Effectiveness of DialBetesPlus, a self-management support system for diabetic kidney disease: Randomized controlled trial

We evaluated the effectiveness of a mobile health (mHealth) intervention for diabetic kidney disease patients by conducting a 12-month randomized controlled trial among 126 type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with moderately increased albuminuria (urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR): 30-299 mg/g creatinine) recruited from eight clinical sites in Japan. Using a Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) behavior change theory framework, the intervention provides patients detailed information in order to improve patient control over exercise and dietary behaviors. In addition to standard care, the intervention group received DialBetesPlus, a self-management support system allowing patients to monitor exercise, blood glucose, diet, blood pressure, and body weight via a smartphone application. The primary outcome, change in UACR after 12 months (used as a surrogate measure of renal function), was 28.8% better than the control group's change (P = 0.029). Secondary outcomes also improved in the intervention group, including a 0.32-point better change in HbA1c percentage (P = 0.041). These improvements persisted when models were adjusted to account for the impacts of coadministration of drugs targeting albuminuria (GLP-1 receptor agonists, SGLT-2 inhibitors, ACE inhibitors, and ARBs) (UACR: -32.3% [95% CI: -49.2%, -9.8%] between-group difference in change, P = 0.008). Exploratory multivariate regression analysis suggests that the improvements were primarily due to levels of exercise. This is the first trial to show that a lifestyle intervention via mHealth achieved a clinically-significant improvement in moderately increased albuminuria.

The effect of balloon-expandable stent and self-expanding stent on changes in mitral annular motion after aortic valve replacement in patients with aortic stenosis

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of decalcification and existence of stent at the aortic annulus on mitral annular motion after surgery.

METHODS

Patients receiving Inspiris (Edwards, CA, USA, n = 117), Intuity (Edwards, n = 36), Perceval (Corcym, London, UK, n = 36), Evolut (Medtronics, MN, USA, n = 81) and Sapien 3 (Edwards, n = 250) were included in the study. Mitral annular motion was evaluated by E', using tissue doppler imaging.

RESULTS

After surgery, a significant increase in E' was observed in patients receiving Inspiris (Before: 4.2 ± 1.21 cm/s vs. Discharge: 5.0 ± 1.23 cm/s, p < 0.001). Mid-term echocardiogram performed at 11.8 ± 2.2 months after the surgery, showed a significant increase in E' in patients receiving Inspiris (Before: 4.2 ± 1.21 cm/s vs. Mid-term: 5.2 ± 1.20 cm/s, p < 0.001) and Perceval (Before: 3.9 ± 1.34 cm/s vs. Mid-term: 4.5 ± 1.24 cm/s, p = 0.008). Univariable analysis showed a higher increase in E' in patients with decalcified annulus compared to those without decalcified annulus (Decalcification: 0.15 ± 1.321 cm/s vs. No Decalcification: 0.66 ± 1.420 cm/s, p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis showed that balloon-expandable stent (β = - 0.6960, p < 0.001) and self-expanding stent (r = - 0.3592, p = 0.042) were independent limiting factors for an increase in E' at discharge. However, balloon-expandable stent (β = - 0.8382, p < 0.001), and not self-expanding stent (β = - 0.3682, p = 0.089), was a remaining independent factor associated with E' at mid-term follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Decalcification was associated with improvement in E' after surgery. Balloon-expandable stent was an independent limiting factor for improvement in E' up to 1 year after the surgery, while self-expanding stent was not a significant factor after 1 year.

Survival benefit of living donor kidney transplantation in patients on hemodialysis

BACKGROUND

Donors bravely donate their kidneys because they expect that living donor kidney transplantation (LKT) confers benefits to recipients. However, the magnitude of the survival benefit of LKT is uncertain.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study used two Japanese nationwide databases for dialysis and kidney transplantation and included 862 LKT recipients and 285,242 hemodialysis (HD) patients in the main model and 5299 LKT recipients and 151,074 HD patients in the supplementary model. We employed time-dependent model in the main model and assessed the hazard ratio and the difference in the restricted mean survival time (RMST) between LKT recipients and HD patients. In the main analysis of the main model (LKT, N = 675; HD, N = 675), we matched LKT recipients with HD patients by age, sex, dialysis vintage, and cause of renal failure and excluded HD patients with dementia or performance status grades 2, 3, or 4.

RESULTS

The median observational period was 8.00 (IQR 3.58-8.00) years. LKT was significantly associated with a lower risk of mortality (hazard ratios (95% confidence interval (CI)), 0.50 (0.35-0.72)) and an increase in life expectancy (7-year RMST differences (95% CI), 0.48 (0.35-0.60) years) compared with HD. In subgroup analysis, the survival benefit of LKT was greater in female patients than in male patients in the Cox model; whereas older patients gained longer life expectancy compared with younger patients.

CONCLUSIONS

LKT was associated with better survival benefits than HD, and the estimated increase in life expectancy was 0.48 years for 7 years.

Glycemic Control, Renal Progression, and Use of Telemedicine Phone Consultations Among Japanese Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Reduced or delayed medical follow-ups have been reported during the COVID-19 pandemic, which may lead to worsening clinical outcomes for patients with diabetes. The Japanese government granted special permission for medical institutions to use telephone consultations and other remote communication modes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate changes in the frequency of outpatient consultations, glycemic control, and renal function among patients with type 2 diabetes before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This is a retrospective single-cohort study conducted in Tokyo, Japan, analyzing results for 3035 patients who visited the hospital regularly. We compared the frequency of outpatient consultations attended (both in person and via telemedicine phone consultation), glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus during the 6 months from April 2020 to September 2020 (ie, during the COVID-19 pandemic) with those during the same period of the previous year, 2019, using Wilcoxon signed rank tests. We conducted a multivariate logistic regression analysis to identify factors related to the changes in glycemic control and eGFR. We also compared the changes in HbA1c and eGFR from 2019 to 2020 among telemedicine users and telemedicine nonusers using difference-in-differences design.

RESULTS

The overall median number of outpatient consultations attended decreased significantly from 3 (IQR 2-3) in 2019 to 2 (IQR 2-3) in 2020 (P<.001). Median HbA1c levels deteriorated, though not to a clinically significant degree (6.90%, IQR 6.47%-7.39% vs 6.95%, IQR 6.47%-7.40%; P<.001). The decline in median eGFR was greater during the year 2019-2020 compared to the year 2018-2019 (-0.9 vs -0.5 mL/min/1.73 m2; P=.01). Changes in HbA1c and eGFR did not differ between patients who used telemedicine phone consultations and those who did not. Age and HbA1c level before the pandemic were positive predictors of worsening glycemic control during the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas the number of outpatient consultations attended was identified as a negative predictor of worsening glycemic control during the pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in reduced attendance of outpatient consultations among patients with type 2 diabetes, and these patients also experienced deterioration in kidney function. Difference in consultation modality (in person or by phone) did not affect glycemic control and renal progression of the patients.

Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate, Albuminuria, and Adverse Outcomes: An Individual-Participant Data Meta-Analysis

Importance

Chronic kidney disease (low estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] or albuminuria) affects approximately 14% of adults in the US.

Objective

To evaluate associations of lower eGFR based on creatinine alone, lower eGFR based on creatinine combined with cystatin C, and more severe albuminuria with adverse kidney outcomes, cardiovascular outcomes, and other health outcomes.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Individual-participant data meta-analysis of 27 503 140 individuals from 114 global cohorts (eGFR based on creatinine alone) and 720 736 individuals from 20 cohorts (eGFR based on creatinine and cystatin C) and 9 067 753 individuals from 114 cohorts (albuminuria) from 1980 to 2021.

Exposures

The Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration 2021 equations for eGFR based on creatinine alone and eGFR based on creatinine and cystatin C; and albuminuria estimated as urine albumin to creatinine ratio (UACR).

Main Outcomes and Measures

The risk of kidney failure requiring replacement therapy, all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, acute kidney injury, any hospitalization, coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and peripheral artery disease. The analyses were performed within each cohort and summarized with random-effects meta-analyses.

Results

Within the population using eGFR based on creatinine alone (mean age, 54 years [SD, 17 years]; 51% were women; mean follow-up time, 4.8 years [SD, 3.3 years]), the mean eGFR was 90 mL/min/1.73 m2 (SD, 22 mL/min/1.73 m2) and the median UACR was 11 mg/g (IQR, 8-16 mg/g). Within the population using eGFR based on creatinine and cystatin C (mean age, 59 years [SD, 12 years]; 53% were women; mean follow-up time, 10.8 years [SD, 4.1 years]), the mean eGFR was 88 mL/min/1.73 m2 (SD, 22 mL/min/1.73 m2) and the median UACR was 9 mg/g (IQR, 6-18 mg/g). Lower eGFR (whether based on creatinine alone or based on creatinine and cystatin C) and higher UACR were each significantly associated with higher risk for each of the 10 adverse outcomes, including those in the mildest categories of chronic kidney disease. For example, among people with a UACR less than 10 mg/g, an eGFR of 45 to 59 mL/min/1.73 m2 based on creatinine alone was associated with significantly higher hospitalization rates compared with an eGFR of 90 to 104 mL/min/1.73 m2 (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.3 [95% CI, 1.2-1.3]; 161 vs 79 events per 1000 person-years; excess absolute risk, 22 events per 1000 person-years [95% CI, 19-25 events per 1000 person-years]).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this retrospective analysis of 114 cohorts, lower eGFR based on creatinine alone, lower eGFR based on creatinine and cystatin C, and more severe UACR were each associated with increased rates of 10 adverse outcomes, including adverse kidney outcomes, cardiovascular diseases, and hospitalizations.

Single-center survey of incidental imaging findings on computed tomography in patients with psoriasis on biologic therapy

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated chronic inflammatory disease that predominantly affects the skin and joints. Systemic therapies are required for patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis, and biologics can provide significant symptomatic improvement. Computed tomography (CT) analysis is recommended before and after biologic therapy to exclude the possibility of comorbid infections and malignancies; incidental findings are often detected in asymptomatic patients. In this study, we analyzed the common incidental findings on CT in 227 patients with psoriasis on biologic therapy and 219 living-kidney transplant donors at our hospital. Incidental findings on CT were observed in 176 (77.5%) patients with psoriasis. The most common were fatty liver (82 patients, 36.1%), urolithiasis (54 patients, 23.8%), pulmonary lesions (47 patients, 20.7%), gallstones or postoperative gallstones (38 patients, 16.7%), liver cysts (36 patients, 15.9%), renal cysts (33 patients, 14.5%), and colonic diverticulum (22 patients, 9.7%), which were observed in 38 (17.4%), eight (3.7%), 68 (31.1%), 12 (5.5%), 58 (26.5%), 88 (40.2%), and 10 (4.6%) donors, respectively. The prevalence of fatty liver, urolithiasis, gallstones, and postoperative gallstones was significantly higher in patients with psoriasis. Multivariate logistic regression showed that psoriasis was a risk factor for fatty liver disease, urolithiasis, and gallstones. Currently, incidental findings on CT in patients with psoriasis have not been well studied. The results of this survey will lead to increased awareness of the incidental findings on CT as a complication of psoriasis.

Drug Survival of Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha Inhibitors and Switched Subsequent Biologic Agents in Patients with Psoriasis: A Retrospective Study

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to retrospectively examine the drug survival of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha inhibitors and switched subsequent biologic agents after discontinuation of TNF inhibitors.

METHODS

This real-world setting study was conducted at a single academic center. We included patients who were treated with adalimumab (n = 111), certolizumab pegol (n = 12), and infliximab (n = 74) at Jichi Medical University Hospital from 1 January 2010 to 31 July 2021.

RESULTS

No significant differences were noted in drug survival between the three TNF inhibitors. The 10-year drug survival rate for adalimumab and infliximab was 14% and 18%, respectively. Of the patients who discontinued TNF inhibitors for any reason (n = 137), 105 chose biologics as their subsequent treatment. The subsequent biologics included 31 cases of TNF inhibitors (adalimumab in 20, certolizumab pegol in 1, and infliximab in 10), 19 of interleukin-12/23 inhibitor (ustekinumab), 42 of interleukin-17 inhibitors (secukinumab in 19, brodalumab in 9, and ixekizumab in 14) and 13 of interleukin-23 inhibitors (guselkumab in 11, risankizumab in 1, and tildrakizumab in 1). Cox proportional hazards analysis for the subsequent drugs in cases of discontinuation due to inadequate efficacy revealed that female sex was a predictor of drug discontinuation (hazard ratio 2.58, 95% confidence interval 1.17-5.70) and that taking interleukin-17 inhibitors rather than TNF inhibitors was a predictor of drug persistence (hazard ratio 0.37, 95% confidence interval 0.15-0.93).

CONCLUSIONS

Interleukin-17 inhibitors may be a favorable option for patients who need to switch from TNF inhibitors due to inadequate efficacy. However, this study is limited by the small number of cases and its retrospective design.

Aqueous Povidone-Iodine Versus Normal Saline For Intraoperative Wound Irrigation on The Incidence of Surgical Site Infection in Clean-Contaminated Wounds After Gastroenterological Surgery: A Single-Institute, Prospective, Blinded-Endpoint, Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

This trial evaluated the superiority of intraoperative wound irrigation (IOWI) with aqueous povidone-iodine (PVP-I) compared with that with saline for reducing the incidence of surgical site infection (SSI).

BACKGROUND

IOWI with aqueous PVP-I is recommended for the prevention of SSI by the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, although the evidence level is low.

METHODS

This single institute in Japan, prospective, randomized, blinded-endpoint trial was conducted to assess the superiority of IOWI with aqueous PVP-I in comparison with IOWI with saline for reducing the incidence of SSI in clean-contaminated wounds after gastroenterological surgery. Patients 20 years or older were assessed for eligibility, and the eligible participants were randomized at a 1:1 ratio using a computer-generated block randomization. In the study group, IOWI was performed for 1 minute with 40 mL of aqueous 10% PVP-I before skin closure. In the control group, the procedure was performed with 100 mL of saline. Participants, assessors, and analysts were masked to the treatment allocation. The primary outcome was the incidence of incisional SSI in the intention-to-treat set.

RESULTS

Between June 2019 and March 2022, 941 patients were randomized to the study group (473 patients) or the control group (468 patients). The incidence of incisional SSI was 7.6% in the study group and 5.1% in the control group (risk difference 0.025, 95% CI -0.006 to 0.056; risk ratio 1.484, 95% CI 0.9 to 2.448; P =0.154).

CONCLUSION

The current recommendation of IOWI with aqueous PVP-I should be reconsidered.

Maintenance of complete mucosal healing is associated with avoiding restenosis after endoscopic balloon dilation of Crohn's disease-related small intestinal strictures

Background

Endoscopic balloon dilation (EBD) is an effective, minimally invasive treatment for Crohn's disease (CD) related intestinal strictures. However, restenosis frequently occurs and requires repetitive EBD or surgical resection. Since previous studies could not evaluate restenosis based on stricture diameter, factors affecting restenosis after EBD were unclear. This study aimed to identify these factors by precisely measuring the diameter of small intestinal strictures in patients with CD.

Methods

This single-center retrospective study enrolled patients with CD with de novo small intestinal strictures who underwent two double-balloon enteroscopy sessions (EBD and follow-up) between January 2016 and October 2021. Clinical and endoscopic data were obtained from electronic medical records. A calibrated small-caliber-tip transparent hood was used to precisely measure stricture diameters. Multivariate analysis was performed to identify factors associated with restenosis.

Results

Forty-eight patients (37 male) were analyzed. The total number of strictures detected decreased from 162 to 143. The mean diameter of all strictures and the narrowest stricture in each patient increased significantly from 8.6 to 9.8 mm and from 7.6 to 8.7 mm, respectively. Thirty-two (67%) patients developed endoscopic restenosis. Multivariate analysis showed that the presence of ulcers at the follow-up session was a risk factor for restenosis (odds ratio 9.4, p = 0.01). Patients with complete mucosal healing at both sessions (n = 21) showed significant improvement in the narrowest stricture (+1.7 mm, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Maintenance of complete mucosal healing is significantly associated with avoiding restenosis after EBD in CD-related small intestinal strictures.

Uterine contraction may not be an independent risk factor for spontaneous preterm birth <35 weeks in women with cervical shortening

OBJECTIVE

To compare the risk of spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB) before 35 weeks in symptomatic and asymptomatic women with cervical shortening at 16-34 weeks under mid-trimester universal screening of cervical length (CL).

METHOD

Multicenter retrospective cohort study involving six secondary/tertiary perinatal centers was planned in 2016. Primary outcomes were SPTB before 35 weeks. In all, 407 women were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression analysis for predicting SPTB before 35 weeks while adjusting for presence/absence of uterine contraction, gestational weeks, vaginal bleeding, and CL classification (1-9, 10-14, 15-19, and 20-24 mm) at admission, the execution of cervical cerclage, and the presence/absence of past history of preterm delivery.

RESULTS

SPTB before 35 weeks of pregnancy occurred in 14.5%. Presence of uterine contraction was not an independent risk factor for SPTB before 35 weeks (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.67-2.20). CL of 1-9 mm, CL of 10-14 mm, and vaginal bleeding at admission were independent risk factors for SPTB before 35 weeks (aOR 5.35, 95% CI 2.11-13.6; aOR 2.79, 95% CI 1.12-6.98; and aOR 2.37, 95% CI 1.12-5.10, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In women with a cervical shortening at 16-34 weeks, presence of uterine contractions at admission may not be an independent risk factor for the occurrence of SPTB before 35 weeks.

Usefulness of linked color imaging for the detection of obscure early gastric cancer: Multivariate analysis of 508 lesions

OBJECTIVES

Early gastric cancers (EGCs) of the elevated type or with submucosal invasion are easily found by routine endoscopy. However, most early cancers are challenging to detect because of subtle morphological or color differences from surrounding atrophic mucosa and intestinal metaplasia. Linked color imaging (LCI) enhances mucosal color difference, making it easier to detect EGCs. The aim of this study is to clarify the advantages and possible disadvantages of LCI for screening for obscure EGC.

METHODS

A total of 665 malignant gastric lesions resected using endoscopic submucosal dissection between January 2015 and April 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Obviously detectable lesions were not included in the main analysis when determining the target lesion. White light imaging (WLI)/LCI images of 508 endoscopically obscure malignant lesions were included in the final analysis and evaluated by three non-expert and three expert endoscopists using visibility scores for detection and extent.

RESULTS

The detection visibility scores using LCI were significantly higher than those using WLI regardless of lesion characteristics including location, size, histological type, depth of invasion, and Helicobacter pylori status. The detection score improved in 46.4% cases and deteriorated in 4.9% when the modality changed from WLI to LCI. A mixed-effects multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that use of LCI (odds ratio [OR] 2.57), elevated type (OR 1.92), invasion to submucosa (OR 2.18) were significantly associated with improved visibility of EGC.

CONCLUSIONS

Linked color imaging significantly improves visibility of EGC regardless of differences in lesion morphology, histology, location, depth of invasion, and H. pylori status compared to conventional WLI.

The effect of stent and decalcification on mitral annular motion after aortic valve replacement

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the changes in mitral annular motion after surgery in patients with aortic stenosis.

METHODS

Patients receiving Edwards (Edwards) valves were included in the study. Echocardiographic findings were compared among the three treatments postoperatively, at discharge, and at 1 year after the surgery. Mitral annular motion was evaluated by e prime, using tissue doppler imaging.

RESULTS

There were 111 patients receiving Inspiris, 30 patients receiving Intuity and 241 patients receiving Sapien 3. The patients receiving Sapien 3 were significantly older, (Inspiris: 71 ± 6.7 years vs. Intuity: 75 ± 5.2 years vs. Sapien 3: 84 ± 5.1 years, p < .001), and prevalence of hemodialysis were significantly higher in patients receiving Intuity (Inspiris: 11.7% vs. Intuity: 46.7% vs. Sapien 3: 0.0%, p < .001). There was a significant improvement in mean pressure gradient in all groups (Inspiris: 55 ± 21.2-13 ± 5.2 mmHg, p < .001; Intuity: 48 ± 17.6-12 ± 4.9 mmHg, p < .001, Sapien 3: 55 ± 16.6-14 ± 5.2 mmHg, p < .001). Decalcification was associated with increase in e prime after surgery (no decalcification: 0.10 ± 1.280 cm/s vs. decalcification: 0.68 ± 1.405 cm/s, p < .001) Further, existence of stent was associated with less increase in e prime after surgery (no stent: 0.83 ± 1.210 cm/s vs. stent: 0.10 ± 1.356; p < .001). Multivariate analysis showed that existence of stent but not decalcification of the aortic valve was independently associated with changes in e prime after surgery (β: -.4679, 95% confidence interval: -0.93389 to -0.00200, p = .049).

CONCLUSIONS

Although improvement in pressure gradient was achieved in all treatments, existence of stent inhibited mitral annular motion after surgery.

Predictive factors of distal stent graft-induced new entry after frozen elephant trunk procedure for aortic dissection

OBJECTIVES

The incidence rate of distal stent graft-induced new entry after frozen elephant trunk technique for aortic dissection remains controversial. The aim of this study was to investigate the incidence and seek the clinical and anatomical predictive factors.

METHODS

This study is a retrospective multicenter evaluation of complications including distal stent graft-induced new entry, aortic events, and re-intervention after the frozen elephant trunk procedure for aortic dissection.

RESULTS

Our cohort included total 177 consecutive patients who underwent the frozen elephant trunk procedure for acute and chronic aortic dissection at five centers in Japan from May 2014 to March 2021. The incidence rate of distal stent graft-induced new entry was 14.1% (25/177 patients). The cumulative incidence of d-SINE was 7.1%, 12.4%, 21.4% after 12, 36, and 60 months, respectively. Distal stent graft-induced new entry was not associated with mid-term survival rate. After competing risk regression analysis, onset time > 48 hours (subdistribution hazard ratio, 3.80; 95% confidence interval, 1.13-12.79; P=0.031) was detected as an independent predictor.

CONCLUSIONS

Awareness that there is a relatively higher incidence of distal stent graft-induced new entry after frozen elephant trunk procedures is important. Non-hyperacute phase was detected as an independent risk factor. Preemptive endovascular repair may be appropriate to protect new entry in high-risk patients.

Effects of antioxidant co-supplementation therapy on spermatogenesis dysfunction in relation to the basal oxidation-reduction potential levels in spermatozoa: A pilot study

Purpose

In this pilot study, the authors compared the effects of antioxidant co-supplementation therapy and methylcobalamin therapy in patients with impaired semen quality.

Methods

Eighty-four subjects who visited male infertility clinics and showed abnormal semen test results were randomly subjected to one of the two therapies: antioxidant co-supplementation therapy with vitamin C, vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, and flaxseed oil or methylcobalamin therapy. The oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) and 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine levels were used as indicators of oxidative stress levels in semen. Semen analysis was also performed.

Results

The authors obtained results from 67 patients who had completed 3 months of treatment. Neither antioxidant co-supplementation therapy nor methylcobalamin therapy changed the semen parameters significantly (except for the sperm concentration, which was increased by the latter therapy). When the pre-treatment ORP value in semen was higher than the cutoff value, both therapies significantly increased the sperm concentration. The 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine level did not yield any meaningful predictive value with regard to increased sperm concentrations.

Conclusions

Both antioxidant co-supplementation therapy and methylcobalamin therapy increased the sperm concentration in patients with impaired semen quality when the basal ORP levels in their semen were elevated.

An increased prothrombin time-international normalized ratio in patients with acute type A aortic dissection: contributing factors and their influence on outcomes

PURPOSE

We investigated factors contributing to coagulopathy in patients with acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) and coagulopathy's influence on patient outcomes.

METHODS

We grouped 420 patients who underwent ATAAD repair-none under anticoagulation therapy or with liver disease-by the prothrombin time-international normalized ratio (PT-INR) at admission:  <  1.2 (no coagulopathy, n  =  371), 1.2-1.49 (mild coagulopathy, n  =  33), or  ≥  1.5 (severe coagulopathy, n  =  16). We then compared the clinical presentation, dissection morphology, and outcomes among the groups. We assessed the PT-INR in relation to the preoperative hemodynamics and searched for factors predictive of a PT-INR  ≥  1.2.

RESULTS

The transfusion volume and operation time were increased among patients with coagulopathy (P  <  0.05). The in-hospital mortality (15.2-37.5% vs. 5.1%, P  < 0.001) and 5-year survival (61.1-74.4% vs. 87.6%) were relatively poor for these patients. The median PT-INR was 1.03 (0.97-1.1) for patients with stable hemodynamics (n  =  318), 1.11 (1.02-1.21) for those in shock (blood pressure  <  80 mmHg) not given cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) (n  =  81), and 1.1 (1.0-1.54) for those in shock given CPR (n  =  21) (P  < 0.001). A multivariable analysis identified shock (P  <  0.001), a partially thrombosed false lumen (P  =  0.006), and mesenteric malperfusion (P  =  0.016) as predictive variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Shock, a partially thrombosed false lumen, and mesenteric malperfusion appear to be predictive of dissection-related coagulopathy, which influences outcomes negatively.

The Modified Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration Equation for the Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Is Better Associated with Comorbidities than Other Equations in Living Kidney Donors in Japan

Objective We studied three types of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) equations and evaluated which type was strongly associated with comorbidities in living kidney transplantation (LKT) donors. Methods We compared the Japanese modified eGFR, Modification of Diet in Renal Disease, and Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration equations (Jm-eGFR, Jm-MDRD, and Jm-CKD-EPI, respectively) for Japanese LKT donors with respect to their relationships with obesity, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Results Of the 8,176 enrolled Japanese LKT donors, the eGFR calculated using Jm-CKD-EPI (eGFR/Jm-CKD-EPI) detected significant differences in 4 of 5 comorbidities between the comorbidity-positive and comorbidity-negative groups, whereas the eGFR calculated using Jm-MDRD (eGFR/Jm-MDRD) and Jm-eGFR (eGFR/Jm-eGFR) detected only 3 and 1 comorbidities, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of Jm-CKD-EPI was larger than those of Jm-eGFR and Jm-MDRD for all five comorbidities. Conclusion We found that the eGFR/Jm-CKD-EPI correlated better with comorbidities than the eGFR/Jm-eGFR and eGFR/Jm-MDRD in Japanese LKT donors. We recommend using the eGFR/Jm-CKD-EPI for the initial assessment of the renal function in LKT donor candidates when evaluating the presence of associated comorbidities.

Long-term outcomes after aortic valve replacement using a 19-mm bioprosthesis

OBJECTIVES

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement is known to be associated with improved haemodynamics in patients with aortic stenosis and a small aortic annulus. However, limited benchmark data are available regarding the long-term outcomes in patients treated with surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR). We investigated the long-term outcomes of SAVR using a 19-mm bioprosthesis.

METHODS

This study included consecutive patients who underwent SAVR using a 19-mm bioprosthesis at our hospital between 2008 and 2012.

RESULTS

In a total of 132 patients, moderate and severe prosthesis-patient mismatch occurred in 36 (27.3%) and 7 patients (5.3%), respectively. The median follow-up period was 7.7 years. The overall 5- and 10-year survival rates were 79.4% and 52.9%, respectively. The 5- and 10-year freedom from major adverse valve-related events rates were 89.6% and 74.2%, respectively. Neither moderate nor severe prosthesis-patient mismatch was associated with late mortality, major adverse valve-related events or heart failure. Follow-up echocardiographic data were obtained at a median interval of 4.8 years in 80% of patients who survived ≥6 months postoperatively. Follow-up echocardiographic data showed a significantly increased left ventricular ejection fraction, decreased mean transvalvular/transprosthetic pressure gradients and a decreased mean left ventricular mass. At follow-up, we observed moderate or severe haemodynamic structural valve deterioration in 17 patients; however, structural valve deterioration did not affect late survival or freedom from major adverse valve-related events rates, or heart failure.

CONCLUSIONS

SAVR using the 19-mm bioprosthesis was associated with satisfactory long-term clinical and haemodynamic outcomes.

Efficacy of the Self-management Support System DialBetesPlus for Diabetic Kidney Disease: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is one of the main complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). DKD is a known risk factor for end-stage renal disease, cardiovascular disease, and all-cause death. Effective intervention for early-stage DKD is vital to slowing down the progression of kidney disease and improve prognoses. Mobile health (mHealth) is reportedly effective in supporting patients’ self-care and improving glycemic control, but the impact of mHealth on DKD has yet to be shown.

Objective

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of standard therapy with the addition of a self-management support system, DialBetesPlus, in patients with DKD and microalbuminuria.

Methods

This study is a prospective, randomized, open-label, multicenter clinical trial. The target population consists of 160 patients diagnosed with T2DM accompanied by microalbuminuria. We randomly assigned the patients to 2 groups—the intervention group using DialBetesPlus in addition to conventional therapy and the control group using conventional therapy alone. DialBetesPlus is a smartphone application that supports patients’ self-management of T2DM. The study period was 12 months, with a follow-up survey at 18 months. The primary outcome was a change in albuminuria levels at 12 months. Secondary outcomes included changes in physical parameters, blood test results (glycemic control, renal function, and lipid metabolism), lifestyle habits, self-management scores, medication therapy, and quality of life.

Results

The study was approved in April 2018. We began recruiting patients in July 2018 and completed recruiting in August 2019. The final 18-month follow-up was conducted in March 2021. We recruited 159 patients and randomly allocated 70 into the intervention group and 61 into the control group, with 28 exclusions due to withdrawal of consent, refusal to continue, or ineligibility. The first results are expected to be available in 2021.

Conclusions

This is the first randomized controlled trial assessing the efficacy of mHealth on early-stage DKD. We expect that albuminuria levels will decrease significantly in the intervention group due to improved glycemic control with ameliorated self-care behaviors.

Trial Registration

UMIN-CTR UMIN000033261; https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000037924

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/31061

Prevention of postoperative delirium after cardiovascular surgery: A team-based approach

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the efficacy of the Delirium Team Approach program for delirium prevention after cardiovascular surgery.

METHODS

We retrospectively investigated 256 patients who underwent cardiac or thoracic vascular surgery between May 2017 and May 2020. We compared the outcomes before and after implementation of the Delirium Team Approach program in December 2018. The program included the following components: (a) educational sessions for the medical team regarding delirium and its management, (b) review of preprinted physician orders for insomnia and agitation, and (c) routine screening for delirium. We investigated the early outcomes and effects of the Delirium Team Approach program on postoperative delirium.

RESULTS

The incidence of postoperative delirium significantly decreased from 53.3% to 37.0% after implementation of the Delirium Team Approach program (P = .008). Although no intergroup differences were observed in the rates of stroke and reexploration for bleeding, the length of intensive care unit stay and the overall length of postoperative hospital stay were shorter in the postintervention group. Hospital costs, excluding surgery, and the cost during intensive care unit stay were lower in the postintervention group. Multivariable analysis showed that the Delirium Team Approach program was associated with a reduction in postoperative delirium (odds ratio, 0.38; 95% confidence interval, 0.21-0.67; P = .001). Other predictors of delirium included age, dementia, chronic kidney disease, and intubation time. After risk adjustment using propensity score matching, the rate of postoperative delirium was lower in the postintervention group.

CONCLUSIONS

Implementation of the Delirium Team Approach program was associated with a lower incidence of postoperative delirium in patients who underwent cardiovascular surgery.

Preoperative sarcopenia is associated with late mortality after off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting

OBJECTIVES

We investigated the association between sarcopenia (a marker of frailty) and outcomes after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

METHODS

This study included 304 patients who underwent elective isolated off-pump CABG at our hospital between October 2008 and August 2013. Psoas muscle area was measured on preoperative computed tomography scans. Sarcopenia was defined as the lowest sex-specific quartile of the psoas muscle area index (the psoas muscle area normalized for height). Patients were categorized into a sarcopenia group (76 patients) and a non-sarcopenia group (228 patients). Patients in the sarcopenia group were older and showed a lower body mass index, lower serum haemoglobin and albumin levels and lower prevalence of dyslipidaemia but higher prevalence of renal dysfunction and peripheral artery disease. The mean follow-up period was 4.5 ± 2.3 years.

RESULTS

The cut-off values for sarcopenia were psoas muscle area index 215 and 142 mm2/m2 in men and women, respectively. No intergroup difference was observed in the in-hospital mortality and morbidity rates. After risk adjustment using inverse probability weighting analysis, late mortality rates were significantly higher in the sarcopenia group than in the non-sarcopenia group (P = 0.022). Multivariable analysis showed that preoperative sarcopenia was an independent predictor of late mortality (hazard ratio 4.25, 95% confidence interval 2.18-8.28; P < 0.001). Preoperative sarcopenia was not associated with major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative sarcopenia (assessed by psoas muscle area index) was associated with late mortality after CABG and effectively predicts postoperative prognosis.

Utility of double arterial cannulation for surgical repair of acute type A dissection

OBJECTIVES

Outcomes of planned and unplanned (rescue) double arterial cannulation (DAC) in surgery for acute type A aortic dissection were investigated retrospectively.

METHODS

The study involved 805 patients who were divided into 4 groups according to the cannulation strategy: single cannulation of the femoral artery (n = 338), axillary artery (n = 256), left ventricular apex (n = 52) or ascending aorta (n = 5) (total, n = 57), and DAC (n = 154). Patients who underwent DAC were divided between planned (n = 132) and rescue (n = 22) usage. Characteristics and outcomes were compared between groups. Both unmatched and propensity score-matched analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Shock (39%, 19%, 33% and 14%, in the femoral artery, axillary artery, left ventricular apex/ascending aorta and DAC, respectively) and leg malperfusion (5%, 16%, 16% and 26%, respectively) differed significantly (P < 0.001), but in-hospital mortality did not (9%, 8%, 18% and 7%, respectively; P = 0.096). The 5-year survival rates were 79.4%, 79.7%, 78.6% and 82.2%, respectively. Propensity score-matched analysis showed no statistically significant differences in in-hospital mortality rates (10%, 12%, 14% and 9%, respectively; P = 0.78) and 5-year survival rates (78.4%, 72.3%, 82.3% and 78.0%, respectively). The leading vessel combination and indications for planned and rescue DAC were the femoral and axillary arteries (98%) and true lumen narrowing and/or leg malperfusion (34%), and the axillary followed by femoral (77%) artery and low cardiopulmonary bypass flow (36%). In-hospital mortality in the planned and rescue DAC groups was 7% and 9%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

DAC seems effective for both prevention and management of intraoperative malperfusion.

Outcomes associated with treatment change from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate to tenofovir alafenamide in HIV-1-infected patients: a real-world study in Japan

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the impact of switching from tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF)- to tenofovir alafenamide (TAF)-containing regimens on bone, kidney, serum lipids and body weight among Asian patients.

METHODS

A prospective, multicentre, observational cohort study was conducted at three centres for HIV infection in Japan during 2017-2019. HIV-infected adults previously treated with TDF-containing regimens and scheduled to switch to TAF-containing regimens were included. Bone mineral density (BMD), renal markers, lipids and weight were measured consecutively from 12 months before to 12 months after the switch.

RESULTS

Among 118 patients evaluated, the mean percentage change to spine BMD during 1 year of TAF treatment was higher than that during 1 year of TDF treatment (mean difference = 1.9%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.8-3.1). Urine protein and β₂ -microglobulin levels decreased significantly after the switch, while low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides increased. During the TDF and TAF periods, the mean weight gains were 0.2 and 1.9 kg, respectively (mean difference = 1.6 kg; 95% CI: 0.9-2.3). Subgroup analysis revealed a significant difference between the mean body weight change associated with an integrase inhibitor (INSTI) (+2.8 kg) and that associated with a non-INSTI (+1.2 kg) third agent treatment only during the TAF period.

CONCLUSIONS

Among predominantly Japanese HIV-infected patients, BMD and renal tubular markers improved, while lipid profiles worsened significantly after the switch. Weight gain during the TAF period was larger than that during the TDF period. Concurrent use of INSTI with TAF may act synergistically to gain body weight.

Long-Term Outcomes and Echocardiographic Data After Aortic Valve Replacement With a 17-mm Mechanical Valve

BACKGROUND

We investigated the long-term clinical and hemodynamic outcomes after aortic valve replacement (AVR) with a 17-mm mechanical valve.Methods and Results:Between January 2005 and December 2011, 80 patients with aortic stenosis underwent AVR with the 17-mm St. Jude Medical Regent prosthetic valve. Echocardiography was performed preoperatively, at discharge, and at follow-up, which was performed at least 2 years postoperatively (median interval, 7.3 years). Prosthesis-patient mismatch (PPM) was defined as an indexed effective orifice area <0.85 cm²/m²at discharge and occurred in 25 patients (31%). The median follow-up period was 8.7 years (100% complete). Overall in-hospital mortality was 2.5% (2 patients) with 27 late deaths (34%). The 5- and 10-year survival rates were 78.7% and 63.0%, respectively. Peripheral arterial disease and concomitant mitral valve repair were independent predictors of late mortality. The 5- and 10-year freedom from major adverse valve-related events (MAVRE) rates were 91.6% and 83.5%, respectively. PPM at discharge did not affect long-term survival, freedom from MAVRE, or freedom from heart failure. Echocardiographic data at follow-up revealed a significant reduction in the mean left ventricular mass index (LVMI). LVMI reduction observed at follow-up was similar between patients with and without PPM.

CONCLUSIONS

AVR with the 17-mm mechanical prosthesis had acceptable long-term clinical and hemodynamic outcomes. Significant reduction in LVMI was observed regardless of PPM.

Effects of Obesity on Outcomes of Acute Type A Aortic Dissection Repair in Japan

Background: The prevalence of obesity among Japanese acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) patients and its effect on repair outcomes remain to be elucidated.

Methods and Results: The prevalence of obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥30.0 kg/m²) among 1,059 patients (mean [±SD] age 64.3±12.7 years) who underwent ATAAD repair between 1990 and 2018 was compared with that among the general Japanese population (National Health and Nutrition Survey data). The prevalence of obesity among male patients (17.1% [6/35], 20.0% [18/90], and 14.4% [20/139] for those aged 20–39, 40–49, and 50–59 years, respectively) was significantly higher than that among the age- and sex-matched general population. The 1,059 patients were divided into groups according to weight (normal [BMI <25.0 kg/m²; n=742], overweight [BMI 25.0–29.9 kg/m²; n=248], or obese [BMI ≥30.0 kg/m²; n=69]). Comparing the normal weight, overweight, and obese groups revealed significant differences among the 3 groups in median cardiopulmonary bypass time (143, 167, and 183 min, respectively), ventilation >48 h (44.5%, 60.1%, and 78.3%, respectively), and in-hospital mortality (7.0%, 7.3%, and 17.4%, respectively), but not in 30-day survival. Shock, visceral malperfusion, operation time >360 min, obesity, and coronary malperfusion were identified as predictors of in-hospital mortality.

Conclusions: The prevalence of obesity is increased among Japanese male patients with ATAAD aged ≤59 years. Obesity may increase these patients’ operative risk; overweight does not.

Influenza vaccination coverage in Chiburijima Island, Japan: Impact of diversification of vaccination place

BACKGROUND

To increase the influenza vaccination rate in Chiburijima Island, we diversified vaccination places from a single clinic to the seven town halls from all the districts.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed influenza vaccination coverage, vaccinees' district of residence, and location of vaccination place, from prevaccination screening questionnaires between October 2007 and March 2018. Except for home-visiting vaccination services, before 2011, influenza vaccination was provided only at a single clinic; after 2012, it was provided at the seven town halls in addition to the clinic. We calculated the vaccination rates among residents of Chiburijima Island, stratified by age groups and districts of residence.

RESULTS

Estimated influenza vaccination rates for all ages increased from 38% in 2007 to 58% in 2017. There was a 14% increase in coverage in 2010 (the year following the 2009 H1N1 pandemic) and a slight increasing trend after 2012. The vaccination coverage of residents, particularly of people ≥65 years old and living >1 km from the former vaccination place, increased after diversification of the vaccination place.

CONCLUSIONS

Influenza vaccination rate in Chiburijima Island increased by 20% between 2007 and 2017, although the rate among the elderly Japanese people decreased by 4% based on the national data of routine immunization. Shortening the distance to vaccination places might improve the coverage as elderly people are often restricted due to transportation means. Sustained and multifaceted strategies are necessary for better immunization coverage.

Genome-wide association study of semen volume, sperm concentration, testis size, and plasma inhibin B levels

Semen quality is affected by environmental factors, endocrine function abnormalities, and genetic factors. A GWAS recently identified ERBB4 at 2q34 as a genetic locus associated with sperm motility. However, GWASs for human semen volume and sperm concentration have not been conducted. In addition, testis size also reportedly correlates with semen quality, and it is important to identify genes that affect testis size. Reproductive hormones also play an important role in spermatogenesis. To date, genetic loci associated with plasma testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels have been identified using GWASs. However, GWASs have not identified any relevant loci for plasma inhibin B levels. We conducted a two-stage GWAS using 811 Japanese men in a discovery stage followed by a replication stage using an additional 721 Japanese men. The results of the discovery and replication stages were combined into a meta-analysis. After setting a suggestive significance threshold for P values < 5 × 10^-6　in the discovery stage, we identified ten regions with SNPs (semen volume: one, sperm concentration: three, testes size: two, and inhibin B: four). We selected only the most significant SNP in each region for replication genotyping. Combined discovery and replication results in the meta-analysis showed that the locus 12q21.31 associated with plasma inhibin B levels (rs11116724) had the most significant association (P = 5.7 × 10^-8). The LRRIQ1 and TSPAN19 genes are located in the 12q21.31 region. This study provides new susceptibility variants that contribute to plasma inhibin B levels.

Association of CYP2A6 gene deletion with cancers in Japanese elderly: an autopsy study

Background

CYP2A6 is an enzyme involved in oxidation of a number of environmental chemicals, including nicotine, pro-carcinogenic nitrosamines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The whole gene deletion of CYP2A6 (CYP2A6*4) is prevalent in East Asian population. Whether or not CYP2A6*4 associates with cancer is still controversial.

Methods

We undertook an association study to determine whether deletion of CYP2A6 gene associates with total cancer and major cancer types employing data of consecutive autopsy cases registered in the Japanese single-nucleotide polymorphisms for geriatric research (JG-SNP) database. The presence of cancer were inspected at the time of autopsy and pathologically confirmed. Genotyping for CYP2A6 wild type (W) and deletion (D) was done by allele specific RT-PCR method.

Results

Among 1373 subjects, 826 subjects (60.2%) were cancer positive and 547 subjects (39.8%) were cancer negative. The genotype frequency in the whole study group for WW, WD and DD were 65.0, 30.6 and 4.4%, respectively, which obeyed the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (p = 0.20). Total cancer presence, as well as major cancers including gastric, lung, colorectal, and blood cancers did not show any positive association with CYP2A6 deletion. When male and female were separately analyzed, CYP2A6 deletion associated with decreased gastric cancer risk in female (OR = 0.49, 95%CI: 0.25–0.95, p = 0.021, after adjustment for age, smoking and drinking). When smoker and non-smoker were separately analyzed, CYP2A6 deletion associated with decreased total cancer in female nonsmokers (OR = 0.67, 95%CI: 0.45–0.99, p = 0.041 after adjustment). On the other hand, CYP2A6 deletion associated increase blood cancers in smokers (OR = 2.05, 95%CI: 1.19–3.53, p = 0.01 after adjustment).

Conclusion

The CYP2A6 deletion may not grossly affect total cancer. It may associate with individual cancers in sex and smoking dependent manner. Further studies with larger sample size are warranted to confirm our results.

Factors related to white blood cell elevation in acute type A aortic dissection

Aortic dissection may induce a systemic inflammatory reaction. The etiological backgrounds for elevation of the white blood cell count remain to be clarified. In 466 patients with acute type A aortic dissection treated surgically within 48 hours of symptom onset, the etiologic background of an elevated admission white blood cell count and the effect of such elevation on outcomes were assessed retrospectively. Patients’ white blood cell count differed significantly in relation to the extent of dissection, with a median (25th, 75th percentile) white blood cell count of 10.4 (8.1, 13.9) x 10³/μL for dissection confined to the ascending aorta, 10.5 (8.2,13.) 10³/μL for dissection extending to the aortic arch/descending aorta, 11.1 (8.2, 13.7) x 10³/μL for extension to the abdominal aorta, and 13.3 (9.8, 15.9) x 10³/μL for extension to the iliac artery (p<0.001). With 11.0 x 10^3/μL used as the cut-off value for white blood cell count elevation, multivariable analysis showed current smoking (p<0.001; odds ratio, 2.79), dissection extending to the iliac artery (p = 0.006; odds ratio, 1.79), age (p = 0.007, odds ratio, 0.98), and no coronary ischemia (p = 0.027, odds ratio, 2.22) to be factors related to the elevated white blood cell count. Mean age differed significantly between patients with and without an elevated white blood cell count (62.3 vs. 68.3 years, p <0.001). Although in-hospital mortality was similar (7.5% vs.10.9%, p = 0.19), 5-year survival was lower in patients without an elevated count (85.7% vs. 78.6%, p = 0.019), reflecting their more advanced age. In conclusion, our data suggest that dissection morphology and patient age influence the acute phase systemic inflammatory response associated with an elevated white blood cell count in patients with ATAAD. A better understanding of this relation may help optimize diagnosis and perioperative care.

CBMS-05 COMPREHENSIVE METABOLOMIC ANALYSIS OF IDH1R132H CLINICAL GLIOMA SAMPLES REVEALS SUPPRESSION OF Β-OXIDATION DUE TO CARNITINE DEFICIENCY

BACKGROUND

Gliomas with isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) mutation have alterations in several enzyme activities, resulting in various metabolic changes. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism for the better prognosis of gliomas with IDH mutation by performing metabolomic analysis.

METHODS

To comprehensively understand the metabolic state of human gliomas, we analyzed clinical samples obtained from surgical resection of glioma patients (grades II-IV) with or without the IDH1 mutation, and compared them with U87 glioblastoma cells overexpressing IDH1 or IDH1R132H cDNA. We used capillary electrophoresis and liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry for these analyses.

RESULTS

In clinical samples of gliomas with IDH1 mutation, levels of 2-hydroxyglutarate (2HG) were significantly increased compared with gliomas without IDH mutation. Gliomas with IDH mutation also showed decreased 2-oxoglutarate and downstream intermediates in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and pathways involved in production of energy, amino acids, and nucleic acids. The marked difference in the metabolic profile in IDH mutant clinical glioma samples compared with that of mutant IDH expressing cells includes a decrease in β-oxidation due to acyl-carnitine and carnitine deficiencies.

CONCLUSIONS

These metabolic changes may explain the lower cell division observed in IDH mutant gliomas and may be one mechanism of the better prognosis in IDH mutant gliomas.

Probiotics Prevents Sensitization to Oral Antigen and Subsequent Increases in Intestinal Tight Junction Permeability in Juvenile-Young Adult Rats

Increased intestinal permeability is thought to underlie the pathogenesis of food allergy. We explore the mechanism responsible for changes in the morphology and function of the intestinal barrier using a rat model of food allergy, focusing on the contribution of intestinal microbiota. Juvenile–young adult rats were sensitized with ovalbumin and treated with antibiotics or probiotics (Clostridium butyricum and Lactobacillus reuteri), respectively. The serum ovalbumin-IgE levels, intestinal permeability, histopathological features, tight junction (TJ)-associated proteins, Th2 cytokines, and gut microbiota in feces were analyzed in each group. Sensitized rats showed an increase in ovalbumin-IgE levels and intestinal permeability with gut mucosal inflammation, whereas rats that received probiotics were only mildly affected. Rats given ovalbumin, but not those given probiotics, showed a reduction in both TJ-related protein expression and localization. Th2 cytokine levels were increased in the sensitized rats, but not in those given probiotics. TJs in rats treated with ovalbumin and antibiotics were disrupted, but those in rats administered probiotics were undamaged. Clostridiaceae were increased in the probiotics groups, especially Alkaliphilus, relative to the ovalbumin-sensitized group. Gut microbiota appears to play a role in regulating epithelial barrier function, and probiotics may help to prevent food sensitization through the up-regulation of TJ proteins.

Ramen restaurant prevalence is associated with stroke mortality in Japan: an ecological study

Background

The association between stroke and nutrition has recently been investigated. However, the association between diet and stroke in Japan has not been clarified. We hypothesized that there may be an association between consumption of ramen and stroke mortality. Therefore, we investigated the association between the prevalence of ramen restaurants and stroke mortality in Japanese prefectures.

Methods

We used Pearson’s correlation coefficients to evaluate associations between the prevalence of each of four restaurant types (ramen, fast food, French or Italian, and udon or soba) and age- and sex-adjusted stroke mortality rates in each prefecture. We also investigated correlations between acute myocardial infarction and the prevalence of each type of restaurant as a control. We obtained age- and sex-adjusted stroke mortality rates and the acute myocardial infarction mortality rate in each prefecture from the 2017 Trends in National Health published in Japan. Data on the number of restaurants of each type in each prefecture were obtained from the database of the Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation.

Results

The prevalence of ramen restaurants, but not of other restaurant types, positively correlated with stroke mortality in both men and women (r > 0.5). We found no correlation between ramen restaurant prevalence and mortality from acute myocardial infarction.

Conclusion

The prevalence of ramen restaurants in Japanese prefectures has a significant correlation with the stroke mortality rate.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12937-019-0482-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Comprehensive Metabolomic Analysis of IDH1R132H Clinical Glioma Samples Reveals Suppression of β-oxidation Due to Carnitine Deficiency

Gliomas with Isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) mutation have alterations in several enzyme activities, resulting in various metabolic changes. The aim of this study was to determine a mechanism for the better prognosis of gliomas with IDH mutation by performing metabolomic analysis. To understand the metabolic state of human gliomas, we analyzed clinical samples obtained from surgical resection of glioma patients (grades II–IV) with or without the IDH1 mutation, and compared the results with U87 glioblastoma cells overexpressing IDH1 or IDH1^R132H. In clinical samples of gliomas with IDH1 mutation, levels of D-2-hydroxyglutarate (D-2HG) were increased significantly compared with gliomas without IDH mutation. Gliomas with IDH mutation also showed decreased intermediates in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and pathways involved in the production of energy, amino acids, and nucleic acids. The marked difference in the metabolic profile in IDH mutant clinical glioma samples compared with that of mutant IDH expressing cells includes a decrease in β-oxidation due to acyl-carnitine and carnitine deficiencies. These metabolic changes may explain the lower cell division rate observed in IDH mutant gliomas and may provide a better prognosis in IDH mutant gliomas.

Sutureless repair for postinfarction left ventricular free wall rupture

OBJECTIVE

Left ventricular free wall rupture is a catastrophic complication of acute myocardial infarction. Sutureless repair has been reported to be an effective surgical procedure for left ventricular free wall rupture. However, the outcomes of sutureless repair remain unclear.

METHODS

Between January 2001 and December 2016, 42 patients were treated for left ventricular free wall rupture at Jichi Medical University. Of them, 35 consecutive patients undergoing sutureless repair using the TachoComb (CSL Behring, Tokyo, Japan) or TachoSil (Nycomed, Zurich, Switzerland) patches were included in this study. No patient required cardiopulmonary bypass. The oozing type of left ventricular free wall rupture was observed in 33 patients (94%), and the blow-out type was observed in 2 patients (6%). The rupture sites were the anterior wall in 16 patients (46%), the posterior-lateral wall in 11 patients (31%), and the inferior wall in 8 patients (23%).

RESULTS

The in-hospital mortality rate was 17% (6 patients). Re-rupture after sutureless repair occurred in 17% (6 patients). Of them, 4 cases (67%) of re-rupture occurred within 24 hours after surgery. The 2 patients with blow-out type left ventricular free wall rupture experienced re-rupture. Three patients required mitral valve surgery after sutureless repair during the admission. The overall survivals at 1, 5, and 10 years were 71.4%, 68.6%, and 62.9%, respectively. Multivariable analysis revealed that re-rupture was an independent predictor for decreased survival (hazard ratio, 58.6; 95% confidence interval, 4.9-701.6; P = .001). Postoperative pseudoaneurysm formation was not detected during the follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Sutureless repair using TachoComb/TachoSil patches can be a viable treatment option for left ventricular free wall rupture. Care should be taken when applying this technique in cases of the blow-out type left ventricular free wall rupture.

Characteristics and Treatment Outcomes of Acute Type A Aortic Dissection With Elevated D-Dimer Concentration

Background

Clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of acute type A aortic dissection with D‐dimer elevation have not been clarified.

Methods and Results

D‐dimer was measured preoperatively within 24 hours of symptom onset in 262 patients with acute type A aortic dissection. The median (and interquartile range) admission D‐dimer concentration in our total patient group was 26.7 (8.3–85.9) μg/mL. Median (interquartile range) D‐dimer concentrations were 5.0 (2.6–18.0) μg/mL for complete false lumen thrombosis (n=33), 60.9 (19.4–160.4) μg/mL for partial thrombosis (n=81), 26.5 (10.0–70.6) μg/mL for a patent false lumen (n=131), and 8.7 (3.2–26.9) μg/mL for ulcerlike projection (n=17) (P<0.01). With a D‐dimer concentration of ≤8.3 μg/mL representing the lower quartile, we then investigated predictors of a low D‐dimer level. Multivariate analysis showed dissection limited to the ascending aorta (P<0.01; odds ratio, 9.81) or descending aorta (P<0.01; odds ratio, 7.68), a completely thrombosed false lumen (P<0.01; odds ratio, 4.02), and absence of brain ischemia (P=0.013; odds ratio, 4.74) to be predictors of the lower D‐dimer concentration. Compared with patients with a low D‐dimer concentration (≤8.3 μg/mL, n=66), patients with a D‐dimer concentration >8.3 μg/mL (n=196) had a reduced preoperative platelet count and increased operation time and transfusion volume. In‐hospital mortality was elevated in this group (1.5% versus 11.2%; P=0.031), although 7‐year survival did not differ for hospital survivors (lower versus higher, 93.1% versus 79.1%; P=0.21).

Conclusions

D‐dimer concentrations are strongly influenced by the extent of dissection and false lumen status. Operative risks are increased in patients with a relatively high D‐dimer concentration.

Clinicopathological and prognostic significance of MUC13 and AGR2 expression in intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms of the pancreas

BACKGROUND

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) of the pancreas is a primary pancreatic ductal epithelial neoplasm with the potential to develop into an invasive adenocarcinoma. This study aimed to investigate the clinicopathologic and prognostic significance of four potential biomarkers for the preoperative evaluation of patients with IPMN.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Clinicopathologic materials from 104 patients with IPMN who underwent surgical resection at Jichi Medical University Hospital were analyzed. IPMNs (110 lesions in total) were histologically classified into low-grade IPMN (Group 1; n = 68), high-grade IPMN (Group 2; n = 16), or IPMN with an associated invasive carcinoma (Group 3; n = 26). We evaluated the immunohistochemical expression of MUC13, AGR2, FUT8, and FXYD3, which were previously reported to be overexpressed in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

RESULTS

The expression of MUC13 was more common in Group 3 compared with groups 1 and 2 (p < 0.001) and was associated with poor prognosis (p = 0.004). The expression of MUC13 was not associated with age, sex, tumor location, histological subtype, lymphatic or vascular invasion, or neural invasion. In most cases of IPMN, the loss of expression of AGR2 appeared to show an association with tumor recurrence and poorly differentiated histology of invasive carcinoma; however, this association was not statistically significant. The expressions of FUT8 and FXYD3were not associated with the clinicopathological features of IPMNs.

CONCLUSIONS

The results suggest that MUC13 overexpression and loss of expression of AGR2 may predict the progression of IPMN and an unfavorable prognosis in patients with IPMN.

Dose-dependent effect of daptomycin on the artificial prolongation of prothrombin time in coagulation abnormalities: in vitro verification

Background

Several studies have reported that daptomycin induced artificial prolongation of prothrombin time (PT) in some test reagents, particularly in warfarin users. However, it remains unknown whether the artificial prolongation can be affected by coagulation abnormalities other than the use of warfarin. Thus, we investigated the effect of daptomycin on PT with two types of coagulation abnormalities.

Methods

Plasma samples were pooled by four groups: healthy volunteers (Plasma A), warfarin users with a PT-international normalized ratio (INR) of approximately 2.0 (Plasma B) or 3.0 (Plasma C), and patients with liver cirrhosis with a PT-INR of approximately 2.0 (Plasma D). Plasma A was composed of plasma from two healthy individuals (9 mL from each individual). Plasma B, C, and D were composed of plasma from 36 patients (0.5 mL from each patient). Daptomycin was added to each sample to create solutions with several concentrations (0–150 μg/mL). The PT-INR for each solution was measured with three PT reagents. Linear regression analyses were used to determine the association between daptomycin concentration and PT-INR. The relative change in PT-INR due to daptomycin concentrations was calculated.

Results

Strong linear correlations were observed between daptomycin concentrations and PT-INR for all the plasma groups and reagents (R² > 0.7, P < 0.01). At a daptomycin concentration of 150 μg/mL, the relative increase of PT-INR was ≥10% in the majority of the plasma groups with an elevated baseline PT-INR in all reagents tested.

Conclusions

Daptomycin induced the artificial prolongation of PT-INR in a concentration-dependent manner, particularly in plasma samples with an elevated baseline PT-INR. PT should be evaluated at the trough levels of daptomycin.

Preemptive anti-cytomegalovirus therapy in high-risk (donor-positive, recipient-negative cytomegalovirus serostatus) kidney transplant recipients

OBJECTIVES

Universal prophylaxis and preemptive therapy are used to prevent cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease post-transplantation. Data regarding which strategy is superior are sparse, especially in high-risk recipients (donor CMV seropositive (D+) and recipient CMV seronegative (R-)).

METHODS

This retrospective, single-center cohort study included recipients who underwent kidney transplantation between 2009 and 2015. The incidence of CMV infection/disease and patient and graft outcomes were analyzed and compared between high-risk recipients (D+/R-) and intermediate-risk recipients (D+/R+ or D-/R+), all managed with preemptive therapy.

RESULTS

Of 118 kidney transplant recipients, 21 were high-risk and 97 were intermediate-risk. Over a median follow-up period of 3 years, asymptomatic CMV infection developed significantly more frequently in high-risk patients than in intermediate-risk patients (38.1% vs. 16.5%, p=0.04), and CMV disease developed in a similar manner (28.6% vs. 3.1%, p<0.01). Among high-risk patients, CMV infection developed within the first 3 months post-transplantation and CMV disease within the first 9 months post-transplantation. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed no difference in the probability of mortality (log-rank p=0.63) or graft loss (log-rank p=0.50) between the patient groups. Graft rejection occurred more frequently in high-risk than in intermediate-risk patients, but the difference was not significant (log-rank p=0.24).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that further studies on universal prophylaxis in high-risk patients are needed to elucidate whether preventing CMV infection/disease during the early post-transplant period leads to better outcomes, especially in terms of reducing graft rejection.

Cytological markers for predicting ALK-positive pulmonary adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

ALK gene rearrangement is an important class of gene mutations in pulmonary adenocarcinoma. ALK-positive pulmonary adenocarcinoma exhibits characteristic histological features, such as signet ring cell carcinoma (SRCC) and a mucinous cribriform structure. However, when insufficient histological specimens are obtained, ALK-positivity must be predicted based on cytological features. The purpose of this study was to clarify the cytological characteristics of ALK-positive pulmonary adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

We compared the cytological findings of 16 ALK-positive cases with 40 ALK-negative cases. We examined various cytoplasmic features of SRCC, including the presence of pink, yellow, or orange mucin; green, vacuolar, or vesicular cytoplasm; and green globular cytoplasmic secretions. We also examined whether the SRCC cells exhibited a pattern of individually scattered cells, the formation of cell clusters, and formation of a mucinous cribriform pattern.

RESULTS

A univariate analysis showed that significantly frequent cytological findings included pink mucin, green cytoplasm, vacuolar cytoplasm, vesicular cytoplasm, green globular cytoplasmic secretions, an individually scattered pattern, cluster formation, and a mucinous cribriform structure (all, P < .05). A stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis identified three significant contributing factors: pink mucin (P = .03), vesicular cytoplasm (P = .06), and an individually scattered pattern (P = .01) of SRCC. If the specimens showed two or three of these features, the sensitivity and specificity were both 88% for the prediction of ALK-positive cancers.

CONCLUSION

Three cytological features of SRCC (pink mucin, vesicular cytoplasm, and an individually scattered pattern) could be useful cytological markers for the prediction of ALK-positive pulmonary adenocarcinoma.

The effects of tomato juice on male infertility

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the effects of tomato juice consumption on seminal plasma lycopene levels and sperm parameters in infertile men.

METHODS AND STUDY DESIGN

Subjects were male infertility patients with poor sperm concentration (<20×10 6/mL) and/or motility (<50%). Following a fourweek observation period, subjects were randomly assigned among three groups: a tomato juice group, an antioxidant group, and a control group. The subjects in the tomato juice group and the antioxidant group daily consumed one can of tomato juice (containing 30 mg of lycopene) or one antioxidant capsule (containing vitamin C 600 mg, vitamin E 200 mg, and glutathione 300 mg), respectively, for 12 weeks (feeding period). Seminal plasma lycopene levels and sperm parameters were measured every 6 weeks during the feeding period.

RESULTS

Forty-four patients completed the study (control group: 12, antioxidant group: 15, tomato juice group: 17). In the tomato juice group, plasma lycopene level was significantly increased at the 12th week of the feeding period. Moreover, a decrease in seminal plasma white blood cells and an increase in sperm motility in the tomato juice group were statistically significant at the 12th and 6th weeks, respectively, compared to the control group. In the antioxidant capsule group, no significant improvement was observed in semen parameters.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, regular consumption of tomato juice seems to improve sperm motility in infertile patients. This is the first report to show that commercially available food, such as tomato juice, might be beneficial for male infertility.