafiltration (HC-HDF) improves survival in dialysis patients, consequently this technique is increasingly being adopted. However, when performing HC-HDF, rigorous control systems of the ultrafiltration setting are required. Assessing the global ultrafiltration coefficient of the dialysis system [GKD-UF; defined as ultrafiltration rate (QUF)/transmembrane pressure] or water permeability may be adapted to the present dialysis settings and be of value in clinics.

Methods

GKD-UF was determined and its reproducibility, variability and influencing factors were specifically assessed in 15 stable patients routinely treated by high-flux haemodialysis or HC-HDF in a single unit.

Results

GKD-UF invariably followed a parabolic function with increasing QUF in dialysis and both pre- and post-dilution HC-HDF (R2 constantly >0.96). The vertex of the parabola, GKD-UF-max and related QUF were very reproducible per patient (coefficient of variation 3.9 ± 0.6 and 3.3 ± 0.3%, respectively) and they greatly varied across patients (31–42 mL/h−1/mmHg and 82–100 mL/min, respectively). GKD-UF-max and its associated QUF decreased during dialysis treatment (P < 0.01). The GKD-UF-max decrease was related to weight loss (R2 = 0.66; P = 0.0015).

Conclusions

GKD-UF is a reliable and accurate method to assess the water permeability of a system in vivo. It varies according to dialysis setting and patient-related factors. It is an objective parameter evaluating the forces driving convection and identifies any diversion of the system during the treatment procedure. It is applicable to low- or high-flux dialysis as well as pre- or post-dilution HDF. Thus, it may be used to describe the characteristics of a dialysis system, is suitable for clinical use and may be of help for personalized prescription.

Association Between Patient Knowledge of Anticoagulation, INR Control, and Warfarin-Related Adverse Events

Background: Whether the level of patient’s knowledge about warfarin plays any role in maintenance of therapeutic international normalized ratio (INR) is controversial. Several studies have looked at patients’ warfarin knowledge and the level of patients’ anticoagulation control (AC). Most studies had small numbers and did not use validated questionnaires. Objectives: To use the Oral Anticoagulation Knowledge (OAK) test to assess patients’ knowledge of AC and to examine associations between knowledge, INR, and adverse events. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, patients were asked to complete the OAK test. Data on clinical and demographic characteristics, INR values, and thrombosis or bleeding events during the preceding 1 year period were collected. Associations between OAK scores, patient characteristics, proportion of therapeutic INRs, and bleeding/thrombosis events were assessed. Results: A total of 225 patients completed the OAK test. Mean (SD) age was 70 (13.4) years, 53% were male, and 75% were on warfarin for >3 years. Over the preceding year, 57.3% of INRs were therapeutic, and there were 22 bleeding and 6 thrombotic events. The mean OAK score was 12/20 (passing score = 15/20); 64% of patients failed the OAK test. Predictors of passing the OAK test were younger age ( P = .01) and higher level of education ( P = .03). There was no association between OAK score and proportion of therapeutic INRs, or OAK score and bleeding or thrombosis events. Conclusion: We used the OAK test to assess patients’ AC knowledge. Results suggests that while younger and more educated patients were more likely to pass the OAK test, the OAK test results may not predict INR control or occurrence of bleeding or thrombotic events.

A multicenter prospective study of risk factors and treatment of unusual site thrombosis

Unusual site deep vein thrombosis (USDVT) is an uncommon form of venous thromboembolism (VTE) with heterogeneity in pathophysiology and clinical features. While the need for anticoagulation treatment is generally accepted, there is little data on optimal USDVT treatment. The TRUST study aimed to characterize the epidemiology, treatment and outcomes of USDVT. From 2008 to 2012, 152 patients were prospectively enrolled at 4 Canadian centers. After baseline, patients were followed at 6, 12 and 24months. There were 97 (64%) cases of splanchnic, 33 (22%) cerebral, 14 (9%) jugular, 6 (4%) ovarian and 2 (1%) renal vein thrombosis. Mean age was 52.9years and 113 (74%) cases were symptomatic. Of 72 (47%) patients tested as part of clinical care, 22 (31%) were diagnosed with new thrombophilia. Of 138 patients evaluated in follow-up, 66 (48%) completed at least 6months of anticoagulation. Estrogen exposure or inflammatory conditions preceding USDVT were commonly associated with treatment discontinuation before 6months, while previous VTE was associated with continuing anticoagulation beyond 6months. During follow-up, there were 22 (16%) deaths (20 from cancer), 4 (3%) cases of recurrent VTE and no fatal bleeding events. Despite half of USDVT patients receiving <6months of anticoagulation, the rate of VTE recurrence was low and anticoagulant treatment appears safe. Thrombophilia testing was common and thrombophilia prevalence was high. Further research is needed to determine the optimal investigation and management of USDVT.

Arsenic levels in immigrant children from countries at risk of consuming arsenic polluted water compared to children from Barcelona

Arsenic is a highly toxic element that pollutes groundwater, being a major environmental problem worldwide, especially in the Bengal Basin. About 40% of patients in our outpatient clinics come from those countries, and there is no published data about their arsenic exposure. This study compares arsenic exposure between immigrant and native children. A total of 114 children (57 natives, 57 immigrants), aged 2 months to 16 years, were recruited and sociodemographic and environmental exposure data were recorded. Total arsenic in urine, hair, and nails and arsenic-speciated compounds in urine were determined. We did not find significant differences in total and inorganic arsenic levels in urine and hair, but in organic arsenic monomethylarsenic acid (MMA) and dimethylarsinous acid (DMA) in urine and in total arsenic in nails. However, these values were not in the toxic range. There were significant differences between longer than 5 years exposure and less than 5 years exposure (consumption of water from tube wells), with respect to inorganic and organic MMA arsenic in urine and total arsenic in nails. There was partial correlation between the duration of exposure and inorganic arsenic levels in urine. Immigrant children have higher arsenic levels than native children, but they are not toxic. At present, there is no need for specific arsenic screening or follow-up in immigrant children recently arrived in Spain from exposure high-risk countries.

Whole-genome sequencing suggests a chemokine gene cluster that modifies age at onset in familial Alzheimer's disease

We have sequenced the complete genomes of 72 individuals affected with early-onset familial Alzheimer's disease caused by an autosomal dominant, highly penetrant mutation in the presenilin-1 (PSEN1) gene, and performed genome-wide association testing to identify variants that modify age at onset (AAO) of Alzheimer's disease. Our analysis identified a haplotype of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on chromosome 17 within a chemokine gene cluster associated with delayed onset of mild-cognitive impairment and dementia. Individuals carrying this haplotype had a mean AAO of mild-cognitive impairment at 51.0 ± 5.2 years compared with 41.1 ± 7.4 years for those without these SNPs. This haplotype thus appears to modify Alzheimer's AAO, conferring a large (~10 years) protective effect. The associated locus harbors several chemokines including eotaxin-1 encoded by CCL11, and the haplotype includes a missense polymorphism in this gene. Validating this association, we found plasma eotaxin-1 levels were correlated with disease AAO in an independent cohort from the University of California San Francisco Memory and Aging Center. In this second cohort, the associated haplotype disrupted the typical age-associated increase of eotaxin-1 levels, suggesting a complex regulatory role for this haplotype in the general population. Altogether, these results suggest eotaxin-1 as a novel modifier of Alzheimer's disease AAO and open potential avenues for therapy.

[Sodium restriction prevents cardiovascular remodeling associated with insulin-resistance in the rat]

AIM OF THE STUDY

In the present work, the objective was to evaluate the influence of a dietary sodium restriction on cardiovascular morphology changes associated with insulin-resistance.

ANIMALS AND PROTOCOL

At 8 weeks of age, rats were fed for 12 weeks a 60%-fructose diet containing a regular sodium content (0.64%) or totally lacking in sodium chloride (<0.01%). A group of rats fed a wheat starch-based diet with regular sodium content served as control group.

RESULTS

Elevated HOMA index and plasma insulin confirm the presence of insulin-resistance in fructose-fed rats. Concomitantly, an increase in cardiac mass and in cardiac collagen (Sirius red staining) was detected without obvious change in arterial pressure or cardiac aldosterone synthase mRNA expression. In addition, cross-sectional area of the carotid artery was higher in fructose-fed rats. Production of superoxide anion, equated with dihydroethidium (DHE) staining, was enhanced in cardiac tissue of rats with insulin-resistance. Withdrawal of sodium from the fructose diet prevented all the cardiovascular effects of fructose consumption, including DHE staining.

CONCLUSION

These results are in favor of the participation of oxidative stress normalization in the beneficial influence of dietary sodium deprivation on cardiovascular remodeling in this model of insulin-resistance in rats.

Adverse cardiac remodeling due to maternal low protein diet is associated with alterations in expression of genes regulating glucose metabolism

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

We have previously shown that a maternal low protein (LP) diet during pregnancy in the rat results in adverse ventricular remodeling and contractile deficiencies of the neonatal rat heart. Since pathological cardiac hypertrophy is associated with increased expression of genes involved in glucose handling, this study was undertaken to examine if maternal LP diet alters the expression of genes encoding for some key components of glucose metabolism and uptake, and of the insulin receptor (IR) signal transduction in the heart of male offspring.

METHODS AND RESULTS

We determined the effect of maternal LP and normal diet (90 and 180 g/casein/kg respectively) on IR β-subunit, insulin receptor substrate (IRS)-1, phosphotyrosyl protein phosphatase (PTP) 1B, GLUT4 and phosphatidylinositol (PI) 3-kinase in male rat offspring at 24 h and at 1, 4 and 8 wks post-partum. Quantitative real-time RT-PCR revealed significant age-dependent increases in the expression of IR β-subunit, IRS-1, PTP1B, GLUT4 and PI3-kinase in the LP group with concomitant increases in corresponding protein abundance at 4 wks of age. These changes were associated with increases in left ventricular (LV) internal diameters as well as increases in LV wall thickness.

CONCLUSION

A maternal LP diet can induce increases in the gene expression and protein levels of key components of glucose metabolism and the IR signal transduction pathway in the neonatal rat heart, which may be related to accelerated energy supply, demand and utilization for ventricular remodeling due to compromised contractile performance during early life.

P2-17-07: Construction of a Predictive Model of Probability of Ovarian Function Recovery in a Series of Premenopausal Breast Cancer Patients with Chemotherapy-Induced Amenorrhea Switched to an Aromatase Inhibitor (AI) after Adjuvant Tamoxifen

Introduction: AI therapy is not recommended in breast cancer patients with conserved ovarian function as AI decreases estrogenic feedback leading to an increased of FSH and LH. In patients older than 40 and with prolonged amenorrhea, switching to an AI after tamoxifen therapy is a controversial approach but with an adequate follow-up for early detection of potential menses renewal it might be feasible. Several factors have been identified in the literature as clinical defining variables of CIA while other factors have been associated with high probability of permanent CIA. Among clinical defining variables are time from last menses date (LMD) and low estradiol (E2) levels. Risk variables for permanent CIA are chemotherapy schedule administered and advanced age. We aimed to construct a predictive model to identify high risk of renewal of menses after switching to AI in premenopausal patients with CIA lasting at least 1 year.

Methods: Based on defining and prognostic variables of CIA, a predictive model of high probability of permanent amenorrhea was constructed by assigning a score as follows:

1) Time from LMD to switching date &gt;3 years: 1 point, &lt; 3 years: 0 points

2) E2 levels &lt;20 ng/ml: 1 point, &gt;20 ng/ml or unknown: 0 points

3) Age &gt; 45 years: 1 point, &lt; or = 45: 0 points

4) Chemotherapy regimen administered: dose dense or high doses: 2 points, conventional doses regimen with anthracycline and taxanes: 1 point, conventional doses only anthracycline-based or other: 0 points. Final score obtained from 0 to 5 points was classified in two groups: Low-probability of permanent amenorrhea: score 0–2, and high probability of permanent amenorrhea: score 3–5. To validate this probability model we retrospectively analysed data from a prospective maintained database of early breast cancer patients, clinically premenopausal at diagnosis that were treated in our institution from May 2004 to December 2009. All patients had histologically confirmation of hormone-sensitive breast carcinoma at stage I-III. Therapy included in all cases adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy and adjuvant tamoxifen and all patients referred a CIA lasting at least 1 year. Since 2006, in most patients E2 levels before switching were determined.

Results: Validation of probability model was performed in our series of 102 premenopausal patients of whom 9 recovered ovarian function (prevalence ratio: 0.088).

Galantamine and behavior in Alzheimer disease: analysis of four trials

OBJECTIVES

Many individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD) experience behavioral and neuropsychiatric symptoms, which may cause caregiver distress and lead to the institutionalization of the patient. This analysis characterized behavioral symptoms and caregiver distress in trials of galantamine and their response to treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data were pooled from four randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials of galantamine in patients with mild to moderate AD (three studies) or AD plus cerebrovascular disease (one study) (n = 2177). Behavior and associated caregiver distress were assessed in each study using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) and NPI distress (NPI-D), respectively.

RESULTS

After 5/6 months, but not after 3 months, NPI score was significantly improved with galantamine vs placebo (P = 0.013). The benefit was particularly pronounced in patients categorized as having advanced moderate AD. At 5/6 months, there was a numerical benefit of galantamine over placebo in terms of caregiver distress; the difference was statistically significant in patients with moderate or advanced moderate AD.

CONCLUSIONS

Galantamine reduces behavioral symptoms in patients with mild to moderate AD, leading to reduced caregiver burden. The reductions were greatest in patients with moderate or advanced moderate disease.

Using national health weeks to deliver deworming to children: lessons from Mexico

Mexico established national health weeks (NHWs) in the early 1980s to promote childhood vaccinations. Because of the cumulative worldwide peer-reviewed scientific evidence, the recommendations of the World Health Organization and other international organisations, the political will of the Mexican government and the infrastructure provided by the NHWs, deworming was added to the NHWs in 1993. In addition to the Ministry of Health, several other government organisations participated in administering the deworming component. Tens of millions of school-age and preschool children between the ages of 2 years and 14 years now receive deworming (a single 400 mg dose of albendazole) approximately every 8 months. Between 1993 and 1998 evaluations were carried out in over 90,000 children to determine the effect of NHWs on the prevalence of geohelminth infections. In 1993, the overall prevalence of Ascaris was 20% and that of Trichuris was 15%. Prevalences decreased significantly over time (p <0.001). Treatment efficacy for Ascaris ranged from 91.6% to 85.3%, and for Trichuris, from 97.9% to 42.6%. In 1998, after conducting 12 NHWs with deworming, the respective prevalences were Ascaris 8% and Trichuris 11%. The experience of Mexico in integrating albendazole into its NHWs shows how deworming can be delivered to large numbers of at-risk children using an existing infrastructure. The NHW approach may be generalisable in other countries with successful national vaccination campaigns. The challenge remaining is to sustain the deworming programme until other longer-term behavioural, environmental and socioeconomic changes can be implemented.

Correlation between HER2/neu overexpression/amplification and clinicopathologic parameters in advanced gastric cancer (AGC) patients (pts): A prospective study

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Background: Trastuzumab is widely used in the treatment of HER2/neu overexpressing breast cancer pts and also exhibits activity in human gastric cancer cells that overexpress HER2/neu. We are conducting a phase II trial to assess the efficacy and tolerance of trastuzumab in combination with cisplatin as first line chemotherapy (CT) in HER2/neu positive AGC. Objectives: To determinate prospectively the frequency of HER2/neu expression and to evaluate the relationship with clinicopathologic characteristics in advanced gastric adenocarcinoma pts. Methods: Pts were screening for HER2/neu expression/amplification. Immunohistochemistry (IHQ) was performed using herceptest. A fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) assay was done when IHQ was = 2. HER2/neu expression was considered negative if IHQ = 0, 1 or IHQ = 2 and FISH negative; and positive if IHQ = 2 and FISH positive or IHQ = 3. Results: A hundred and twenty six pts were tested for HER2/neu status between 2/2004 and 12/2005. 96 (76%) males, median age 61 years (range 29–84). Histological characteristics: all were adenocarcinomas and 47% type intestinal, 33% diffuse, 20% unknown. Primary tumor localization was 101 (80%) gastric and 25 (20%) gastroesophageal junction (GEJ). 115 (91%) pts had metastases (47% liver; 45% lymph nodes; 27% peritoneum; 10% lung; 27% others) and 11 (9%) locoregional advanced disease. Prior therapies: 67 pts surgery, 18 adjuvant/neoadjuvant CT and 14 adjuvant irradiation. HER2/neu expression was negative in 109 (86.5%) cases. The positive cases were: type intestinal (15.5%); type diffuse (10%) (p = 0.54); 9% gastric localization and 29% GEJ tumors were HER2/neu positive too (p = 0.01). Conclusions: HER2/neu overexpression/amplification was found in 13.5% of AGC and is more common in gastroesophageal junction cancers. The study is ongoing.

[Table: see text]

Description of Endoscopic Ventricular Anatomy in Myelomeningocele

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this work is to present our endoscopic neuroanatomical findings of a series of myelomeningocele and hydrocephalus patients, treated with endoscopic third ventricular cisternostomy (ETVC), in order to describe ventricular configuration abnormalities in this group of patients, in which this neurosurgical procedure has limited performance.

METHOD

We checked the videos of 10 endoscopic third ventricular cisternostomies of myelomeningocele patients taken during 24 months as from December 1998. A previous guideline is designed to record anatomic variables in the lateral ventricles, IIIrd ventricle, and basal cisterns. The topic is analyzed in view of the necropsy and imaging background data.

RESULTS

The ETVC of lateral ventricles showed: absence of septum (9/10); absence of anteroseptal vein (8/10); absence of choroid plexus and thalamostriate vein (0/10); absence of fornix (1/10): small foramen of Monro (4/10). The ETVC of the IIIrd ventricle showed: impossibility of recognizing any mammillary bodies (4/10); presence of septations (5/10); presence of atypical veins in the floor (6/10); translucent floor (5/10); floor umbilications (5/10); absence of infundibulum (4/10); arachnoid adherences (7/10); and visual contact of basilar artery (4/10).

CONCLUSION

There are categorical structural alterations in the ventricular system of myelomeningocele patients that are well correlated with previous necropsy and imaging reports. The ventricular system of dysraphic children presents severe anatomic alterations, which alter the reference points of the classical endoscopic third ventricular cisternostomy.

Ecteinascidin-743 (ET-743) for chemotherapy-naive patients with advanced soft tissue sarcomas: multicenter phase II and pharmacokinetic study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the response rate, toxicity profile, and pharmacokinetics of ecteinascidin-743 (ET-743) as first-line therapy in patients with unresectable advanced soft tissue sarcoma (STS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty-six patients with STS were enrolled onto the study between September 1999 and August 2000. Patients were treated with 1.5 mg/m2 of ET-743 given as a 24-hour continuous intravenous (IV) infusion every 21 days. Pharmacokinetic sampling was performed in 23 patients.

RESULTS

One complete and five partial responses were achieved in 35 assessable patients for an overall response rate of 17.1% (95% CI, 6.6% to 33.6%). In addition, one patient had a minor response, leading to an overall clinical benefit of 20%. Neutropenia and transaminitis were the main grade 3 to 4 toxicities, which occurred in 33% and 36% of the patients. The estimated 1-year progression-free and overall survival rates were 21% (95% CI, 11% to 41%) and 72% (95% CI, 59% to 88%), respectively. Total body clearance (L/h) was not significantly correlated with body-surface area (r = -0.28; P = .21). Mild hepatic impairment or the extent of prior cytotoxic therapy does not seem to contribute significantly to the high interpatient variability (49%) in the clearance of this drug. Severity of treatment-related toxicity was not correlated with pharmacokinetic variables.

CONCLUSION

ET-743 demonstrates clinical activity as first-line therapy against STS with acceptable toxicity. Additional studies to establish empirical dosing guidelines may be necessary to improve the safety of the drug in patients with varying degrees of hepatic dysfunction and definitively establish the role of ET-743 for patients with these malignancies.

Phase II and pharmacokinetic study of ecteinascidin 743 in patients with progressive sarcomas of soft tissues refractory to chemotherapy

PURPOSE

To assess the efficacy of the marine-derived alkaloid ecteinascidin 743 (ET-743) in patients with soft tissue sarcomas that progressed despite prior conventional chemotherapy and to characterize the pharmacokinetic profiles of ET-743 in this patient population.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty-six previously treated soft tissue sarcoma patients from three institutions received ET-743 as a 24-hour continuous intravenous (IV) infusion at a dose of 1,500 microg/m(2) every 3 weeks. Pharmacokinetic studies were also performed. Patients were restaged every two cycles for response by objective criteria.

RESULTS

Objective responses were observed in three patients, with one complete response and two partial responses, for an overall response rate of 8% (95% CI, 2% to 23%). Responses were durable for up to 20 months. Two minor responses (43% and 47% tumor reduction) were observed, for an overall clinical benefit rate of 14%. The predominant toxicities were neutropenia and self-limited transaminitis of grade 3 to 4 severity in 34% and 26% of patients, respectively. The estimated 1-year time to progression and overall survival rates were 9% (95% CI, 3% to 27%) and 53% (95% CI, 39% to 73%), respectively. The maximum observed plasma concentration and total plasma clearance of ET-743 (mean +/- standard deviation), 1.04 +/- 0.48 ng/mL and 35.6 +/- 16.2 L/h/m(2), respectively, were consistent with previously reported values from phase I studies of the drug given as a 24-hour IV infusion.

CONCLUSION

ET-743 is a promising new option for the management of several histologic subtypes of sarcoma. Durable objective responses were obtained in a subset of sarcoma patients with disease progression despite prior chemotherapy. Additionally, the relatively high survival rate noted in this series of previously treated patients further justifies development of this agent.

A comparison of limited sampling strategies for prediction of Ecteinascidin 743 clearance when administered as a 24-h infusion

PURPOSE

Ecteinascidin 743 (ET-743) is a novel, marine-derived anticancer agent currently under clinical development for the treatment of solid tumors. The aim of this study was to develop and validate limited sampling strategies for the prediction of ET-743 clearance in phase II studies, using two techniques: the stepwise linear regression approach and the Bayesian estimation approach.

METHODS

Data from a phase I dose-finding study were used with ET-743 administered as a 24-h infusion. Plasma concentration time data from 34 patients treated with 1200. 1500 or 1800 microg/m2 ET-743 were randomly divided into an index data set, used for the development of the strategies, and a validation data set. With the linear regression approach, clearance (obtained by non-compartmental analysis) was correlated with the ratios of dose to the observed concentrations. For the Bayesian approach a three-compartment population pharmacokinetic model was developed; optimal time-points were selected using the D-optimality algorithm. The strategies were compared by assessment of their predictive performance of CL in the validation data set.

RESULTS

The linear regression method yielded a single-point sampling schedule with no significant bias and acceptable precision (-0.03% and 21%, respectively). With the Bayesian approach, a three-sample strategy was selected which resulted in less-accurate, but unbiased, predictions (bias 13%, precision 34%).

CONCLUSIONS

Optimal sampling strategies were developed and validated for estimation of ET-743 clearance. Although the linear regression approach showed slightly better predictive performance, the Bayesian approach is preferred for the current phase II studies as it is more robust and flexible and allows the description of the full pharmacokinetic profile.

Phase I and pharmacokinetic study of ecteinascidin-743, a new marine compound, administered as a 24-hour continuous infusion in patients with solid tumors

PURPOSE

To define the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD) and the phase II recommended dose (RD) of ecteinascidin-743 (ET-743) given as a 24-hour continuous infusion every 3 weeks to patients with treatment-refractory solid tumors.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty-two patients received a total of 158 cycles of ET-743 at one of nine dose levels (DLs) ranging from 50 to 1,800 microg/m(2).

RESULTS

The MTD was defined as 1,800 microg/m(2) (DL 9), and the phase II RD was 1,500 microg/m(2) (DL 8) for moderately pretreated patients with performance status (PS) 0 to 1 and good hepatobiliary function. Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were the dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) and were severe at the MTD (1,800 microg/m(2)) in 94% and 25% of cycles, respectively. At the RD (1,500 microg/m(2)), neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were present in 33% and 10% of cycles, respectively. Transient acute elevated transaminase levels occurred in almost all cycles and was severe in 38% of cycles. Severe toxicities and DLTs were observed in patients with poor PS or abnormal liver function or who had received a large number of previous chemotherapy regimens. Antitumor activity was observed at the three highest DLs, including three partial responses (breast cancer, osteosarcoma, and liposarcoma), and four patients (all with progressing soft tissue sarcomas) had stable disease lasting > or = 3 months. Pharmacokinetic studies were performed on all patients for at least the first cycle, giving a linear pharmacokinetic profile; this showed a relationship between area under the curve (AUC) and transaminitis grade and a clear correlation between AUC and severe hematologic toxicity likelihood.

CONCLUSION

The RD for a 24-hour continuous intravenous infusion of ET-743 is 1,500 microg/m(2), with the most prevalent DLTs being hematologic. Patients with minor baseline hepatobiliary function abnormalities have a higher likelihood of severe hematologic toxicities and AUC-related DLTs, requiring dose adjustments or delays.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the novel marine-derived anticancer agent ecteinascidin 743 in a phase I dose-finding study

Ecteinascidin (ET) 743 is an anticancer agent derived from the Caribbean tunicate Ecteinascidia turbinata. Preclinical studies revealed activity of ET-743 against different tumor types. A Phase I clinical trial was designed with ET-743 to identify the maximum tolerated dose and dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs). Furthermore, the pharmacokinetics of ET-743 and relationships with pharmacodynamics were evaluated. Adult patients with solid, resistant tumors received ET-743 as a 24-h i.v. infusion every 21 days. Blood samples were obtained during the first treatment course and in several consecutive courses. Noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis was performed. Relationships between pharmacokinetics and hepatic and hematological toxicities were explored. Fifty-two patients were treated at nine dose levels (50-1800 microg/m2). The DLTs, neutropenia and thrombocytopenia, were experienced at 1800 microg/m2. Twenty-five patients were treated at the recommended Phase II dose of 1500 microg/m2. At this dose, the mean value +/- SD for total body clearance was 59 +/- 31 liters/h, and the mean t(1/2) was 89 +/- 41 h. Pharmacokinetics were linear over the dose range tested. Prior exposure to ET-743 did not alter the pharmacokinetics in subsequent courses. The percentage of decrease in WBC count and absolute neutrophil count was correlated to the area under the plasma concentration versus time curve (AUC). Hepatic toxicity, defined as rise in alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, increased with dose and AUC but was reversible and not dose limiting. In conclusion, ET-743 administered as a 24-h i.v. infusion at a dose of 1500 microg/m2 is clinically feasible; severe thrombocytopenia and neutropenia are the DLTs.

Oral and topical antibiotic therapy of complete, primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction in adults

PURPOSE

To determine whether patients with complete, acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction may be treated with broad spectrum oral antibiotics and office lacrimal irrigation.

METHODS

In a retrospective review, patients with complete, primary acquired nasolacrimal duct obstruction (NLDO) were divided by predominant symptoms and signs into two main groups: (a) those with tearing and/or mucous discharge and (b) those with previous acute dacryocystitis and/or lacrimal sac mucocele. All patients received a therapeutic trial of oral and topical antibiotics followed by lacrimal irrigation.

RESULTS

Five of 55 patients with tearing and/or mucous discharge showed significant improvement after treatment with a mean follow-up of 16.5 months. A sixth patient with mucous and tearing had resolution of the mucous discharge but persistent tearing and blockage of the nasolacrimal system to irrigation. Two of 20 patients with lacrimal sac mucocele or history of acute dacryocystitis avoided surgery while 18 opted for early lacrimal surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Conservative management of complete acquired NLDO consisting of oral and topical antibiotics and appropriately timed office lacrimal drainage system irrigation may be considered in selected patients.

Intraduodenal hematoma complicating intestinal biopsy: case reports and review of the literature

We report two cases of postbiopsy duodenal hematoma and review 14 additional cases. Duodenal hematoma predominantly occurs in children and presents with abdominal pain, vomiting, and pancreatitis. Upper gastrointestinal series, abdominal ultrasound, and CT scan are useful in visualizing the hematoma. No comparative studies of the usefulness of these techniques are available, but a CT is indicated if perforation is suspected. The treatment is conservative if no perforation is detected, and resolution of symptoms generally occurs within 2 wk.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: effects of hypoxia on neurological and neuropsychological measures

Eighteen patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) were administered a series of pulmonary, neurological, and neuropsychological measures to test if there was an effect of COPD on neurological and cognitive functioning. Overall, there was no evidence of general dementia in this sample. Measures of immediate and delayed memory, complex attention, and speed of information processing correlated highly with arterial carbon dioxide partial pressure and, to a lesser extent, with oxygen partial pressure. Measures of language abilities, perceptual-motor functioning, and simple attention generally were not related to arterial gas pressures. A similar pattern of findings was obtained when group differences were examined between participants classified as severely hypoxic or mildly hypoxic, although group differences were mitigated by premorbid IQ differences. Hypoxia in COPD results in a relatively focused pattern of impairment in measures of memory function and tasks requiring attention allocation. The memory dysfunction may be related to involvement of limbic memory regions necessary for explicit memory. The attentional deficits were attributed to diffuse brain involvement resulting in reduced resource allocation. Early diagnosis and treatment of the hypoxia is essential.

Rheumatic manifestations in human immunodeficiency virus positive and negative individuals: a study of 2 populations with similar risk factors

OBJECTIVE

Assess the impact of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection on the onset of rheumatic manifestations in HIV+ patients, and to compare them with a control HIV- group with similar risk factors.

METHODS

We prospectively studied 74 consecutive HIV+ patients, looking for clinical and laboratory findings of rheumatic manifestations and compared them with 72 control subjects with similar risk factors for HIV who tested negative for HIV.

RESULTS

Rheumatic manifestations were more frequently observed in the HIV+ group than the HIV-group (p < 0.001): Arthralgias were found in 34 (45%), arthritis in 8 (10%), and Reiter's syndrome in 6 (8%). Laboratory findings revealed rheumatoid factor in 16 (21%) HIV+ vs 2 (2%) in HIV-, antinuclear antibodies in 13 (17%) HIV+ vs 0 in HIV-, IgG anticardiolipin antibodies in 70 (94%) HIV+ vs 7 (9%) in HIV- (p < 0.001). Hyperuricemia was found in 31 HIV+ patients (41%), and hypouricemia in 4 (5%), compared with none in the HIV- group (p < 0.0001). Neoplasia were identified in 13 HIV+ patients, in 7 associated with hyperuricemia and 3 with hypouricemia. Of interest, 2 patients had urate abnormalities before the diagnosis of neoplasia.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests that rheumatic manifestations are more prevalent in HIV+ patients. In advanced HIV infection, hypo and hyperuricemia may be considered markers of neoplasia.

[Actinic cheilitis in Quinta fishing workers: prevalence and associated histopathological aspects]

The purpose of the present investigation was to study the occurrence and degree of severity of the actinic cheilitis in a sample of 566 artisan fishermen of Valparaíso, Chile. The condition was found in 43% of the sample, the degree of severity was an 8% for the acute expression and a 35% for the chronic type of the disease. A direct relationship between the number of years spent on sun exposure and the degree of severity of the vermillion alterations was found, being the patients between 16 and 45 years old the group most severely involved, a finding similar to the data reported in the current literature. The prone complexion was the fair one: those fishermen with blond or red hair, blue or green eyes and fair skin showed both clinical and histopathologically early disturbances of degenerative nature in the collagenous component of the connective tissue and in the epithelial surface.