Vascular access device type for systemic anti-cancer therapies in cancer patients: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Patients with cancer can expect to receive numerous invasive vascular access procedures for intravenous therapy and clinical diagnostics. Due to the increased incidence and prevalence of cancer globally there will be significantly more people who require first-line intravenous chemotherapy over the next ten years.

METHODS

Our objective was to determine the types of evidence that exist for the vascular access device (VAD) type for the delivery of systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT) in cancer patients. We used JBI scoping review methodology to identify the types of VADs used for SACT and with a specific search strategy included articles from 2012-2022 published in the English language. We identify (i) type of VADs used for SACT delivery (ii) the type of insertion and post-insertion complications (iii) the geographical location and clinical environment (iv) and whether VAD choice impacts on quality of life (QOL). Findings were presented using the PAGER framework.

MAIN FINDINGS

Our search strategy identified 10,390 titles, of these, 5318 duplicates were removed. The remaining 5072 sources were screened for eligibility, 240 articles met the inclusion criteria. The most common design include retrospective study designs (n = 91) followed by prospective study designs (n = 31). We found 28 interventional studies with 21 registered in a clinical trial registry and identified no core outcome sets papers specific to VAD for SACT. The most prevalent publications were those that featured two or more VAD types (n = 70), followed by tunnelled intravenous VADs (n = 67). Of 38 unique complications identified, the most frequent catheter related complication was catheter related thrombosis (n = 178, 74%), followed by infection (n = 170, 71%). The county where the most publications originated from was China (n = 62) with one randomized controlled multicenter study from a comprehensive cancer centre. Of the thirty three studies that included QOL we found 4 which reported on body image. No QOL measurement tools specific to the process of SACT administration via VAD are available INTERPRETATION: Our findings suggest a systematic review and meta-analysis of VAD use for intravenous SACT can be considered. However, the development of a core outcome set for SACT should be prioritised. Funding for high quality programs of research for VAD in cancer are needed. Comprehensive cancer centres should lead this research agenda.

Decreasing exposure to thyroid radiation in an orthopaedic theatre setting: an educational intervention

The use of personal protective equipment (PPE) can significantly reduce staff exposure to harmful radiation and infection. Fluoroscopic procedures in orthopaedic theatre can generate high levels of radiation and good adherence to PPE use is essential to reduce long term cancer risk, including thyroid cancer. To assess baseline compliance with PPE, availability of PPE in theatre and carry out an intervention to promote greater use of PPE. This was a closed-loop interventional study set in a level 1 trauma centre and an elective/rehabilitation unit. Data were collected in 40 cases pre and post-intervention from 26th May-7th July 2017. All health care practitioners present at fluoroscopic screening were observed. PPE availability was audited daily. A questionnaire was used to assess surgical and nursing knowledge/practices regarding radiation/infection safety. An educational presentation was delivered to the groups at highest risk of exposure. 39/41 questionnaires were completed (29 surgeons, 10 nurses). 41% of respondents had taken a radiation training course or felt they had adequate training. There was a significant increase in the use of thyroid guards by surgeons 13/115 (11.3%) pre-intervention to 54/117 (46.2%) post-intervention (p<0.001) and radiographers (p=0.019) post-intervention. Logistic regression showed an 89.7% increased likelihood of thyroid guard use post-intervention and a 12.7% increased chance of thyroid guard use for each extra guard available. A short educational, easily replicated session, significantly improved compliance with thyroid guards by orthopaedic surgeons.

Single centre, real-world experience of perioperative rFIXFc use in adult patients with haemophilia B undergoing major and minor surgery

INTRODUCTION

Recombinant factor IX fusion protein concentrate (rFIXFc) is increasingly used for prophylaxis in people with haemophilia B (PWHB), but experience in the perioperative setting is limited.

AIMS

To evaluate real-world perioperative factor usage, bleeding and complications in PWHB (≥18 years) who received rFIXFc for surgical haemostasis and to describe the treatment regimens used.

METHODS

Single centre, retrospective review of all PWHB who underwent a major or minor surgical procedure between June 2017 and July 2020 and received rFIXFc perioperatively for maintenance of surgical haemostasis.

RESULTS

A total of 56 PWHB (45 male and 11 female), including people with mild (n = 32), moderate (n = 4) and severe (n = 20) haemophilia B, underwent 11 major and 131 minor procedures with rFIXFc for surgical haemostasis. Haemostasis was rated as excellent (9/11) or good (2/11) in all major procedures. Median total rFIXFc consumption for orthopaedic surgeries was 972 IU/kg (range 812-1031 IU/kg) and for other major (non-orthopaedic) surgeries was 323 IU/kg (range 167-760 IU/kg). The median number of perioperative rFIXFc infusions was 19 (range 17-26) for orthopaedic surgery and 7 (range 5-17) for other major surgeries. The number of infusions in the postoperative period was determined by procedure and patient factors. Complications included bowel ileus and wound infection. Most minor procedures were managed with single infusion of rFIXFc, with no bleeding complications in 95% of minor procedures. There were no thromboembolic events or inhibitor formation.

CONCLUSION

This unique data provides real-world evidence that rFIXFc is safe and effective in achieving haemostasis in PWHB undergoing surgery.

Recombinant factor IX-Fc fusion protein in severe hemophilia B: Patient-reported outcomes and health-related quality of life

INTRODUCTION

In 2017, all people with severe hemophilia B in Ireland switched to recombinant factor IX Fc fusion protein concentrate (rFIXFc) prophylaxis. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) are important to evaluate with new treatments.

AIMS

To assess HRQoL in people with severe hemophilia B and their experience after switching to rFIXFc prophylaxis.

METHODS

Participants completed a Patient Reported Outcomes Burden and Experience (PROBE) questionnaire on initiation and following two years of rFIXFc prophylaxis. The PROBE questionnaire has four domains: demographics, general health, haemophilia-specific, and European Quality of Life 5-Dimensions (EQ-5D-5L) questionnaire.

RESULTS

Twenty-three participants completed the questionnaire at both time points. The number of activities where chronic pain occurred and interfered with the activity was reduced by 25% and 33%, respectively (P < .001), following two years of rFIXFc prophylaxis. There was a 9% decrease in chronic pain during the second year of rFIXFc prophylaxis compared to baseline, but the rate remained high, at 74%. A 25% reduction in the number of affected activities of daily living (ADLs) was reported following 2 years of rFIXFc prophylaxis (P = .007). The most common health problems were arthritis, hypertension, anxiety/depression, and gingivitis. The median EQ-5D-5L score was similar following two years of rFIXFc prophylaxis, 0.76 (range, -0.01 to 0.95), compared to 0.77 (range, 0.36-1) at baseline.

CONCLUSION

This study of real-world patient experience using PROs demonstrates a reduction in chronic pain and improvement in ADLs in participants after switching to rFIXFc prophylaxis. It provides important insights into patient-identified health care needs and living with severe hemophilia B.

Real-world outcomes with recombinant factor IX Fc fusion protein (rFIXFc) prophylaxis: Longitudinal follow-up in a national adult cohort

INTRODUCTION

In 2017, all people with severe haemophilia B (PWSHB) in Ireland switched from standard half-life (SHL) recombinant FIX (rFIX) to rFIX Fc fusion protein (rFIXFc) prophylaxis.

AIMS

To evaluate prophylaxis regimens, bleeding rates and factor usage for two years of rFIXFc prophylaxis in a real-world setting.

METHODS

Data collected retrospectively from electronic diaries and medical records of PWSHB for a two-year period on rFIXFc prophylaxis were compared with paired baseline data on SHL rFIX treatment.

RESULTS

28 PWSHB (≥18 years) were enrolled, and at switchover 79% were receiving prophylaxis and 21% episodic treatment with SHL rFIX. At 24 months following switchover, all remained on rFIXFc prophylaxis with reduced infusion frequency; median dose per infusion once weekly (55 IU/kg, 20/28), every 10 days (63 IU/kg, 2/28) or every 14 days (98 IU/kg, 6/28). Median annualised bleed rate improved significantly on rFIXFc prophylaxis (2.0 versus 3.3 on SHL FIX) (p = 0.01). Median FIX trough level with once-weekly infusions was 0.09 IU/ml (0.06-0.14 IU/ml). Management of bleeding episodes was similar with rFIXFc and SHL rFIX; one infusion was sufficient to treat 74% and 77% of bleeds, respectively, with similar total median treatment per bleeding episode. Factor consumption reduced by 28% with rFIXFc prophylaxis (57 IU/kg/week, range 40-86 IU/kg/week) compared with SHL rFIX (79 IU/kg/week, range 44-210 IU/kg/week) (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

This study provides important insights into real-world experience of switching to rFIXFc prophylaxis in an adult population, demonstrating high rates of prophylaxis, with reduced infusion frequency, bleeding and FIX consumption.

Factors associated with ever use of mammography in a limited resource setting. A mixed methods study

Objective

To evaluate facilitators and barriers influencing mammography screening participation among women.

Design

Mixed methods study.

Setting

Three hospital catchment areas in Hidalgo, Mexico.

Participants

Four hundred and fifty-five women aged 40-69 years.

Intervention

Three hundred and eighty women completed a survey about knowledge, beliefs and perceptions about breast cancer screening, and 75 women participated in semi-structured, in-person interviews. Survey data were analyzed using logistic regression; semi-structured interviews were transcribed and analyzed using elements of the grounded theory method.

Main Outcome Measure

Women were categorized as never having had mammography or having had at least one mammogram in the past.

Results

From survey data, having had a Pap in the past year was associated with ever having had breast screening (odds ratio = 2.15; 95% confidence interval 1.30-3.54). Compared with never-screened women, ever-screened women had better knowledge of Mexican recommendations for the frequency of mammography screening (49.5% vs 31.7% P < 0.001). A higher percentage of never-screened women perceived that a mammography was a painful procedure (44.5% vs 33.8%; P < 0.001) and feared receiving bad news (38.4% vs 22.2%; P < 0.001) compared with ever-screened women. Women who participated in semi-structured, in-person interviews expressed a lack of knowledge about Mexican standard mammographic screening recommendations for age for starting mammography and its recommended frequency. Women insured under the 'Opportunities' health insurance program said that they are referred to receive Pap tests and mammography.

Conclusions

Local strategies to reduce mammogram-related pain and fear of bad news should work in tandem with national programs to increase access to screening.

Development of consensus-based national antimicrobial stewardship competencies for UK undergraduate healthcare professional education

BACKGROUND

Healthcare professionals are involved in an array of patient- and medicine-related stewardship activities, for which an understanding and engagement with antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is important. Undergraduate education provides an ideal opportunity to prepare healthcare professionals for these roles and activities.

AIM

To provide UK national consensus on a common set of antimicrobial stewardship competencies appropriate for undergraduate healthcare professional education.

METHODS

A modified Delphi approach comprising two online surveys delivered to a UK national panel of 21 individuals reflecting expertise in prescribing and medicines management with regards to the education and practice of nurses and midwives, pharmacists, physiotherapists, and podiatrists; and antimicrobial prescribing and stewardship. Data collection took place between October and December 2017.

FINDINGS

A total of 21 participants agreed to become members of the expert panel, of whom 19 (90%) completed round 1 questionnaire, and 17 (89%) completed round 2. Panelists reached a consensus, with consistently high levels of agreement reached, on six overarching competency statements (subdivided into six domains), and 55 individual descriptors essential for antimicrobial stewardship by healthcare professionals.

CONCLUSION

Due to the consistently high levels of agreement reached on competency statements and their associated descriptors, this competency framework should be used to direct education for undergraduate healthcare professionals, and those working in new clinical roles to support healthcare delivery where an understanding of, and engagement with, AMS is important. Although the competencies target basic education, they can also be used for continuing education.

Vitamin B12 status in pregnant women and their infants in South India

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Vitamin B₁₂ deficiency during pregnancy has been associated with increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. However, few studies have investigated the burden and determinants of vitamin B₁₂ status in young infants. This study was conducted to determine the associations between maternal and infant vitamin B₁₂ status.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

Pregnant women participating in a vitamin B₁₂ supplementation trial in Bangalore, India, were randomized to receive vitamin B₁₂ (50 μg) or placebo supplementation daily during pregnancy through 6 weeks postpartum. All women received 60 mg of iron and 500 μg of folic acid daily during pregnancy, as per standard of care. This prospective analysis was conducted to determine the associations between maternal vitamin B₁₂ biomarkers (that is, plasma vitamin B₁₂, methylmalonic acid (MMA) and tHcy) during each trimester with infant vitamin B₁₂ status (n=77) at 6 weeks of age.

RESULTS

At baseline (⩽14 weeks of gestation), 51% of mothers were vitamin B₁₂ deficient (vitamin B₁₂<150 pmol/l) and 43% had impaired vitamin B₁₂ status (vitamin B₁₂<150 pmol/l and MMA>0.26 μmol/l); 44% of infants were vitamin B₁₂ deficient at 6 weeks of age. After adjusting for vitamin B₁₂ supplementation, higher vitamin B₁₂ concentrations in each trimester were associated with increased infant vitamin B₁₂ concentrations and lower risk of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency in infants (P<0.05). After adjusting for vitamin B₁₂ supplementation, infants born to women with vitamin B₁₂ deficiency had a twofold greater risk of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency (P<0.01). Higher maternal folate concentrations also predicted lower risk of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency in infants (P<0.05). Impaired maternal vitamin B₁₂ status, which combined both circulating and functional biomarkers, was the single best predictor of infant vitamin B₁₂ status.

CONCLUSIONS

Impaired maternal vitamin B₁₂ status throughout pregnancy predicted higher risk of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency in infants, after adjusting for vitamin B₁₂ supplementation. Future interventions are needed to improve vitamin B₁₂ status periconceptionally, and to ensure optimal vitamin B₁₂ status and health outcomes in pregnant women and their children.

Hospital Acquired Thrombosis (HAT) Prevention in an Acute Hospital; A Single Centre Cross-Sectional Study

Evidence based guidelines are effective in reducing incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) which is associated with morbidly, mortality and economic burden. This study aimed to identify the proportion of inpatients who had a VTE risk assessment (RA) performed and who received thromboprophylaxis (TP), in Cork University Hospital. There was no structured RA tool at the time; information was obtained from medical and drug charts to ascertain if a RA was performed. Patients were then RA by researchers and stratified as per NICE guidelines and the proportion who received TP was calculated. One thousand and nineteen inpatients were screened. Risk was documented in 24% of cases. TP was prescribed in 43.2% of inpatients. Following application of a RA tool >80% were at high risk of VTE with low risk of bleeding with TP prescription in 46.3% of inpatients. A national collaborative effort should be encouraged to develop a standardized approach for safe RA of inpatients and prescription of TP for prevention of HAT.

Incidence of Hospital Acquired Thrombosis (HAT) in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major cause of preventable morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients. In spite of guidelines, VTE prophylaxis continues to be underutilised, and hospital acquired thrombosis (HAT) continues to be a problem. This study was conducted to estimate the incidence of HAT in a tertiary referral centre and to examine whether VTE risk assessment and thromboprophylaxis (TP) were implemented. Patients 18 years and above, with a radiologically-confirmed acute VTE during the study period of 15 weeks were included. Acute VTE was diagnosed in 100 patients and HAT was diagnosed in 48. There were 12,024 admissions over the study period, therefore the incidence of HAT was 0.4%. TP was prescribed in only 35% of patients, and 65% did not receive any or appropriate TP. Hospitals without active implementation of a formal risk assessment tool and TP policy are likely to continue to have increased incidence of HAT.

Abstract P4-13-02: Long-term effects of weight loss on breast cancer biomarkers in postmenopausal women

Background: Obesity increases risk for postmenopausal breast cancer, and is associated with elevated blood levels of inflammation-related marker C-reactive protein (CRP), insulin, glucose, and the angiogenesis-related biomarker vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The long-term effect of weight loss on these breast cancer risk biomarkers is unknown. This study aim was to test the 30-month effect of weight loss on breast cancer biomarkers in postmenopausal overweight/obese women, who had completed a randomized control trial test of behavioral weight loss and/or exercise compared to control.

Methods: From 1/2005-7/2008, women (N=438) were randomized to 1 of 4 arms: reduced calorie weight loss diet (D; N=118); moderate intensity aerobic exercise (E; 225 minutes/week) (N=117); both interventions (D+E; N=116); or control (C, no intervention; N=87). The D intervention goals were: 1200-2000 calories/day, dietary fat &lt; 30% of calories, and &gt; 10% loss of initial weight. The E goal was &gt; 45 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise 5 days/week. The D+E interventions were identical to those for D and E. A total of 157 women returned for a 30-month blood draw (18 months after end-of-study).

Analysis: We compared the average changes in outcomes from baseline to 30 months in weight loss (combining D and D+E groups) vs. no weight loss (combining C and E groups), according to the intention-to-treat principle, using generalized estimating equations (GEE). As a secondary, pre-planned analysis, we combined data for all women regardless of randomization group, and divided them into four categories based on change from baseline to 30 months: 1) gained weight or remained weight stable; 2) lost &lt; 5% of baseline weight; 3) lost 5% - &lt;10% of baseline weight; and 4) lost &gt; 10% of baseline weight. We then compared 30-month analyte changes by these 30-month weight loss groups, with category 1 as referent.

Results: Mean 30-month weight changes from baseline were: D+E, - 7.7%; D, - 6.3%; E, -1.9%; and C, -3%. CRP was 22.5% lower than baseline for women randomized to a diet group, compared with a 4% reduction from baseline in women in a non-diet group (p=0.07). Insulin was 33% lower in women randomized to diet, while it was 20% lower in women not randomized to a diet group (p=0.10). Women who lost 5% - &lt;10% of baseline weight at 30-months experienced an 18% (p&lt;0.001) decrease in CRP compared to baseline, while those who lost &gt; 10% had a 56% lower CRP level (p&lt;0.001). VEGF decreased to a similar amount (14% -15%) in women who lost &lt;10% of baseline weight; and decreased by 26% in those whose 30-month weight decreased by &gt; 10% (p&lt;0.002). Compared with baseline levels, insulin decreased by 16% in those who lost &lt; 5% of baseline weight. In contrast, insulin levels decreased by 31% and 44% (each p=0.004), in those whose 30-month weight loss was 5% - &lt;10% lower than baseline and &gt; 10% lower than baseline, respectively. Glucose levels increased in women whose weight loss was &lt; 5%, but remained stable in those whose 30-month weight was &gt; 5% lower than baseline (each p=0.04).

Conclusions: Long-term weight loss of at least 5% may have biological effects relevant to breast cancer prevention in overweight or obese postmenopausal women.

Citation Format: McTiernan A, Duggan C, Tapsoba JdD, Mason C, Wang C-Y. Long-term effects of weight loss on breast cancer biomarkers in postmenopausal women [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2016 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2016 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-13-02.

Venous Thromboembolism - Risk Assessment Tool and Thromboprophylaxis Policy: A National Survey

Venous Thromboembolic (VTE) events in hospitalised patients are associated with significant mortality and morbidity and a major economic burden on the health service. It is well established in the literature that active implementation of a mandatory risk assessment tool and thromboprophylaxis policy reduces the incidence of hospital associated thrombosis (HAT). This study examines the utilization of a VTE risk assessment tool and thromboprophylaxis (TP) policy in Irish hospitals that manage acute admissions. A national survey was distributed to forty acute hospitals throughout Ireland. The response rate was 78% (31/40). The results showed that only 26% (n=8/31) of acute hospitals in Ireland have a local implemented TP policy. Six (75%) of these eight had a risk assessment tool in conjunction with the TP policy. All respondents who did not report to have a TP policy and risk assessment tool agreed that they should implement VTE prevention policy at their hospital. Based on the data from this survey and evidence from the effectiveness of the VTE prevention programme introduced in the United Kingdom, there is a need for a national risk assessment and thromboprophylaxis policy in Ireland. This change in practice would have the potential to prevent or reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with hospital acquired thrombosis.

Waist-to-Height Ratio as an Indicator of High Blood Pressure in Urban Indian School Children

OBJECTIVE

To examine the utility of waist-to-height ratio to identify risk of high blood pressure when compared to body mass index and waist circumference in South Indian urban school children.

DESIGN

Secondary data analysis from a cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Urban schools around Bangalore, India.

PARTICIPANTS

1913 children (58.1% males) aged 6-16 years with no prior history of chronic illness (PEACH study).

METHODS

Height, weight, waist circumference and of blood pressure were measured. Children with blood pressure ?90th percentile of age-, sex-, and height-adjusted standards were labelled as having high blood pressure.

RESULTS

13.9% had a high waist-to-height ratio, 15.1% were overweight /obese and 21.7% had high waist circumference. High obesity indicators were associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure. The adjusted risk ratios (95% CI) of high systolic blood pressure with waist-to-height ratio, body mass index and waist circumference were 2.48 (1.76, 3.47), 2.59 (1.66, 4.04) and 2.38 (1.74, 3.26), respectively. Similar results were seen with high diastolic blood pressure.

CONCLUSION

Obesity indicators, especially waist-to-height ratio due to its ease of measurement, can be useful initial screening tools for risk of high blood pressure in urban Indian school children.

Clinical malaria diagnosis in pregnancy in relation to early perinatal mother-to-child transmission of HIV: a prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

We prospectively investigated fever symptoms and maternal diagnosis of malaria in pregnancy (MIP) in relation to child HIV infection among 2368 pregnant HIV-positive women and their infants, followed up from pregnancy until 6 weeks post-delivery in Tanzania.

METHODS

Doctors clinically diagnosed and treated MIP and fever symptoms during prenatal health care. Child HIV status was determined via DNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Multivariable logistic regression models were used to estimate relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for HIV mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) by the 6th week of life.

RESULTS

Mean gestational age at enrolment was 22.2 weeks. During follow-up, 16.6% of mothers had at least one MIP diagnosis, 15.9% reported fever symptoms and 8.7% had both fever and MIP diagnosis. Eleven per cent of HIV-exposed infants were HIV-positive by 6 weeks. The RR of HIV MTCT was statistically similar for infants whose mothers were ever vs. never clinically diagnosed with MIP (RR 1.24; 95% CI 0.94-1.64), were diagnosed with one vs. no clinical MIP episodes (RR 1.07; 95% CI 0.77-1.48) and had ever vs. never reported fever symptoms (RR 1.04; 95% CI 0.78-1.38) in pregnancy. However, the HIV MTCT risk increased by 29% (95% CI 4-58%) per MIP episode. Infants of women with at least two vs. no MIP diagnoses were 2.1 times more likely to be HIV infected by 6 weeks old (95% CI 1.31-3.45).

CONCLUSIONS

Clinical MIP diagnosis, but not fevers, in HIV-positive pregnant women was associated with an elevated risk of early HIV MTCT, suggesting that malaria prevention and treatment in pregnant HIV-positive women may enhance the effectiveness of HIV prevention in MTCT programmes in this setting. Future studies using a laboratory-confirmed diagnosis of malaria are needed to confirm this association.

Effects of individual and combined dietary weight loss and exercise interventions in postmenopausal women on adiponectin and leptin levels

BACKGROUND

Excess body weight and a sedentary lifestyle are associated with the development of several diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer in women. One proposed mechanism linking obesity to chronic diseases is an alteration in adipose-derived adiponectin and leptin levels. We investigated the effects of 12-month reduced calorie, weight loss and exercise interventions on adiponectin and leptin concentrations.

METHODS

Overweight/obese postmenopausal women (n = 439) were randomized as follows: (i) a reduced calorie, weight-loss diet (diet; N = 118), (ii) moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic exercise (exercise; N = 117), (iii) a combination of a reduced calorie, weight-loss diet and moderate-to-vigorous intensity aerobic exercise (diet + exercise; N = 117), and (iv) control (N = 87). The reduced calorie diet had a 10% weight-loss goal. The exercise intervention consisted of 45 min of moderate-to-vigorous aerobic activity 5 days per week. Adiponectin and leptin levels were measured at baseline and after 12 months of intervention using a radioimmunoassay.

RESULTS

Adiponectin increased by 9.5% in the diet group and 6.6% in the diet + exercise group (both P ≤ 0.0001 vs. control). Compared with controls, leptin decreased with all interventions (diet + exercise, -40.1%, P < 0.0001; diet, -27.1%, P < 0.0001; exercise, -12.7%, P = 0.005). The results were not influenced by the baseline body mass index (BMI). The degree of weight loss was inversely associated with concentrations of adiponectin (diet, P-trend = 0.0002; diet + exercise, P-trend = 0.0005) and directly associated with leptin (diet, P-trend < 0.0001; diet + exercise, P-trend < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Weight loss through diet or diet + exercise increased adiponectin concentrations. Leptin concentrations decreased in all of the intervention groups, but the greatest reduction occurred with diet + exercise. Weight loss and exercise exerted some beneficial effects on chronic diseases via effects on adiponectin and leptin.

Determinants of anemia in postpartum HIV-negative women in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

OBJECTIVE

The determinants of anemia during both pregnancy and postpartum recovery remain incompletely understood in sub-Saharan African women.

SUBJECTS/METHODS

In a prospective cohort study among pregnant women, we assessed dietary, biochemical, anthropometric, infectious and sociodemographic factors at baseline. In multivariate Cox proportional hazards models, we examined predictors of incident anemia (hemoglobin <11 g/dl) and iron deficiency anemia (anemia plus mean corpuscular volume <80fL), and recovery from anemia and iron deficiency anemia through 18 months postpartum at antenatal clinics in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania between 2001 and 2005. A total of 2364 non-anemic pregnant women and 4884 anemic women were enrolled between 12 and 27 weeks of gestation.

RESULTS

In total, 292 women developed anemia during the postpartum period and 165 developed iron deficiency anemia, whereas 2982 recovered from baseline anemia and 2044 from iron deficiency anemia. Risk factors for postpartum anemia were delivery complications (RR 1.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13, 2.22) and low postpartum CD4 cell count (RR 1.73, 95% CI 0.96, 3.17). Iron/folate supplementation during pregnancy had a protective relationship with the incidence of iron deficiency anemia. Absence of delivery complications, education status and iron/folate supplementation were positively associated with time to recovery from iron deficiency.

CONCLUSION

Maternal nutritional status during pregnancy, prenatal iron/folate supplementation, perinatal care, and prevention and management of infections, such as malaria, are modifiable risk factors for the occurrence of, and recovery from, anemia.

PREDICTORS OF INCIDENT TUBERCULOSIS IN HIV-EXPOSED CHILDREN IN TANZANIA

OBJECTIVE

To examine the predictors of tuberculosis infection in HIV-exposed children.

DESIGN

A longitudinal cohort study nested within a randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

Antenatal clinics in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.

SUBJECTS

Children born to 875 HIV-infected women in Tanzania.

RESULTS

A total of 82 children developed tuberculosis during the follow-up period. In multivariate analyses, HIV infection was associated with a six-fold increase in risk of tuberculosis. Breastfeeding duration, child mid-upper arm circumference, and maternal CD4 T-cell counts were inversely related to risk of tuberculosis. In HIV-infected children, greater number of people eating at the same household meal and child CD8 T-cell counts were associated with increased risk of tuberculosis; higher maternal lymphocyte counts, increased duration of breastfeeding, and lower vitamin E levels were associated with reduced risk of tuberculosis. In HIV-uninfected children, breastfeeding duration and increased child mid-upper arm circumference were associated with reduced risk of tuberculosis.

CONCLUSION

Breastfeeding duration, HIV status, maternal and child nutritional and immunological status were important predictors of child tuberculosis. Appropriate infant feeding and nutritional interventions could represent important adjuncts to prevent tuberculosis in children born to HIV-infected women in sub-Saharan Africa.

Comparison of isotope dilution with bioelectrical impedance analysis among HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected pregnant women in Tanzania

BACKGROUND

Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a simple tool to assess total body water (TBW), from which body composition can be estimated using statistical equations. However, standard BIA equations have not been sufficiently validated during pregnancy, in HIV infection, or in sub-Saharan Africa. We therefore compared TBW estimates from multifrequency BIA with those from the reference method deuterium isotope dilution (Deut) in a cohort of 30 HIV-uninfected and 30 HIV-infected pregnant women from Tanzania.

METHODS

We enrolled pregnant women presenting for routine antenatal care and collected data on pregnancy outcomes. At each trimester of gestation and once at 10-wk post-partum, we measured maternal anthropometry, TBW_BIA, and TBW_Deut.

RESULTS

TBW_BIA was highly correlated at each time point with TBW_Deut among HIV-infected (all P ≤0.001) and HIV-uninfected women (all P <0.0001). During pregnancy, mean TBW_BIA progressively underestimated TBW_Deut in the overall cohort; trimester-specific differences (mean ±SD) were -1.02 ±2.36 kg, -1.47 ±2.43 kg, and -2.42 ±2.63 kg, respectively. The difference at 10-wk postpartum was small (-0.24 ±2.07 kg). In Bland-Altman and regression models, TBW_BIA was subject to a systematic predictive bias at each antenatal and postnatal time point (all P ≤0.038). Among HIV-positive women, TBW_Deut measured during the first (P =0.02) and second trimester (P =0.03) was positively related to birthweight.

CONCLUSIONS

The validity of current BIA equations to assess TBW during pregnancy and in the postpartum period among women from sub-Saharan Africa remains uncertain. Deuterium dilution may assess aspects of maternal body composition relevant for pregnancy outcomes among HIV-infected women.

Shared care in the UK: failings of the past and lessons for the future

Aims

To explore and evaluate the implementation of shared care in the UK, to identify failings and to make recommendations for successful implementation of shared care in the future.

Methods

The study utilised a triangulation approach, employing three different methods to explore the production and format of shared care protocols (SCPs) and the perceived use and future trends of shared care. A postal survey of hospital pharmacists and pharmaceutical and medical advisers in health authorities and interviews with health care professionals provided insight into perceptions of shared care and recommendations for the future. A content analysis of a sample of SCPs in current use assessed the utility of SCPs in practice.

Results

A total of 321 SCPs were identified that described 99 different drugs and treatments. The protocols varied considerably with no apparent standard either within or between regions, but there was a correlation between the patient-related information available, information across the health care interface (r=0.355, P=0.05) and pharmaceutical information (r=0.401, P=0.05). There were expressions of uncertainty about the benefit of such protocols to patients. Health authority staff in particular expressed predominantly negative attitudes in the questionnaire whereas the pharmacists were more positive. The transfer of prescribing and associated costs from hospital to community (described as “cost shifting”) was repeatedly identified as a barrier, together with competing professional interests and reluctance to change with the times. General practitioners (GPs) were most commonly excluded from the production of SCPs, which may enforce negative feelings around implementation of SCPs across the health care interface. Improved information technology and better use of evidence-based guidelines and protocols were seen as ways forward in developing shared care.

Conclusions

Since 1991, a large number of SCPs have been produced in the UK but the benefits to patients are not clear. There is a general perception of cynicism about their use; “cost-shifting” is perceived as their main purpose. There appears to have been no formal evaluation of their use or mechanisms for their implementation, and distribution has been erratic. This study highlights that, with greater involvement of health care professionals, better communication systems and the removal of identified barriers, shared care is a concept essential in the evolving NHS.

Patients' perspectives on medicines and pharmacy: views of patients with Type 2 diabetes

Focal points

Pharmaceutical care across the health care interface: an evidence-based approach to developing and evaluating documentation in practice

Focal points

Influences on prescribing: the perceptions of general practitioners in two primary care trusts

Focal points

Clinical parameters do not adequately predict outcome in necrotizing enterocolitis: a multi-institutional study

OBJECTIVE

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) remains a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Some infants recover uneventfully with medical therapy whereas others develop severe disease (that is, NEC requiring surgery or resulting in death). Repeated attempts to identify clinical parameters that would reliably identify infants with NEC most likely to progress to severe disease have been unsuccessful. We hypothesized that comprehensive prospective data collection at multiple centers would allow us to develop a model which would identify those babies at risk for progressive NEC.

STUDY DESIGN

This prospective, observational study was conducted at six university children's hospitals. Study subjects were neonates with suspected or confirmed NEC. Comprehensive maternal and newborn histories were collected at the time of enrollment, and newborn clinical data were collected prospectively, thereafter. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to develop a predictive model of risk factors for progression.

RESULT

Of 455 neonates analyzed, 192 (42%) progressed to severe disease, and 263 (58%) advanced to full feedings without operation. The vast majority of the variables studied proved not to be associated with progression to severe disease. A total of 12 independent predictors for progression were identified, including only 3 not previously described: having a teenaged mother (odds ratio, OR, 3.14; 95% confidence interval, CI, 1.45 to 6.96), receiving cardiac compressions and/or resuscitative drugs at birth (OR, 2.51; 95% CI, 1.17 to 5.48), and having never received enteral feeding before diagnosis (OR, 2.41; 95% CI, 1.08 to 5.52).

CONCLUSION

Our hypothesis proved false. Rigorous prospective data collection of a sufficient number of patients did not allow us to create a model sufficiently predictive of progressive NEC to be clinically useful. It appears increasingly likely that further analysis of clinical parameters alone will not lead to a significant improvement in our understanding of NEC. We believe that future studies must focus on advanced biologic parameters in conjunction with clinical findings.

Survey of medication documentation at hospital discharge: implications for patient safety and continuity of care

BACKGROUND

Medication discrepancies at the time of hospital discharge are common and can result in error, patient/carer inconvenience or patient harm. Providing accurate medication information to the next care provider is necessary to prevent adverse events.

AIMS

To investigate the quality and consistency of medication details generated for such transfer from an Irish teaching hospital.

METHODS

This was an observational study of 139 cardiology patients admitted over a 3 month period during which a pharmacist prospectively recorded details of medication inconsistencies.

RESULTS

A discrepancy in medication documentation at discharge occurred in 10.8% of medication orders, affecting 65.5% of patients. While patient harm was assessed, it was only felt necessary to contact three (2%) patients. The most common inconsistency was drug omission (20.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

Inaccuracy of medication information at hospital discharge is common and compromises quality of care.

Molecular motor-induced instabilities and cross linkers determine biopolymer organization

All eukaryotic cells rely on the active self-organization of protein filaments to form a responsive intracellular cytoskeleton. The necessity of motility and reaction to stimuli additionally requires pathways that quickly and reversibly change cytoskeletal organization. While thermally driven order-disorder transitions are, from the viewpoint of physics, the most obvious method for controlling states of organization, the timescales necessary for effective cellular dynamics would require temperatures exceeding the physiologically viable temperature range. We report a mechanism whereby the molecular motor myosin II can cause near-instantaneous order-disorder transitions in reconstituted cytoskeletal actin solutions. When motor-induced filament sliding diminishes, the actin network structure rapidly and reversibly self-organizes into various assemblies. Addition of stable cross linkers was found to alter the architectures of ordered assemblies. These isothermal transitions between dynamic disorder and self-assembled ordered states illustrate that the interplay between passive crosslinking and molecular motor activity plays a substantial role in dynamic cellular organization.

The expression of FHIT, PCNA and EGFR in benign and malignant breast lesions

Immunohistochemical staining for FHIT and PCNA proteins was carried out in 451 breast lesions showing nonproliferative benign breast disease (BBD) (n=263), proliferative BBD without atypia (n=128), proliferative BBD with atypia (n=11), carcinoma in situ (n=15) or invasive carcinoma (n=34) and for EGFR protein in a subset of 71 of these cases. FHIT underexpression was not detected in nonproliferative lesions, but occurred in 2% of proliferative BBD without atypia, 10% proliferative BBD with atypia, 27% of carcinoma in situ and 41% of invasive carcinoma, which suggests that it could be useful in assessing those carcinoma in situ lesions (ductal, DCIS and lobular, LCIS) that are more likely to progress to malignancy. Preliminary microarray comparisons on DCIS and invasive carcinoma samples dissected from formalin-fixed paraffin sections showed a consistent downregulation of two previously identified FHIT-related genes, caspase 1 and BRCA1 in lesions underexpressing FHIT.

Psychological therapies for people with borderline personality disorder

BACKGROUND

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a relatively common personality disorder with a major impact on health services as those affected often present in crisis, often self-harming.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of psychological interventions for people with borderline personality disorder.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We conducted a systematic search of 26 specialist and general bibliographic databases (December 2002) and searched relevant reference lists for further trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All relevant clinical randomised controlled trials involving psychological treatments for people with BPD. The definition of psychological treatments included behavioural, cognitive-behavioural, psychodynamic and psychoanalytic.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We independently selected, quality assessed and data extracted studies. For binary outcomes we calculated a standard estimation of the risk ratio (RR), its 95% confidence interval (CI), and where possible the number need to help/harm (NNT/H). For continuous outcomes, endpoint data were preferred to change data. Non-skewed data from valid scales were summated using a weighted mean difference (WMD).

MAIN RESULTS

We identified seven studies involving 262 people, and five separate comparisons. Comparing dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) with treatment as usual studies found no difference for the outcome of still meeting SCID-II criteria for the diagnosis of BPD by six months (n=28, 1 RCT, RR 0.69 CI 0.35 to 1.38) or admission to hospital in previous three months (n=28, 1 RCT, RR 0.77 CI 0.28 to 2.14). Self harm or parasuicide may decrease at 6 to 12 months (n=63, 1 RCT, RR 0.81 CI 0.66 to 0.98, NNT 12 CI 7 to 108). One study detected statistical difference in favour of people receiving DBT compared with those allocated to treatment as usual for average scores of suicidal ideation at 6 months (n=20, MD -15.30 CI -25.46 to -5.14). There was no difference for the outcome of leaving the study early (n=155, 3 RCTs, RR 0.74 CI 0.52 to 1.04). For the outcome of interviewer-assessed alcohol free days, skewed data are reported and tend to favour DBT. When a substance abuse focused DBT was compared with comprehensive validation therapy plus 12-step substance misuse programme no clear differences were found for service outcomes (n=23, 1 RCT, RR imprisoned 1.09 CI 0.64 to 1.87) or leaving the study early (n=23, 1 RCT, RR 7.58 CI 0.44 to 132.08). When dialectical behaviour therapy-oriented treatment is compared with client centred therapy no differences were found for service outcomes (n=24, 1 RCT, RR admitted 0.33 CI 0.08 to 1.33). However, fewer people in the DBT group displayed indicators of parasuicidal behaviour (n=24, RR 0.13 CI 0.02 to 0.85, NNT 2 CI 2 to 11). There were no differences for outcomes of anxiety and depression (n=24, 1 RCT, RR anxiety BAI >/=10 0.60 CI 0.32 to 1.12; RR depression HDRS >/=10 0.43 CI 0.14 to 1.28) but people who received DBT had less general psychiatric severity than those in the control (MD BPRS at 6 months -7.41 CI -13.72 to -1.10). Finally this one relevant study reports skewed data for suicidal ideation with considerably lower scores for people allocated to DBT. When psychoanalytically oriented partial hospitalization was compared with general psychiatric care the former tended to come off best. People who received treatment in a psychoanalytic orientated day hospital were less likely to be admitted into inpatient care when measured at different time points (e.g. n=44, RR admitted to inpatient 24 hour care >18 to 24 months 0.05 CI 0.00 to 0.77, NNT 3 CI 3 to 10) Fewer people in psychoanalytically oriented partial hospitalization needed day hospital intervention in the 18 months after discharge (n=44, 1 RCT, RR 0.04 CI 0.00 to 0.59, NNT 2 CI 2 to 8). More people in the control group took psychotropic medication by the 30 to 36 month follow-up, than those receiving psychoanalytic treatment (n=44, 1 RCT, RR 0.44 CI 0.25 to 0.80, NNT 3 CI 2 to 7). Anxiety and depression scores were generally lower in the psychoanalytically oriented partial hospitalization group (n=44, 1 RCT, RR >/=14 on BDI 0.52 CI 0.34 to 0.80, NNT 3 CI 3 to 6), as are global severity scores. People receiving psychoanalytic care in a day hospital had better social improvement in social adjustment using the SAS-SR at 6 to 12 months compared with people in general psychiatric care (MD -0.70 CI -1.08 to -0.32). Rates of attrition were the same (n=44, 1 RCT, RR leaving the study early 1.00 CI 0.23 to 4.42).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This review suggests that some of the problems frequently encountered by people with borderline personality disorder may be amenable to talking/behavioural treatments but all therapies remain experimental and the studies are too few and small to inspire full confidence in their results. These findings require replication in larger 'real-world' studies.

Pharmacological interventions for people with borderline personality disorder

BACKGROUND

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is prevalent (2% in the general population, 20% among psychiatry in-patients) and has a major impact on health facilities as those affected often present in crisis but then make poor use of further attempts to help them.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effects of pharmacological interventions for people with borderline personality disorder.

SEARCH STRATEGY

We conducted a systematic search of 26 specialist and general bibliographic databases (October 2002) and searched relevant reference lists for further trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included all randomised clinical trials comparing any psychoactive drugs with any other treatment for people with borderline personality disorder.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We independently selected, quality assessed and data extracted studies. For binary outcomes we calculated a standard estimation of the risk ratio (RR), its 95% confidence interval (CI), and where possible the number need to help/harm (NNT/H). For continuous outcomes, endpoint data were preferred to change data. Non-skewed data from valid scales were synthesised using a weighted mean difference (WMD).

MAIN RESULTS

We found ten small (total n=554), short, randomised studies involving eight comparisons from which we could extract usable data. Studies comparing antidepressants with placebo were small (total n=79, 2 RCTs) but for ratings of anger fluoxetine may offer some improvement for those on antidepressant therapy over placebo (n=22, 1 RCT, RR anger not improved 0.30 CI 0.10 to 0.85, NNT 2 CI 2 to 9). The one small study investigating the important outcome of attempted suicide found no difference between mianserin and placebo (n=38, 1 RCT, RR 0.82 CI 0.44 to 1.54). Haloperidol may be better than antidepressants for symptoms of hostility and psychotism. There were few differences between MAOIs and placebo except that people given MAOIs were less hostile (n=62, 1 RCT, MD -9.19 CI -16.12 to -2.26). Although some ratings were statistically significant the comparison of MAOIs with antipsychotics did not show convincing differences. Antipsychotics may effect some mental state symptoms more effectively than placebo but results are difficult to interpret clinically and there is little evidence of advantage of one antipsychotic over another. Finally mood stabilisers such as divalporex may help mental state (n=16, 1 RCT, RR no improvement in mental state 0.58 CI 0.36 to 0.94, NNT 3 CI 2 to 17) but data are far from conclusive.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Pharmacological treatment of people with BPD is not based on good evidence from trials and it is arguable that future use of medication should be from within randomised trials. Current trials suggest that the positive effect of antidepressants, in particular, could be considerable. Well designed, conducted and reported clinically meaningful trials are possible and needed with, perhaps, the question of antidepressant versus placebo being addressed first.

Assessing the pharmaceutical care needs of asthmatic patients

OBJECTIVES

To measure patients' perceptions of their care needs, by developing a tool to assess these needs and evaluate its utility in community pharmacy practice.

METHOD

A survey tool comprising 37 items was developed to assess asthmatic patients' perceptions of their health-related needs, using data from literature reviews and expert opinions. The tool was piloted on 25 patients to ensure the content of the questionnaire was valid. Changes were made following piloting and the modified tool was then tested in the main study, on 101 patients from thirteen community pharmacies in Portugal. Data from this phase were subjected to factor analysis and reliability testing.

RESULTS

118 asthmatic patients were recruited, of which 101 questionnaires were eligible for analysis. From these, 40 were male (39.6%) and 61 were female (60.4%). The mean age of respondents was 41 years (sd = 19.02). The first changes made to the survey tool included the adding of items relevant to patients recruited in the pilot and the simplification of the scaling used. The survey tool was then subjected to factor analysis and reliability testing. Six scales emerged, which described the need for GP support, specialist support, pharmacist support, nurse support, other carers' support and written support. Internal consistency was good (Cronbach's coefficient alpha ranged from 0.81 to 0.93). Although there were no significant associations between educational level and other factors, other attributes influenced the communication between pharmacist and physician (chi2 = 6.972; P = 0.031). Patients with a lower level of education (up to six years) valued communication between these two professionals more than among patients with higher education. The patient's age group was associated with an expressed need for explanation of inhaler technique (chi2 = 6.494; P = 0.039). There was extended need in both oldest and youngest patients. There was a significant difference between high and low scorers to the factor 'pharmacist's role in asthma' (F1) and patients treated by either specialist or GP (chi2 = 4.935; P = 0.026). There were differences between those who were bothered by their asthma or not and their perceptions of 'Pharmacist's ideal role in asthma' (F1 & 3) (chi2 = 5.967; P = 0.051).

CONCLUSION

The tool needs further development to ensure its validity and utility in practice. This will provide greater insight into patients' perceptions of their healthcare needs, which can allow health professionals to target their interventions. Such a tool may then be used in pharmacies that intend to change their current practice, to raise pharmacists' awareness of patients' demands. Developing ways to meet those needs will ultimately lead to an increased quality service and therefore 'client' satisfaction.

Temporal reliability of psychological assessments for patients in a special hospital with severe personality disorder: a preliminary note

BACKGROUND

The new programme for assessing those with dangerous and severe personality disorder relies heavily on psychological assessments of personality disorder and risk.

METHODS

The temporal reliability of assessments of psychopathy (PCL-R), risk (HCR-20) and personality was assessed using the International Personality Disorder Examination (IPDE) in 15 randomly selected male prisoners in a high secure hospital carried out at intervals varying between a mean of nine and 19 months after initial assessments by a variety of assessors.

RESULTS

Using the intra-class correlation coefficient the agreement varied between 0.57 (HCR-20), 0.58 (PCL-R) and 0.38-0.70 for IPDE personality disorders, with the best agreement for antisocial personality disorder (0.70).

COMMENT

These levels of agreement are consistent with other recent work on temporal reliability of personality instruments but are a little too low for confidence in these measures alone in the assessment process.

Ultrase MT12 and Ultrase MT20 in the treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in cystic fibrosis: safety and efficacy

BACKGROUND

Cystic fibrosis causes exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, leading to malabsorption. Supplemental pancreatic enzyme therapy alleviates the concomitant malnutrition experienced by cystic fibrosis patients. It is recognized that patients experience variations in clinical response to different brands of enzymes. This has prompted the US Food and Drug Administration to require that enzyme supplements be subjected to New Drug Applications.

AIM

To investigate the safety and efficacy of supplemental pancreatic enzyme therapy in cystic fibrosis subjects.

METHODS

We compared two doses of one formulation of enteric-coated pancreatic enzymes: Ultrase MT12 (12,000 lipase units per capsule) and Ultrase MT20 (20,000 lipase units per capsule), to placebo in two separate safety and efficacy studies.

RESULTS

Mean total fat, protein and carbohydrate intake did not differ significantly between the groups. A significant difference in both fat and protein absorption occurred with the enzyme therapy groups. The Ultrase MT12 and Ultrase MT20 groups experienced a mean fat and protein absorption 79.4% and 83.8%, and 87.3% and 88.6%, respectively. No adverse events related to study drug were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

This study further supports the use of enzymes to treat pancreatic insufficiency in cystic fibrosis. Excellent fat and protein absorption was achieved with minimal adverse events and safe doses.

The urokinase plasminogen activator system: a rich source of tumour markers for the individualised management of patients with cancer

The urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA) system consists of the serine protease uPA, the glycolipid-anchored receptor, uPAR, and the 2 serpin inhibitors, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and plasminogen activator inhibitor-2 (PAI-2). Recent findings suggest that uPA, uPAR and PAI-1 play a critical role in cancer invasion and metastasis. Consistent with their role in cancer dissemination, high levels of uPA, PAI-1 and uPAR in multiple cancer types correlate with adverse patient outcome. The prognostic value of uPA/PAI-1 in axillary node-negative breast cancer patients was recently validated using both a prospective randomised trial and a pooled analysis. Assay of uPA and PAI-1 may thus help identify low-risk node-negative patients for whom adjuvant chemotherapy is unnecessary. Finally, emerging data suggest that high levels of uPA and PAI-1 in breast cancer are associated with a preferential response to adjuvant chemotherapy but relative resistance to hormone therapy. The measurement of uPA components, especially in breast cancer, thus has the potential to help with individualised patient management.

Modulation of [3H] TBOB binding to the rodent GABAA receptor by simple disaccharides

We have recently reported evidence that a simple beta-linked alkylated mannose reversibly increased the magnitude of GABA(A) receptor currents evoked in cultured rat pyramidal neurons whilst concomitantly reducing the incidence of spontaneous synaptic activity. In this present study, the effects of the simple beta-linked disaccharide, lactose was investigated using a [3H] TBOB (t-[3H] butylbicycloorthobenzoate) binding assay in adult rat forebrain and cerebellum membranes. Lactose elicited a significant potentiation of [3H] TBOB binding to well-washed forebrain and cerebellar membranes (mean E(max) values=367 and 287%; mean EC(50) values=1.5 and 30 microM, respectively, N=4). The alpha-linked disaccharides, maltose and sucrose also potentiated [3H] TBOB binding, but with 100-600-fold higher EC(50) values than lactose. The lactose-mediated potentiation of [3H] TBOB in the forebrain and cerebellum was completely abolished in the presence of 0.3 microM GABA. Over the concentration range in which significant potentiation of [3H] TBOB binding was detected, lactose elicited no significant effect upon [3H] flunitrazepam binding. This study demonstrated that lactose can modulate the GABA(A) receptor channel, allosterically coupled to the agonist site, but independent of the benzodiazepine site. Furthermore, lactose displayed differential effects upon forebrain and cerebellar GABA(A) receptors indicating that it may be a novel subtype selective agent.

Desire for information about drugs: relationships with patients' characteristics and adverse effects

INTRODUCTION

Adverse effects of drugs are known to cause problems both in hospital and general practice settings, contributing to longer stays in a hospital, and increased costs of hospitalisation. By developing both a greater understanding of adverse drug reactions and effects and developing ways to reduce them will assist pharmacists in managing medicines more effectively. The aim of this study was to explore the relationships between patient characteristics, information requirements and perceptions about adverse drug effects to assist pharmacists in identifying patients most at risk of ADRs.

METHODS

The study took place on medical wards at a London teaching hospital during an eight week period in Autumn 2000. Patients were recruited using convenience sampling during the recruitment period. Once eligible patients consented to take part, standardised interviews were conducted at their bedside. The interviews included the use of the previously validated scale which measures the extent of information desired (EID), patient characteristics including age, gender, socio-economic status etc and the presence of an adverse drug effect was assessed using the Naranjo algorithm. Patients were also asked semi-structured questions to explore past and present experiences of adverse drug effects.

RESULTS

82 patients were recruited, 80 were eligible for adverse effects of drugs assessment. Fifteen percent (12/80) of patients were assessed as having "definite" and "probable" adverse drug effects, based on the Naranjo algorithm. The previously validated EID scale was found to be both valid and reliable in this patient sample. There was an association between high scores on the EID scale and the presence of an adverse drug effect (chi-squared = 4.97, p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

The results show an association between the occurrence of an adverse drug effect on admission (identified by the Naranjo scale), the experience of an adverse drug effect in the past and a patient's desire for information. The EID-scale could be developed into a useful tool for assessing and addressing patients' drug information needs for pharmacists to use when assessing adverse drug effects in everyday practice.

Active fluidization of polymer networks through molecular motors

Entangled polymer solutions and melts exhibit elastic, solid-like resistance to quick deformations and a viscous, fluid-like response to slow deformations. This viscoelastic behaviour reflects the dynamics of individual polymer chains driven by brownian motion: since individual chains can only move in a snake-like fashion through the mesh of surrounding polymer molecules, their diffusive transport, described by reptation, is so slow that the relaxation of suddenly imposed stress is delayed. Entangled polymer solutions and melts therefore elastically resist deforming motions that occur faster than the stress relaxation time. Here we show that the protein myosin II permits active control over the viscoelastic behaviour of actin filament solutions. We find that when each actin filament in a polymerized actin solution interacts with at least one myosin minifilament, the stress relaxation time of the polymer solution is significantly shortened. We attribute this effect to myosin's action as a 'molecular motor', which allows it to interact with randomly oriented actin filaments and push them through the solution, thus enhancing longitudinal filament motion. By superseding reptation with sliding motion, the molecular motors thus overcome a fundamental principle of complex fluids: that only depolymerization makes an entangled, isotropic polymer solution fluid for quick deformations.