Current treatment status of IgA nephropathy in Japan: a questionnaire survey

BACKGROUND

In 2020, the Committee of Clinical Practical Guideline for IgA Nephropathy (IgAN) revised the clinical practice guidelines. Herein, we conducted a questionnaire survey to assess the potential discrepancies between clinical practice guidelines and real-world practice in Japan.

METHODS

A web-based survey of members of the Japanese Society of Nephrology was conducted between November 15 and December 28, 2021.

RESULTS

A total of 217 members (internal physicians: 203, pediatricians: 14) responded to the questionnaire. Of these respondents, 94.0% answered that the clinical practice guidelines were referred to "always" or "often." Approximately 66.4% respondents answered that histological grade (H-Grade) derived from the "Clinical Guidelines for IgA nephropathy in Japan, 3rd version" and the "Oxford classification" were used for pathological classification. Moreover, 73.7% respondents answered that the risk grade (R-grade) derived from the "Clinical Guidelines for IgA nephropathy in Japan, 3rd version" was referred to for risk stratification. The prescription rate of renin-angiotensin system blockers increased based on urinary protein levels (> 1.0 g/day: 88.6%, 0.5-1.0 g/day: 71.0%, < 0.5 g/day: 25.0%). Similarly, the prescription rate of corticosteroids increased according to proteinuria levels (> 1.0 g/day: 77.8%, 0.5-1.0 g/day: 52.8%, < 0.5 g/day: 11.9%). The respondents emphasized on hematuria when using corticosteroids. In cases of hematuria, the indication rate for corticosteroids was higher than in those without hematuria, even if the urinary protein level was 1 g/gCr or less. Few severe infectious diseases or serious deterioration in glycemic control were reported during corticosteroid use.

CONCLUSION

Our questionnaire survey revealed real-world aspects of IgAN treatment in Japan.

Characterization of a retroreflector array for 320-GHz interferometer system in Heliotron J

A retroreflector array, composed of a cluster of small retroreflectors, is experimentally studied for application to a Michelson-type interferometer system in the fusion plasma experiment. Such a new-type reflector has the potential to be a vital and effective tool at a spatially limited location, such as on the vacuum chamber wall of plasma experimental devices. To investigate the effect of retroreflector array on the reflected beam properties, a tabletop experiment is performed with the retroreflector array composed of 4 mm corner-cube retroreflectors and with a 320-GHz (λ ∼ 0.937 mm) submillimeter wave source. An imaging camera is utilized to measure the submillimeter wave beam profile and is scanned perpendicularly to the beam propagation direction if necessary. The experimental result exhibits a diffraction effect on the reflected beam, resulting in the emergence of discrete peaks on the reflected beam profile, as predicted in the past numerical study; however, the most reflected beam power converges on the one reflected into the incident direction, resulting from a property as a retroreflector. Furthermore, the dependence of the reflected beam on the incident beam angle is characterized while fixing the detector position, and the retroreflection beam intensity is found to vary due to the diffraction effect. Such an undesired variation of beam intensity induced by the diffraction can be suppressed with a focusing lens placed in front of the detector in the practical application to an interferometer.

Global issues in obstetric anaesthesia: perspectives from South Africa, Japan, China, Latin America and North America

South Africa is classified as a low- and middle-income country, with a complex mixture of resource-rich and resource-limited settings. In the major referral hospitals, the necessary skill level exists for the management of complex challenges. However, this contrasts with the frequently-inadequate skill levels of anaesthesia practitioners in resource-limited environments. In Japan, obstetricians administer anaesthesia for 40% of caesarean deliveries and 80% of labour analgesia. Centralisation of delivery facilities is now occurring and it is expected that obstetric anaesthesiologists will be available 24 h a day in centralised facilities in the future. In China, improvements in women's reproductive, maternal, neonatal, child, and adolescent health are critical government policies. Obstetric anaesthesia, especially labour analgesia, has received unprecedented attention. Chinese obstetric anaesthesiologists are passionate about clinical research, focusing on efficacy, safety, and topical issues. The Latin-American region has different landscapes, people, languages, and cultures, and is one of the world's regions with the most inequality. There are large gaps in research, knowledge, and health services, and the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists is committed to working with governmental and non-governmental organisations to improve patient care and access to safe anaesthesia. Anaesthesia workforce challenges, exacerbated by coronavirus disease 2019, beset North American healthcare. Pre-existing struggles by governments and decision-makers to improve health care access remain, partly due to unfamiliarity with the role of the anaesthesiologist. In addition to weaknesses in work environments and dated standards of work culture, the work-life balance demanded by new generations of anaesthesiologists must be acknowledged.

Development and initial results of 320 GHz interferometer system in Heliotron J

A new 320 GHz solid-state source interferometer is installed in the Heliotron J helical device to explore the physics of high-density plasmas (ne > 2-3 × 10¹⁹ m^-3, typically) realized with advanced fueling techniques. This interferometry system is of the Michelson type and is based on the heterodyne principle, with two independent solid-state sources that can deliver an output power of up to 50 mW. A high time resolution measurement of <1 µs can be derived by tuning the frequency of one source in the frequency range of 312-324 GHz on the new system, which can realize the fluctuation measurement. We successfully measured the line-averaged electron density in high-density plasma experiments. The measured density agreed well with a microwave interferometer measurement using a different viewing chord, demonstrating that the new system can be used for routine diagnostics of electron density in Heliotron J.

Measurement of Paα line from pellet ablation cloud in Heliotron J

The Pa_α line (1875.13 nm) in the near-infrared (NIR) region was evaluated to apply Stark broadening of the line spectrum to the electron density measurement of the small-pellet ablation cloud in Heliotron J, a medium-sized helical-axis heliotron device. Pa_α is three-to-four times broader than the visible H_β line (486.13 nm) for the same electron density. Using a portable NIR spectrometer, preliminary proof-of-concept experiments determined the marginal density, below which the broadening was undetectable. The lower detection density limit can be decreased using a narrower entrance slit or a denser grating.

Detection of human coronavirus RNA in surgical smoke generated by surgical devices

BACKGROUND

Gaseous by-products generated by surgical devices - collectively referred to as 'surgical smoke' - present the hazard of transmitting infective viruses from patients to surgical teams. However, insufficient evidence exists to evaluate and mitigate the risks of SARS-CoV-2 transmission via surgical smoke.

AIM

To demonstrate the existence and infectivity of human coronavirus RNA in surgical smoke using a model experiment and to evaluate the possibility of lowering transmission risk by filtration through a surgical mask.

METHODS

Pelleted HeLa-ACE2-TMPRSS2 cells infected with human coronavirus were incised by electric scalpel and ultrasonic scalpel, separately. A vacuum system was used to obtain surgical smoke in the form of hydrosol. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to analyse samples for the presence of viral RNA, and infectivity was determined through plaque assay. Furthermore, a surgical mask was placed centrally in the vacuum line to evaluate its ability to filter viral RNA present in the surgical smoke.

FINDINGS

In this model, 1/10⁶ to 1/10⁵ of the viral RNA contained in the incision target was detected in the collected surgical smoke. The virus present in the smoke was unable to induce plaque formation in cultured cells. In addition, filtration of surgical smoke through a surgical mask effectively reduced the amount of viral RNA by at least 99.80%.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that surgical smoke may carry human coronavirus, though viral infectivity was considerably reduced. In clinical settings, surgical mask filtration should provide sufficient additional protection against potential coronavirus, including SARS-CoV-2, infection facilitated by surgical smoke.

Progression of liver fibrosis in pulmonary arterial hypertension

Background

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) causes congestive liver due to right heart failure. There are few cases of PAH that lead to liver cirrhosis, and little attention is paid to liver function in PAH patients. However, it is certain that long-term congestion due to right heart failure in PAH causes a gradual exacerbation of liver dysfunction and affects metabolic function.

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate liver fibrosis associated with the severity and prognosis of PAH.

Methods

This retrospective observational study was included 57 PAH patients and 22 control subjects. PAH patients were assigned to three risk variables according to the simplified risk stratification proposed at the 6thWSPH 2018 after measuring hemodynamic parameters using right heart catheterization, WHO functional class, 6- minutes walking distance (6MWD), and BNP plasma levels. The Fibrosis-4 (FIB4)-index, a liver fibrosis marker, was calculated using the formula: FIB-4 = Age (years) × AST (U/L) / [PLT (109/L) × ALT1/2 (U/L)], and assessed for association with severity of PAH. PAH patients were followed up for 12 years to assess the occurrence of major adverse event, such as death or lung transplantation.

Next, adult 8-week-old C57BL/6 mice were exposed to chronic hypoxia (10% O2) or normoxia for 6 weeks. Then, mice were anesthetized and performed right heart catheterization. Liver tissue was collected for histological assessment by Hematoxylin and eosin and Azan staining, and evaluated RNA expression involved in liver fibrosis by real-time PCR.

Results

The levels of FIB4-index in intermediate and high risk groups of PAH patients had significantly increased compared to those in control group. In PAH patients, FIB4-index was not obviously correlated with hemodynamic parameters, BNP, or 6MWD. Major adverse events occurred in 18 PAH patients (32%): death in 18 (100%) and lung transplant in none (0%). Kaplan-Meier curves for PAH patients with and without major adverse events were constructed based on a cut-off frequency of 2.001 for FIB4-index. During the 12-years follow-up period, major-event-free survival was significantly better in PAH patients with FIB4-index &lt;2.001 than in patients with FIB4-index &gt;2.001 (hazard ratio, 3.3; P=0.038).

In a PAH model mice, hemodynamic parameters showed that chronic hypoxia significantly increased the right ventricular systolic pressure. In histological analysis, there was no significantly difference in liver fibrosis in hypoxia or normoxia group. However, the RNA expression such as αSMA and TGFβ1 associated with liver fibrosis in PAH model mice was increased compared to control mice.

Conclusion

This study showed that the liver fibrosis gradually progressed subsurfacely with severity of PAH. Even the slight liver dysfunction may affect metabolism and cause exacerbation of PAH, so it might be necessary to pay attention to liver fibrosis as one of the risk factors of PAH.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Impact of cumulative exposure to LDL cholesterol on cardiovascular events in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia

Aims

Recent studies suggest that cumulative exposure to LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) leads to the development of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). However, few studies have investigated whether this link extends to individuals with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), a relevant patient population. We aimed to determine whether cholesterol-year-score, an indicator of cumulative exposure to LDL-C, is associated with ASCVD events among Japanese patients with FH

Methods and results

We retrospectively investigated the health records of 1,050 patients with clinical FH diagnosis who were referred to our institute between April 1990 and March 2019. We used Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for established ASCVD risk factors to assess the association between cholesterol-year-score and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), including death from any cause or hospitalization due to ASCVD events. Cholesterol-year-score was calculated as LDL-C max × [age at diagnosis / statin initiation] + LDL-C at inclusion × [age at inclusion − age at diagnosis / statin initiation]. The median follow-up period for MACE evaluation was 12.3 (interquartile range, 9.1–17.5) years, and 177 patients experienced MACEs during the observation period. Cholesterol-year-score was significantly associated with MACEs (hazard ratio [HR], 1.35; 95% confidence interval, 1.07–1.53; P=0.0034, per 1,000 mg-year/dL), independent of other traditional risk factors including age and LDL-C, based on cross-sectional assessment. Cholesterol-year-score improved the discrimination ability of other traditional risk factors for ASCVD events (C-index, 0.901 versus 0.889; P=0.00473).

Conclusion

Cumulative LDL-C exposure was strongly associated with MACEs in Japanese patients with FH, warranting early diagnosis and treatment initiation in these patients.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.

Development of a multi-channel 320 GHz interferometer for high density plasma measurement in Heliotron J

We report the development of a new interferometer with two stable, high-power, 320 GHz solid-state sources in Heliotron J. A heterodyne Michelson interferometer optical scheme is employed. Two solid-state oscillators are utilized as sources with a fixed frequency at 320 GHz and frequency tunable of 312-324 GHz. Quasi-optical techniques are used for beam transmission. The beam is elongated in the vertical direction with two off-axis parabolic mirrors and injected into the plasma as a sheet beam for the multi-channel measurement (>5 ch.). Passing through the plasma, the beam is reflected at a retroreflector-array installed at the vacuum chamber wall. The retroreflector-array is a bunch of retroreflector structures, which can suppress the beam refraction caused by plasma without much space inside a vacuum chamber unlike a single retroreflector and can facilitate the system design. The source, detectors, and the retroreflector-array are tested to evaluate their basic performance on a tabletop experiment.

Difference in surgical outcomes of rectal cancer by study design: meta-analyses of randomized clinical trials, case-matched studies, and cohort studies

Background

RCTs are considered the standard in surgical research, whereas case-matched studies and propensity score matching studies are conducted as an alternative option. Both study designs have been used to investigate the potential superiority of robotic surgery over laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer. However, no conclusion has been reached regarding whether there are differences in findings according to study design. This study aimed to examine similarities and differences in findings relating to robotic surgery for rectal cancer by study design.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane CENTRAL to identify RCTs, case-matched studies, and cohort studies that compared robotic versus laparoscopic surgery for rectal cancer. Primary outcomes were incidence of postoperative overall complications, incidence of anastomotic leakage, and postoperative mortality. Meta-analyses were performed for each study design using a random-effects model.

Results

Fifty-nine articles were identified and reviewed. No differences were observed in incidence of anastomotic leakage, mortality, rate of positive circumferential resection margins, conversion rate, and duration of operation by study design. With respect to the incidence of postoperative overall complications and duration of hospital stay, the superiority of robotic surgery was most evident in cohort studies (risk ratio (RR) 0.83, 95 per cent c.i. 0.74 to 0.92, P < 0.001; mean difference (MD) –1.11 (95 per cent c.i. –1.86 to –0.36) days, P = 0.004; respectively), and least evident in RCTs (RR 1.12, 0.91 to 1.38, P = 0.27; MD –0.28 (–1.44 to 0.88) days, P = 0.64; respectively).

Conclusion

Results of case-matched studies were often similar to those of RCTs in terms of outcomes of robotic surgery for rectal cancer. However, case-matched studies occasionally overestimated the effects of interventions compared with RCTs.

Presenteeism among workers: health-related factors, work-related factors and health literacy

BACKGROUND

Presenteeism is an important factor in workers' health. However, few studies have examined how variables such as socio-economic status, health status, workplace status and health literacy correlate with and affect presenteeism.

AIMS

To assess the correlates of presenteeism with a focus on health-related factors, work-related factors and health literacy.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 2914 Japanese workers from one company. We used a self-administered questionnaire to assess socio-demographic characteristics, health status, work environment, presenteeism and health literacy.

RESULTS

Forty-one per cent of participants were under 40 years of age and 70% were male. We found that 59% of the participants were at high risk of presenteeism. Presenteeism was associated with sex, age, household income, marital status, health-related factors (i.e. self-rated health status, dietary choices, exercise habits), work-related factors (i.e. workplace support, job demands, job control) and health literacy. Logistic regression analyses indicated that presenteeism was associated with self-rated health status, overtime hours, workplace support, job demands, job control and health literacy after adjusting for sex, age and income.

CONCLUSIONS

Health-related factors, work-related factors and health literacy are all associated with presenteeism. Improving the workplace environment, especially factors such as overtime working hours, workplace support, job demands and job control, and increasing health literacy may reduce presenteeism among general office workers.

Prognostic impact of cascade screening for familial hypercholesterolemia on cardiovascular events

Background

Early diagnosis and timely treatment for the patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) can substantially lower the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). In this sense, cascade screening could be one of the most useful options. However, few data exist regarding the impact of cascade screening for FH on the reduction of risk of ASCVD events.

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the prognostic impact of cascade screening for FH.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated the health records of 1,050 patients with clinically diagnosed FH, including probands and their relatives who were cascade-screened. We used Cox models that were adjusted for established ASCVD risk factors to assess the association between cascade screening and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). The median period of follow-up was 12.3 years (interquartile range [IQR] = 9.1–17.5 years), and MACE included death from any causes or hospitalization due to ASCVD events.

Results

During the observation period, 246 participants experienced MACE. The mean age of patients identified through cascade screening was 18-years younger than that of the probands (38.7 yr vs. 57.0 yr, P&lt;0.001), with a lower proportion of ASCVD risk factors. Interestingly, patients identified through cascade screening under milder lipid-lowering therapies were at reduced risk for MACE (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.36; 95% CI = 0.22 to 0.60; P&lt;0.001) when compared with the probands, even after adjusting for those known risk factors.

Conclusions

The identification of patients with FH via cascade screening appeared to result in better prognoses.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): Scientific research grants from the Ministry of Education, Science and Culture of Japan (no. 16K19394, 18K08064, and 19K08575)

Nerve growth factor receptor is involved in maintaining homeostasis of pulmonary arterial hypertension

Introduction

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), characterized by vascular remodeling, is still disease with poor prognosis although many pulmonary vasodilators have been developed, and new mechanism of treatment for PAH is desired. Nerve growth factor receptor (Ngfr) is known to relate to inflammatory reaction and repair process in the damaged tissue. We have reported that Ngfr is associated to vascular remodeling in patients with acute coronary syndrome. However, it is unclear how Ngfr is involved in the pathogenesis of PAH.

Purpose

In this study, we investigated whether Ngfr relate to pathophysiology in PAH.

Methods

We estimated the frequency of Ngfr positive cells (% Ngfr+) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from PAH and non-PAH patients using flowcytometric analysis. In PAH patients, the hemodynamic parameters such as mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP), pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), and cardiac index (CI) were obtained by right heart catheterization, and evaluated for correlation with the % Ngfr+.

Next, adult 8-week-old C57BL/6 (WT) mice and Ngfr knock out (KO) mice were exposed to chronic hypoxia (10% O2) or normoxia for 6 weeks. Then, mice were anesthetized and performed echocardiography and right heart catheterization. Then, mice were exsanguinated and blood sample was collected to evaluate the % Ngfr+ by flow cytometry. Right ventricular weight was measured and lung tissue was also collected for histological assessment and molecular pathway profiling.

Results

PAH (n=24) patients and non-PAH patients (n=17) were enrolled. The % Ngfr+ was significantly higher in PAH patients than that in non-PAH patients (0.056% versus 0.019%, p&lt;0.0001). In PAH patients, the % Ngfr+ was correlated with severity of hemodynamic parameters such as mPAP (R=0.64 p&lt;0.001), PVR (R=0.62 p&lt;0.005), and CI (R=−0.48 p&lt;0.05).

In WT mice, chronic hypoxia significantly increased the right ventricular systolic pressure and induced vascular medial thickness and fibrosis around the pulmonary artery. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that the % Ngfr+ was significantly increased in the hypoxia compared to that in the normoxia. Under hypoxic conditions, the right ventricular systolic pressure was significantly increased in Ngfr KO mice compared to that in WT mice. In histological analysis, hypoxia-induced peripheral vascular fibrosis and medial thickness was more severe in Ngfr KO than that in WT mice.

Conclusion

Circulating Ngfr-positive cells are associated with severity of PAH in patients. In the hypoxia-induced PH model, gene deletion of Ngfr shows the progression of the pathogenesis of PAH. These results suggest that circulating Ngfr-positive cells have an important role in the pathogenesis of PAH and may be a novel target for PAH therapy.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Effect of chest-compression-only bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation on the likelihood of initial shockable rhythm after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: a propensity matching analysis

Background/Introduction

Shockable rhythm after cardiac arrest is highly expected after early initiation of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) owing to increased coronary perfusion. However, the relationship between bystander CPR and initial shockable rhythm in patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) remains unclear. We hypothesized that chest-compression-only CPR (CC-CPR) before emergency medical service (EMS) arrival has an equivalent effect on the likelihood of initial shockable rhythm to the standard CPR (chest compression plus rescue breathing [S-CPR]).

Purpose

We aimed to examine the rate of initial shockable rhythm and 1-month outcomes in patients who received bystander CPR after OHCA.

Methods

The study included 59,688 patients (age, ≥18 years) who received bystander CPR after an OHCA with a presumed cardiac origin witnessed by a layperson in a prospectively recorded Japanese nationwide Utstein-style database from 2013 to 2017. Patients who received public-access defibrillation before arrival of the EMS personnel were excluded. The patients were divided into CC-CPR (n=51,520) and S-CPR (n=8168) groups according to the type of bystander CPR received. The primary end point was initial shockable rhythm recorded by the EMS personnel just after arrival at the site. The secondary end point was the 1-month outcomes (survival and neurologically intact survival) after OHCA. In the statistical analyses, a Cox proportional hazards model was applied to reflect the different bystander CPR durations before/after propensity score (PS) matching.

Results

The crude rate of the initial shockable rhythm in the CC-CPR group (21.3%, 10,946/51,520) was significantly higher than that in the S-CPR group (17.6%, 1441/8168, p&lt;0.0001) before PS matching. However, no significant difference in the rate of initial shockable rhythm was found between the 2 groups after PS matching (18.3% [1493/8168] vs 17.6% [1441/8168], p=0.30). In the Cox proportional hazards model, CC-CPR was more negatively associated with the initial shockable rhythm before PS matching (unadjusted hazards ratio [HR], 0.97; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94–0.99; p=0.012; adjusted HR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.89–0.94; p&lt;0.0001) than S-CPR. After PS matching, however, no significant difference was found between the 2 groups (adjusted HR of CC-CPR compared with S-CPR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.94–1.00; p=0.09). No significant differences were found between C-CPR and S-CPR in the 1-month outcomes after PS matching as follows, respectively: survival, 8.5% and 10.1%; adjusted odds ratio, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.79–1.00; p=0.07; cerebral performance category 1 or 2, 5.5% and 6.9%; adjusted odds, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.74–1.00; p=0.052.

Conclusions

Compared with S-CPR, the CC-CPR before EMS arrival had an equivalent multivariable-adjusted association with the likelihood of initial shockable rhythm in the patients with OHCA due to presumed cardiac causes that was witnessed by a layperson.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: None

Splenic sarcoid reaction mimicking metachronous metastasis in patients after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer: a case report and literature review

Background

The occurrence of sarcoid reactions has been recognized in various cancers. The common location for observing these granulomas is mainly the lymph nodes, but a rare occurrence in the spleen has been reported.

Almost all splenic sarcoid reactions associated with gastric cancer have been resected synchronously and diagnosed accidentally, and a rare metachronous occurrence of a sarcoid reaction in the spleen after distal gastrectomy can mimic cancer metastasis. We describe a rare case of a splenic sarcoid reaction recognized in a patient with gastric cancer 6 months after distal gastrectomy.

Case presentation

An 82-year-old man underwent laparoscopic distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer (T3N0M0, stage IIA). Six months after gastrectomy, CT and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-PET/CT showed the appearance of a splenic mass. We diagnosed solitary splenic metastasis from gastric cancer and performed laparoscopic-assisted splenectomy. His splenic tumor was diagnosed as a sarcoid reaction by histopathological examination.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report of a splenic sarcoid reaction recognized 6 months after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer without any chemotherapy. The splenic sarcoid reaction and cancer metastasis to the spleen were undistinguishable from the CT and FDG-PET/CT findings. The present case and literature review showed that cases of splenic sarcoid reactions associated with gastric cancer can also be accompanied by the occurrence of these granulomas in lymph nodes. When the appearance of a solitary mass is observed in the spleen after resection of primary cancer, it is necessary to consider not only cancer metastasis but also sarcoid reactions. Retrospective histopathological confirmation of the existence of sarcoid reactions in lymph nodes from resected specimens might possibly avoid incorrect diagnosis and intervention.

Early and noninvasive diagnosis using serological antigen biomarkers in chronic invasive fungal rhinosinusitis

Background: Chronic invasive form of fungal rhinosinusitis (FRS) is characterized by the invasion of fungal organisms into the sinonasal mucosa in the background of diabetes mellitus and corticosteroid treatment. Although the histopathology has traditionally been used to make a proven diagnosis of invasive fungal infections, the dependence on tissue samples and the slow turnaround time hamper the early confirmation of such infections. Methodology: This is a retrospective case series conducted over 6 years. All patients with a chronic course and immunosuppressive background of FRS diagnosed by radiologic imaging and treated with endoscopic sinus surgery were eligible for inclusion. Data were collected through medical records, including basic characteristics, symptoms and signs, imaging findings, laboratory investigations, pathology, treatment, and outcomes. Results: Fifteen patients with chronic course and immunosuppressive background of FRS diagnosed by radiologic imaging were identified. High values of 1,3-b-D-glucan (BDG) assay were recognized in 5 patients, whereas the other 10 patients with negative findings in the BDG assay showed sinus mycetomas. All the 5 patients showing significant elevations of serum BDG showed positive findings in the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), but only 2 patients were positive in the histopathology. The findings of the BDG assay were consistent with those of the PCR method, which was superior in sensitivity to the histopathology. Conclusion: We first applied BDG assay as a diagnostic tool for chronic invasive FRS. The BDG assay may be useful to distinguish chronic invasive FRS, including its early stage, from noninvasive mycetoma, contributing to timely treatment.

Laparoscopic treatment in a patient with median arcuate ligament syndrome identified at the onset of superior mesenteric artery dissection: a case report

Background

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS) is a rare clinical entity caused mainly by extrinsic compression of the celiac axis by the median arcuate ligament (MAL). Severe celiac artery stenosis can lead to the development of collateral circulation, aneurysms, and, rarely, superior mesenteric artery (SMA) dissection. The treatment of MALS involves the surgical release of the MAL. However, a standard procedure with the use of laparoscopy has not been established, and intraoperative complications can lead to severe vascular injury.

Case presentation

The patient was a 43-year-old man with MALS identified at the onset of SMA dissection. After treatment for the SMA dissection, he underwent laparoscopic MAL release. Using the technique of laparoscopic gastrectomy within the surgical field, we performed laparoscopic MAL release and ganglionectomy safely with a good view. Immediate symptomatic improvement was acquired, and no recurrence was observed at the 20-month follow-up.

Conclusion

We reported a rare case of MALS and SMA dissection. A horizontal 3D laparoscopic approach of the celiac axis allows for safe, meticulous, and radical MAL release and ganglionectomy.

P1703Impact of prehospital epinephrine administration and quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation on neurologically intact survival in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients with non-shockable rhythm

Background

The effects of prehospital epinephrine administration in combination with the quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) on neurological outcomes in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients with non-shockable rhythm remains unclear.

Purpose

This study aimed to elucidate the effects of prehospital epinephrine administration in combination with the quality of CPR on neurologically intact survival in OHCA patients with non-shockable rhythm.

Methods

We analysed 118,732 adult OHCA patients with non-shockable rhythm from the All-Japan OHCA registry between 2011 and 2016 (29,989 emergency medical service [EMS]-witnessed arrests with EMS-initiated CPR [high-quality CPR] and 88,743 bystander-witnessed arrests with bystander-initiated CPR continued by EMS providers [low-quality CPR]). Patients who achieved prehospital return of spontaneous circulation without prehospital epinephrine administration were excluded. The primary outcome measure was 1-month neurologically intact survival (cerebral performance category 1 or 2; CPC 1–2). Time from collapse to prehospital epinephrine administration for patients with prehospital epinephrine administration, or to hospital arrival for patients without prehospital epinephrine administration was calculated and adjusted collectively in multivariate logistic regression analysis for 1-month CPC 1–2.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the time from collapse to prehospital epinephrine administration or to hospital arrival was negatively associated with 1-month CPC 1–2 (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.95 per 1-minute increment, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.94–0.96). Compared with bystander-witnessed arrests without prehospital epinephrine administration, EMS-witnessed arrests with or without prehospital epinephrine administration were significantly associated with increased chances of 1-month CPC 1–2 (adjusted OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.50–2.75 and adjusted OR 1.97, 95% CI 1.57–2.48, respectively). Prehospital epinephrine administration was significantly associated with an increased chance of 1-month CPC 1–2 among bystander-witnessed arrests (adjusted OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.24–1.98), but not among EMS-witnessed arrests. EMS-witnessed arrests without prehospital epinephrine administration were significantly associated with an increased chance of 1-month CPC 1–2 compared with bystander-witnessed arrests with prehospital epinephrine administration (adjusted OR 1.26, 95% CI 1.01–1.56).

Conclusions

High-quality CPR is crucial for increasing neurologically intact survival in OHCA patients with non-shockable rhythm. The additional beneficial effects of prehospital epinephrine administration were observed only among OHCA patients with low-quality CPR.

P6159The efficacy of heart rate reduction with bisoprolol transdermal patch prior to coronary computed tomography angiography

Background

Oral or intravenous beta-blockers have commonly been used to control the heart rate (HR) prior to coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA). However, the administration after arrival at the hospital was time-consuming, and could not achieve the target heart rate in several cases. Moreover, the efficacy of transdermal beta blockers in HR control for patients who underwent CCTA have not been fully reported.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to clarify the usefulness of the bisoprolol patch prior to the arrival at the hospital in HR control for patients who underwent CCTA.

Methods

A total of 282 consecutive patients (160 male, age 64±12 years) who underwent CCTA were included in this study. The bisoprolol transdermal patch (8mg) was administered before arrival at the hospital in 191 patients (beta group), and no additional medication was administered in 91 patients (control group). Intravenous landiolol hydrochloride was administered when HR remained over 65 bpm on arrival at the hospital. The HR on arrival, during and after CCTA was evaluated.

Results

The baseline HR was significantly higher in the beta group (80±15 vs. 72±15, P<0.0001). However, the achievement rate of HR ≤65 bpm on arrival was significantly higher in the beta group (56.5% vs. 44.0%, P=0.047). Thus, additional treatment with intravenous landiolol hydrochloride was administered to 43.5% of the patients in the beta group and 56.0% of those in the control group. There were no significant differences in the HR during and after CCTA between the 2 groups. Multivariate analysis revealed that the use of bisoprolol transdermal patch (OR, 3.54; 95% CI 1.67–7.51, P=0.001) and the baseline HR (OR, 0.91; 95% CI 0.89–0.94, P<0.0001) were significant predictors of the achievement rate of HR ≤65 bpm on arrival. There were no serious adverse effects throughout CCTA in all patients.

Conclusions

The administration of bisoprolol transdermal patch before arrival at the hospital was useful for HR control and reduced the rate of additional intravenous treatment in patients who underwent CCTA.

P649Validation of clinical diagnostic criteria of familial hypercholesterolemia in Japan: evidence from a comprehensive genetic analysis

Background

Although awareness of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is increasing, this common, potentially fatal, treatable condition remains underdiagnosed. Japanese clinical diagnostic criteria of FH include LDL cholesterol level ≥180 mg/dl, Achilles tendon thickness (ATT) ≥9.0 mm, and family history of FH or premature coronary disease. Despite FH being a genetic disorder, genetic testing is rarely used, few data exist regarding the validation of those criteria, especially, by studies using comprehensive genetic analyses.

Methods

This study included 680 subjects (344 men, mean LDL cholesterol = 175 mg/dl) who underwent the full assessments for FH, including LDL cholesterol measurement, Achilles tendon X-ray, investigations for family history, and comprehensive genetic analyses on FH-associated genes (LDL receptor, PCSK9, APOB, and LDLRAP1) in our University Hospital since 2006 to 2018. The area under curve (AUCs) of receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses predicting FH-mutation positive were compared among those determined by each component.

Results

ROC analyses revealed the optimal cutoff LDL cholesterol value for predicting the presence of FH-mutation was 181 mg/dl, and that of ATT was ≥7.0 mm. AUCs of each component (ATT, LDL cholesterol, and family history) were 0.827, 0.889, and 0.906, respectively, and the combination of all components increased it to 0.975. When adopting ATT ≥7.0 mm as one of the clinical diagnostic criteria, 13 individuals (2%) were newly classified as true-FH, whereas, 27 (4%) individuals were newly misclassified as FH.

Conclusion

The current Japanese clinical diagnostic criteria of FH were pretty well validated in our independent cohort. However, the threshold of ATT could be lowered to 7.0 mm to raise the sensitivity of its criteria.

5227Effects of witness status and time to cardiopulmonary resuscitation by emergency medical services on neurological outcomes in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients with non-shockable rhythm

Background

Data on the effects of witness status and time from an emergency call to initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) by emergency medical service (EMS) providers on neurological outcome in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patients with non-shockable rhythm according to the first documented rhythm are limited.

Purpose

We aimed to determine the effects of witness status and time from an emergency call to CPR initiation by EMS providers on neurologically intact survival in OHCA patients according to the type of non-shockable rhythm (pulseless electrical activity [PEA] and asystole).

Methods

We analysed the records of 583,431 adult OHCA patients with non-shockable rhythm (191,905 bystander-witnessed arrest and 391,526 unwitnessed arrest). Data were derived from the prospectively recorded All-Japan OHCA registry between 2011 and 2016. Call to EMS-CPR interval was defined as the time from an emergency call to CPR initiation by EMS providers. The primary outcome was 1-month neurologically intact survival (cerebral performance category 1 or 2; CPC 1–2) and secondary outcome was presence of PEA.

Results

The rates of 1-month CPC 1–2 were 1.21% (2,326/191,905) for bystander-witnessed arrest and 0.24% (959/391,526) for unwitnessed arrest. When divided into 4 groups based on witness status and initial documented rhythm, these rates were 2.42% (1,869/77,190) for bystander-witnessed arrest with PEA (group A), 0.40% (457/114,715) for bystander-witnessed arrest with asystole (group B), 1.51% (679/44,926) for unwitnessed arrest with PEA (group C) and 0.08% (280/346,600) for unwitnessed arrest with asystole (group D). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed each 1-min delay of Call to EMS-CPR interval to be significantly associated with decreased chances of 1-month CPC 1–2 for groups A, B and D (adjusted odds ratio [OR]: 0.95, 0.91 and 0.96, respectively; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.93–0.96, 0.88–0.94 and 0.93–0.99, respectively). However, for group C, there was no significant relationship between these variables (adjusted OR: 1.00; 95% CI: 0.98–1.02). The proportion of PEA was 40.2% (77,190/191,905) for bystander-witnessed arrest and 11.5% (44,926/391,526) for unwitnessed arrest. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that, as Call to EMS-CPR interval lengthened (per 1-min delay), the number of OHCA patients with PEA decreased for bystander-witnessed arrest (adjusted OR: 0.94; 95% CI: 0.93–0.94) and for unwitnessed arrest (adjusted OR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.96–0.97).

Conclusions

The 1-month CPC 1–2 rate differed by witness status and initial documented rhythm in OHCA patients with non-shockable rhythm. Shortening of Call to EMS-CPR interval is crucial for improving 1-month CPC 1–2 rate and sustaining PEA, particularly in bystander-witnessed arrest.

P1535Clinical impact of carotid plaque score rather than carotid intima-media thickness on atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease

Background

Carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) assessed by ultrasound has been widely accepted as a surrogate marker of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, carotid plaque score (cPS) reflecting throughout the carotid artery plaque burden may be better marker.

Methods

We retrospectively examined 2,035 patients who underwent carotid ultrasonography between January 2006 and December 2015 at our University Hospital. Median follow-up period was 4 years. We used Cox models that adjusted for established risk factors of ASCVD, including age, gender, hypertension, diabetes, smoking, and serum lipids to assess the association of cIMT as well as cPS with major adverse cardiac events (MACE). MACE was defined as all-cause mortality or rehospitalization for a cardiovascular-related illness

Results

During follow-up, 243 participants experienced MACE. After adjustment for established risk factors, cPS was associated with MACE (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.38 for top quintile vs. bottom quintile of cPS; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.82 to 6.27; P-trend = 1.4×10–8), while cIMT was not (HR = 0.88, P=0.57). Addition of the cPS to established risk factors significantly improved risk discrimination (C-index 0.726 vs. 0.746; P=0.017)

Conclusion

As a marker, cPS, rather than cIMT can identify 20% of individuals who are at more than three-fold increased risk for MACE. Targeting diagnostic or therapeutic interventions to this subset may prove clinically useful.

Abstract P1-03-02: ASCO/CAP human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) in situ hybridization (ISH) categories evaluated by quantitative HER2 protein diagnostic methodologies: A comparative analysis

Background: In 2013, the ASCO/CAP consensus panel published updated guidelines for HER2 testing in breast cancer that modified the definition of HER2 amplification by in situ hybridization (ISH), creating five new prognostic categories (group 1: classic amplified, group 2: monosomy, group 3: co-amplified (polysomy), group 4: equivocal, and group 5: classic non-amplified). Patients determined to be ISH amplified, were considered eligible for HER2-directed therapy. Concern over whether patients from non-classic groups 2-4 would benefit from treatment has led to the recent publication of the 2018 HER2 focused update. This update has modified the criteria for interpreting these ISH categories, recommending that the final diagnosis take into consideration a combination of HER2 immunohistochemistry (IHC) and ISH results. With increased emphasis on the HER2 protein assessment, it has prompted us to quantitatively examine HER2 protein expression in the ISH categories, using two different novel technologies. Materials & Methods: A cohort of 170 cases (URMC) and 102 cases (PSHMC) of invasive breast cancers, which had previously undergone HER2 IHC and ISH testing, were selected for this study. Cases were sorted and categorized into the HER2 ISH categories defined by ASCO/CAP. HER2 protein expression was quantitatively measured in the URMC and PSHMC cohorts using a novel immunodetection methodology (streptavidin-coated Phosphor-Integrated Dot (PID) fluorescent nanoparticles), and a novel dual-antibody, proximity-binding immunoassay (HERmark® Breast Cancer Assay, Monogram Biosciences, South San Francisco, California), respectively. HER2 protein expression was compared to the HER2 FISH and IHC results by ASCO/CAP category. Results: Cases in group 1 had a significantly (p &lt; 0.01) higher average PID/cell and HERmark compared to cases in groups 2-5 (Table 1). Cases in groups 2-4 showed lower quantitative levels of HER2 protein expression, similar to the classic non-amplified cases (group 5). Group 1 was further divided into three subgroups (Table 2): Group A - ISH high-level amplified (ratio &gt; 2, HER2 &gt; 6, CEP17 &lt; 2.7), Group B - amplified with elevated CEP17 (ratio &gt; 2, CEP17 &gt; 2.7), and Group C - low-level amplified (ratio &gt; 2, HER2 &gt; 4 and &lt; 6). Group A and B had a significantly (p &lt; 0.01) higher average PID/cell and HERmark compared to Group C. Group C was more comparable to cases in groups 2-5 (Table 1). Conclusion: Our results suggest that quantitative assessment of HER2 protein expression may help to further classify cases for HER2 status for targeted therapy, supporting the 2018 ASCO/CAP recommendation that non-classic ISH results might be resolved by evaluating protein expression. Follow up studies with a larger patient cohort and dual quantitative assessment are warranted.

Average PID/cell and HERmark in ASCO category groupsASCO category groupN (URMC)PID/cell (URMC)*N (PSHMC)HERmark (PSHMC)*18888.07761.521011.20N/A32016.0213.84238.5315.95296.3208.3*averageTable 2:Average PID/cell and HERmark in subgroups of Group 1SubgroupN (URMC)PID/cell (URMC)*N (PSHMC)HERmark (PSHMC)*A24157.66465.7B34101.61044.1C3016.9329.8*average

Citation Format: Buscaglia B, Turner B, Goda H, Huang W, Leitzel K, Natori T, Nakano Y, Okada H, Sperinde J, Ali S, Vasekar M, D'Aguiar M, McMahon L, Henry J, Lipton A, Hicks D. ASCO/CAP human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2) in situ hybridization (ISH) categories evaluated by quantitative HER2 protein diagnostic methodologies: A comparative analysis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-03-02.

Risk factors for decreased teicoplanin trough concentrations during initial dosing in critically ill patients

Aim of the study: Here, we investigated the risk factors for decreased teicoplanin plasma trough concentrations relative to the initial dosing in critically ill patients. Patients and methods: Data obtained from 80 eligible critically ill patients who received intravenous teicoplanin were retrospectively analyzed. Risk factors for decreases in teicoplanin trough concentrations 72 h after administration of teicoplanin of more than 30% relative to predicted concentrations based on initial dosing setting were identified by logistic regression analysis. Results: Although prediction trough concentration and total dose of two days no significant differences were seen between the variation group and the non-variation group, actual trough concentration was significantly different between two groups (19.9±5.6 μg/ml vs 10.3±2.2 μg/ml, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, serum albumin ≤ 2.2 mg/dl (odds ratio [OR] = 3.003, 95% CI 1.072-8.408; p = 0.036) and SOFA score ≥ 9 (OR = 3.498, 95% CI 1.171-10.450; p = 0.025) were significant risk factors for decreased teicoplanin plasma trough concentrations. Conclusion: In critically ill patients, high SOFA score and low serum albumin were risk factors for decreased teicoplanin plasma trough concentration during initial dosing.

Application of portable near-infrared spectrometer to Heliotron J plasma diagnostics

A simple near-infrared (NIR) spectrometer with a wavelength range of 898-2130 nm has recently been applied to diagnose Heliotron J plasmas. It adopts a symmetrical crossed Czerny-Turner mount equipped with a thermoelectrically cooled 512 channel InGaAs linear sensor. Reciprocal linear dispersion was deduced to 96.37 nm/mm at the center of the detector. External filters can be inserted into the path of the collection optics to reject second-order spectra, as needed. Absolute intensity calibration was performed together with a visible spectrometer using a tungsten halogen lamp, and the effect of the transmittance fringe in the visible region of the applied long-pass filter on the NIR calibration was investigated. The intended application of the NIR spectrometer includes extending the wavelength region of a spectral monitor to less contaminated regions for Heliotron J plasma studies. In preliminary measurements, we observed the Paschen series for the hydrogen pellet injection plasma and two atomic helium lines, i.e., 2S-2P singlet and triplet lines, in helium gas puffing experiments. A continuum spectrum in this regime that is attributable to black-body radiation from hot spots on the plasma-facing components was identified. In addition, this may also be used to monitor background radiation in the YAG-Thomson scattering signals near 1064 nm.

EVALUATION OF PATIENT EXPOSURE IN FAST kVp SWITCHING DUAL ENERGY COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY: PHANTOM STUDY

The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of size specific dose estimates (SSDE) to estimate patient dose in Fast kVp switching dual energy CT. An anthropomorphic phantom (RAN-110) was repeatedly scanned (chest, abdomen and the pelvis) using a 64 detector row MDCT (Discovery CT750 HD, GE Healthcare, Milwaukee, WI, USA) with various CT parameters, including Fast kVp switching. Dosimetry was performed using thermo-luminescent dosimeters, positioned both superficially and within the phantom. SSDE was calculated for all slices of the anthropomorphic phantom using both the localiser and axial images. In Fast kVp switching, SSDE underestimated the measured absorbed dose for the chest/abdomen region ~35% at the maximum, but were in closer agreement for the pelvic region about within 10%. In single energy techniques, SSDE could not be applied in the estimation of organ doses, but in Fast kVp switching dual energy techniques, SSDE could be applied for anatomical regions with larger thicknesses.

Risk factors for the failure of treatment of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia in critically ill patients

Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteremia is associated with high morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. In this study, we assessed risk factors for clinical failure of first definitive therapy for P. aeruginosa bacteremia in critically ill patients. All patients with P. aeruginosa bacteremia who entered the intensive care unit in Gifu University Hospital from January 2006 to December 2015 were retrospectively identified from electronic records. Risk factors associated with clinical failure of the first definitive therapy for P. aeruginosa bacteremia were analyzed by logistic regression analysis. A total of 28 patients were enrolled in the analysis. On multivariate analysis, severe burns (odds ratio [OR] = 70.9, 95% CI 2.9-1720.3; p = 0.009) and SOFA score ≥ 10 (OR = 28.5, 95% CI 1.1-754.3; p = 0.045) were significant factors in the clinical failure of first definitive therapy for P. aeruginosa bacteremia. The clinical success rate of first definitive therapy was significantly reduced in patients with these risk factors compared with those without them (p < 0.001). Severe burns and a SOFA score (≥ 10) were significant risk factors associated with the clinical failure of first definitive therapy for P. aeruginosa bacteremia in critically ill patients. We therefore recommend the use of therapeutic drug monitoring to optimize antibiotic dosing in these critically ill patients.

Abstract P4-08-07: PIK3CA mutation, reduced AKT serine 473 phosphorylation, and increased ERα serine 167 phosphorylation are positive prognostic indicators in postmenopausal estrogen receptor-positive, HER2-negative early breast cancer

Background: Endocrine therapy is the most important treatment option for women with estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast cancer. We recently reported that approximately two-thirds of patients who relapsed within 5 years had received anthracyclins and/or taxanes as adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy in addition to adjuvant endocrine therapy. New strategies, such as signal transduction inhibitors together with endocrine therapy are required to improve survival. PIK3CA mutations are detected in almost 40% of early ER-positive breast cancers, and are therefore the most frequent genetic alterations in this subtype. PIK3CA mutation status is reported to affect activation of AKT and ERα. Moreover, recent studies demonstrate that patients had a better prognosis when tumors expressed ER, androgen receptor (AR), and vitamin D receptor (VDR).

Methods: Expression of AR and VDR, phosphorylation of AKT serine (Ser) 473 (AKT phospho-Ser473) and ERα Ser167 (ERα phospho-Ser167) were examined by immunohistochemistry in ER-positive, HER2-negative early breast cancer tissues. Seventeen mutations in exons 1, 4, 7, 9, and 20 of the PIK3CA gene were detected in genomic DNA extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor blocks. Correlations between these biological markers and clinicopathological factors and prognosis were analyzed separately in pre- and postmenopausal women.

Results: Levels of AKT phospho-Ser473 were significantly higher in premenopausal women (n = 62) than in postmenopausal women (n = 152) (P &lt; 0.0001 and P = 0.014, respectively). In contrast, expression levels of AR were significantly higher in postmenopausal women than in premenopausal women (P &lt; 0.0001). In premenopausal women, 26 tumors (43%) had a single mutation of PIK3CA gene, and 3 tumors (5%) had mutations at two sites. In postmenopausal women, 64 tumors (44%) had a single PIK3CA mutation, 6 tumors (4%) had mutations at two sites, and one tumor (1%) had mutations at three sites. In premenopausal women, wild type PIK3CA was associated with smaller tumor size, higher ER expression levels, and lower AR expression levels when compared with women in the same cohort with PIK3CA mutant tumors. In postmenopausal women, patients with PIK3CA wild-type tumors had higher Ki67 labeling index, higher AKT phospho-Ser473, and lower ERα phospho-Ser167 when compared to patients with PIK3CA mutant tumors. Postmenopausal women with PIK3CA wild-type tumors had significantly worse disease-free survival than patients with PIK3CA mutant tumors (P = 0.007). In contrast, PIK3CA mutation status was not correlated with survival in premenopausal women. Low levels of AKT phospho-Ser473 and high levels of ERα phospho-Ser167 were strongly associated with increased disease-free survival in postmenopausal women (P = 0.016 and P = 0.0016, respectively).

Conclusion: ERα activation, in addition to PIK3CA mutation, may be biomarkers for highly endocrine-responsive tumors. This would facilitate the selection of postmenopausal ER-positive breast cancer patients who are likely to benefit from endocrine therapy alone from those who are not.

Citation Format: Ishida N, Hatanaka Y, Baba M, Hagio K, Okada H, Hatanaka KC, Matsuno Y, Yamashita H. PIK3CA mutation, reduced AKT serine 473 phosphorylation, and increased ERα serine 167 phosphorylation are positive prognostic indicators in postmenopausal estrogen receptor-positive, HER2-negative early breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-08-07.

Next-generation sequencing for patients with non-obstructive azoospermia: implications for significant roles of monogenic/oligogenic mutations

Azoospermia affects up to 1% of adult men. Non-obstructive azoospermia is a multifactorial disorder whose molecular basis remains largely unknown. To date, mutations in several genes and multiple submicroscopic copy-number variations (CNVs) have been identified in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia. The aim of this study was to clarify the contribution of nucleotide substitutions in known causative genes and submicroscopic CNVs in the genome to the development of non-obstructive azoospermia. To this end, we conducted sequence analysis of 25 known disease-associated genes using next-generation sequencing and genome-wide copy-number analysis using array-based comparative genomic hybridization. We studied 40 Japanese patients with idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia. Functional significance of molecular alterations was assessed by in silico analyses. As a result, we identified four putative pathogenic mutations, four rare polymorphisms possibly associated with disease risk, and four probable neutral variants in 10 patients. These sequence alterations included a heterozygous splice site mutation in SOHLH1 and a hemizygous missense substitution in TEX11, which have been reported as causes of non-obstructive azoospermia. Copy-number analysis detected five X chromosomal or autosomal CNVs of unknown clinical significance, in addition to one known pathogenic Y chromosomal microduplication. Five patients carried multiple molecular alterations. The results indicate that monogenic and oligogenic mutations, including those in SOHLH1 and TEX11, account for more than 10% of cases of idiopathic non-obstructive azoospermia. Furthermore, this study suggests possible contributions of substitutions in various genes as well as submicroscopic CNVs on the X chromosome and autosomes to non-obstructive azoospermia, which require further validation.