Predictive factors of nivolumab plus ipilimumab treatment efficacy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients

OBJECTIVE

Nivolumab plus ipilimumab is a recommended first-line therapy regimen for metastatic renal cell carcinoma. However, it is not clear which patient characteristics are associated with its effectiveness.

METHODS

We retrospectively examined 67 metastatic renal cell carcinoma patients treated with nivolumab plus ipilimumab as a first-line therapy in multiple institutions from September 2018 to August 2022. We analyzed the relationships between survival outcomes and patient-related variables, including paraneoplastic symptoms. We also analyzed the relationships between changes in symptoms and parameters and outcomes.

RESULTS

Of the 67 patients, 32 patients had paraneoplastic symptoms. The median progression-free survival was 14.9 months and median overall survival was 43.3 months. The objective response rate was 49.25% (33 patients), including two patients with complete response. Patients with cytoreductive nephrectomy, bone metastasis, high C-reactive protein levels and paraneoplastic symptoms were significantly correlated with short progression-free survival in the univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis of these factors showed that the presence of paraneoplastic symptoms at treatment initiation remained an independent predictor of progression-free survival. Of the 32 patients with paraneoplastic symptoms at treatment initiation, 12 patients had symptomatic improvement and 20 did not. The 1-year progression-free survival rates were significantly longer in improved patients compared with those with no improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients without cytoreductive nephrectomy and with bone metastasis, liver metastasis, high C-reactive protein levels and paraneoplastic symptoms were significantly correlated with shorter progression-free survival. The presence of paraneoplastic symptoms was an independent predictor of progression-free survival. Improvement in paraneoplastic symptoms may reflect the treatment efficacy of nivolumab plus ipilimumab.

Primary signet-ring cell carcinoma of the bladder treated with laparoscopic radical cystectomy: a case report

Primary bladder adenocarcinomas comprise 0.5-2% of all epithelial bladder neoplasms. Of these, primary signet-ring cell carcinoma of the bladder is particularly rare, accounting for 0.24% of all bladder malignancies. This tumor is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage and has a poor prognosis. No standard treatment has yet been established. We here report a patient in whom laparoscopic cystectomy following neoadjuvant chemotherapy was effective. Our patient was a 69-year-old man who had had microscopic hematuria, undergone transurethral resection of a mass in the bladder, and been diagnosed pathologically with a primary signet-ring cell carcinoma of the bladder. No metastases were detected on computed tomography. The patient was treated with a combination of paclitaxel, cisplatin, and gemcitabine prior to undergoing laparoscopic cystectomy. The histopathological diagnosis on this operative specimen was dysplasia and no metastases were detected in the dissected lymph nodes. Complete remission has now been maintained for 9 years.

Efficacy and Safety of Brachytherapy for Localized Prostate Cancer in Renal Transplant Recipients

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer is common among male renal transplant recipients and can present challenges for medical management and patient survival. It is imperative to have a comprehensive understanding of available treatment options in this population to determine the most effective and safe therapies. Brachytherapy, a safe and effective treatment for localized prostate cancer, has not been sufficiently studied in this patient population. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of brachytherapy in treating prostate cancer in renal transplant recipients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our brachytherapy database to identify patients with a previous history of renal transplantation who underwent seed implantation for localized prostate cancer. Long-term prostate-specific antigen control and treatment-related toxicity, including graft dysfunction and urinary and rectal complications, were assessed and compared with published outcomes. Results were analyzed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of seed implantation in this patient population.

RESULTS

We identified 2 patients with previous renal transplantation who underwent permanent seed implantation for localized prostate cancer. Follow-ups ranged from 53 to 57 months, and both patients remained free of prostate-specific antigen progression with normal graft function. No acute and late complications occurred.

CONCLUSION

Brachytherapy is a safe and effective treatment option for post-renal transplant prostate cancer. Given the paucity of reports on brachytherapy in this population, the findings of this study, despite a small sample size, contribute to the increasing body of evidence supporting the use of brachytherapy in this patient population.

Sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma with an inferior vena cava tumor thrombus that was completely resected by robot-assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy after neoadjuvant therapy nivolumab plus ipilimumab: a case report

We here present a patient with a sarcomatoid renal cell carcinoma complicated by inferior vena cava tumor thrombus that we treated with nivolumab plus ipilimumab. This resulted in shrinkage of the tumor, enabling complete resection by robot-assisted laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. The patient is still alive with no evidence of recurrence.

Initial experience in robot-associated radical nephrectomy with inferior vena cava tumor thrombectomy

Background

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is often locally invasive and may extend from the renal vein into the inferior vena cava (IVC) as a venous tumor thrombus (VTT). Radical nephrectomy with IVC tumor thrombectomy (IVC-TT) via an open approach has been shown to carry high morbidity and mortality. Recently, robot-associated radical nephrectomy (RARN) has been developed with the aim of improving the performance and outcomes of surgery for RCC with IVC-VTT.

Methods

We here present four patients who had right RCC with IVC-VTT and underwent RARN with IVC-TT in Nagasaki University Hospital. All four patients had level II IVC-TT and underwent RARN with IVC-TT using a da Vinci Xi surgical system. The procedure comprised performing the Kocher maneuver, exposing the right renal artery in the aortocaval region dorsal to the left renal vein, exposing, mobilizing, and clipping the IVC, clamping and incising the IVC, and removing the kidney with the VTT en bloc.

Results

The mean tumor size was 83.1 (range, 50.1-115.2) mm and the mean length of the VTT within the IVC 41.6 (range, 25.3-44.3) mm. The mean console time was 290 (range, 287-367) minutes and the mean blood loss was 200 (range, 175-260) mL and no patient required blood transfusion.

Conclusions

Our initial experience of the procedure of RARN with IVC-TT for level II IVC-VTT is that it is safe and has acceptable perioperative outcomes and complications.

[Clinical Outcome of Surgical Resection for Renal Cell Carcinoma with Inferior Vena Cava Tumor Thrombus]

We analyzed 45 patients who were diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma with inferior vena cava tumor thrombus (IVC) and underwent surgical resection at Nagasaki University Hospital during the 17 years from March 2003 to November 2020. The median overall survival (OS) was 68.5, 53.5, 45.7, and 20.4 months, respectively, according to the tumor thrombus level (Lv) of I, II, III and IV, with a median level of (P＝0.025). In multivariate analysis, pathological sarcomatoid changes were associated with risk of tumor recurrence in the postoperative complete remission group, and IVC thrombus level above Lv III was associated with poor prognosis in the postoperative incomplete remission group. On postoperative systemic treatment for the postoperative recurrence group and the incomplete remission group, overall survival was significantly prolonged in cases using immune checkpoint inhibitors. The results of surgical treatment of renal cell carcinoma with IVC tumor embolization were analyzed. Patients who underwent surgical resection and achieved postoperative complete remission had a relatively long prognosis with a median OS of more than 6 years. In contrast, patients with metastases, especially those with postoperative incomplete remission group, had a poor prognosis despite surgical resection, depending on the patient's situation.

Proteinuria and Renal Dysfunction Due to Extremely Low Birth Weight in a Patient with Silver-Russell Syndrome

A 36-year-old woman diagnosed with Silver-Russell syndrome during childhood presented to our department after a primary care physician suspected renal dysfunction. At birth, she had an extremely low weight (1210 g), and in childhood, she was diagnosed with Silver-Russell syndrome. At the age of 14 she was found to have proteinuria; however, the condition was never further examined. One month prior to her presentation to our department, the following were noted: 3+ urinary protein, 3.9 urinary protein/creatinine ratio, and 48 mL/min/1.73 m² estimated glomerular filtration rate. Abdominal computed tomography revealed small kidneys difficult to visualize using ultrasound. Therefore, an open renal biopsy was performed. The renal biopsy revealed no significant findings in the glomerulus except glomerular hypertrophy, and the glomerular density in the cortical area was low (0.6/mm²). The patient was diagnosed with oligomeganephronia. Proteinuria and renal dysfunction were likely due to glomerular hyperfiltration resulting from a low nephron count caused by low birth weight. Silver-Russell syndrome is characterized by intrauterine growth retardation and additional developmental disorders after birth. Here, we detected oligomeganephronia following kidney biopsy in a patient with Silver-Russell syndrome. We suspect that a reduced number of nephrons due to low birth weight caused proteinuria and renal dysfunction.

Health care transition for cerebral palsy with intellectual disabilities: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Today, most individuals with cerebral palsy are adults who need a paediatric-to-adult health care transition. However, many remain in paediatric care for treatment of adult-onset health issues. Therefore, a systematic review based on the 'Triple Aim' framework was performed to determine the status of paediatric-to-adult health care transition for people with cerebral palsy. A comprehensive evaluation of transitional care was proposed for using this framework. It consists of 'experience of care', meaning satisfaction with the care, 'population health', meaning the well-being of patients, and 'cost', meaning cost-effectiveness.

METHOD

Electronic database (PubMed) searches were performed. The inclusion criteria were original articles published between 1990 and 2020. The search terms used in this study were ('cerebral palsy' AND 'transition to adult health care') OR ('cerebral palsy' AND 'transition'). The study type had to be epidemiological, case report, case-control, and cross-sectional, but not qualitative. The outcomes of the studies were categorised into 'care experience', 'population health', and 'cost', according to the Triple Aim framework.

RESULTS

Thirteen articles met the abovementioned inclusion criteria. Few studies have examined the effect of the intervention of transition for young adults with cerebral palsy. Participants in some studies had no intellectual disability. Young adults were dissatisfied with the 'care experience', 'population health', and 'cost' and had unmet health needs and inadequate social participation.

INTERPRETATION

Further transition intervention studies with a comprehensive assessment and proactive involvement of individuals are warranted. The presence of an intellectual disability should be considered.

[A Case of Scirrhous Gastric Cancer Not Diagnosed by Endoscopy but by Staging Laparoscopy]

A 71-year-old female was referred to our hospital for abdominal distention and anorexia. Gastrointestinal endoscopy revealed wall thickening of the entire circumference. Abdominal CT scan showed diffuse thickening of the stomach, but there was no obvious metastasis. Scirrhous gastric cancer was strongly suspected, but endoscopic biopsies could not demonstrate malignant features. Staging laparoscopy was performed. There was a small amount of ascites and numerous peritoneal dissemination. She was diagnosed with gastric cancer pStage Ⅳ(pT4a, NX, H0, M1, P1, CY1)without HER2 positivity. We experienced a case of scirrhous gastric cancer in which staging laparoscopy was useful for histological diagnosis and staging.

Preservation of Split Renal Function After Laparoscopic and Robot-assisted Partial Nephrectomy

BACKGROUND/AIM

To analyze the effects of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) and robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) on subsequent split renal function using renal scintigraphy.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed data from 174 patients who underwent LPN or RAPN by a single surgeon, and assessed their total and split renal function before and 6 months after each procedure. Split renal function was analyzed using ^99mTc-2,3 dimercaptosuccinic acid renal imaging and calculated as the total estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) × uptake ratio on the surgical side/uptake ratio on the contralateral side.

RESULTS

LPN or RAPN were performed in 51 (29.3%) and 123 (70.7%) participants, respectively. Their median eGFRs before and after surgery were 32.76 and 27.74 ml/min/1.73 m², respectively, and 70 of them (40.2%) showed a preservation of split eGFR of >90%, which was used to define a successful procedure. Participants who underwent a successful procedure had significantly lower RENAL nephrometry scoring system (RNS) scores and fewer of them had external tumors. Successful procedures were associated with shorter warm ischemia time, were more likely to be RAPN, and less likely to involve parenchymal suturing. Multivariate analysis showed that a low RNS score and parenchymal suturing were significant independent predictors of split renal function following partial nephrectomy (PN).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative RNS score and the use of parenchymal suturing are significantly associated with a preservation of split renal function of >90% in patients who undergo PN for the treatment of RCC.

Pathological Significance and Prognostic Role of WWC1 in Upper Urinary Tract Urothelial Cancer

BACKGROUND/AIM

WW and C2 domain-containing 1 (WWC1) protein is a suppressor of malignancies. However, there is no information on the pathological significance of WWC1 in upper urinary tract cancer (UTUC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this study, WWC1 immunoreactivity was investigated in 152 non-metastatic UTUC samples. The relationships between WWC1 expression and grade, pT stage, proliferative index (using an antibody to Ki-67), and the immunohistochemical expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9 were evaluated.

RESULTS

WWC1 expression was negatively associated with tumor grade and pT stage (p<0.001). Positive expression of WWC1 was a better predictor of the UTUC recurrence and subsequent metastasis, and the multivariate analysis showed that WWC1 expression was a significant predictor of subsequent metastasis (hazard ratio=0.29, p=0.020). WWC1 expression inversely correlated with the proliferative index (odds ratio=2.59, p=0.023) and expression of MMP9 (odds ratio=2.19, p=0.040) but not with MMP2 expression, by multivariate analyses.

CONCLUSION

WWC1 expression was negatively associated with malignant aggressiveness via the suppression of cancer cell proliferation and MMP9 expression in patients with UTUC. This suggests WWC1 to be a useful predictor and novel therapeutic target in patients with UTUC.

Correlation between a Bedridden Status and the Long-term Outcome in Hemodialysis Patients after Intracerebral Hemorrhaging

Objective The quality of life and activities of daily living (ADL) are generally poor among dialysis patients after intracerebral hemorrhaging, and their precise clinical course remains unclear. In addition, the association between the severity of cerebral hemorrhaging and the long-term prognosis in these patients has not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to evaluate the subsequent prognosis of hemodialysis patients who survived the acute phase of intracerebral hemorrhaging. Methods We included hemodialysis patients who were admitted to Nagasaki University Hospital between 2007 and 2015 for intracerebral hemorrhaging treatment. After excluding cases of in-hospital death, survivors were classified using the 5-point modified Rankin Scale (mRS), which specifically measures the ADL in patients with cerebrovascular diseases. The patients were followed up at the medical facilities to which they were transferred in the same medical zone until 2017. Results Out of 91 patients with cerebral hemorrhaging (65±11 years old, 66% men, hemodialysis duration 108±91 months), 62 survived until discharge. Twenty-one patients died during observation, largely due to infectious diseases, such as sepsis and pneumonia (n=16, 76%). Compared to patients with mRS 0-4 (n=31), those with mRS 5 (n=31) showed a significantly poorer prognosis. The hazard ratio adjusted for age and antiplatelets was 13.7 (95% confidence interval: 3.88-63.7, p<0.001). Conclusion Hemodialysis patients with intracerebral hemorrhaging who were bedridden showed poor outcomes. The major causes of death were infections. Therefore, these patients should be carefully monitored for infections in order to improve their prognosis.

Effect of oral intake of royal jelly on endothelium function in hemodialysis patients: study protocol for multicenter, double-blind, randomized control trial

Background

Hemodialysis (HD) is a common renal replacement therapy for patients with renal failure. Cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases are known to shorten survival periods and worsen the quality of life of HD patients. Atherosclerosis is a major cause of vascular diseases, and various factors such as abnormality of lipid metabolism and increased macrophage activity, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction are associated with its pathogenesis and progression. Further, endothelial stem cells (ESCs) have been reported to play important roles in endothelial functions. Royal jelly (RJ) affects atherosclerosis- and endothelial function-related factors. The main aim of this trial is to investigate whether oral intake of RJ can maintain endothelial function in HD patients. In addition, the effects of RJ intake on atherosclerosis, ESC count, inflammation, and oxidative stress will be analyzed.

Methods

This will be a multicenter, prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled trial. We will enroll 270 participants at Nagasaki Jin Hospital, Shinzato Clinic Urakami, and Maeda Clinic, Japan. The participants will be randomized into RJ and placebo groups. The trial will be conducted according to the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki, and all participants will be required to provide written informed consent. The RJ group will be treated with 3600 mg/day of RJ for 24 months, and the placebo group will be treated with starch for 24 months. The primary endpoint will be the change in flow-mediated dilation (FMD), a parameter of endothelium function, from the time before treatment initiation to 24 months after treatment initiation. The secondary and other endpoints will be changes in FMD; ESC count; serum levels of vascular endothelial cell growth factor, macrophage colony-stimulating factor, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine, and malondialdehyde; the incidence of cardiovascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, and stenosis of blood access; and safety.

Discussion

This trial will clarify whether oral intake of RJ can maintain endothelial function and suppress the progression of atherosclerosis in HD patients. In addition, it will clarify the effects of RJ on ESCs, oxidative stress, and angiogenic activity in blood samples.

Trial registration

The Japan Registry of Clinical Trials jRCTs071200031.  Registered on 7 December 2020.

Alternative microexon splicing by RBFOX2 and PTBP1 is associated with metastasis in colorectal cancer

The splicing of microexons (very small exons) is frequently dysregulated in the brain of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. However, little is known of the patterns, regulatory mechanisms and roles of microexon splicing in cancer. We here examined the transcriptome-wide profile of microexon splicing in matched colorectal cancer (CRC) and normal tissue specimens. Out of 1492 microexons comprising 3 to 15 nucleotides, 21 (1%) manifested differential splicing between CRC and normal tissue. The 21 genes harboring the differentially spliced microexons were enriched in gene ontology terms related to cell adhesion and migration. RNA interference-mediated knockdown experiments identified two splicing factors, RBFOX2 and PTBP1, as regulators of microexon splicing in CRC cells. RBFOX2 and PTBP1 were found to directly bind to microexon-containing pre-mRNAs and to control their splicing in such cells. Differential microexon splicing was shown to be due, at least in part, to altered expression of RBFOX2 and PTBP1 in CRC tissue compared to matched normal tissue. Finally, we found that changes in the pattern of microexon splicing were associated with CRC metastasis. Our data thus suggest that altered expression of RBFOX2 and PTBP1 might influence CRC metastasis through the regulation of microexon splicing.

Detection of Novel Urine Markers Using Immune Complexome Analysis in Bladder Cancer Patients: A Preliminary Study

BACKGROUND/AIM

Little is known on urine biomarkers that are associated with malignant behavior in patients with bladder cancer (BC). Our aim was to identify BC-related factors in urine samples using our original method "immune complexome analysis", based on detecting the immune complex (IC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Immune complexome analysis was performed using urine samples from 97 BC patients, including 67 with non-muscle invasive BC (NMIBC).

RESULTS

Eight IC-antigens were recognized as candidates for BC-related factors from 20,165 proteins. IC-serum albumin, -fibrinogen γ chain, -hemoglobin subunit α, -hemoglobin subunit β, -ceruloplasmin, and fibrinogen β chain were significantly associated with either pathological features and/or outcome. IC-ceruloplasmin was most widely associated with pathological features in all BC patients and lamina propria invasion and urinary tract recurrence in NMIBC.

CONCLUSION

Based on detection of IC-antigens it was demonstrated that six IC-antigens, especially IC-ceruloplasmin, are potential urine biomarkers in BC.

Pathological Significance and Prognostic Roles of Thrombospondin-3, 4 and 5 in Bladder Cancer

BACKGROUND/AIM

The pathological significance of thrombospondin (TSP)-1 and -2 in bladder cancer (BC) is well-known whereas that of TSP-3, 4 and 5 remains unclear. Our aim is to clarify the pathological significance and prognostic roles of TSP-3 to 5 expression in BC patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

TSP-3 to 5 expression, proliferation index (PI), apoptotic index (AI) and microvessel density (MVD) were evaluated in 206 BC patients by immunohistochemical techniques.

RESULTS

TSP-5 expression was positively associated with grade, T stage, metastasis, and worse prognosis. PI in TSP-5-positive tissues was significantly higher compared to negative tissues. In contrast, AI in TSP-5-positive tissues was significantly lower compared to negative tissues. Expressions of TSP-3 and 4 were not associated with any clinicopathological features, survival, PI, or AI.

CONCLUSION

TSP-5 plays important roles in malignant behavior via cell survival regulation whereas the pathological significance of TSP-3 and TSP-4 in BC might be minimal.

impact of dapagliflozin on left ventricular diastolic function in diabetic patients with heart failure complicating cardiovascular risk factors

Funding Acknowledgements

Type of funding sources: None.

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a well-known risk factor for heart failure (HF), even in patients without a structural heart disease or a symptom of HF. Diabetes-related cardiomyopathy is presented as an left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction, which, like cardiovascular disease, is a contributor of the development of HF in both patients with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Furthermore, comorbid factors other than T2DM also have been identified as high risk factors for of progression to HF. Dapagliflozin is a sodium glucose cotransporter type 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, and represents a new class of anti-hyperglycemic agents for T2DM. A result from a recent large clinical trial showed that dapagliflozin reduced risk of worsening HF or death from cardiovascular causes for patients with HFrEF compared to those who received a placebo, regardless of the presence or absence of T2DM. However, the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on LV diastolic function in T2DM patients with HF who had cardiovascular risk factors other than T2DM remains uncertain.

Purpose

Our purpose was to investigate the impact of dapagliflozin on LV diastolic function in T2DM patients with stable HF complicating cardiovascular risk factors.

Methods

We analyzed data from our previous prospective multicenter study, which investigate the effect of dapagliflozin on LV diastolic function of 53 T2DM patients with stable HF at five institutions in Japan. Patients who had been taking at least one antidiabetic drugs other than SGLT2 inhibitor started the administration of dapagliflozin. Cardiovascular risk factors other than T2DM was determined as age, gender, hypertension, dyslipidemia, history of cardiovascular events and overweight.

Results

E/e′ significantly decreased from 9.3 to 8.5 cm/s 6 months after administration of dapagliflozin (p = 0.020) as previously described. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that dyslipidemia was the only independent determinant of an improvement of E/e’ among cardiovascular risk factors. Furthermore, relative changes in E/e’ from baseline to 6 months after administration of dapagliflozin seen in HFpEF patients with dyslipidemia were significantly larger than those in HFpEF patients without dyslipidemia (-15.2% vs. 29.6%, p = 0.014), but such a difference was not observed in non-HFpEF patients. In addition, relative changes in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) from baseline to 6 months after administration of dapagliflozin had significant correlation with those in E/e’ (r=-0.300, p = 0.038). However, such correlations were not observed in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglyceride (r = 0.05, p = 0.72 and r = 0.05, p = 0.73). Conclusion: Dapagliflozin was more beneficial effect on LV diastolic function for T2DM patients with stable HF, especially those with complicating dyslipidemia. Our findings may thus offer a new insight into the management of T2DM patients with HF.

Abstract Figure.

Correction: Oral Intake of Royal Jelly Has Protective Effects against Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Induced Toxicity in Patients with Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Medicines, 2019, 6, 2

We, the authors, wish to make the following correction to our published paper [...].

Positive effect of dapagliflozin on left ventricular longitudinal function for type 2 diabetic mellitus patients with chronic heart failure

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has come to be considered an independent predictor of mortality, and also a contributor to the development of heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Left ventricular (LV) longitudinal myocardial dysfunction as assessed in terms of lower global longitudinal strain (GLS), has been identified even in T2DM patients with preserved LV ejection fraction (LVEF), and should be considered the first marker of a preclinical form of DM-related cardiac dysfunction, leading to HFpEF. Sodium glucose cotransporter type 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors represent a new class of anti-hyperglycemic agents for T2DM, but the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors on LV longitudinal myocardial function in T2DM patients with HF remains uncertain. To examine this effect, as well as the association of LV longitudinal myocardial function with LV diastolic function after administration of SGLT2 inhibitor in T2DM patients with stable HF, we analyzed data from our previous prospective multicenter study, in which we investigated the effect of SGLT2 inhibitor on LV diastolic functional parameters of T2DM patients with stable HF at five institutions in Japan.

Methods

Our previous trial was a prospective multicenter study of 58 T2DM patients with stable HF at five institutions in Japan. Patients who had been taking at least one antidiabetic drugs other than SGLT2 inhibitors started the administration of 5 mg/day of dapagliflozin. Echocardiography was performed at baseline and 6 months after administration of dapagliflozin. LV diastolic function was defined as the ratio of mitral inflow E to mitral e' annular velocities (E/e'). LV longitudinal myocardial function was assessed as GLS based on the current guidelines.

Results

E/e' significantly decreased from 9.3 to 8.5 cm/s 6 months after administration of dapagliflozin (p=0.020) as previously described, while GLS showed significant improvement from 15.5±3.5% to 16.9±4.1% (p&lt;0.01) 6 months after administration of dapagliflozin. Furthermore, improvement of GLS in HFpEF patients was more significant from 17.0±1.9% to 18.7±2.0% (p&lt;0.001), compared to that in HFrEF patients from 11.3±3.8% to 11.8±4.6% (p=0.13). It was noteworthy that multiple regression analysis showed that the change in GLS after administration of dapagliflozin was the only independent determinant parameter for the change in E/e' after administration of dapagliflozin.

Conclusion

Dapagliflozin was found to be associated with improvement of LV longitudinal myocardial function, which led to further improvement of LV diastolic function of T2DM patients with stable HF. GLS-guided management may thus lead to improved management of T2DM patients with stable HF.

Representative case

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Utility of transcranial color flow imaging for detecting high risk morphology of patent foramen ovale in patients with cerebral infarction

Background

Micro-bubble test by using transcranial color flow imaging (TCCFI) is important as a screening evaluation for diagnosis of paradoxical cerebral embolism which requires the proof of right to left shunt at atrial septum. In addition, high risk features of patent foramen ovale (PFO) that may allow thrombus to easily pass through the PFO itself were previously reported. However, little is known about the association between the degrees on micro-bubble test by TCCFI and the features of high risk PFO.

Purpose

Our aim is to clarify the relationship between the degree of micro-bubble test in TCCFI and the morphology of PFO from transesophageal echocardiography (TEE).

Methods

Seventy-seven patients in whom cardiogenic embolism was strongly suspected by neurologists in Showa University from April to December in 2019 were retrospectively studied. 55 patients underwent both TCCFI and TEE with sufficient Valsalva stress. TCCFI grade of micro-bubble test was classified into 3 groups (A: none, B: small, and C: massive), in which signified “none” is no sign of micro-embolic signals (MES) within 30 seconds, “small” is 1 or more MES, and “massive” is so much MES look like a curtain (Figure). Evaluated high risk characteristics of PFO for cerebral embolism as previously reported were as follows; (1) tunnel height, (2) tunnel length, (3) total excursion distance into right and left atrium, (4) existence of Eustachian valve or Chiari network, (6) angle of PFO from inferior vena cava (7) large shunt (20 or more micro-bubbles).

Results

Of all TCCFI-positive patients (n=32; Group B=19, Group C=13) with cerebral embolism, PFOs were detected in 23 patients in TEE. Therefore, the sensitivity and specificity of TCCFI to PFO were 87% and 63% (AUC=0.75, p&lt;0.001, respectively). Interestingly, all 13 patients (Group C) had manifest PFOs. Moreover, group C include 2 patients with platypnea orthodeoxia syndrome in which hypoxia in the sitting position becomes apparent. Among PFO-positive patients, tunnel height, length, total excursion distance into right and left atrium, and large shunt in TEE were significantly larger in Group C than Group B (p&lt;0.05).

Conclusions

Micro-bubble test by using TCCFI may have screening advantages in predicting paradoxical cerebral embolism, high-risk morphology of PFO, and platypnea orthodeoxia syndrome.

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Erratum: Oral intake of royal jelly improves anti-cancer effects and suppresses adverse events of molecular targeted therapy by regulating TNF-α and TGF-β in renal cell carcinoma: A preliminary study based on a randomized double-blind clinical trial

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.3892/mco.2020.2099.].

The outcomes of carbon dioxide digital subtraction angiography for percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty of access circuits and venous routes in hemodialysis patients

The outcomes of carbon dioxide digital subtraction angiography (CO2-DSA) for performing percutaneous transluminal balloon angioplasty (balloon PTA) in hemodialysis patients has not been fully clarified. The purpose was to compare the outcomes of balloon PTA of hemodialysis shunts in terms of vessel patency between patients treated using CO2-DSA and conventional digital subtraction angiography using iodine contrast medium (C-DSA).We retrospectively evaluated 76 patients (38 males and 38 females, mean age: 65.0 ± 14.0 years). They were under hemodialysis and treated with balloon PTA using CO2-DSA or C-DSA at our institution between 2009 and 2016. Mean duration of the follow-up period was 25.59 ± 21.45 months. We compared the patency rates obtained after CO2-DSA-based balloon PTA with those after C-DSA-based balloon PTA. Secondary patency, which was defined as the duration of patency after all further endovascular interventions until surgical repair, was considered as the endpoint in this study.Overall, 19 and 57 patients underwent CO2-DSA- and C-DSA-based balloon PTA, respectively. CO2-DSA- and C-DSA-based balloon PTA produced clinical success rates of 100% and 96.5%, respectively. Blood vessel injury occurred in one patient who underwent C-DSA-based balloon PTA. No major complications occurred in CO2 group. At 24 months, the post-PTA secondary patency rates of CO2-DSA- and C-DSA-based balloon PTA were 94.1% and 93.9%, respectively (P = .9594).CO2-DSA is safe for hemodialysis patients. Compared with C-DSA, CO2-DSA-based balloon PTA produces have a similar secondary patency rate.

Oral intake of royal jelly improves anti-cancer effects and suppresses adverse events of molecular targeted therapy by regulating TNF-α and TGF-β in renal cell carcinoma: A preliminary study based on a randomized double-blind clinical trial

Molecular targeted therapies are commonly used in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC). However, the efficacy and safety of these therapeutic interventions require enhancement to improve prognosis in these patients. Royal jelly (RJ) has anti-cancer effects and adverse events across a variety of types of malignancy. The present study investigated the detailed mechanism underlying the effects of oral administration of RJ in patients with advanced RCC that were treated with molecular targeted agents in a randomized clinical trial. The study cohort comprised 16 patients treated with RJ and 17 patients treated with a placebo. Serum levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. The results of the present study demonstrated a larger decrease in tumor size upon supplementing patients with RJ following molecular targeted therapy compared with that in patients administered with the placebo. Patients exhibited reduced anorexia and fatigue in the RJ group compared with the placebo group. The relative dose intensity for patients in the RJ group was higher than that in patients in the placebo group. Post- and pre-treatment ratios of the serum levels of TNF-α and TGF-β in patients in the RJ group were lower than those in patients in the placebo group, and these ratios correlated with decreasing tumor size and frequency of anorexia or fatigue in patients. In conclusion, the results of the present study indicated that oral intake of RJ improved the efficacy and safety of molecular targeted therapy in patients with RCC and changed the levels of TNF-α and TGF-β in the serum of patients, which is speculated to serve an important role in RJ-induced biological activities.

Transplantation of a kidney with a heterozygous mutation in the SLC22A12 (URAT1) gene causing renal hypouricemia: a case report

Background

Renal hypouricemia (RHUC) is a genetic disorder caused by mutations in the SLC22A12 gene, which encodes the major uric acid (UA) transporter, URAT1. The clinical course of related, living donor-derived RHUC in patients undergoing kidney transplantation is poorly understood. Here, we report a case of kidney transplantation from a living relative who had an SLC22A12 mutation. After the transplantation, the recipient’s fractional excretion of UA (FEUA) decreased, and chimeric tubular epithelium was observed.

Case presentation

A 40-year-old man underwent kidney transplantation. His sister was the kidney donor. Three weeks after the transplantation, he had low serum-UA, 148.7 μmol/L, and elevated FEUA, 20.8% (normal: < 10%). The patient’s sister had low serum-UA (101.1 μmol/L) and high FEUA (15.8%) before transplant. Suspecting RHUC, we performed next-generation sequencing on a gene panel containing RHUC-associated genes. A heterozygous missense mutation in the SLC22A12 gene was detected in the donor, but not in the recipient. The recipient’s serum-UA level increased from 148.7 μmol/L to 231.9 μmol/L 3 months after transplantation and was 226.0 μmol/L 1 year after transplantation. His FEUA decreased from 20.8 to 11.7% 3 months after transplantation and was 12.4% 1 year after transplantation. Fluorescence in situ hybridization of allograft biopsies performed 3 months and 1 year after transplantation showed the presence of Y chromosomes in the tubular epithelial cells, suggesting the recipient’s elevated serum-UA levels were owing to a chimeric tubular epithelium.

Conclusions

We reported on a kidney transplant recipient that developed RHUC owing to his donor possessing a heterozygous mutation in the SLC22A12 (URAT1) gene. Despite this mutation, the clinical course was not problematic. Thus, the presence of donor-recipient chimerism in the tubular epithelium might positively affect the clinical course, at least in the short-term.

Simultaneous Deceased Donor Liver and Kidney Transplantation in a Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Hepatitis C Virus -Coinfected Patient With Hemophilia in Japan: A Case Report

The authors describe the first case of simultaneous liver and kidney transplantation (SLK) in a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV)-coinfected patient with severe hemophilia in Japan, and it could be second case in the world. The patient was a 61-year-old Japanese man with HCV cirrhosis complicated with HIV coinfection through contaminated blood product for hemophilia B at age 1 year. The patient's liver disease was classified as Child-Pugh C, Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score 38. He had been on hemodialysis for 6 years, but HIV RNA and HCV RNA had been undetectable after appropriate antiviral therapies. In September 2019, the patient underwent successful deceased donor (DD) SLK. The donor was a man in his 60s deceased due to cerebral hemorrhage. Regular DD liver transplantation was performed using the piggyback technique with a full-sized liver graft. Cold ischemia time was 566 min, and the graft liver weighed 1154 g. The graft kidney was transplanted extraperitoneally in the right iliac fossa. The administration of clotting factor IX was discontinued on day 3. The immunosuppressive regimen was based on intravenous induction with 2 mg/kg of basiliximab and 1 g methylprednisolone and subsequent oral administration of mycophenolate mofetil and prednisolone, followed by low-dose tacrolimus after 1 week for kidney-sparing purpose. Steroid therapy was gradually discontinued at 3 months after SLK. The same pretransplantation antiretroviral therapy (ART; tenofovir and dolutegravir) was introduced after 3 days when the CD4 cell count was more than 300/μL and HIV RNA was within an undetectable range. The postoperative course was uneventful without infectious complication, and the patient was transferred to a referral hospital on day 90 and discharged home on day 111. Strategic surgical planning and meticulous pre- and post-transplant management of ART and clotting factors could lead to the success of SLK.

Gradient subthalamic neurodegeneration and tau pathology in the hypoglossal nucleus as essential pathological markers of progressive supranuclear palsy - Richardson syndrome

Progressive supranuclear palsy - Richardson syndrome (PSP-RS) was first described in 1964 by Steele et al. Tau pathology has not been reported in the hypoglossal nuclei of PSP-RS patients, whereas Steele et al. described gliosis with no remarkable neuronal losses in the hypoglossal nucleus. This study aimed to investigate the distribution and degree of tau pathology-associated neurodegeneration, with an emphasis on the hypoglossal nucleus, in patients with PSP-RS. Six clinicopathologically proven PSP-RS cases were included in this study. All patients were clinicopathologically and immunohistochemically re-evaluated. This study confirmed the following neuropathological characteristics of PSP-RS: (1) neurodegeneration usually affects the striatonigral system and cerebellar dentate nucleus; (2) the cerebellar afferent system in PSP-RS is affected by absent-to-mild neurodegeneration; and (3) the extent of tau distribution throughout the central nervous system is greater than the extent of neurodegeneration. Furthermore, we found that subthalamic neurodegeneration was more prominent in the ventromedial region than in the dorsolateral region. Nevertheless, the tau pathology showed no remarkable differences between these two sites. Interestingly, the tau pathology was frequently observed in the hypoglossal nuclei of PSP-RS patients. Gradient neurodegeneration of the subthalamus and tau pathology in the hypoglossal nucleus could be regarded as essential pathological features of PSP-RS.

Epidemiological survey and risk factor analysis of dialysis-related amyloidosis including destructive spondyloarthropathy, dialysis amyloid arthropathy, and carpal tunnel syndrome

The RDT population, initially at 215 patients, exceeded 300,000 in 2011, with a total of 329,609 patients at the end of December 2016. In our Institute, the number of patients with destructive spondylosis is increasing with the increase in the number of dialysis patients in Japan. We had 14 Cases in the 1990s, and then 82 cases in the 2000s and have already had 131 cases in the 2010s. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence of dialysis-related amyloidosis (DRA) such as destructive spondyloarthropathy (DSA), dialysis amyloid arthropathy (DAA), and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). In addition, another purpose was to examine the risk factors of the DRA. DAA made its own assessment on radiographs based on stage. Survey items were patient's basic data, laboratory data and X-ray view. Patient's basic data included such as sex, age, height, and weight and RDT-related factors such as kidney disease that led to RDT, age at start of RDT, RDT history, medical history (past and present), and history of surgery. The frequency of DRA was examined by medical history and radiological examination in 199 dialysis patients who obtained informed consent. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of DRA, and risk factors of DRA were investigated from the medical history, basic data of patients, and blood tests. Of the 199 patients on regular dialysis therapy, 41 (20.6%) showed DRA. Based on the X-ray images, 21 patients (10.6%) showed DSA, while 22 patients (11.1%) showed DAA. Sixteen patients (8.0%) had CTS, determined through a history of surgery. Regarding overlap of conditions, 14 had both DSA and DAA, 3 had both DSA and CTS, and 2 had both DAA and CTS. There were statistically significant differences between the two groups in the cause of disease in Chronic glomerulonephritis and Diabetic Nephropathy, age at the start of RDT, period of RDT, body weight, blood platelet count, and blood Ca level. When multivariate analysis was performed on these items, statistical differences were recognized only during the dialysis period. In conclusion, long dialysis period was a risk factor for DRA.

Sex differences in uric acid levels in kidney transplant recipients and their donors: a preliminary retrospective cross-sectional study

Background

Higher serum uric acid (UA) levels are associated with poorer renal prognosis. In kidney transplantation, both donors and recipients are diagnosed as having chronic kidney diseases (CKD) based on renal function; however, their UA levels slightly vary. Elucidating the differences in UA would help improve kidney prognosis, especially for recipients. Therefore, we investigated UA levels in kidney transplant recipients by comparing them to those in their donors.

Methods

In this retrospective cross-sectional survey, background information and blood examination results were collected from the donors just before donation and after transplantation in the donors and recipients. Associations between UA and sex estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and body mass index (BMI) were evaluated. Data were assessed by the Wilcoxon rank-sum test for continuous variables and the chi-squared test for categorical variables; multiple linear regression analyses were performed to determine which factors were associated with renal function before and after transplantation.

Results

Participant characteristics were as follows. The mean donor age (n = 45, 16 men and 29 women) was 55 ± 11 years, and the mean recipient age (n = 45, 25 men and 20 women) was 46 ± 16 years. Sex-related differences (UA levels in men were predominant) existed in the UA of donors before (P < 0.001) and after donation (P < 0.001). Conversely, there were no significant sex-related differences in the UA of recipients (P = 0.51); the mean standardized eGFRs were similar in donors and recipients after transplantation. Multivariate linear regression analysis showed donor UA only correlated with donor sex before donation (P = 0.008). After donation, donor UA was associated with donor sex (P = 0.006), eGFR (P < 0.001), and BMI (P = 0.02). Notably, the UA of recipients after transplantation was only associated with eGFR (P = 0.003).

Conclusions

Sex has less impact on UA in recipients than in donors. UA has a greater impact on renal prognosis in women than men, even at the same UA level. Therefore, attention should be given to UA levels in female recipients. These findings can be useful for determining patient prognosis following kidney transplantation in both donors and recipients.

Randomized clinical trial of extensive intraoperative peritoneal lavage versus standard treatment for resectable advanced gastric cancer (CCOG 1102 trial)

BACKGROUND

A survival benefit of extensive intraoperative peritoneal lavage (EIPL) has been reported in patients with gastric cancer with positive peritoneal cytology. The hypothesis of this study was that EIPL may reduce peritoneal recurrence in patients with advanced gastric cancer who undergo surgery with curative intent.

METHODS

This was an open-label, multi-institutional, randomized, phase 3 trial to assess the effects of EIPL versus standard treatment after curative gastrectomy for resectable gastric cancer of T3 status or above. The primary endpoint was disease-free survival (DFS); secondary endpoints were overall survival, peritoneal recurrence-free survival and incidence of adverse events.

RESULTS

Between July 2011 and January 2014, 314 patients were enrolled from 15 institutions and 295 patients were analysed (145 and 150 in the EIPL and no-EIPL groups respectively). The 3-year DFS rate was 63·9 (95 per cent c.i. 55·5 to 71·2) per cent in the EIPL group and 59·7 (51·3 to 67·1) per cent in the control group (hazard ratio (HR) 0·81, 95 per cent c.i. 0·57 to 1·16; P = 0·249). The 3-year overall survival rate was 75·0 (67·1 to 81·3) per cent in the EIPL group and 73·7 (65·9 to 80·1) per cent in the control group (HR 0·91, 0·60 to 1·37; P = 0·634). Peritoneal recurrence-free survival was not significantly different between the two groups (HR 0·92, 0·62 to 1·36; P = 0·676). No intraoperative complications related to EIPL were observed.

CONCLUSION

EIPL did not improve survival or peritoneal recurrence in patients who underwent gastrectomy for advanced gastric cancer. Registration number: 000005907 (http://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr/index.htm).

Pathological Characteristics of Periodontal Disease in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Kidney Transplantation

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is recognized as an irreversible reduction of functional nephrons and leads to an increased risk of various pathological conditions, including cardiovascular disease and neurological disorders, such as coronary artery calcification, hypertension, and stroke. In addition, CKD patients have impaired immunity against bacteria and viruses. Conversely, kidney transplantation (KT) is performed for patients with end-stage renal disease as a renal replacement therapy. Although kidney function is almost normalized by KT, immunosuppressive therapy is essential to maintain kidney allograft function and to prevent rejection. However, these patients are more susceptible to infection due to the immunosuppressive therapy required to maintain kidney allograft function. Thus, both CKD and KT present disadvantages in terms of suppression of immune function. Periodontal disease is defined as a chronic infection and inflammation of oral and periodontal tissues. Periodontal disease is characterized by the destruction of connective tissues of the periodontium and alveolar bone, which may lead to not only local symptoms but also systemic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, liver disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and several types of cancer. In addition, the prevalence and severity of periodontal disease are significantly associated with mortality. Many researchers pay special attention to the pathological roles and clinical impact of periodontal disease in patients with CKD or KT. In this review, we provide information regarding important modulators of periodontal disease to better understand the relationship between periodontal disease and CKD and/or KT. Furthermore; we evaluate the impact of periodontal disease on various pathological conditions in patients with CKD and KT. Moreover, pathogens of periodontal disease common to CKD and KT are also discussed. Finally, we examine the importance of periodontal care in these patients. Thus, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the pathological roles and clinical significance of periodontal disease in patients with CKD and KT.

Association between serum calcium levels and prognosis, hematoma volume, and onset of cerebral hemorrhage in patients undergoing hemodialysis

BACKGROUND

High serum calcium levels should be avoided in patients on hemodialysis (HD) because they can induce cardiovascular diseases and worsen the patient's prognosis. In contrast, low serum calcium levels worsen the prognosis of patients with cerebral hemorrhage in the general population. So far, whether serum calcium levels in patients on HD are associated with cerebral hemorrhage remains unknown. This study aimed to reveal the association between serum calcium and cerebral hemorrhage in patients on HD, including in-hospital death, volume of hematoma, and onset of cerebral hemorrhage.

METHODS

This cross-sectional case-control study included 99 patients on HD with cerebral hemorrhage at a single center between July 1, 2007 and December 31, 2017. Controls included 339 patients on HD at a single HD center between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2012. Data on serum calcium level, patient demographics, and comorbid conditions were collected, and associations between cerebral hemorrhage and subsequent death were evaluated by multivariate logistic regression analysis. Further, the association of these backgrounds and hematoma volume was evaluated by multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 99 patients, 32 (32%) died from cerebral hemorrhage. The corrected serum calcium level (odds ratio [OR], 2.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.43-4.35; P < 0.001) and antiplatelet drug use (OR, 3.95; 95% CI, 1.50-10.4; P = 0.005) had significant effects on the prognosis. Moreover, the corrected serum calcium (P = 0.003) and antiplatelet drug use (P = 0.01) were significantly correlated with hematoma volume. In the patients, the corrected serum calcium level (OR, 1.54; 95% CI, 1.07-2.22; P = 0.02) was associated with the onset of cerebral hemorrhage, as was pre-hemodialysis systolic blood pressure (per 10 mmHg) (OR, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.23-1.59; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Although the precise mechanisms remain unknown, a high serum calcium level is associated with cerebral hemorrhage in patients on HD. Thus, we should pay attentions to a patient's calcium level.

Prediction of Nonadherence and Renal Prognosis by Pre-Transplantation Serum Phosphate Levels

Background

Identifying characteristics of patients at high risk of poor adherence before transplantation would be advantageous. However, the optimal approach for characterizing such patients remains unknown. We aimed to evaluate the association between factors for hemodialysis nonadherence and post-transplant renal prognosis. We hypothesized that these factors would influence post-transplantation adherence and worsen renal prognosis.

Material/Methods

We reviewed patients on hemodialysis who underwent kidney transplantation at our hospital between 2000 and 2017 to identify risk factors associated with poor prognosis. The patients’ background and pre-transplantation data, known hemodialysis nonadherence factors, serum phosphate and potassium levels, and interdialytic weight gains were evaluated. The primary endpoint was renal death. We also evaluated the fluctuation of calcineurin inhibitor concentration and weight gain after transplantation.

Results

Seventy-seven patients were eligible, and the mean observational period was 83.2 months (standard deviation, 50.5). Thirteen patients reached the endpoint. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis showed that pre-transplantation serum phosphate level was a risk factor for renal death (p<0.05), while serum potassium levels and weight gain were not. In addition, fluctuation of calcineurin inhibitor concentration was observed in patients with higher phosphate levels before transplantation (p=0.03). Weight gain after transplantation was not associated with the hemodialysis nonadherence factors.

Conclusions

High pre-transplantation serum phosphate levels are considered to represent poor drug adherence and/or an unhealthy lifestyle. Patient education that conveys the importance of adhering to medications and provides nutritional guidance is crucial for improving post-transplantation renal prognosis.

[A Case of Curatively Resected Rectal Cancer with Preservation of Urinary Function after Chemotherapy]

A55 -year-old man was diagnosed with rectal cancer invading the urinary bladder and swollen para-aortic lymph nodes. Since distant metastasis was indicated and total pelvic exenteration was required, 6 courses of chemotherapy with mFOLFOX6 plus panitumumab were performed. After the chemotherapy, the rectal cancer and para-aortic lymph nodes significantly decreased in size, and novel distant metastasis was not observed in CT scans. Therefore, the tumor was considered resectable, and operation was performed. Intraoperative frozen section analysis showed that the para-aortic lymph nodes and surgical margin of the urinary bladder were negative. Thus, low anterior resection of the rectum and partial resection of the urinary bladder were performed. R0 resection was pathologically achieved, and adjuvant chemotherapy with S-1 was administered for 6 months. The patient is alive without recurrence for 10 months. Upfront chemotherapy can be a strategy for advanced rectal cancer with urinary bladder invasion to avoid total pelvic exenteration.

Oral Intake of Royal Jelly Has Protective Effects Against Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor-Induced Toxicity in Patients with Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background: Although tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) are still recommended as the standard therapy in renal cell carcinoma (RCC), the high frequency of adverse events is a weakness of this therapy. Because royal jelly (RJ) possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, we assessed its protective effects on TKI-induced toxicities in RCC patients. Methods: We enrolled 33 patients with advanced RCC who were assigned to start TKI therapy in combination with a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled RJ trial consisting of a placebo group with 17 subjects and an RJ group with 16 subjects. Results: Fatigue and anorexia frequencies in the RJ group were significantly lower than in the placebo group (p = 0.003 and 0.015, respectively). A statistically significant correlation between RJ and fatigue or anorexia was detected in sunitinib-treated patients. The dose reduction- or discontinuation-free periods were significantly longer (p = 0.013) in the RJ group than in the placebo group. Furthermore, similar observations were made in sunitinib-treated patients (p = 0.016). Conclusions: Our clinical trial showed that RJ exerted protective effects against TKI-induced fatigue and anorexia and lowered TKI dose reduction or discontinuation. Hence, RJ is beneficial for maintaining the quality of life and medication compliance in TKI-treated RCC patients.

The influence of compressive forces across the patellofemoral joint on patient-reported outcome after bi-cruciate stabilized total knee arthroplasty

AIMS

Patellofemoral problems are a common complication of total knee arthroplasty. A high compressive force across the patellofemoral joint may affect patient-reported outcome. However, the relationship between patient-reported outcome and the intraoperative patellofemoral contact force has not been investigated. The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not a high intraoperative patellofemoral compressive force affects patient-reported outcome.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This prospective study included 42 patients (42 knees) with varus-type osteoarthritis who underwent a bi-cruciate stabilized total knee arthroplasty and in whom the planned alignment was confirmed on 3D CT. Of the 42 patients, 36 were women and six were men. Their mean age was 72.3 years (61 to 87) and their mean body mass index (BMI) was 24.4 kg/m ² (18.2 to 34.3). After implantation of the femoral and tibial components, the compressive force across the patellofemoral joint was measured at 10°, 30°, 60°, 90°, 120°, and 140° of flexion using a load cell (Kyowa Electronic Instruments Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) manufactured in the same shape as the patellar implant. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to investigate the relationship between intraoperative patellofemoral compressive force and patient-reported outcome two years after implantation.

RESULTS

No patient had anterior knee pain after total knee arthroplasty. The compressive force across the patellofemoral joint at 140°of flexion was negatively correlated with patient satisfaction (R ² = 0.458; β = -0.706; p = 0. 041) and Forgotten Joint Score-12 (FJS-12; R ² = .378; β = -0.636; p = 0. 036). The compressive force across the patellofemoral joint at 60° of flexion was negatively correlated with the patella score (R ² = 0.417; β = -0.688; p = 0. 046).

CONCLUSION

Patient satisfaction, FJS-12, and patella score were affected by the patellofemoral compressive force at 60° and 140° of flexion. Reduction of the patellofemoral compressive forces at 60° and 140° of flexion angle during total knee arthroplasty may improve patient-reported outcome, but has no effect on anterior knee pain.

Pathological significance and prognostic roles of densities of CD57+ cells, CD68+ cells, and mast cells, and their ratios in clear cell renal cell carcinoma

The immune system is closely associated with malignant behavior in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Therefore, understanding the pathological roles of immune cells in tumor stroma is essential to discuss the pathological characteristics of RCC. In this study, the clinical significance of densities of CD57+ cells, CD68+ cells, and mast cells, and their ratios were investigated in patients with clear cell RCC. The densities of CD57+, CD68+, and mast cells were evaluated by immunohistochemical techniques in 179 patients. Proliferation index, apoptotic index, and microvessel density were evaluated by using anti-Ki-67, anti-cleaved caspase-3, and anti-CD31 antibodies, respectively. The density of CD57+ cell was negatively correlated with grade, pT stage, and metastasis, although densities of CD68+ cell and mast cell were positively correlated. Ratios of CD68+ cell/CD57+ cell and mast cell/CD57+ cell were significantly correlated with grade, pT stage, and metastasis. Survival analyses showed that the CD68+ cell/CD57+ cell ratio was a significant predictor for cause-specific survival by multivariate analyses (hazard ratio = 1.41, 95% confidence interval = 1.03-1.93, P = .031) and was significantly correlated with proliferation index, apoptotic index, and microvessel density (r = .47, P <. 001; r = -.31, P < .001; and r = .40, P < .001, respectively). In conclusion, CD57+ cells, CD68+ cells, and mast cells played important roles in malignancy in clear cell RCC. The CD68+ cell/CD57+ cell ratio was strongly correlated with pathological features and prognosis in these patients because this ratio reflected the status of cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis.

Surgical Results of Combined Pars Plana Vitrectomy, Phacoemulsification, and Intraocular Lens Implantation for various Vitreoretinal Diseases

PURPOSE

To evaluate the results and complications of combined pars plana vitrectomy (PPV), phacoemulsification and aspiration (PEA), and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation.

METHODS

A total of 117 eyes from 114 patients who had undergone PPV combined with PEA and IOL implantation were retrospectively analyzed. Combined surgery was performed for a wide variety of vitreoretinal diseases. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were also reviewed.

RESULTS

The postoperative BCVA improved by 2 lines or more in 85 eyes (72.6%). Intraoperative complications consisted of retinal tears in 14 eyes (12.0%) and posterior capsular rupture in 2 eyes (1.7%). Iatrogenic retinal tears occurred more frequently in eyes with a macular hole than in eyes with any other disease (p=0.005, chi-square test). Postoperative complications consisted of posterior capsule opacification (PCO) (21 eyes), transient IOP elevation (29 eyes), vitreous hemorrhage (6 eyes), anterior chamber fibrin exudation (11 eyes), posterior iris synechia (8 eyes), neovascular glaucoma (1 eye), and recurrent retinal detachment (RD) (2 eyes). Fibrin exudation occurred more frequently in eyes with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and RD than in eyes with any other disease (p=0.03, chi-square test). PCO occurred more frequently in eyes with PDR than in eyes with any other disease (p=0.03, chi-square test).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggests that a high success rate can be achieved when recently improved PPV techniques are combined wi th PEA and IOL implantation. The complications that were observed following this combined treatment varied with respect to the vitreoretinal disease present prior to surgery.

[A Case of Curatively Resected Ascending Colon Cancer with Ovarian Metastasis and Peritoneal Dissemination after Chemotherapy]

A52 -year-old woman was diagnosed with ascending colon cancer with ovarian metastasis and peritoneal dissemination. Since the patient did not have symptoms with intestinal obstruction, mFOLFOX6 plus bevacizumab(Bmab)was performed for 12 cycles. After chemotherapy, the tumors of ascending colon and ovary were significantly shrunken and novel distant metastasis was not observed by CT scans. Therefore, the tumors were considered to be resectable and curative resection was performed. In the surgical findings, the peritoneal disseminations were localized, and right colectomy, bilateral oophorectomy and extirpation of the peritoneal disseminations were performed. R0 resection was pathologically achieved and adjuvant chemotherapy with UFT/UZEL was administrated for 6 months. The patient is alive without recurrence for 1 year. Since right sided colon cancer is less likely to have obstruction, upfront chemotherapy can be a strategy for locally advanced right sided colon cancer with distant metastasis.