Achievement of Target Gain Larger than Unity in an Inertial Fusion Experiment

On December 5, 2022, an indirect drive fusion implosion on the National Ignition Facility (NIF) achieved a target gain G_{target} of 1.5. This is the first laboratory demonstration of exceeding "scientific breakeven" (or G_{target}>1) where 2.05 MJ of 351 nm laser light produced 3.1 MJ of total fusion yield, a result which significantly exceeds the Lawson criterion for fusion ignition as reported in a previous NIF implosion [H. Abu-Shawareb et al. (Indirect Drive ICF Collaboration), Phys. Rev. Lett. 129, 075001 (2022)PRLTAO0031-900710.1103/PhysRevLett.129.075001]. This achievement is the culmination of more than five decades of research and gives proof that laboratory fusion, based on fundamental physics principles, is possible. This Letter reports on the target, laser, design, and experimental advancements that led to this result.

Lawson Criterion for Ignition Exceeded in an Inertial Fusion Experiment

For more than half a century, researchers around the world have been engaged in attempts to achieve fusion ignition as a proof of principle of various fusion concepts. Following the Lawson criterion, an ignited plasma is one where the fusion heating power is high enough to overcome all the physical processes that cool the fusion plasma, creating a positive thermodynamic feedback loop with rapidly increasing temperature. In inertially confined fusion, ignition is a state where the fusion plasma can begin "burn propagation" into surrounding cold fuel, enabling the possibility of high energy gain. While "scientific breakeven" (i.e., unity target gain) has not yet been achieved (here target gain is 0.72, 1.37 MJ of fusion for 1.92 MJ of laser energy), this Letter reports the first controlled fusion experiment, using laser indirect drive, on the National Ignition Facility to produce capsule gain (here 5.8) and reach ignition by nine different formulations of the Lawson criterion.

Recommendations for a standardised educational program in robot assisted gynaecological surgery: Consensus from the Society of European Robotic Gynaecological Surgery (SERGS)

BACKGROUND

The Society of European Robotic Gynaecological Surgery (SERGS) aims at developing a European consensus on core components of a curriculum for training and assessment in robot assisted gynaecological surgery.

METHODS

A Delphi process was initiated among a panel of 12 experts in robot assisted surgery invited through the SERGS. An online questionnaire survey was based on a literature search for standards in education in gynaecological robot assisted surgery. The survey was performed in three consecutive rounds to reach optimal consensus. The results of this survey were discussed by the panel and led to consensus recommendations on 39 issues, adhering to general principles of medical education.

RESULTS

On review there appeared to be no accredited training programs in Europe, and few in the USA. Recommendations for requirements of training centres, educational tools and assessment of proficiency varied widely. Stepwise and structured training together with validated assessment based on competencies rather than on volume emerged as prerequisites for adequate and safe learning. An appropriate educational environment and tools for training were defined. Although certification should be competence based, the panel recommended additional volume based criteria for both accreditation of training centres and certification of individual surgeons.

CONCLUSIONS

Consensus was reached on minimum criteria for training in robot assisted gynaecological surgery. To transfer results into clinical practice, experts recommended a curriculum and guidelines that have now been endorsed by SERGS to be used to establish training programmes for robot assisted surgery.

Abstract P2-14-12: Impact of the time interval between neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery in Latin-Americans breast cancer patients

Background: Few studies have evaluated the impact of the time interval between neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) and surgery in breast cancer. In Latin America, where the vast majority of hospitals are oversaturated, it is important to define which patients to give priority and to be clear about ideal time or maximum to schedule surgery after NAC without altering the prognosis. The objective of this work is to establish the ideal time interval for post-neoadjuvant surgery and evaluate the impact on patient survival.

Methods: We reviewed the clinical histories of breast cancer with clinical stage II and III who received NAC between 2005 and 2014. Patients were divided into 3 groups according to the time interval to surgery: <4, 4-8 and >8 weeks. Overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and comparisons of survival curves using the logrank or Breslow test, both globally and by molecular subtypes. The optimal time to surgery has been determined by the Cox model.

Results: During the study period, 583 patients who had post NA surgery before six months were registered. The median age was 49 years (range: 24-85), 82% had clinical stage III, 53% histological grade III, 32.7% were luminal A, 15.6% luminal B, 24.4% Her2 and 27.3% TN. According to the time interval to surgery, 67 (11.5%) patients had surgery before 4 weeks, 204 (35.0%) between 4 to 8 weeks, and 312 (53.5%) after 8 weeks. The groups do not present differences in relation to the clinical characteristics (p> 0.05). The median follow-up time was 4.8 years. The 5-year OS rate according to the time interval was 57.9, 61.5, and 62.7% (p = 0.581) and the RFS rate was 40.6, 52.3, and 51.1% (p = 0.411). No differences were found in the survival curves by molecular subtypes , except for luminal b like . In the multivariate analysis, the effect of the time interval to surgery was not significant in OS and RFS; however, the HR curve suggests that the appropriate cut-off point for surgical time would be 8 weeks.

Table 1:Time Interval :OS - RFS  RFS  OS  MEDIAN5 - yearsPMEDIAN5 - yearsPWeeks for NAC to Surgery      <4 weeks3.240.6 6.157.9 4-8 weeks6.352.3 9.161.5 >8 weeks5.151.10.416.762.70.581       Weeks for NAC to Surgery      <8 weeks549.5 9.160.7 >8 weeks5.151.10.5856.762.70.414

Table 2 :Time Interval - Molecular Subtype  RFS  OS  MEDIAN5 - yearsPMEDIAN5 - yearsPLUMINAL A LIKE      < 8 weeks----74.1 ----84 >8 weeks7.163.80.719.973.90.236       *LUMINAL B LIKE      < 8 weeks2.336.8 5.460.5 >8 weeks5.857.60.46----820.08       HER2      <8 weeks2.228.7 3.938.4 >8weeks3.645.90.57.26.261.30.616       TRIPLE NEGATIVE      <8 weeks3.144.2 3.448.4 >8 weeks2.041.80.9143.743.90.516* ER + PR >20% KI67>14% , HER2 NEGATIVE

Conclusion: The time interval between the end of neoadjuvant period and surgery has no impact on recurrence-free survival or on overall survival, despite this we suggest that the period of time between neoadjuvant and surgery not be greater than 8 weeks. More studies will be required to determine the ideal time interval and which cases should be prioritized according to the characteristics of our patients.

Citation Format: Rebaza LP, Galarreta JA, Castañeda C, Cotrina JM, Vilchez S, de la Cruz M, Ponce J, Aguilar A, Flores C, Castillo M, Galvez M, Vigil C. Impact of the time interval between neoadjuvant chemotherapy and surgery in Latin-Americans breast cancer patients [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 P2-14-12.

Abstract P6-09-04: Predictive factors for considering to avoid axillar lymphadenectomy in selected node positive breast cancer patients after neoadjuvant chemotherapy

Background:

To perform a systematic axillar lymphadenectomy (ALND) in clinical node positive (N+) patients after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is currently under discussion. We aimed to study which factors are related to a pathological complete axillar response (ypN0) after NACT in order to select which patients could benefit from a sentinel lymph node biopsy without interfering with survival.

Material and methods

N+ patients who underwent ALND after NACT between June 2008 and December 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. Clinical features, molecular and histological factors, recurrence and specific mortality rates were compared between patients achieving a complete pathological axillary response vs not (ypN0 vs ypN+).

Results

345 N+ patients were reviewed. After NACT, 137 (39.6%) become ypN0[CF1] , 9 (2.6%) ypN1 mic, 113 (32.7%) ypN1, 60 (17.3%) ypN2 and 22 (6.4%) N3. Univariate analysis results regarding the predictive factors for ypN0 are detailed in [table 1]. Multivariate analyses showed molecular subtype (TN and Her2+) and clinical response as independent predictors of ypN0 [table 2]. After a mean follow-up of 58 months, overall survival was statistically superior in ypN0 vs ypN1 (p= 0.001).

Table 1.Predictive factors for ypN0 YpN0 (n = 137)YpN+ (n = 208)pAge (mean, years)58.3 ± 13.2758.59 ± 12.340.799BMI (mean)27.8±5.4927.8±5.360.973Dosis of QT (median)(%)  0.575IIA6 (31.6)13 (68.4) IIB71 (39.3)110 (60.8) IIIA28 (36.8)48 (63.2) IIIB24 (43.6)31 (56.4) IIIC7 (58.3)5 (41.7) Radiological image(%)  0.930Nodule77 (38.1)125 (61.9) Non-mass distortion10 (43.5)13 (56.5) Radiological size (median)32 (0-115)29 (0-130)0.246Suspicious a-LN by US(%)  0.486130 (30.9)37 (24.3) 25 (5.2)14 (9.2) >257 (58.8)91 (59.9) Histological subtype(%)  0.093Invasive Ductal Carcinoma133 (40.9)192 (59.1) Invasive Lobular Carcinoma2 (20)8 (80) Others2 (22.2)7 (78.8) Nottingham grade(%)  <0.001G11 (6.2)15 (93.8) G244 (28.6)110 (71.4) G386 (53.4)75 (46.6) Molecular-like subtype(%)  <0.001Luminal A-like2 (5.3)36 (94.7) Luminal B-like (Her2 -)21(18.1)95 (81.9) Luminal B-like (Her2 +)40 (63.5)23 (36.5) HER-2 enriched (non luminal)43 (74.1)15 (25.9) Triple Negative31 (44.9)38 (55.1) Vascular invasion19 (42.2)26 (57.8)0.889Clinical Response(%)  <0.001Complete61 (75.3)20 (24.7) Partial69 (31.8)148 (68.2) No response6 (20.7)23 (79.3) Progression1 (10)9 (90) Percentage are given per row.

Table 2.Multivariate analysis logistic regression of clinical predictive factors of ypN0. OR95% Confidence Intervalp valueMolecular subtype   No-luminal vs Luminal7,7483,913-15,343<0,001Clinical response   Response vs not response6,8491,834-25,5710,04OR: Odd ratio. No-luminal includes: luminal B (HER2 +), HER2 Henriched and triple negative. Luminal includes: Luminal A and Luminal B (HER2 -).

Conclusions

A remarkable percentage of N+ became ypN0 after NATC. Molecular subtype and complete clinical response were independent predictive factors of ypN0. We propose to offer the benefit of a targeted axillary procedure in those patients.

Citation Format: Fernandez-Gonzalez S, Falo Zamora C, Nuñez D, Vethencourt A, Pla MJ, Soler T, Guma A, Perez X, Gil M, Ponce J, Garcia A. Predictive factors for considering to avoid axillar lymphadenectomy in selected node positive breast cancer patients after neoadjuvant chemotherapy [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 P6-09-04.

Abstract P3-13-07: Is radiofrequency ablation better than lumpectomy for margin status in breast cancer? Results of a randomized clinical trial

PURPOSE: To study the safety and efficacy of ultrasound-guided percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) as local treatment for breast cancer and to intraoperatively evaluate the margin status after RFA in comparison with lumpectomy.

MATERIAL and METHODS: Preliminary in vitro RF ablation experimentation with two mastectomy specimens was performed to test the electrode, practice the ultrasound technique and evaluate the macroscopic and microscopic effects of RF. Then, aprospective, randomized open-label phase II clinical trial (NCT02281812) was conducted in a single institution from 2013-2017. Forty subjects, mean age 64 (range 46-86), with ductal infiltrating carcinoma of the breast ≤2 cm were randomly assigned to RFA plus lumpectomy or lumpectomy alone. Margin status, tumor cell viability (TCV) after RFA (by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and Cytokeratin 18 (CK18) staining), adverse events and local recurrences were evaluated by univariable and multivariable analyses (SPSS statistical software).

RESULTS: In the experimental design with mastectomies, the only procedural complication was a skin burn at the entrance site of the electrodes. We learned that the tip of the electrodes should cut cross the tumor by at least 10mm.

The clinical trial includes two groups: study group (n=20) and control group (n=20). NADH and CK18 staining demonstrated absence of TCV after RFA with at least one of the two techniques. The percentage of intraoperatively affected surgical margins was higher in the control group although local adverse effects after surgery was higher in the RFA treatment arm. Three study subjects presented local infection (two had partial irradiation of the breast) and none in the control group. Median follow up was 25 months (range 1–83). No recurrence or second surgery was required during the study period.

Outcomes RFA group (n = 20)Control group (n=20)p valueSpecimen weight (median, gr)42 (24-80)27 (11-60)0.004Specimen volume (median, ml)369 (259-847)201 (100-602)0.004Positive margin (intraoperative)4/20 (20%)11/20 (55%)0.022Pathological size (median, mm)11.5 (5-20)10.5 (6-16)0.07Local Adverse effect8/20 (40%)1/20 (5%)0.01Breast Inflammation5/20 (25%)1/20 (5%)0.182Breast Infection3/20 (15%)0/20 (0%)0.23RFA: radiofrequency ablation. n=number of subjects

CONCLUSION: RFA seems effective in the cases considered and could be more accurate than lumpectomy in terms of obtaining more free margins. Surgical excision associated with RFA leads to a higher amount of local adverse effects, especially if combined with partial irradiation of the breast. RFA could be considered as a less invasive treatment in tumors smaller than 20 mm; however, this warrants further investigation.

Citation Format: Garcia-Tejedor A, Guma A, Soler T, Valdivieso A, Petit A, Contreras N, Chappuis CG, Falo C, Pernas S, Anselem A, Fernandez-Montoli E, Pla MJ, Burdio F, Ponce J. Is radiofrequency ablation better than lumpectomy for margin status in breast cancer? Results of a randomized clinical trial [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 P3-13-07.

Abstract P2-08-58: Prognostic factors of survival in node positive breast cancer patients after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in a large series after 5y follow-up: Can response overcome the poor prognosis of nodal stage?

Background: Status of the axilla is one of the most significant prognostic factors in breast cancer (BC) patients. On the other hand, response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is related to survival. The aim of the present study is to analyze which prognostic factors impact most on Node positive (N+) BC patient survival after NATC. Material and methods: Retrospective analyses on a series of N+ BC patients treated with NATC based on anthracyclines and taxanes +/- trastuzumab if HER2 positive tumors, between June 2008 and December 2016. Clinical, radiological and pathological outcomes have been evaluated. Residual cancer burden (RCB) 1 and the neoadjuvant response index (INR) 2 have been recorded. Survival was calculated with Kaplan-Meier survival curve since the start of NATC to the first documented disease recurrence (DFS) or death (OS). Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% CIs were estimated with cox proportional hazards regression analysis and subgroups were compared with a two-sided log-rank test. Results: A total of 345 N+ BC patients were included. Pathological complete response was achieved in 72 (20.8%) patients. After NACT, 137 (39.6%) become ypN0, 9 (2.6%) ypN1 mic, 113 (32.7%) ypN1, 60 (17.3%) ypN2 and 26 (7.6%) N3. Those independent predictive factor of ypN0 were molecular subtype (TN and Her2+) with OR: 7.7, p<0.001 and clinical response with OR 6.88, p: 0.04. At a mean follow-up of 58 months there have been 73 (21.1%) recurrences: 9 (2.3%) local, 45 (13%) systemic, 15 (4.3%) systemic+ local, 3 (0.9%) axilla, 1 (0.3%) supraclavicular. The estimated 5y OS was 87.8%. The univariate analysis according to DSF is detailed in Table1.

Adjusted univariate anaalysis cox regression of clinical and pathological factors of desease free survivalBMI10.989-1.010.963AGE0.9960.953-1.0420.876Dose NATC0.9940.979-1.0080.402Clinical Stage1.4021.077-1.8260.012Rx Image1.260.803-1.9940.311Rx size1.0090.995-1.0240.217Number suspicious ALN1.0950.801-1.4970.57Molecular subtype TN,HER20.8800.534-1.450.616Nottinghan grade1.0460.753-1.4530.789Histological subtype1.4651.044-2.0570.27MOlecular subtype1.1510.956-1.3850.137Vascular invasion1.6761.137-24710.009Clinical response2.3691.709-3.284<0.001Fibrosis tumor bed0.980.972-0.989<0.001Nodal fibrosis>50%1.7950.874-3.6860.111Pathological tumoral response1.6861.175-2.4180.005ypN03.561.853-6.838<0.001NRI0.330.192-0.565<0.001RCB1.2741.106-1.4680.001

In the multivariate model those parameters that were independently prognostic were clinical response HR: 5.44 (IC95% 2.275-13.042, p<0.001) and clinical stage HR: 2.364 (IC95% 1.018-5.490, p: 0.045). Conclusions: The most significant prognostic factor in our N+ series was response to NATC, followed by clinical stage. Those independently predictive factors of axillar response (ypN0) were molecular subtype (TN and Her2+) and clinical response. In conclusion, in those patients with chemo sensitive tumors, lymphadenectomy could be safely spared with a more selective axillary approach.

Citation Format: Fernandez S, Garcia A, Vethencourt A, Vazquez S, Petit A, Pla MJ, Ortega R, Pérez J, Gil M, Ponce J, Pernas S, Lopez A, Falo C. Prognostic factors of survival in node positive breast cancer patients after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in a large series after 5y follow-up: Can response overcome the poor prognosis of nodal stage? [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 P2-08-58.

Decreased Esophageal Sensitivity to Acid in Morbidly Obese Patients: A Cause for Concern?

Background/Aims

To evaluate esophageal sensitivity to acid between morbidly obese (MO) patients and non-MO controls with abnormal esophageal acid exposure.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 58 patients: 30 MO (cases) and 28 non-MO (controls). Esophageal symptoms and esophageal sensitivity to 0.1 M hydrochloric acid solution (Bernstein test) were compared between MO and non-MO patients with a prior diagnosis of abnormal esophageal acid exposure.

Results

MO patients were less symptomatic than non-MO controls (14% vs 96%; odds ratio [OR], 0.006; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.001 to 0.075; p=0.000). MO patients were more likely to present with decreased esophageal sensitivity to the instillation of acid than non-MO controls (57% vs 14%; OR, 8; 95% CI, 1.79 to 35.74; p=0.009). Subgroup analysis revealed no differences in esophageal sensitivity in MO patients with and without abnormal esophageal acid exposure (43% vs 31%; p=0.707).

Conclusions

Silent gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common among MO individuals, likely due to decreased esophageal sensitivity to acid. The absence of typical GERD symptoms in these patients may delay discovery of precancerous conditions, such as Barrett’s esophagus. We believe that these patients may require a more aggressive diagnostic work-up to rule out the presence of silent GERD.

Abstract P5-09-08: Molecular evaluation of Peruvian patients with hereditary breast cancer reveals a novel germline mutation in BRCA1

Background

Breast cancer is the leading cancer in women worldwide, while in Peru is the second most frequent cancer with a high incidence of triple negative breast cancers (21%). There is no previous information about BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations in Peruvian high-risk breast cancer patients. Prior studies from International diagnostic laboratories only presented results of our population as a pooled Hispanic data. Our aim was to characterize mutations in BRCA1/BRCA2 genes in Peruvian patients with breast cancer with hereditary patterns.

Methods

We evaluated mutations in BRCA1/BRCA2 genes by Sanger sequencing and large genomic rearrangements by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) in 18 families with hereditary breast cancer criteria identified at the Breast Unit of Oncosalud-AUNA (Lima-Peru). Molecular analysis was done in the facilities of Genetics and Molecular Biology Center at the San Martin de Porres University (Lima-Peru).

Results

Sequencing identified 4 pathogenic mutations in 4/18 families, three previously detected (BRCA1: c.302-1G>C y c.815_824dup10; BRCA2: c.5946delT) and a novel germline mutation in exon 15 of BRCA1 (c.4647_4648dupAA, ClinVar SCV000256598.1) producing a frameshift variant. MLPA revealed 2 amplifications in exon 7 (duplication and triplication) in BRCA1 in unrelated patients with potential pathogenic effects, one of this co-existed with the BRCA2: c.5946delT mutation. In addition, three variants of uncertain significance were found (c.140G>T, in exon 5 of BRCA1 and c.464G>A and c.938C>T in exon 5 and 10 of BRCA2, respectively).

Conclusions

After a comprehensive evaluation we found an alteration rate of 27.8% (5/18) in BRCA1/BRCA2 in families with criteria for hereditary breast cancer. We reported BRCA1 c.4647_4648dupAA as a novel mutation. Further studies including a larger sample size of Peruvian patients should evaluate the prevalence or founder effect of this mutation in our population.

Citation Format: Ponce J, Vigil C, Araujo JM, Castañeda C, Calderon G, Buleje JL, Acosta O, Danos P, Huaman F, Guevara-Fujita ML, Aguilar A, Pinto JA, Gomez HL, Fujita R. Molecular evaluation of Peruvian patients with hereditary breast cancer reveals a novel germline mutation in BRCA1 [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 P5-09-08.

Prevalence of severe esophagitis in Spain. Results of the PRESS study (Prevalence and Risk factors for Esophagitis in Spain: A cross-sectional study)

BACKGROUND

*N.P. and M.P. contributed equally to this study.The current prevalence of esophagitis in southern Europe is unknown. In addition, the risk factors for reflux esophagitis are not fully understood.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this article is to assess the prevalence and risk factors for esophagitis in Spain.

METHODS

A prospective, observational, cross-sectional, multicenter study (PRESS study) was conducted among 31 gastrointestinal endoscopy units throughout Spain. A total of 1361 patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy were enrolled. Sociodemographic, clinical and treatment data were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 95% of patients were Caucasian and 52% were male (mean age: 53 ± 17 years). The most frequent symptoms prompting endoscopy were heartburn (40%), regurgitation (26%) and dysphagia (15%). Fifty-four percent of patients undergoing endoscopy were receiving proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment. Esophagitis (mainly mild-moderate) was present in 154 (12.4%) patients. The severe form was recorded in only 11 (0.8%) patients. Multivariate analysis results indicated that the likelihood of esophagitis was higher in men (OR = 1.91, 95% CI = 1.31-2.78), in patients with high GERD-Q scores (OR = 1.256, 95% CI = 1.176-1.343), weight increase (OR = 1.014, 95% CI = 1.003-1.025) and high alcohol consumption (OR = 2.49, 95% CI = 1.16-5.36).

CONCLUSION

Severe esophagitis is a rare finding in the Spanish population. Male gender, high GERD-Q score, weight increase and high alcohol consumption are main risk factors for its appearance.

Risk of upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding in patients taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, antiplatelet agents, or anticoagulants

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or low-dose aspirin is associated with increased risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. There is little evidence on the risk of lower gastrointestinal bleeding with NSAIDs, antiplatelet agents (APAs), or anticoagulants. We aimed to quantify the relative risk (RR) of upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding associated with use of NSAIDs, APAs, or anticoagulants.

METHODS

We performed a case-control study that used data collected from consecutive patients hospitalized for gastrointestinal bleeding (563 upper, mean age, 63.6 ± 16.7 years and 415 lower, mean age, 70.8 ± 13.8 years), confirmed by endoscopy or other diagnostic procedures. Unhospitalized patients were used as controls (n = 1008) and matched for age, hospital, and month of admission. Drug use was considered current when taken within 7 days or less before hospitalization. RRs and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated by unconditional logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

Use of anticoagulants, low-dose aspirin, and other drugs (non-aspirin-APA, 82.3% thienopiridines) was associated with upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding; the risk was 2-fold higher for anticoagulants (RR, 4.2; 95% CI, 2.9-6.2) than for low-dose aspirin (RR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.4-3.3) or other non-aspirin-APA drugs (RR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.6-2.6). NSAID use was also associated with increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and greater for upper (RR, 2.6; 95% CI, 2.0-3.5) than lower gastrointestinal bleeding (RR, 1.4; 95% CI, 1.0-1.9). Use of proton pump inhibitors was associated with reduced risk of upper, but not lower, gastrointestinal bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Anticoagulants, low-dose aspirin, NSAIDs, and other non-aspirin-APA drugs are associated with increased risk of upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Use of anticoagulants appears to be the strongest risk factor for gastrointestinal bleeding.

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in inactive Crohn’s disease: Influence of thiopurine and biological treatment

AIM: To investigate the influence of thiopurines and biological drugs on the presence of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) in patients with inactive Crohn’s disease (CD).

METHODS: This was a prospective study in patients with CD in remission and without corticosteroid treatment, included consecutively from 2004 to 2010. SIBO was investigated using the hydrogen glucose breath test.

RESULTS: One hundred and seven patients with CD in remission were included. Almost 58% of patients used maintenance immunosuppressant therapy and 19.6% used biological therapy. The prevalence of SIBO was 16.8%. No association was observed between SIBO and the use of thiopurine Immunosuppressant (12/62 patients), administration of biological drugs (2/21 patients), or with double treatment with an anti-tumor necrosis factor drugs plus thiopurine (1/13 patients). Half of the patients had symptoms that were suggestive of SIBO, though meteorism was the only symptom that was significantly associated with the presence of SIBO on univariate analysis (P < 0.05). Multivariate analysis revealed that the presence of meteorism and a fistulizing pattern were associated with the presence of SIBO (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Immunosuppressants and/or biological drugs do not induce SIBO in inactive CD. Fistulizing disease pattern and meteorism are associated with SIBO.

Outcomes of peptic ulcer bleeding following treatment with proton pump inhibitors in routine clinical practice: 935 patients with high- or low-risk stigmata

OBJECTIVE

To assess rates of further bleeding, surgery and mortality in patients hospitalized owing to peptic ulcer bleeding.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Consecutive patients hospitalized for peptic ulcer bleeding and treated with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) (esomeprazole or pantoprazole) were identified retrospectively in 12 centers in Spain. Patients were included if they had high-risk stigmata (Forrest class Ia-IIb, underwent therapeutic endoscopy and received intravenous PPI ≥120 mg/day for ≥24 h) or low-risk stigmata (Forrest class IIc-III, underwent no therapeutic endoscopy and received intravenous or oral PPI [any dose]).

RESULTS

Of 935 identified patients, 58.3% had high-risk stigmata and 41.7% had low-risk stigmata. After endoscopy, 88.3% of high-risk patients and 22.1% of low-risk patients received intravenous PPI therapy at doses of at least 160 mg/day. Further bleeding within 72 h occurred in 9.4% and 2.1% of high- and low-risk patients, respectively (p < 0.001). Surgery to stop bleeding was required within 30 days in 3.5% and 0.8% of high- and low-risk patients, respectively (p = 0.007). Mortality at 30 days was similar in both groups (3.3% in high-risk and 2.3% in low-risk patients).

CONCLUSION

Among patients hospitalized owing to peptic ulcer bleeding and treated with PPIs, patients with high-risk stigmata have a higher risk of further bleeding and surgery, but not of death, than those with low-risk stigmata.

Instability of the faecal microbiota in diarrhoea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome

The irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder with a largely unknown aetiology and a wide range of symptoms. Most cross-sectional studies carried out so far suggest subtle alterations in the structure of the intestinal microbiota that are barely reproduced, partly because of the high inter-subject variation in the community composition and disorder-specific features. We performed a longitudinal study to explore the within-subject variation in the faecal microbiota in two patients with IBS classified into the diarrhoea subtype and the healthy spouse of one of them. Faecal communities were monitored over 6-8 weeks and analysed through metagenomic and metatranscriptomic approaches. We found a higher temporal instability in the fraction of active microbiota related to the IBS condition and fluctuating symptoms. Strong and quick shifts in the distribution of the active microbiota and changes in the global pattern of gene expression were detected in association with acute diarrhoea, whereas microbial composition and encoded functions were more stable. The specific alterations in the microbiota were barely reproduced within and between patients. Further research is needed to assess whether these changes are a consequence of the abnormal gut function in acute diarrhoeic episodes and the potential usefulness of tackling them.

[Prevalence and characteristics of anemia and iron deficiency in patients hospitalized for gastrointestinal diseases in Spain]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence and characteristics of anemia and iron deficiency in patients hospitalized for gastrointestinal diseases.

METHODS

An epidemiological, multicenter, mixed design study (retrospective review of randomized clinical records and prospective visits) conducted between February 2010 and March 2011 in 22 Spanish gastroenterology departments. Severe anemia was defined as Hb < 10g/dL, mild/moderate as Hb ≥ 10g/dL, and iron deficiency as ferritin < 30ng/ml or transferrin saturation < 16%.

RESULTS

We included 379 patients. The mean±SD age was 57±19 years and 47% were men. The prevalence of anemia at admission was 60% (95% CI 55 to 65), and anemia was severe (Hb <10g/dl) in half the patients. The prevalence of iron deficiency was 54% of evaluable patients (95% CI 47 to 61). Gastrointestinal bleeding at admission was found in 39% of the patients, of whom 83% (121/146) were anemic. At discharge, the proportion of anemic patients was unchanged (from 60% at admission to 58% at discharge) (95% CI 53 to 63) and iron deficiency was found in 41% (95% CI 32 to 50): anemia was severe in 17% and mild/moderate in 41%. During follow-up, at 3-6 months after admission, 44% (95% CI 39 to 50) of evaluable patients continued to have iron deficiency and 28% (95% CI 23 to 32) were still anemic: 5% severe and 23% mild/moderate. The prevalence of iron deficiency was 44% (95% CI: 39-50). During admission, 50% of patients with anemia did not receive treatment. At discharge, 55% were untreated.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of anemia in patients hospitalized for gastroenterological diseases was very high. Anemia persisted in over a quarter of patients at the follow-up visit. Only half of hospitalized patients received treatment for anemia, even when the anemia was severe.

Effect of proton pump inhibitors on the outcomes of peptic ulcer bleeding: comparison of event rates in routine clinical practice and a clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

To assess clinical outcomes in patients treated with proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) after endoscopic hemostasis in routine clinical care, and to compare these outcomes to those seen in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) of i.v. esomeprazole.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with peptic ulcer bleeding and endoscopic stigmata of recent hemorrhage, who were treated with i.v. esomeprazole or pantoprazole ≥120 mg/day following therapeutic endoscopy, were identified from 12 hospitals in Spain (n = 539). Outcomes assessed included further bleeding, all-cause mortality and surgery. The results were compared to those of the RCT.

RESULTS

Overall, 9.1% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 6.7-11.5) of patients experienced further bleeding within 72 h following initial endoscopy, 14.3% (95% CI: 11.3-17.2) of patients had further bleeding within 30 days and 3.3% (95% CI: 1.8-4.9) of patients died within 30 days. In the RCT, the rate of rebleeding within 72 h was significantly lower in the esomeprazole arm (5.9%) than in the placebo arm (10.3%; p = 0.026). The further bleeding rate in patients treated with esomeprazole in routine clinical practice (7.8%; 95% CI: 4.6-11.1) was between these two values. Similar results were seen with the other outcomes studied.

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of patients treated with i.v. esomeprazole in routine clinical practice who experienced further bleeding following endoscopic treatment for peptic ulcer bleeding was between the rates observed in the esomeprazole group and the placebo group in the RCT.

One year intermittent rifaximin plus fibre supplementation vs. fibre supplementation alone to prevent diverticulitis recurrence: a proof-of-concept study

BACKGROUND

Evidence supporting appropriate medical therapy to prevent recurrence of colonic diverticulitis is limited. Our goal was to evaluate the potential of rifaximin given periodically in addition to fibre for the prophylaxis of recurrences.

METHODS

We conducted a multicentre, randomized, open controlled study in patients with a recent episode of colonic diverticulitis, currently in remission. Patients received 3.5 g of high-fibre supplementation b.d. with or without one week per month of the non-absorbable antibiotic rifaximin (400 mg b.d.) for 12months. Primary endpoint was recurrence of diverticulitis, encompassing acute symptomatic flare with or without complications, analyzed by multivariable logistic regression analysis and by Cox proportional hazard method.

RESULTS

After randomizing 165 patients, the study was interrupted since the recruitment rate was largely below the minimum anticipated, and the trial was switched from evidence-gathering to proof-of-concept. Recurrences occurred in 10.4% of patients given rifaximin plus fibres vs. 19.3% of patients receiving fibres alone. The logistic analysis adjusted for sex, age, illness duration, time from last episode, disease localization and centre recruitment rate, yielded a significant treatment effect (odds ratio 3.20; 95% confidence interval: 1.16-8.82; P=0.025). Patients with diverticulitis diagnosed since ≥1 year receiving rifaximin also had a lower incidence of recurrences (10%; 95% confidence interval: 2-47% vs. 67%; 95% confidence interval: 37-100%). Both treatments were safe.

CONCLUSIONS

This study represents a proof-of concept of the efficacy of cyclic rifaximin treatment, added to fibre supplements, to reduce the risk of recurrences of diverticulitis in patients in remission.

Clinical usefulness of adherence to gastro-esophageal reflux disease guideline by Spanish gastroenterologists

AIM: To investigate usefulness of adherence to gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) guideline established by the Spanish Association of Gastroenterology.

METHODS: Prospective, observational and multicentre study of 301 patients with typical symptoms of GERD who should be managed in accordance with guidelines and were attended by gastroenterologists in daily practice. Patients (aged > 18 years) were eligible for inclusion if they had typical symptoms of GERD (heartburn and/or acid regurgitation) as the major complaint in the presence or absence of accompanying atypical symptoms, such as dyspeptic symptoms and/or supraesophageal symptoms. Diagnostic and therapeutic decisions should be made based on specific recommendations of the Spanish clinical practice guideline for GERD which is a widely disseminated and well known instrument among Spanish in digestive disease specialists.

RESULTS: Endoscopy was indicated in 123 (41%) patients: 50 with alarm symptoms, 32 with age > 50 years without alarm symptom. Seventy-two patients (58.5%) had esophagitis (grade A, 23, grade B, 28, grade C, 18, grade D, 3). In the presence of alarm symptoms, endoscopy was indicated consistently with recommendations in 98% of cases. However, in the absence of alarm symptoms, endoscopy was indicated in 33% of patients > 50 years (not recommended by the guideline). Adherence for proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) therapy was 80%, but doses prescribed were lower (half) in 5% of cases and higher (double) in 15%. Adherence regarding duration of PPI therapy was 69%; duration was shorter than recommended in 1% (4 wk in esophagitis grades C-D) or longer in 30% (8 wk in esophagitis grades A-B or in patients without endoscopy). Treatment response was higher when PPI doses were consistent with guidelines, although differences were not significant (95% vs 85%).

CONCLUSION: GERD guideline compliance was quite good although endoscopy was over indicated in patients > 50 years without alarm symptoms; PPIs were prescribed at higher doses and longer duration.

Structured management strategy based on the Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) Questionnaire (GerdQ) vs. usual primary care for GERD: pooled analysis of five cluster-randomised European studies

BACKGROUND

Response to treatment among primary care patients with gastro-oesophageal disease (GERD) is variable.

AIM

The GERD Management Project (GMP) evaluated the effectiveness of a structured management approach to GERD vs. standard treatment (usual care).

METHODS

Data from five cluster-randomised clinical trials in adult primary care patients with symptoms of GERD were pooled. The structured pathway was based on the self-administered GERD Questionnaire (GerdQ) and was compared with standard treatment.

RESULTS

1734 patients were enrolled (structured treatment, n=834; standard treatment, n=900). The difference in the mean GerdQ score change from baseline favoured the structured pathway (-0.61; 95% CI: -0.88, -0.34; p<0.001). The odds ratio for an indication for treatment revision at the end of follow-up (structured vs. standard treatment) was 0.39 (95% CI: 0.29, 0.52; p=0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Management of primary care patients with GERD can be improved by systematic stratification of patients using a patient management tool such as the GerdQ.

A review of unmet needs in obesity management

The prevalence of obesity continues to escalate in the USA; however, there is no consensus regarding the optimal therapy for obesity. For the vast majority of severely obese patients, conventional medical therapies (i.e., diet, exercise, behavioral counseling) often fail over the long term. Existing pharmacotherapy adjunctive to behavioral therapy has limited effectiveness and an imperfect safety record. In contrast, bariatric surgery has a high degree of weight loss efficacy, yet only a small fraction of the qualifying obese population undergoes these procedures because of the associated perioperative risks and potential late complications. In addition, the role of bariatric surgery is unclear in certain patient populations, such as patients with lower body mass index (BMI, 30-35 kg/m(2)), the high-risk super-super obese patients (BMI > 60), the morbidly obese adolescent, and obese patients requiring weight reduction in preparation for other procedures, such as orthopedic, transplant, or vascular surgeries. In these circumstances, there is a need for an effective but less invasive treatment to bridge the gap between medical and surgical therapy. This review examines current treatment outcomes, identifies prominent areas of unmet clinical needs, and provides an overview of two minimally invasive "temporary procedures for weight loss" that may eventually address some of the unmet needs in obesity management.

Structural alterations of faecal and mucosa-associated bacterial communities in irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common functional gastrointestinal disorder in western countries. Previous studies on IBS, mostly based on faecal samples, suggest alterations in the intestinal microbiota. However, no consensus has been reached regarding the association between specific bacteria and IBS. We explore the alterations of intestinal bacterial communities in IBS using massive sequencing of amplified 16S rRNA genes. Mucosal biopsies of the ascending and descending colon and faeces from 16 IBS patients and 9 healthy controls were analysed. Strong inter-individual variation was observed in the composition of the bacterial communities in both patients and controls. These communities showed less diversity in IBS cases. There were larger differences in the microbiota composition between biopsies and faeces than between patients and controls. We found a few over-represented and under-represented taxa in IBS cases with respect to controls. The detected alterations varied by site, with no changes being consistent across sample types.

The appropriateness of colonoscopies at a teaching hospital: magnitude, associated factors, and comparison of EPAGE and EPAGE-II criteria

BACKGROUND

The growing demand for colonoscopies and inappropriate colonoscopies have become a significant problem for health care.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the appropriateness of colonoscopies and to analyze the association with some clinical and organizational factors. To compare the results of the European Panel of Appropriateness of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (EPAGE) and the EPAGE-II criteria.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Endoscopy unit of a teaching hospital in Spain.

PATIENTS

Patients referred for colonoscopy, excluding urgent, therapeutic indications, and poor cleansing.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS

Appropriateness of colonoscopies according to the EPAGE criteria.

RESULTS

From 749 colonoscopies, 619 were included. Most patients were referred by gastroenterologists (66.1%) in an outpatient setting (80.6%). Hematochezia was the most frequent indication (31.5%) followed by colorectal cancer-related indications (27.3%); a clinically relevant diagnosis was established in 41%. Inappropriate use was higher with EPAGE (27.0%) than EPAGE-II (17.4%) criteria. Surveillance after colonic polypectomy and uncomplicated lower abdominal pain were the indications exhibiting higher inadequacy. Inappropriate use was less with older age, in hospitalized patients, with referrals from internal medicine, and in colonoscopies with clinically relevant diagnoses. Agreement between EPAGE and EPAGE-II was fair (weighted κ = 0.31) but improved to moderate (simple κ = 0.60) after grouping appropriate and uncertain levels.

LIMITATIONS

The appropriateness criteria are based on panel opinions. Some patients (12%) could not be evaluated with the EPAGE criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study identifies substantial colonoscopy overuse, especially in tumor disease surveillance. The EPAGE-II criteria decrease the inappropriate rate and the possibility of overlooking potentially severe lesions.

Esophagitis in a high H. pylori prevalence area: severe disease is rare but concomitant peptic ulcer is frequent

Background

Few data are available on the prevalence of erosive and severe esophagitis in Western countries.

Objective

To retrospectively determine the prevalence and the factors predicting erosive esophagitis and severe esophagitis in a large series of endoscopies in Spain.

Design

Retrospective observational study. A multivariate analysis was performed to determine variables predicting severe esophagitis.

Setting

Databases of 29 Spanish endoscopy units.

Patients

Patients submitted to a diagnostic endoscopy during the year 2005.

Interventions

Retrospective review of the databases.

Main Outcome Measurements

Esophagitis severity (graded according to the Los Angeles classification) and associated endoscopic findings.

Results

Esophagitis was observed in 8.7% of the 93,699 endoscopies reviewed. Severe esophagitis (LA grade C or D) accounted for 22.5% of cases of the disease and was found in 1.9% of all endoscopies. Incidences of esophagitis and those of severe esophagitis were 86.2 and 18.7 cases per 100,000 inhabitants per year respectively. Male sex (OR 1.89) and advanced age (OR 4.2 for patients in the fourth age quartile) were the only variables associated with severe esophagitis. Associated peptic ulcer was present in 8.8% of cases.

Limitations

Retrospective study, no data on individual proton pump inhibitors use.

Conclusions

Severe esophagitis is an infrequent finding in Spain. It occurs predominantly in males and in older individuals. Peptic ulcer disease is frequently associated with erosive esophagitis.

Modulation of amyloid beta peptide(1-42) cytotoxicity and aggregation in vitro by glucose and chondroitin sulfate

One mechanism leading to neurodegeneration during Alzheimer's disease (AD) is amyloid beta peptide (Abeta)-induced neurotoxicity. Among the factors proposed to potentiate Abeta toxicity is its covalent modification through carbohydrate-derived advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs). Other experimental evidence, though, indicates that certain polymeric carbohydrates like the glycosaminoglycan (GAG) chains found in proteoglycan molecules attenuate the neurotoxic effect of Abeta in primary neuronal cultures. Pretreatment of the 42-residue Abeta fragment (Abeta1-42) with the ubiquitous brain carbohydrates, glucose, fructose, and the GAG chondroitin sulfate B (CSB) inhibits Abeta1-42-induced apoptosis and reduces the peptide neurotoxicity on neuroblastoma cells, a cytoprotective effect that is partially reverted by AGE inhibitors such as pyridoxamine and L-carnosine. Thioflavin T fluorescence measurements indicate that at concentrations close to physiological, only CSB promotes the formation of Abeta amyloid fibril structure. Atomic force microscopy imaging and Western blot analysis suggest that glucose favours the formation of globular oligomeric structures derived from aggregated species. Our data suggest that at short times carbohydrates reduce Abeta1-42 toxicity through different mechanisms both dependent and independent of AGE formation.