Comparison of the specimen quality of endobronchial ultrasound-guided intranodal forceps biopsy using standard-sized forceps versus mini forceps for lung cancer: A prospective study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is a diagnostic procedure with adequate performance; however, its ability to provide specimens of sufficient quality and quantity for treatment decision-making in advanced-stage lung cancer may be limited, primarily due to blood contamination. The use of a 0.96-mm miniforceps biopsy (MFB) permits true histological sampling, but the resulting small specimens are unsuitable for the intended applications. Therefore, we introduced a 1.9-mm standard-sized forceps biopsy (SFB) and compared its utility to that of MFB.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled patients from three institutions who presented with hilar/mediastinal lymphadenopathy and suspected advanced-stage lung cancer, or those who were already diagnosed but required additional tissue specimens for biomarker analysis. Each patient underwent MFB followed by SFB three or four times through the tract created by TBNA using a 22-gauge needle on the same lymph node (LN). Two pathologists assessed the quality and size of each specimen using a virtual slide system, and diagnostic performance was compared between the MFB and SFB groups.

RESULTS

Among the 60 enrolled patients, 70.0% were diagnosed with adenocarcinoma. The most frequently targeted sites were the lower paratracheal LNs, followed by the interlobar LNs. The diagnostic yields of TBNA, MFB and SFB were 91.7%, 93.3% and 96.7%, respectively. The sampling rate of high-quality specimens was significantly higher in the SFB group. Moreover, the mean specimen size for SFB was three times larger than for MFB.

CONCLUSION

SFB is useful for obtaining sufficient qualitative and quantitative specimens.

Lack of Association Between Immunotherapy and Improvement of Survival for Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Patients With Hemodialysis: A Nationwide Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The number of patients undergoing hemodialysis continues to increase globally, and the incidence of cancer is high among these patients. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are widely used in patients with advanced cancer, especially non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); however, their effectiveness in hemodialysis patients is poorly documented.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study used data from a nationwide database. Patients diagnosed with NSCLC, undergoing hemodialysis, and who started chemotherapy between September 2008 and January 2023 were included. In the intention to treat (ITT) analysis, patients were divided into immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) and conventional chemotherapy group, and in the chronological analysis, patients were divided into 2 groups before and after ICI approval. Overall survival (OS) was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method with log-rank tests and Cox proportional hazards analyses. A propensity score approach was applied to address confounding factors, and analyses were performed by weighting each patient with the inverse of the estimated propensity score.

RESULTS

We identified 322 and 389 patients in the ITT and chronological analyses respectively. In both analyses, there were no notable difference of OS between 2 groups (P values by log-rank test 0.933 and 0.248, respectively). The hazard ratios for OS were 0.980 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.678-1.415) in the ITT analysis and 0.805 (95% CI: 0.531-1.219) in the chronological analysis.

CONCLUSION

The ICI treatment and approval were not significantly associated with improvement of survival in patients with NSCLC undergoing hemodialysis.

Immediate sciatic nerve reconstruction using an ipsilateral common peroneal nerve graft at the time of sarcoma resection

BACKGROUND

Concomitant resection of the sciatic nerve along with a malignant tumor is no longer a contraindication for limb-sparing surgery, as most of these patients remain ambulatory. However, sciatic nerve reconstruction after sarcoma resection is not commonly performed. Restoration of nerve function can improve patient quality of life. We describe our experience with four patients who underwent sciatic nerve reconstruction using an ipsilateral common peroneal nerve graft at the time of sarcoma resection.

METHODS

Because of the low chance of peroneal nerve recovery, the ipsilateral peroneal trunk was used as a graft to reconstruct the tibial trunk of the sciatic nerve. Two patients were men and two were women. Mean age was 45.3 years (range, 15-62). Mean sciatic nerve defect length was 9.4 cm (range, 8.5-12.0). Proximal thigh defects (three patients) were reconstructed with a double cable; the one patient with a distal thigh defect underwent single cable reconstruction. Mean operation time was 492 min (range, 428-682).

RESULTS

Mean length of the harvested peroneal trunks was 21 cm (range, 11-26). Mean graft length was 11.9 cm (range, 11-13). Postoperative course was uneventful in all four patients. One patient died of sarcoma lung metastasis and could not be evaluated. Three patients were followed for more than 2 years. Two patients achieved British Medical Research Council grade 4 plantar flexion; the remaining patient achieved grade 5 plantar flexion and grade 4 toe flexion. Semmes-Weinstein monofilament sensory testing showed loss of protective sensation on the plantar surface in all three. Musculoskeletal Tumor Society scores at last follow-up were 60.0%, 70.0%, and 43.3%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Immediate sciatic nerve reconstruction using an ipsilateral common peroneal nerve graft avoids reconstruction delay and scar tissue formation, which is advantageous for nerve recovery. This technique may be considered when sciatic nerve resection is anticipated during sarcoma resection.

RBM17 Expression Is Associated With the Efficacy of ICI Monotherapy in NSCLC With Low PD-L1 Expression

BACKGROUND/AIM

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are currently a standard treatment tool for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). RNA-binding motif protein 17 (RBM17), a splicing factor, is frequently over-expressed in NSCLC, but little is known about the role of RBM17 in the efficacy of ICIs for NSCLC. Thus, we investigated the correlation between RBM17 expression and ICI efficacy in NSCLC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Biopsy or surgical specimens were collected from patients with advanced or recurrent NSCLC who received ICI monotherapy or chemo-immunotherapy in a first-line setting. RBM17 expression was examined using immunohistochemistry. The correlation between the efficacy of ICI monotherapy or chemo-immunotherapy and RBM17 expression was evaluated.

RESULTS

Among the 218 cases, 115 (52.8%) cases were positive for RBM17 expression. RBM17 expression was not associated with the objective response rate (ORR) or progression-free survival (PFS) in either of the ICI monotherapy or chemo-immunotherapy groups. However, among those with a low PD-L1 expression level (PD-L1 <50%; n=86), RBM17 expression was significantly associated with a better ORR (p=0.045) and a better PFS (p<0.001) in the ICI monotherapy group, and was significantly associated with a poor ORR in the chemo-immunotherapy group (p=0.041).

CONCLUSION

RBM17 might be a useful predictive marker for a higher efficacy of ICI monotherapy in NSCLC patients with a low PD-L1 expression level.

Comparison of clinical outcomes of osimertinib and first-generation EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in TKI-untreated EGFR-mutated non-small-cell lung cancer with leptomeningeal metastases

BACKGROUND

Leptomeningeal metastases (LM) are devastating complications of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although osimertinib, a third-generation EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), has better penetration into the central nervous system than first-generation EGFR-TKIs, data on the distinct activity of EGFR-TKIs in untreated advanced EGFR-mutated NSCLC with LM are lacking.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients treated with EGFR-TKIs for TKI-untreated common EGFR-mutated NSCLC with LM between July 2002 and July 2021 at the National Cancer Center Hospital. The patients were divided into two groups: patients treated with osimertinib (Osi group) and those treated with gefitinib or erlotinib [first-generation (1G)-TKI group].

RESULTS

Of the 967 patients, 71 were eligible, including 29 in the Osi group and 42 in the 1G-TKI group. The median progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in the Osi group were better than those in the 1G-TKI group (PFS: 16.9 months versus 8.6 months, P = 0.007, and OS: 26.6 months versus 20.0 months, P = 0.158). The LM-overall response rate (ORR) and LM-PFS were significantly better in the Osi group than in the 1G-TKI group (LM-ORR: 62.5% versus 25.7%, P = 0.007; LM-PFS: 23.4 months versus 12.1 months, P = 0.021). In the subgroup analysis of EGFR mutation status, LM-PFS for patients with exon 19 deletion was significantly longer in the Osi group than in the 1G-TKI group (32.7 months versus 13.4 months, P = 0.013), whereas those with L858R mutation in exon 21 did not differ between the two groups. In the multivariate analysis, osimertinib and exon 19 deletion were significant factors for better LM-PFS and OS.

CONCLUSION

Osimertinib can be more effective for untreated common EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients with LM, especially those with exon 19 deletion, compared to first-generation TKIs.

Diagnostic Utility and Safety of Non-Intubated Cryobiopsy Technique Using a Novel Ultrathin Cryoprobe in Addition to Conventional Biopsy Techniques for Peripheral Pulmonary Lesions

BACKGROUND

Transbronchial cryobiopsy enables high-quality sample collection around the probe tip. Meanwhile, existing cryoprobes have less flexibility and a higher risk of bleeding. The ultrathin cryoprobe with a 1.1-mm diameter addresses these problems and allows specimens to be directly retrieved through the working channel of a thin bronchoscope.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the diagnostic utility and safety of non-intubated cryobiopsy using an ultrathin cryoprobe added to conventional biopsy for diagnosing peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs).

METHODS

The data of patients who underwent conventional biopsy followed by non-intubated cryobiopsy to retrieve specimens through the thin bronchoscope's working channel for diagnosing PPLs at Osaka Metropolitan University Hospital from July 2021 to June 2022 were retrospectively collected. They were analyzed to evaluate the diagnostic utility and safety of adding non-intubated cryobiopsy to conventional biopsy for PPLs. The characteristics of PPLs that obtain additional diagnostic benefits from cryobiopsy over conventional biopsy were also investigated.

RESULTS

The analysis included 113 patients. The diagnostic yields of conventional biopsy and non-intubated cryobiopsy were 70.8% and 82.3%, respectively (p = 0.009). The total diagnostic yield was 85.8%, higher than conventional biopsy alone (p < 0.001). Although one moderate bleeding occurred, no severe complications developed. The additional diagnostic benefits of non-intubated cryobiopsy over conventional biopsy were demonstrated when the radial endobronchial ultrasound (R-EBUS) showed "adjacent to" (60.3% vs. 82.8%, p = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

Non-intubated cryobiopsy using an ultrathin cryoprobe has high diagnostic utility and safety for diagnosing PPLs, with additional diagnostic benefits over conventional biopsy depending on the R-EBUS image.

Geriatric nutritional risk index as the prognostic factor in older patients with fragility hip fractures

This study investigated the long-term survival and incidence of secondary fractures after fragility hip fractures. The 5-year survival rate was 62%, and the mortality risk was seen in patients with GNRI < 92. The 5-year incidence of secondary fracture was 22%, which was significantly higher in patients with a BMI < 20.

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition negatively influences the postoperative survival of patients with fragility hip fractures (FHFs); however, little is known about their association over the long term.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the ability of the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) as a risk factor for long-term mortality after FHFs.

METHODS

This study included 623 Japanese patients with FHFs over the age of 60 years. We prospectively collected data on admission and during hospitalization and assessed the patients' conditions after discharge through a questionnaire. We examined the long-term mortality and the incidence of secondary FHFs and assessed the prognostic factors.

RESULTS

The mean observation period was 4.0 years (range 0-7 years). The average age at the time of admission was 82 years (range 60-101 years). The overall survival after FHFs (1 year, 91%; 5 years, 62%) and the incidence of secondary FHFs were high (1 year, 4%; 5 years, 22%). The multivariate Cox proportional hazard analysis revealed the risk factors for mortality as older age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.04), male sex (HR 1.96), lower GNRI score (HR 0.96), comorbidities (malignancy, HR 2.51; ischemic heart disease, HR 2.24; revised Hasegawa dementia scale ≤ 20, HR 1.64), no use of active vitamin D3 on admission (HR 0.46), and a lower Barthel index (BI) (on admission, HR 1.00; at discharge, HR 0.99). The GNRI scores were divided into four risk categories: major risk (GNRI, < 82), moderate risk (82-91), low risk (92-98), and no risk (> 98). Patients at major and moderate risks of GNRI had a significantly lower overall survival rate (p < 0.001). Lower body mass index (BMI) was also identified as a prognostic factor for secondary FHFs (HR 0.88 [p = 0.004]).

CONCLUSIONS

We showed that older age, male sex, a lower GNRI score, comorbidities, and a lower BI are risk factors for mortality following FHFs. GNRI is a novel and simple predictor of long-term survival after FHFs.

The Impact of Estrogen Receptor Expression on Mutational Status in the Evolution of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

BACKGROUND

The role of estrogen receptor (ER) status in the carcinogenesis of lung cancer and its impact on prognosis remain unclear.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We previously reported a prospective, multicenter, molecular epidemiology study (Japan Molecular Epidemiology for Lung Cancer Study [JME]). We examined the relationship of ER status with reproductive and hormonal factors, mutational profile, and survival using JME study data. Patients were enrolled between July 2012 and December 2013, with follow-up until November, 2017.

RESULTS

Among 441 ever- and 435 never-smokers, ER expression was observed in 46.4% and 53.5%, respectively (P = .022). Hormone use and reproductive history of female patients were not associated with ER status. Mutations in EGFR (P = .003), TP53 (P = .007), and CTNNB1 (P = .027) were significantly associated with ER expression. Multivariate analysis showed that mutations in EGFR (P = .032) and CTNNB1 (P = .026) were significantly associated with ER expression, whereas TP53 mutations exhibited a trend toward significance (P = .059). Relapse-free survival (RFS) was longer in all the patients with ER-positive tumors than those with ER-negative tumors (P = .021). RFS and overall survival were longer (P = .024, P = .011, respectively) in the stage I patients with ER-positive tumors than those with ER-negative tumors.

CONCLUSION

ERβ expression is positively associated with EGFR mutations and negatively with TP53 and CTNNB1 mutations. ER-positive tumors can be associated with better prognosis of the patients, suggesting that ER expression with coexisting EGFR mutations and wild-type TP53 contribute to the biology of non-small cell lung cancer.

SP142 evaluation contributes to the prediction of immune checkpoint inhibitor efficacy in non-small cell lung cancer with high PD-L1 expression assessed by 22C3

Background

It remains unclear whether assessing programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression by SP142 plus 22C3 adds value for predicting the response to immunotherapy in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

This retrospective multicenter study included patients with advanced NSCLC treated with immune-checkpoint inhibitors. We constructed tissue microarrays (TMAs) and performed immunohistochemical staining with 22C3 and SP142 assays. We denoted the PD-L1 tumor proportion score (TPS) obtained from clinical medical records based on 22C3 staining as "22C3 (C)" and that obtained with 22C3 staining using our TMA as "22C3 (TMA)". SP142 staining was evaluated in both tumor cells and immune cells. We assessed the concordance between each PD-L1 assessment method and analyzed the objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) based on the PD-L1 expression level determined using the 22C3 and SP142 assays.

Results

In total, 288 patients were included. Among those with 22C3 (TMA) ≥50%, 60% of patients showed SP142 TC3 or IC3; among patients with 22C3 (C) <1%, 9% and 18% exhibited 22C3 (TMA) ≥1% and SP142 TC1/2/3 or IC1/2/3, respectively. Among patients with 22C3 (C) ≥50% treated with immune-checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy, the SP142 TC1/2/3 or IC1/2/3 group showed significantly better ORR, PFS and OS than the SP142 TC0 and IC0 group (54% vs. 29%, P=0.040, median =11.0 vs. 3.2 months, P=0.002, median =27.9 vs. 12.6 months, P=0.030, respectively). Multivariate analysis revealed that SP142 TC0 and IC0 was an independent unfavorable prognostic factor for PFS and OS in patients with 22C3 (C) ≥50% treated with immune-checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy. For those with 22C3 (C) ≥50% and SP142 TC0 and IC0, immune-checkpoint inhibitor concurrent with chemotherapy tended to result in a longer PFS and OS than immune-checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy (median =13.7 vs. 2.3 months, P=0.054, median = not estimable vs. 12.0 months, P=0.064, respectively).

Conclusions

SP142 evaluation contributes to the prediction of immune-checkpoint inhibitor efficacy in NSCLC with high PD-L1 expression assessed by 22C3.

Detection of current-sheet and bipolar ion flows in a self-generated antiparallel magnetic field of laser-produced plasmas for magnetic reconnection research

Magnetic reconnection in laser-produced magnetized plasma is investigated by using optical diagnostics. The magnetic field is generated via the Biermann battery effect, and the inversely directed magnetic field lines interact with each other. It is shown by self-emission measurement that two colliding plasmas stagnate on a midplane, forming two planar dense regions, and that they interact later in time. Laser Thomson scattering spectra are distorted in the direction of the self-generated magnetic field, indicating asymmetric ion velocity distribution and plasma acceleration. In addition, the spectra perpendicular to the magnetic field show different peak intensity, suggesting an electron current formation. These results are interpreted as magnetic field dissipation, reconnection, and outflow acceleration. Two-directional laser Thomson scattering is, as discussed here, a powerful tool for the investigation of microphysics in the reconnection region.

Prognostic impact of pretreatment T790M mutation on outcomes for patients with resected, EGFR-mutated, non-small cell lung cancer

Background

Many previous studies have demonstrated that minor-frequency pretreatment T790M mutation (preT790M) could be detected by ultrasensitive methods in a considerable number of treatment-naïve, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mutated, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cases. However, the impact of preT790M in resected cases on prognosis remains unclear.

Methods

We previously reported that preT790M could be detected in 298 (79.9%) of 373 surgically resected, EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients. Therefore, we investigated the impact of preT790M on recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in this cohort by multivariate analysis. All patients were enrolled from July 2012 to December 2013, with follow-up until November 30, 2017.

Results

The median follow-up time was 48.6 months. Using a cutoff value of the median preT790M allele frequency, the high-preT790M group (n = 151) had significantly shorter RFS (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.51, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–2.25, P = 0.045) and a tendency for a shorter OS (HR = 1.87, 95% CI: 0.99–3.55, P = 0.055) than the low-preT790M group (n = 222). On multivariate analysis, higher preT790M was independently associated with shorter RFS (high vs low, HR = 1.56, 95% CI: 1.03–2.36, P = 0.035), irrespective of advanced stage, older age, and male sex, and was also associated with shorter OS (high vs low, HR = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.11–4.20, P = 0.024) irrespective of advanced stage, older age, EGFR mutation subtype, and history of adjuvant chemotherapy.

Conclusions

Minor-frequency, especially high-abundance of, preT790M was an independent factor associated with a poor prognosis in patients with surgically resected, EGFR-mutated NSCLC.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09869-7.

Association of thyroid transcription factor-1 with the efficacy of immune-checkpoint inhibitors in patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma

Background

We aimed to identify the relationship between thyroid transcription factor‐1 (TTF‐1) expression of lung adenocarcinoma and the efficacy of immune‐checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy.

Methods

This retrospective multicenter study comprised patients with advanced lung adenocarcinoma treated with ICI monotherapy. We collected clinical medical records including data on TTF‐1 expression and analyzed the relationship between TTF‐1 expression and programmed death‐ligand 1 tumor proportion score (PD‐L1 TPS), objective response rate (ORR), progression‐free survival (PFS), and overall survival (OS).

Results

In total, 108 patients with lung adenocarcinoma were analyzed. The rate of TPS ≥1% and ≥50% in patients with positive TTF‐1 expression was significantly higher than that in patients with negative TTF‐1 expression (88% vs. 60%, p < 0.001; 65% vs. 24%, p < 0.001). The ORR was significantly higher in TTF‐1 positive patients than in TTF‐1‐negative patients (38% vs. 8%, p = 0.003). Among patients with TPS ≥50% and 1%–49%, the ORR in TTF‐1 positive and negative patients was 48% (26/54) versus 17% (1/6) (p = 0.21), and 32% (6/19) versus 11% (1/9) (p = 0.37), respectively. The ORR for patients with TPS <1% was 0% in both the TTF‐1 negative and positive cases. The median PFS and OS was significantly longer in TTF‐1‐positive patients than in TTF‐1‐negative patients (5.4 vs. 1.6 months, p < 0.001; 18.2 vs. 8.0 months, p = 0.041). Multivariate analysis revealed that TTF‐1‐negative status was an independent unfavorable prognostic factor for PFS.

Conclusion

Patients with TTF‐1‐positive status receiving ICI monotherapy showed better outcomes than those with TTF‐1‐negative lung adenocarcinoma.

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 expression and immunotherapy efficacy in non-small cell lung cancer

It is unclear whether tumor vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 expression affects the therapeutic efficacy of immune‐checkpoint inhibitors and antiangiogenic agents. This retrospective, multicenter study included patients with advanced non–small cell lung cancer who were treated with immune‐checkpoint inhibitors. We constructed tissue microarrays and performed immunohistochemistry with an anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 antibody. We analyzed immune and tumor cell staining separately in order to determine their correlation with the objective response rate, progression‐free survival, and overall survival in patients receiving immune‐checkpoint inhibitors. Of 364 patients, 37 (10%) expressed vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 in immune cells and 165 (45%) in tumor cells. The objective response rate, progression‐free survival, and overall survival were significantly worse in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitor monotherapy who expressed vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 in immune cells than those who did not (10% vs 30%, p = 0.028; median = 2.2 vs 3.6 months, p = 0.012; median = 7.9 vs 17.0 months, p = 0.049, respectively), while there was no significant difference based on tumor cell expression (24% vs 30%, p = 0.33; median = 3.1 vs 3.5 months, p = 0.55; median = 13.6 vs 16.8 months, p = 0.31). There was no significant difference in overall survival between patients treated with and without antiangiogenic agents in any treatment period based on vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 expression. Immune checkpoint inhibitor efficacy was limited in patients expressing vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 in immune cells.

POS0728 ASSOCIATION BETWEEN TREATMENT GOAL ACHIEVEMENT AND GRIT PERSONALITY CHARACTERISTICS OF ATTENDING PHYSICIAN IN PATIENTS WITH SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS: A MULTICENTER CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Background

In clinical practice for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the concept of “treat to target” has been introduced with an established goal of reducing glucocorticoid dose as much as possible while controlling disease activity. Although it has been shown that various personality characteristics of patients with SLE affect their disease activity and damage, it is not clear whether the personality characteristics of attending physicians affect the outcomes of patients with SLE. Grit is a personality trait characterized by perseverance and passion for achieving long-term goals.

Objectives

This study aims to evaluate the relationship between attending physicians’ grit personality characteristics and treatment goal achievements in patients with SLE.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 386 patients with SLE in five referral hospitals in Japan. The main exposure was the “perseverance” and “consistency” (scores 1-5) of the attending physicians, as measured by the Short Grit Scale, and the primary outcome was the achievement of the Lupus Low Disease Activity Score (LLDAS). Considering the clustering of achievement of LLDAS by each attending physician, the association between attending physician’s personality and LLDAS was analyzed by logistic regression with cluster robust variance estimation. Odds ratios to assess the relationship between perseverance and consistency and LLDAS were estimated with adjustment for confounders (age, sex, disease duration, hydroxychloroquine use, immunosuppressant use, and Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics-Damage Index). We used multiple imputation to handle the uncertainty caused by missing values of potential confounders on the assumption of missing at random.

Results

The median age of the patients was 45 years (interquartile range[IQR],36-56), 88% were female, and the median disease duration was 152 months(IQR, 80-240). Thirty-seven doctors were in charge of the patients (1-79 patients/each doctor). The median age of the attending physicians was 40 years (IQR, 35-43), and 19% were female. The median perseverance and consistency scores of attending physicians were 3.1 (IQR, 3.0-3.5) and 3.3 (IQR, 2.8-3.8), respectively. Of the enrolled patients, 154 (40%) had achieved LLDAS. The attending physicians with a lower consistency score of <3 were more frequent in the patients who achieved LLDAS (40% vs. 29%, p=0.026). The lower consistency score of attending physicians was still related to LLDAS independently (adjusted odds ratio 1.63, 95% confidential interval 1.17-2.27). There was no association between the achievement of LLDAS and perseverance.

Conclusion

The grit personality characteristics of the attending physician may affect the achievement of treatment goals in patients with SLE.

Disclosure of Interests

KEN-EI SADA Speakers bureau: I received speaker’s fees from Glaxo Smith Kline K.K., Grant/research support from: I received a research grant from Pfizer Inc., Yoshia Miyawaki: None declared, Kenta Shidahara: None declared, Shoichi Nawachi: None declared, Yu Katayama: None declared, Yosuke ASANO: None declared, Keigo Hayashi: None declared, Keiji Ohashi: None declared, Eri Katsuyama: None declared, Takayuki Katsuyama: None declared, Mariko Narazaki: None declared, Yoshinori Matsumoto: None declared, Nao Oguro: None declared, Yuichi Ishikawa: None declared, Natsuki Sakurai: None declared, Chiharu Hidekawa: None declared, Ryusuke Yoshimi: None declared, Takanori Ichikawa: None declared, Dai Kishida: None declared, Yasuhiro Shimojima: None declared, Noriaki Kurita: None declared, Nobuyuki Yajima: None declared

AB1096 THE INFLUENCE OF THE BEHAVIORAL RESTRICTION OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC FOR THE FRAILTY OF PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Background

We previously reported the prevalence of frailty and relation of disease activity at patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)1. The behavioral restriction of COVID-19 pandemic influenced for the lifestyle of people included patients with RA.

Objectives

The relationship between the behavioral restriction of COVID-19 pandemic and frailty was investigated.

Methods

We used the date from prospective observational study (CHIKARA study: UMIN000023744). 70 from 100 patients with RA were followed-up and evaluated the frailty and subcategories (social, physical, mental, nutrition, and cognitive) by frailty checklist. The prevalence of frailty and the change of exercise and daily life activities by visual analog scale were investigated at pre- and post-behavioral restriction. The correlation of frailty and change of amount of exercise and daily life activity examined by univariate analysis.

Results

Mean age was 69.7 years (women n=57, men n=13). The prevalence of frailty at post-behavioral restriction increased compared that at pre-behavioral restriction (post:35.8% vs pre:30.0%). Especially, cognitive and total score at post-behavioral restriction increased significantly. The rate of decrease of exercise by <25%, 26~50%, and 51%< were 70%, 21%, and 9%, respectively (mean:20% decrease). Whereas, the rate of decrease of daily life activities by <25%, 26~50%, and 51%< were 37%, 27%, and 36%, respectively (mean:44% decrease). The change of exercise was significantly negatively correlated with the change of nutrition (R=-0.245, P=0.041) at Table 1. There was no correlation between the change of daily life activities and subcategories.

Table 1.

Univariate analysis of the changes in daily living activities or exercise and those in frailty and subcategories

Change of daily living activitiesChange of exerciseR valueP valueR valueP valueΔ Social0.0990.417-0.0060.962Δ Physical0.1820.130-0.0050.965Δ Mental-0.2000.097-0.2340.051Δ Nutrition-0.2040.091-0.2450.041Δ Cognitive-0.0870.476-0.0340.778Δ Total-0.0910.454-0.1780.140

Δ, change from pre- to post-behavioral restriction.

Analyzed by Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient

Conclusion

The exercise slightly decreased and the daily life activities decreased almost 50% by the behavioral restriction of COVID-19 pandemic. The prevalence of frailty increased 5.8%, and cognitive and total score were significantly high at post-behavioral restriction of COVID-19 pandemic. The decrease of exercise correlated with the worse of nutrition.

References

[1]Tada M, Yamada Y, Mandai K, Hidaka N. Correlation between frailty and disease activity in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Data from the CHIKARA study. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2019; 19:1220-5.

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

OP0133 THE DECREASE OF MUSCLE MASS BY THE BEHAVIORAL RESTRICTION OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Background

We previously reported the prevalence of sarcopenia and body compositions at patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA)1. The behavioral restriction of COVID-19 pandemic influenced for the lifestyle of people included patients with RA.

Objectives

The change of exercise and daily life activity of patients with RA were investigated and body composition and muscle function were compared pre- and post-behavioral restriction.

Methods

We used the date from prospective observational study (CHIKARA study: UMIN000023744). 70 from 100 patients with RA were followed-up and evaluated the change of exercise and daily life activity by visual analog scale. They were measured the muscle mass, fat mass, basal metabolic rate by body composition analyzer and grip strength as muscle function. The relationship between the change of exercise and daily life activity and body composition was investigated by univariate analysis.

Results

Mean age was 69.7 years (women n=57, men n=13). The rate of decrease of exercise by <25%, 26~50%, and 51%< were 70%, 21%, and 9%, respectively (mean:20% decrease). Whereas, the rate of decrease of daily life activities by <25%, 26~50%, and 51%< were 37%, 27%, and 36%, respectively (mean:44% decrease). Muscle mass at post-behavioral restriction decrease significantly compared that at pre-behavioral restriction activities (34.0kg vs 34.7kg, P<0.001). Fat mass at post-behavioral restriction increase significantly compared that at pre-behavioral restriction (16.2kg vs 15.5kg, P=0.014). Grip strength at post-behavioral restriction decrease significantly compared that at pre-behavioral restriction (16.2kg vs 17.2kg, P=0.026). The change of exercise was significantly positively correlated with the change of muscle mass and basal metabolic rate (R=0.273, P=0.021 and R=0.256, P=0.033, relatively) at Table 1. Whereas, the change of daily living activities was not significantly correlated with the change of muscle mass and muscle function.

Table 1.

Univariate analysis of the changes in daily living activities or exercise and those in body composition or muscle function

Change of daily living activitiesChange of exerciseR valueP valueR valueP valueΔ Weight (kg)-0.1230.311-0.1310.279Δ BMI (kg/m2)-0.1080.397-0.1130.345Δ Muscle mass (kg)0.1400.3110.2730.021Δ Fat mass (kg)-0.0610.614-0.0750.539Δ Fat percentage (%)-0.0030.982-0.0180.884Δ Basal metabolic rate (kcal)0.2010.0950.2560.033Δ Grip strength (kg)0.1170.3360.0370.762Δ Walk speed (m/s)0.1690.1610.1390.250

Δ, change from pre- to post-behavioral restriction; BMI, body mass index

Analyzed by Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient

Conclusion

Muscle mass and grip strength decrease and fat mass increase in patients with RA by the behavioral restriction of COVID-19 pandemic. Muscle mass and basal metabolic rate decrease in patients without exercise habits. Maintenance of muscle mass might be important during the COVID-19 pandemic.

References

[1]Tada, M., Yamada, Y., Mandai, K. & Hidaka, N. Matrix metalloprotease 3 is associated with sarcopenia in rheumatoid arthritis - results from the CHIKARA study. Int J Rheum Dis 21, 1962-1969, doi:10.1111/1756-185X.13335 (2018).

Disclosure of Interests

None declared

POS1475-HPR THE MINIMALLY IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE AS THE INTERPRETABILITY OF EMOTIONAL HEALTH DOMAIN IN JAPANESE VERSION OF LupusPRO FOR SLE PATIENTS; PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF A PROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY

Background

The minimally important difference (MID) required to interpret the magnitude of changes in lupus patient-reported outcome (LupusPRO), which is a widely used outcome measure of quality of life in SLE patients, remains unclear.

Objectives

We report preliminary results of an ongoing prospective observational study that assesses the MID as the interpretability of emotional health (EH) domain in Japanese version of LupusPRO.

Methods

We recruited subjects at three university hospitals in Japan participating in an ongoing multidisciplinary cohort study (the Lupus registry of Nationwide institutions (LUNA). Of a total of 210 SLE patients enrolled during the 17-month recruitment period, patients with low disease activity, defined as SLE Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2K) ≤ 4, and who were seen at least twice of three months’ duration and responded to both the LupusPRO and health status change questions were included in this subcohort. The second questionnaire was given an allowance period of 30 days before or after the ​three months from starting date. Descriptive statistics were presented as means and standard deviations (SD) or counts and percentages (%). The emotional health score ranges from 0 to 100; a higher score indicates less frequent presence of symptoms. The change in health status was assessed using the 7-point Global Rating of Change 1), and the score = 0 and the score ≥ +1 were considered in the ‘unchanged’ and the minimal ‘improved’ category, respectively. MID was mainly estimated using the mean change of the groups with the score ≥ +1 as the anchor-based method, and the area under the curve (AUC) was also calculated as a sensitivity analysis to estimate MID thresholds 2) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were constructed using 1000 bootstrapping.

Results

The mean age of the 24 eligible patients was 48 (SD 14), and 88% were female. The glucocorticoid dose, SLEDAI-2K, and Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics /American College of Rheumatology Damage Index were 3.4 (2.1) mg, 1.0 (1.1) and 1.1 (1.9), respectively. The mean EH score was 67.5 (30.3), five patients (21%) had the maximum EH score at baseline, 73.4 (25.0) after three months, 7.2 (18.0) for the change in EH. The correlation coefficient and the AUC for the change in health status and the EH were 0.23 and 0.60. The mean changes were 4.1 (18.4) of the groups with ‘unchanged’ health status and 12.3 (17.1) of the groups with ‘improved’ health status. The MID for improvement was estimated at 12.3 using the anchor-based method, and the cutoff point corresponded to 9.3 [95%CI -6.7 to 25.3]) of the EH change score by the receiver operating curve method.

Conclusion

In this study, the MID (3 months) for the EH domain in the Japanese version of LupusPRO was estimated to be between 9 and 12, which was similar to the results of the previous cross-sectional study 3). The challenge in estimating the MID in our setting was the low correlation with external anchors, even though the study population was limited to patients with low disease activity, because disease activity at baseline can generally influence ‘improved’ health status.

References

[1]Kamper SJ, Maher CG, Mackay G. Global rating of change scales: a review of strengths and weaknesses and considerations for design. J Man Manip Ther. 2009;17(3):163.

[2]Froud R, Abel G. Using ROC curves to choose minimally important change thresholds when sensitivity and specificity are valued equally: the forgotten lesson of pythagoras. theoretical considerations and an example application of change in health status. PLoS One. 2014;9(12):e114468.

[3]Miyawaki Y, Shimizu S, Ogawa Y, et al. Association of glucocorticoid doses and emotional health in lupus low disease activity state (LLDAS): a cross-sectional study. Arthritis Res Ther. 2021;23(1):79.

Acknowledgements

The authors thank Yuka Nakanou for her significant assistance in data management and Kikuko Miyazaki for her expert assistance on this topic.

Disclosure of Interests

Yoshia Miyawaki: None declared, Kenta Shidahara: None declared, Shoichi Nawachi: None declared, Yosuke ASANO: None declared, Yu Katayama: None declared, Keiji Ohashi: None declared, Eri Katsuyama: None declared, Takayuki Katsuyama: None declared, Mariko Narazaki: None declared, Yoshinori Matsumoto Speakers bureau: I received speaker’s fees from Glaxo Smith Kline K.K., KEN-EI SADA Speakers bureau: I received speaker’s fees from Glaxo Smith Kline K.K., Ryo Yanai: None declared, Nobuyuki Yajima: None declared, Ayuko Takatani: None declared, Kunihiro Ichinose: None declared, Jun Wada Speakers bureau: Jun Wada receives speaker honoraria from Astra Zeneca, Daiichi Sankyo, Novartis, Novo Nordisk Pharma, Tanabe Mitsubishi and receives grant support from Astellas, Baxter, Bayer, Chugai, Dainippon Sumitomo, Kyowa Kirin, Novo Nordisk Pharma, Ono, Otsuka, Tanabe Mitsubishi, and Teijin.

Precise Measurement of Differential Cross Sections of the Σ^{-}p→Λn Reaction in Momentum Range 470-650 MeV/c

The differential cross sections of the Σ^{-}p→Λn reaction were measured accurately for the Σ^{-} momentum (p_{Σ}) ranging from 470 to 650  MeV/c at the J-PARC Hadron Experimental Facility. Precise angular information about the Σ^{-}p→Λn reaction was obtained for the first time by detecting approximately 100 reaction events at each angular step of Δcosθ=0.1. The obtained differential cross sections show a slightly forward-peaking structure in the measured momentum regions. The cross sections integrated for -0.7≤cosθ≤1.0 were obtained as 22.5±0.68 [statistical error(stat.)] ±0.65 [systematic error(syst.)] mb and 15.8±0.83(stat)±0.52(syst)  mb for 470<p_{Σ}(MeV/c)<550 and 550<p_{Σ}(MeV/c)<650, respectively. These results show a drastic improvement compared with past measurements of the hyperon-proton scattering experiments. They will play essential roles in updating the theoretical models of the baryon-baryon interactions.

Safety profile and risk factors for bleeding in transbronchial cryobiopsy using a two-scope technique for peripheral pulmonary lesions

Background

A balloon occlusion technique is suggested for use in cryobiopsy for interstitial lung diseases because of the bleeding risk. However, it may interfere with selection of the involved bronchus for peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs). A two-scope technique, in which two scopes are prepared and hemostasis is started using the second scope immediately after cryobiopsy, has also been reported. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and diagnostic utility of transbronchial cryobiopsy using the two-scope technique for PPLs.

Methods

Data of patients who underwent conventional biopsy followed by cryobiopsy using the two-scope technique for PPLs from November 2019 to March 2021 were collected. The incidence of complications and risk factors for clinically significant bleeding (moderate to life-threatening) were investigated. Diagnostic yields were also compared among conventional biopsy, cryobiopsy, and the combination of them.

Results

A total of 139 patients were analyzed. Moderate bleeding occurred in 25 (18.0%) patients without severe/life-threatening bleeding. Although five cases required transbronchial instillation of thrombin, all bleeding was completely controlled using the two-scope technique. Other complications included two pneumothoraces and one asthmatic attack. On multivariable analysis, only ground-glass features (P < 0.001, odds ratio: 9.30) were associated with clinically significant bleeding. The diagnostic yields of conventional biopsy and cryobiopsy were 76.3% and 81.3%, respectively (P = 0.28). The total diagnostic yield was 89.9%, significantly higher than conventional biopsy alone (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The two-scope technique provides useful hemostasis for safe cryobiopsy for PPLs, with a careful decision needed for ground-glass lesions.

Directional lateral crystallization of vacuum-deposited C8-BTBT thin films via liquid crystal phase by a seeded horizontal temperature gradient cooling technique

We have demonstrated the directional lateral crystallization of thin film C8-BTBT which is pre-vacuum-deposited on a SiO2/Si substrate, with good controllability of the crystallization rate, by cooling from its liquid...

Recent progress and future prospects of hyperon nucleon scattering experiment

A new hyperon-proton scattering experiment, dubbed J-PARC E40, was performed to measure differential cross sections of the Σ+p, Σ−p elastic scatterings and the Σ−p → Λn scattering by identifying a lot of Σ particles in the momentum ranging from 0.4 to 0.8 GeV/c produced by the π±p → K+Σ± reactions. We successfully measured the differential cross sections of these three channels with a drastically improved accuracy with a fine angular step. These new data will become important experimental constraints to improve the theories of the two-body baryon-baryon interactions. Following this success, we proposed a new experiment to measure the differential cross sections and spin observables by using a highly polarized Λ beam for providing quantitative information on the ΛN interaction. The results of three Σp channels and future prospects of the Λp scattering experiment are described.

Safe Concurrent Use of Anti-tuberculosis Drugs and Pembrolizumab in a Patient with Non-small-cell Lung Cancer Who Was Infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis

A 68-year-old Japanese man was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma stage IVB. We introduced a first-line chemotherapy of four cycles of carboplatin and pemetrexed and pembrolizumab, followed by pemetrexed and pembrolizumab maintenance therapy. Approximately four months after anticancer therapy, a small nodule appeared in the right peripheral S3 lesion. After five months, the nodule was confirmed as a Mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) nodule. We initiated anti-TB therapy without stopping pembrolizumab, and the right S3 nodule shrank immediately. This report supports the concurrent use of anti-TB treatment with an immune checkpoint inhibitor when the TB infection area is limited.

Phase 1b study of ramucirumab in combination with erlotinib or osimertinib for untreated EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer patients with asymptomatic brain metastases

OBJECTIVES

The study was designed to investigate the safety of ramucirumab administered in combination with erlotinib or osimertinib for patients with untreated EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and asymptomatic brain metastases, a patient subgroup in which these regimens have remained untested.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This phase 1b study (RELAY-Brain) consisted of two cohorts with three patients each. Patients with asymptomatic brain metastases received ramucirumab every 2 weeks plus either daily oral erlotinib or osimertinib until disease progression or intolerable toxicity. The primary objective was to assess dose-limiting toxicity (DLT), defined as central nervous system (CNS) hemorrhage of grade ≥ 2.

RESULTS

Six patients were enrolled. Neither DLT nor serious or unexpected adverse events were observed. One treatment-related adverse event of grade ≥ 3 (hypertension of grade 3) was apparent. Common adverse events were generally manageable. The median number of ramucirumab administrations was 18.5 (range, 13 to 31), and there were no detected episodes of CNS hemorrhage. Five of the six patients showed an objective systemic response. Although only one patient had a measurable CNS lesion at baseline, a confirmed intracranial partial response was observed.

CONCLUSION

Ramucirumab in combination with erlotinib or osimertinib showed safety for EGFR-mutated NSCLC with brain metastases.

Bacillus subtilis var. natto increases the resistance of Caenorhabditis elegans to gram-positive bacteria

AIMS

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Bacillus subtilis var. natto on the susceptibility of the model host, Caenorhabditis elegans, to bacterial infection.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Caenorhabditis elegans worms were fed with a standard food consisting of Escherichia coli OP50 strain (control) or B. subtilis (natto) during their larval stage. The worms were then infected with pathogenic bacteria. We analyzed their survival time and RNA sequencing-based transcriptome. Upon infection with Staphylococcus aureus and Enterococcus faecalis, the survival time of B. subtilis (natto)-fed worms was longer than that of the control. Transcriptome analyses showed upregulation of genes associated with innate immunity and defense response to gram-positive bacteria in B. subtilis (natto)-fed worms.

CONCLUSIONS

Bacillus subtilis (natto) conferred an increased resistance of C. elegans to gram-positive bacteria. Our findings provided insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying B. subtilis (natto)-regulated host immunity and emphasized its probiotic properties for preventing and alleviating infections caused by gram-positive bacteria.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to show that B. subtilis (natto) confers specific resistance against gram-positive bacteria.

POS1456-HPR THE SERUM IRON LEVEL MIGHT BE USEFUL IN DETERMINING THE SEVERITY OF MALNUTRITION IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Background:

The Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria, the first international criteria for diagnosis of malnutrition, was released in 2018 [1]. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are thought to be prone to malnutrition due to decreased food intake and increased muscle catabolism caused by chronic inflammation or pain. However, there has been no report to assess the nutritional status of RA patients in accordance with the GLIM criteria. In addition, commonly used blood nutrient indicators such as albumin might not be appropriate as nutritional indicators for RA because these values are affected by inflammation.

Objectives:

This study aims to examine the rates of malnutrition in RA patients according to GLIM criteria, and the relationship between blood nutrient indicators and the severity of malnutrition.

Methods:

In this study, we conducted a cross-sectional survey of 135 female RA patients in 2020. According to the GLIM criteria, patients were considered to be malnourished if patients had one of the following phenotypic: (1) low body mass index, (2) non-volitional weight loss, (3) reduced muscle mass, and one of the following etiologic: (1) reduced food intake or assimilation, (2) disease burden/inflammatory condition. Reduced muscle mass was evaluated by measuring calf circumference, and inflammatory condition was evaluated by Disease Activity Score (DAS) 28. In accordance with the GLIM criteria, the severity of malnutrition was judged as three levels: no problem, moderate, and severe malnutrition. Albumin, transthyretin, transferrin, retinol binding protein, zinc, iron, ceruloplasmin, and total cholesterol were assessed as blood nutrition indicators. Also grip strength was assessed. We compared each nutritional indicator among the three groups according to the severity of malnutrition using age-adjusted analysis of covariance, and examined the relationship between each nutritional indicator and the severity of malnutrition using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results:

In RA patients, 20% were classified as severe malnutrition, and 40% were moderate or more. Serum iron levels were significantly lower in the severe malnutrition group compared to the no problem group (p = 0.001). In ROC analysis, serum iron, zinc, albumin, and grip strength (area under curve; AUC; 0.680, 0.696, 0.636, 0.790, respectively) were significant parameters for classification of moderate and severe malnutrition. Serum iron and grip strength (AUC for respective parameters were 0.741, 0.747) were significant parameters for classification of severe malnutrition.

Conclusion:

Evaluation based on the GLIM criteria showed that about 40% of RA patients were under moderate or severe malnutrition. It was suggested that serum iron and grip strength might be useful to predict the severity of malnutrition.

References:

[1]Cederholm T, Jensen GL, Correia MITD, Gonzalez MC, Fukushima R, Higashiguchi T, et al. GLIM criteria for the diagnosis of malnutrition – A consensus report from the global clinical nutrition community. Clinical Nutrition 2019; 38: 1-9.

Acknowledgements:

We thank to Tomoko Nakatsuka, and the Center for Drug & Food Clinical Evaluation, Osaka City University Hospital, for management and collection of the study data. We also thank to study participants.

Disclosure of Interests:

Yoshinari Matsumoto Grant/research support from: Yamada Research Grant, Yuko Sugioka: None declared, Masahiro Tada: None declared, Tadasi Okano Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Asahikasei, Astellas Pharma Inc, Ayumi Pharmaceutical, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Daiich Sankyo, Eisai, Janssen, Lilly, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Novartis Pharma, Ono Pharmaceutical, Pfizer, Sanofi, Takeda Pharmaceutical, Teijin Pharma and UCB, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Eisai, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation and Nipponkayaku, Kenji Mamoto: None declared, Kentaro Inui Speakers bureau: Daiichi Sankyo Co. Ltd., Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Astellas Pharma Inc., Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Ono Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Abbvie GK, Pfizer Inc., Eisai Co., Ltd., Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, Grant/research support from: anssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Astellas Pharma Inc., Sanofi K.K., Abbvie GK, Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., QOL RD Co. Ltd., Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Ono Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Eisai Co., Ltd., Daiki Habu: None declared, Tatsuya Koike Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Astellas Pharma Inc, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Janssen, Lilly, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, MSD, Ono Pharmaceutical, Pfizer, Roche, Takeda Pharmaceutical, Teijin Pharma, and UCB, Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Astellas Pharma Inc, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Janssen, Lilly, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, MSD, Ono Pharmaceutical, Pfizer, Roche, Takeda Pharmaceutical, Teijin Pharma, and UCB

Tumor microenvironment disparity in multiple primary lung cancers: Impact of non-intrinsic factors, histological subtypes, and genetic aberrations

•

Tumor microenvironment (TME) was compared among multiple primary lung cancers (MPLCs).

•

Sex and smoking status concomitantly impacted PD-L1 expression in paired tumors.

•

EGFR mutations were independently associated with PD-L1 expression.

•

KRAS mutations altered the TMEs according to the types of co-mutations.

•

The number of FOXP3-positive t cells reflected histological subtypes.

Introduction

Multiple primary lung cancers (MPLCs) occur in common carcinogenetic risks such as lifestyle, biological aging, immune responses, hormones, and metabolism. Although MPLCs harbor various genetic profiles within the same individuals, differences in the tumor microenvironment (TME) are unclear. We investigated the impact of genetic aberrations, non-intrinsic factors, and pathological subtypes on tumor immunity.

Materials and Methods

In total, 73 surgically resected specimens from 32 patients with MPLC were analyzed. PD-L1 expression in tumor cells (TCs) and immune cells (ICs), CD3-positive tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), CD8/CD3 ratios, and FOXP3-positive TILs that compose TMEs were evaluated by immunohistochemistry and classified on a score of 0–2. 38 tumors were sequenced for somatic mutations in 409 cancer-associated genes.

Results

Females and never or light smokers had a higher incidence of PD-L1-negative tumors and a higher concordance rate. PD-L1 positivity in TCs and ICs was significantly less frequent in EGFR-mutated than in wild-type tumors. Differences in the score of TMEs were observed between the KRAS-mutated-only tumor and the KRAS and TP53-co-mutated tumors, and between the KRAS-mutated-only tumor and the KRAS and STK11-co-mutated tumors. Significantly more FOXP3-high TILs were observed in invasive pathological subtypes than in non-invasive ones.

Conclusion

Comparing TMEs among MPLCs revealed that non-smokers or light smokers and females were unlikely to express PD-L1 regardless of tumor site and confirmed that the EGFR mutations and co-occurring KRAS and STK11 or TP53 mutations were associated with TME. Pathological subtypes may impact the efficacy of immune therapy due to their potential correlations with regulatory T cells.

Mutational landscape of multiple primary lung cancers and its correlation with non-intrinsic risk factors

Multiple primary lung cancers (MPLCs) harbour various genetic profiles among the tumours, even from individuals with same non-intrinsic risk factors. Paired mutational analyses were performed to obtain a census of mutational events in MPLC and assess their relationship with non-intrinsic risk factors. Thirty-eight surgical specimens from 17 patients diagnosed as MPLC were used. Extracted DNAs were sequenced for somatic mutations in 409 cancer-associated genes from a comprehensive cancer panel. We statistically analysed the correlation between each driver mutation frequency and non-intrinsic risk factors using Fisher's exact test, and whether genetic mutations occurred concomitantly or randomly in MPLC using an exact test. Comprehensive genetic analyses suggested different mutation profiles in tumours within the same individuals, with some exceptions. EGFR, KRAS, TP53, or PARP1 mutations were concomitantly detected in some MPLC cases. EGFR mutations were significantly more frequent in never or light smokers and females. Concomitant EGFR or KRAS mutations in MPLCs were significantly more frequent than expected by chance (P = .0023 and .0049, respectively) suggesting a more prominent role of non-intrinsic risk factors in EGFR and KRAS mutations than other mutations, which occurred more randomly. Concomitant EGFR or KRAS mutations were particularly prominent in never or light smokers and males.

The combined application of the contrast-to-noise index and 80 kVp for cardiac CTA scanning before atrial fibrillation ablation reduces radiation dose exposure

INTRODUCTION

To compare the radiation dose, diagnostic accuracy, and the resultant ablation procedures using 80 and 120-kVp cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) protocols with the same contrast-to-noise ratio in patients scheduled for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation.

METHODS

This retrospective study was performed following institutional review board approval. We divided 140 consecutive patients who had undergone CCTA using a 64-MDCT scanner into two equal groups. Standard deviation (SD) of the CT number was set at 25 Hounsfield units (HU) for the 120-kVp protocol. To facilitate a reduction in radiation dose it was set at 40 HU for the 80 kVp protocol. We compared the two protocols with respect to the radiation dose, the diagnostic accuracy for detecting left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombi, matching for surface registration, and the resultant ablation procedures.

RESULTS

At 120 kVp, the dose length product (DLP) was 2.2 times that at 80 kVp (1269.0 vs 559.0 mGy cm, p < 0.01). The diagnostic accuracy for thrombus detection was 100% using both protocols. There was no difference between the two protocols with respect to matching for surface registration. The protocols did not differ with respect to the subsequent time required for the ablation procedures and the ablation fluoroscopy time, and the radiation dose (p = 0.54, 0.33, and 0.32, respectively).

CONCLUSION

For the same CNR, the DLP at 80 kVp (559.0 mGy cm) was 56% of that delivered at 120 kVp (1269.0 mGy cm). There was no reduction in diagnostic accuracy.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Maintaining CNR allows for a reduction in the radiation dose without reducing the image quality.

Sequential variation of super periodic structures emerged in Bi-layered perovskite pillar-matrix epitaxial nanocomposite films with spinel ferrites

The phase stability of Aurivillius bismuth-layer structured Bi5Ti3FeO15 (BTFO15) has been investigated in an epitaxial pillar-matrix nanocomposite system with spinel ferrites.

A novel therapeutic approach for coronary inflammation and lymphatic vessels using non-invasive low-intensity pulsed ultrasound in a porcine model with DES-induced coronary hyperconstricting responses

Background

The coronary adventitia harbors lymphatic vessels (LVs). We previously demonstrated that coronary adventitial inflammation and LV dysfunction play important roles in the pathogenesis of coronary artery spasm, including drug-eluting stent (DES)-induced coronary hyperconstricting responses, in pigs and humans. However, a direct therapeutic approach to the coronary adventitia remains to be developed.

Purpose

In this study, we aimed to examine whether our novel and non-invasive therapy with low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) ameliorates DES-induced coronary hyperconstricting responses, and if so, what mechanisms are involved.

Methods

An everolimus-eluting stent (EES) was implanted into the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery in normal male pigs. They were randomly assigned to the LIPUS or the sham therapy groups. After EES implantation, in the LIPUS group, LIPUS (32 cycles, 193 mW/cm2) was applied to the heart at 3 different levels (proximal and distal stent edges and middle portion of the stent) through X-ray fluoroscopy for 20 min at each level for every other day for 2 weeks (6 days in total) (Fig. 1A, B). The sham therapy group was treated in the same manner but without LIPUS. At 4 weeks after the procedure, we performed coronary angiography to examine coronary vasoconstricting responses to intracoronary serotonin in vivo. Finally, stented coronary vessels were harvested for immunohistochemistry of vasa vasorum (vWF), LVs (LYVE-1), vascular inflammation (CD68-positive macrophages and IL-1β expression), vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A, angiogenesis marker), VEGF-C and VEGF receptor 3 (VEGFR3, lymphangiogenesis markers).

Results

Coronary vasoconstricting responses to intracoronary serotonin at the DES edges in the LAD were significantly enhanced in the sham group but were significantly suppressed in the LIPUS group, while those responses were comparable at the non-DES implanted left circumflex (LCx) coronary artery between the 2 groups (Fig. 1C, D). In addition, in vivo lymph transport speed was significantly faster in the LIPUS group than in the sham group (Fig. 1E–G). In histological analysis, the number of LVs was significantly increased in the LIPUS group compared with the sham group, whereas those of CD68 and IL-1β expressions were significantly reduced in the LIPUS group compared with the sham group. In contrast, the density of vasa vasorum was comparable between the 2 groups. Mechanistically, the extents of VEGF-C and VEGFR3 expressions were increased in the LIPUS group, whereas that of VEGF-A was comparable between the 2 groups (Fig. 1G–K). Importantly, there were significant correlations among the LV-related changes and enhanced coronary vasoconstricting responses.

Conclusion

These results provide the first evidence that the LIPUS therapy ameliorates DES-induced coronary hyperconstricting responses in pigs in vivo through structural and functional alterations of LVs (Fig. 1L).

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Clinical implications of coronary artery morphology of patients with ischemia and non-obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA) -An intracoronary OCT study-

Introduction

Ischemia and non-obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA), including microvascular spasm (MVS) and epicardial spasm, has recently attracted much attention, for which in vivo imaging evaluation for coronary artery morphology is warranted for better understanding of this disorder. Besides the improved diagnostic accuracy of optical coherence tomography (OCT) for coronary plaques, we have recently demonstrated its capability for in vivo visualization of coronary adventitial vasa vasorum (VV) and the enhanced VV formation in patients with epicardial spasm.

Purpose

We aimed to examine OCT-delineated morphological characteristics in patients with INOCA in vivo.

Methods

A total of 335 consecutive INOCA patients, who underwent pharmacological spasm provocation tests, lactate sampling, and OCT imaging over the entire length of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary arteries, were enrolled at our institute over 68 months from April 2013. They were classified into 4 groups; control with non-cardiac chest pain, MVS, diffuse spasm (DS), or focal spasm (FS) (Fig. 1A). MVS was diagnosed when negative lactate extraction ratio (coronary orifice &lt; coronary sinus) was detected despite the absence of epicardial spasm during the spasm provocation test. DS was defined as epicardial spasm induced in more than 2 coronary segments in LAD, and FS as epicardial spasm in one segment. Quantitative analyses for adventitial inflammation and atherosclerotic changes were performed by calculating VV density and %area stenosis (AS) on OCT (Fig. 1B, E). Furthermore, index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR), a marker of microvascular disorder with a cut-off value of ≥25, was measured during intravenous infusion of adenosine, which was then correlated with VV densities in the MVS and DS groups. Coronary plaque with a necrotic core was classified as fibroatheroma (FA), and the number of OCT frames with internal VV (IVV) in the atheroma was counted.

Results

VV density was significantly higher in MVS as compared with the controls (Fig. 1B). DS was most prevalent in INOCA (Fig. 1A) with highest VV density (Fig. 1B). Patients with IMR≥25 were predominantly distributed with a gradual increase in the MVS, DS, and FS groups, but none in the controls (Fig. 1C). Importantly, there was a significant positive correlation between VV densities and IMR in the MVS and DS groups (Fig. 1D). In addition, FS had the largest plaque size and showed the highest prevalence of FA and IVV (Fig. 1E–G).

Conclusions

These results indicate that MVS and DS are characterized by vasomotion abnormalities associated with adventitial inflammation and microvascular disorder, while FS by vulnerable atherosclerotic phenotype, suggesting that OCT may be useful for screening high-risk populations in INOCA.

Figure 1

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Can smoking duration alone replace pack-years to predict the risk of smoking-related oncogenic mutations in non-small cell lung cancer? A cross-sectional study in Japan

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether smoking duration alone can replace pack-years to predict the risk of oncogenic mutations in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study using the baseline dataset from the Japan Molecular Epidemiology for Lung Cancer Study.

SETTING

Forty-three medical institutions nationwide in Japan.

PARTICIPANTS

From July 2012 to December 2013, 957 patients with newly diagnosed stage I-IIIB NSCLC who underwent surgery were enrolled, and molecular analyses were performed on 876 samples (from 441 ever-smokers and 435 never-smokers).

MAIN OUTCOMES MEASURED

We calculated the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values using logistic regression to compare between the predictive values of smoking duration and pack-years for mutational frequencies in the v-Ki-ras2 Kirsten rat sarcoma (KRAS), tumour suppressor p53 (TP53), and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) genes and for cytosine-to-adenine base substitution (C>A).

RESULTS

For predicting KRAS mutations, the AUC values for smoking duration and pack-years were 0.746 (95% CI 0.682 to 0.800) and 0.759 (95% CI 0.700 to 0.810), respectively (p=0.058). For predicting KRAS mutations in smokers, the AUC values for smoking duration and pack-years were 0.772 (95% CI 0.697 to 0.833) and 0.787 (95% CI 0.714 to 0.845), respectively (p=0.036). There were no significant differences between the AUC values for smoking duration and pack-years in terms of predicting TP53 and EGFR mutations and C>A. Pack-years was a significantly better predictor of KRAS mutations than smoking duration.

CONCLUSION

Smoking duration was not significantly different from pack-years in predicting the likelihood of smoking-related gene mutations. Given the recall bias in obtaining smoking information, smoking duration alone should be considered for further investigation as a simpler alternative to pack-years.

Differences in molecular epidemiology of lung cancer among ethnicities (Asian vs. Caucasian)

Background

Differences in carcinogenesis and therapeutic efficacy according to ethnicity have been reported for lung cancer, and understanding differences in genetic mutation profiles among ethnicities is important for interpreting the results of clinical trials, preventing carcinogenesis, and individualizing treatment. However, no studies have focused on differences in mutation profiles among different ethnicities using large-scale genomic analysis data with detailed information on smoking history, the main cause of lung cancer.

Methods

To clarify the differences in genetic mutation profiles between Caucasian and Japanese subjects, we compared data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, which mainly included Caucasians, with results from the Japan Molecular Epidemiology for lung cancer study, which is an epidemiological study only involving Japanese subjects. We divided the participants into four groups according to smoking status and performed comparative analysis by tissue type (lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell lung cancer).

Results

In patients with lung adenocarcinoma, the frequency of EGFR mutations was lower in Caucasian subjects than in Japanese subjects (14.6% vs. 51.1%), whereas the frequencies of mutations in other genes, namely KRAS (32.9% vs. 9.3%), TP53 (45.2% vs. 20.7%), BRAF (9.6% vs. 1.3%), PIK3CA (5.9% vs. 2.6%), KEAP1 (17.8% vs. 0.5%), NF1 (10.9% vs. 0.5%), STK11 (17.8% vs. 0.7%), RBM10 (8.7% vs. 0.1%), and MET (7.8% vs. 0.1%), were higher in Caucasian subjects. Among patients with squamous cell carcinoma, TP53 (81.2% vs. 49.1%), PIK3CA (14.5% vs. 6.8%), KEAP1 (12.7% vs. 0.9%), and NFE2L2 mutations (15.8% vs. 13.6%) were more common in Caucasian subjects.

Conclusions

Ethnicity is an important and complex characteristic that must be recognized and considered, even in the era of precision medicine. We should collaborate to share data for different ethnicities and incorporate them into clinical practice and the design of global clinical studies. Carefully designed molecular epidemiological studies focusing on ethnic differences are warranted.

The risk of interstitial lung disease during biological treatment in Japanese patients with psoriasis

BACKGROUND

With the increasing use of biological agents for the treatment of psoriasis, the numbers of patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD) associated with biologics have also increased. Many of these cases were associated with tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α inhibitors, but cases associated with other families of biologics have also been reported in Japan.

AIM

To analyse the background factors of patients who developed ILD, and to discuss better management of biological treatment.

METHOD

We reviewed 246 patients with psoriasis who were treated with biological agents in our department to identify any pulmonary adverse events (AEs). Data on patients who developed ILD were extracted to analyse background factors, clinical type of psoriasis, time to onset of ILD, pre-existing ILD, smoking habit and prescribed drugs.

RESULTS

Pulmonary AEs were seen in 22 cases, of which 11 were diagnosed as drug-induced ILD. The causative drugs were mainly TNF-α inhibitors, accounting for eight cases (six treated with infliximab, two with adalimumab). The remaining three cases were associated with secukinumab, ustekinumab and ixekizumab (n = 1 each). Notably, these three cases also had a history of drug-induced ILD.

CONCLUSION

Patients with a history of drug-induced ILD seem to be more susceptible to developing another ILD induced by biologics, even if treated with interleukin-17 inhibitors. Thorough screening of risk factors and evaluation for eligibility, and careful monitoring during treatment are the best solutions to avoid serious pulmonary AE. Early detection and precise diagnosis of pulmonary AEs, especially differentiation from infectious diseases, is essential for managing biological treatment.

FRI0609-HPR NUTRIENTS INTAKE CONDITION RELATES TO MAINTENANCE LOW DISEASE ACTIVITY IN PATIENTS WITH RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS DURING 6 YEARS: TOMORROW STUDY

Background:

We have previously reported that nutritional intake status might relate to disease activity (1). Nutritional survey on prospective cohort study in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and information about relationship between nutritional intake status and disease activity was very limited.

Objectives:

This study aimed to obtain data from a cohort study for new nutritional therapy in RA patients.

Methods:

We used TOMORROW cohort study data which conducted from years of 2010 to 2020. Two hundred and eight RA patients, and 205 non-RA sex and age matched controls were investigated, and we analyzed data from 2011 to 2017. Nutritional intake status was compared between who maintain lower disease activity during 2011 to 2017 (LDA group) and being higher disease activity even once in 2011 to 2017 (non-LDA group). Disease activity was evaluated by DAS28-ESR in every year and nutritional intake status was surveyed by brief self-administered diet history questionnaire (BDHQ) in 2011 and 2017.

Results:

In RA patients, the change value from 2011 to 2017 of iron (odds ratio; 2.37), thiamin (OR; 2.96) and folic acid (OR; 3.16) intake which adjusted by energy intake, age, rheumatoid factor and medication status were extracted as independent factors for maintain LDA by multivariate logistic regression. These nutrients intake in RA patients was significantly lower than control both in 2011 and 2017. In RA patients, iron and folic acid intake in LDA group was significantly lower than non-LDA group in 2011. Folic acid intake was increased in LDA group and decreased in non-LDA group over time, and these nutrients showed significant differences in change value between LDA group and non-LDA group (p<0.05).

Conclusion:

The overtime change value in iron, thiamin and folic acid related to maintain six years low disease activity in RA patients.

References:

[1] Matsumoto Y, Sugioka Y, Tada M, Okano T, Mamoto K, Inui K, et al. Monounsaturated fatty acids might be key factors in the Mediterranean diet that suppress rheumatoid arthritis disease activity: The TOMORROW study. Clinical Nutrition 37:675-680, 2018

Disclosure of Interests:

Yoshinari Matsumoto Grant/research support from: Yamada Research Grant (grant No.249), Yuko Sugioka: None declared, Masahiro Tada: None declared, Tadashi Okano Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Eisai, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation and Nipponkayaku, Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Asahikasei, Astellas Pharma Inc, Ayumi Pharmaceutical, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Daiich Sankyo, Eisai, Janssen, Lilly, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, Novartis Pharma, Ono Pharmaceutical, Pfizer, Sanofi, Takeda Pharmaceutical, Teijin Pharma and UCB, Kenji Mamoto: None declared, Kentaro Inui Grant/research support from: Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Astellas Pharma Inc., Sanofi K.K., Abbvie GK, Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., QOL RD Co. Ltd., Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Ono Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Eisai Co.,Ltd.,, Speakers bureau: Daiichi Sankyo Co. Ltd., Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma, Janssen Pharmaceutical K.K., Astellas Pharma Inc., Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Ono Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd., Abbvie GK, Pfizer Inc., Eisai Co.,Ltd., Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Daiki Habu: None declared, Tatsuya Koike Grant/research support from: AbbVie, Astellas Pharma Inc, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Janssen, Lilly, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, MSD, Ono Pharmaceutical, Pfizer, Roche, Takeda Pharmaceutical, Teijin Pharma, and UCB, Speakers bureau: AbbVie, Astellas Pharma Inc, Bristol-Myers Squibb, Chugai Pharmaceutical, Eisai, Janssen, Lilly, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma Corporation, MSD, Ono Pharmaceutical, Pfizer, Roche, Takeda Pharmaceutical, Teijin Pharma, and UCB

AB0387 TREATMENT STATUS FOR OSTEOPOROSIS IN PATIENTS WITH SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS: CROSS-SECTIONAL ANALYSIS FROM A LUPUS REGISTRY OF NATIONWIDE INSTITUTIONS (LUNA)

Background:

Osteoporosis is one of the most important adverse effects of glucocorticoids in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Because osteoporosis is accelerated by chronic kidney disease (CKD), more attention should be paid to the treatment for osteoporosis in SLE patients with CKD. Many treatment options for osteoporosis have emerged recently, but treatment status in patients with SLE is not elucidated.

Objectives:

The purpose of this study is to elucidate the treatment status for osteoporosis in patients with SLE among the CKD stages.

Methods:

Using data from lupus registry of nationwide institutions (LUNA), a cross-sectional analysis was performed. We firstly described treatment status for osteoporosis in all enrolled patients. Secondary, treatment status for osteoporosis was compared among CKD stages. Finally, bone damage in Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology Damage Index (SDI) was compared among CKD stages.

Results:

The median age (interquartile range [IQR]) of enrolled 917 patients was 44 (34- 57) years and 809 patients (88%) were female. CKD stages were follows: CKD stage 1, 234 (26%); CKD stage 2, 465 (51%); CKD stage 3, 189 (21%); CKD stage 4, 9 (1%); CKD stage 5, 16 (2%). Median (IQR) age, female sex, and median (IQR) previous maximum dose of prednisolone in patients with and without CKD (≥CKD stage 3) were 56 (46.5-66) and 41 (32-50), 191 (89%) and 615 (88%), and 40 (30-60) and 40 (30-55) mg/day, respectively. Bisphosphonate was administered in 388 (42%) patients, vitamin D supplements in 448 (49%), Ca supplements in 36 (4%), denosumab in 20 (2%) and teriparatide in 14 (2%), respectively. Of enrolled patients, any treatment for osteoporosis was not administered in 226 (25%) patients. In spite of more frequent bone damage in patients with CKD compared to those without CKD (15% vs 10%, p=0.036), treatment status did not differ between patients with and without CKD (bisphosphonate: 41% vs 46%, p=0.29; vitamin D supplements: 50% vs 44%, p=0.14).

Conclusion:

About a quarter of patients with SLE did not take any treatment for osteoporosis. Treatment for osteoporosis might be strengthened to prevent bone damage in SLE patients with CKD.

Disclosure of Interests:

KEN-EI SADA Speakers bureau: I received speaker’s fee from GSK and Astra Zeneca K.K., Keigo Hayashi: None declared, Yosuke ASANO: None declared, Yu Katayama: None declared, Sumie Hiramatsu Asano: None declared, Keiji Ohashi: None declared, Michiko Morishita: None declared, Haruki Watanabe: None declared, Mariko Narazaki: None declared, Yoshinori Matsumoto: None declared, Nobuyuki Yajima: None declared, Ryusuke Yoshimi: None declared, Yasuhiro Shimojima: None declared, Shigeru Ono: None declared, Hiroshi Kajiyama: None declared, Kunihiro Ichinose: None declared, Shuzo Sato: None declared, Michio Fujiwara: None declared, Jun Wada: None declared

The impact of estrogen receptor status on EGFR/TP53/CTNNB1 axis in the evolution of non-small cell lung cancer

e21035

Background: The role of estrogen receptor status in the carcinogenesis of lung cancer remains elusive. A census of clonal and sub-clonal mutations has been defined through the analyses of evolutionary histories of cancers. We previously reported a prospective multicenter molecular epidemiology study (JME study; Kawaguchi T, J Clin Oncol 2016), which included the expression levels of estrogen receptors β (ER) using immunohistochemistry(IHC) and the mutational profile using next generation sequencing as well as solid smoking information and reproductive/ hormonal risk factors from the detailed questionnaire. Methods: Utilizing the data of the JME study, the impact of ER in lung cancer development was explored. All the patients underwent surgery. In 441 ever- and 435 never-smokers, ER were observed in 46.4% and 53.5%, respectively. The cancer-associated 72 gene mutations and 5 gene amplifications examined in this study included EGFR, SMAD4, APC, FBXW7, BRAF, STK11, PIK3CA, TP53, PTEN, KRAS, CTNNB1, NFE2L2, NF1, and MET. ALK fusion was detected by IHC. Patients were enrolled between July 2012 and December 2013, with follow up until November 30th, 2017.Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess the ER expression on relapse free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). A logistic regression model was applied to assess the impact of ER (positive vs. negative) on gene alterations, using sex, smoking history, age and stage as independent variables. Results: ER expression was significantly higher in never smokers (vs. ever smokers; p = 0.022) and earlier stage (stage I vs. II-IV; p = 0.002). Patients with ER positive tumors had a longer RFS than those with negative tumors (RFS rate at 4 years: 33.7 vs. 26.5%; p = 0.021), however, there was no significant difference in OS between the two groups (p = 0.108). In the impact of ER status on the gene alterations, mutations in EGFR (p = 0.003), TP53 (p = 0.007) and CTNNB1 (p = 0.027) were significantly associated with ER expression. Multivariate analysis showed that EGFR mutations (OR = 1.394, 95%CI: 1.029-1.890, p = 0.032) and CTNNB1 mutations (OR = 0.272, 95%CI: 0.087-0.853, p = 0.026) were significantly associated with ER expression, while there was a trend for significance with TP53 mutations (OR = 0.737, 95%CI: 0.537-1.011, p = 0.059). Conclusions: ER positive status triggered the clonal EGFR mutations and suppressed the sub-clonal mutations of TP53 and CTNNB1. It is suggested that ER plays a critical role in the alterations of EGFR/TP53/ CTNNB1 axis in lung cancer evolution.

Early-onset meningitis associated with atezolizumab treatment for non-small cell lung cancer: case report and literature review

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have improved the overall survival of many patients with advanced cancers. However, unlike cytotoxic and targeted drugs, ICIs may cause various immune-related adverse events (irAEs). Among these irAEs, autoimmune meningitis is very rare. Here, we report a case of early-onset, atezolizumab-induced meningitis after administration of one dose of atezolizumab. A 56-year-old man with lung adenocarcinoma had received seventh-line treatment with atezolizumab when he experienced dysarthria. Blood examinations, including the measurement of electrolytes, glucose, and organ functions, were unremarkable, but enhanced head magnetic resonance imaging T1-weighted images showed meningeal enhancement. Although cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) examinations revealed elevated lymphocyte and protein levels, no cancer cells were detected in the CSF. CSF cultures and serological tests, including polymerase chain reaction for herpes simplex virus, were negative. The patient was therefore diagnosed with atezolizumab-triggered autoimmune meningitis. With steroid treatment, the patient's clinical and neurological state improved immediately and he recovered to baseline conditions. Prompt diagnosis and therapeutic intervention are essential for the effective treatment of autoimmune meningitis.

Complications of Endovascular Treatments for Brain Arteriovenous Malformations: A Nationwide Surveillance

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Embolization is widely performed to treat brain arteriovenous malformations, but little has been reported on factors contributing to complications. We retrospectively reviewed a nationwide surveillance to identify risk factors contributing to complications and short-term clinical outcomes in the endovascular treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Data for endovascular treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations were extracted from the Japanese nationwide surveillance. Patient characteristics, brain arteriovenous malformation features, procedures, angiographic results, complications, and clinical outcomes at 30 days postprocedure were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 1042 endovascular procedures (788 patients; mean, 1.43 ± 0.85 procedures per patient) performed in 111 institutions from 2010 to 2014 were reviewed. Liquid materials were used in 976 procedures (93.7%): to perform presurgical embolization in 638 procedures (61.2%), preradiosurgical embolization in 160 (15.4%), and as sole endovascular treatment in 231 (22.2%). Complete or near-complete obliteration of brain arteriovenous malformations was obtained in 386 procedures (37.0%). Procedure-related complications occurred in 136 procedures (13.1%), including hemorrhagic complications in 59 (5.7%) and ischemic complications in 57 (5.5%). Univariate analysis identified deep venous drainage, associated aneurysms, infratentorial location, and preradiosurgical embolization as statistically significant risk factors for complications. Multivariate analysis showed that embolization of brain arteriovenous malformations in the infratentorial location was significantly associated with complications. Patients with complications due to endovascular procedures had worse clinical outcomes 30 days after the procedures than those without complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Complications arising after endovascular treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations are not negligible even though they may play a role in adjunctive therapy, especially in the management of infratentorial brain arteriovenous malformations.

Observational Evidence for Stochastic Shock Drift Acceleration of Electrons at the Earth's Bow Shock

The first-order Fermi acceleration of electrons requires an injection of electrons into a mildly relativistic energy range. However, the mechanism of injection has remained a puzzle both in theory and observation. We present direct evidence for a novel stochastic shock drift acceleration theory for the injection obtained with Magnetospheric Multiscale observations at the Earth's bow shock. The theoretical model can explain electron acceleration to mildly relativistic energies at high-speed astrophysical shocks, which may provide a solution to the long-standing issue of electron injection.