Changes in blood pressure after Messenger RNA COVID-19 vaccination

The SARS-Cov-2 (COVID-19) vaccination began in Malaysia in March 2021 among frontliners and healthcare workers. Everyone at our hospital received the tozinameran (BNT162b2) Messenger RNA COVID-19 vaccine. Although hypertension has not been mentioned explicitly as an adverse event, concerns were raised after some healthcare staff observed an increase in their blood pressures. In response to that, the hospital began collecting vital signs during second-dose appointments. Vital signs were measured before, immediately after and 15-30 minutes postvaccination. We report our findings from the institution-wide effort to monitor changes in blood pressure among its staff and respond to any possible unwanted events.

Transfer of fresh or frozen embryos: a randomised controlled trial

STUDY QUESTION

Is IVF with frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer (freeze-all strategy) more effective than IVF with fresh and frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer (conventional strategy)?

SUMMARY ANSWER

The freeze-all strategy was inferior to the conventional strategy in terms of cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate per woman.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

IVF without transfer of fresh embryos, thus with frozen-thawed embryo transfer only (freeze-all strategy), is increasingly being used in clinical practice because of a presumed benefit. It is still unknown whether this new IVF strategy increases IVF efficacy.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

A single-centre, open label, two arm, parallel group, randomised controlled superiority trial was conducted. The trial was conducted between January 2013 and July 2015 in the Netherlands. The intervention was one IVF cycle with frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer(s) versus one IVF cycle with fresh and frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer(s). The primary outcome was cumulative ongoing pregnancy resulting from one IVF cycle within 12 months after randomisation. Couples were allocated in a 1:1 ratio to the freeze-all strategy or the conventional strategy with an online randomisation programme just before the start of down-regulation.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Participants were subfertile couples with any indication for IVF undergoing their first IVF cycle, with a female age between 18 and 43 years. Differences in cumulative ongoing pregnancy rates were expressed as relative risks (RR) with 95% CI. All outcomes were analysed following the intention-to-treat principle.

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Two-hundred-and-five couples were randomly assigned to the freeze-all strategy (n = 102) or to the conventional strategy (n = 102). The cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate per woman was significantly lower in women allocated to the freeze-all strategy (19/102 (19%)) compared to women allocated to the conventional strategy (32/102 (31%); RR 0.59; 95% CI 0.36-0.98).

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

As this was a single-centre study, we were unable to study differences in study protocols and clinic performance. This, and the limited sample size, should make one cautious in using the results as the basis for definitive policy. All patients undergoing IVF, including those with a poor prognosis, were included; therefore, the outcome could differ in women with a good prognosis of IVF treatment success.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Our results indicate that there might be no benefit of a freeze-all strategy in terms of cumulative ongoing pregnancy rates. The efficacy of the freeze-all strategy in subgroups of patients, different stages of embryo development, and different freezing protocols needs to be further established and balanced against potential benefits and harms for mothers and children.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

The Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development (ZonMW grant 171101007). S.M., F.M. and M.v.W. stated they are authors of the Cochrane review 'Fresh versus frozen embryo transfers in assisted reproduction'.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

Dutch Trial Register, NTR3187.

TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE

9 December 2011.

DATE OF FIRST PATIENT’S ENROLMENT

8 January 2013.

PF-06939999, a potent and selective PRMT5 inhibitor, in patients with advanced or metastatic solid tumors: A phase 1 dose escalation study

3019

Background: Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5) methylates multiple substrates known to be dysregulated in cancer, including components of the spliceosome machinery. PF-06939999 is a selective small-molecule inhibitor of PRMT5. Here we report the safety, PK, PD, and preliminary activity of PF-06939999 in patients (pts) with selected advanced/metastatic solid tumors. Methods: This phase 1 dose escalation trial (NCT03854227) enrolled pts with solid tumor types marked by potential frequent splicing factor mutations, including advanced/metastatic endometrial cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), urothelial cancer, cervical cancer, or esophageal cancer. PF-06939999 monotherapy was continuously administered orally QD or BID in 28-day cycles. A Bayesian Logistic Regression Model was used to inform dose level decisions. Primary objectives were to assess dose limiting toxicities (DLTs), AEs and laboratory abnormalities. Tumor response was assessed using RECIST v1.1. PK and PD were assessed by determining PF-06939999 plasma concentration after dosing and changes in plasma levels of symmetric di-methyl arginine (SDMA), the product of PRMT5 enzymatic activity. Results: 28 pts received PF-06939999 at doses from 0.5-12 mg daily (QD or BID) during dose escalation. Median number of cycles was 2 (range, 1-13). Most were female (54%) with a median age of 61.5 (range, 32-84) y. Median number of prior therapies was 4. Overall, 4/24 (17%) pts reported DLTs: thrombocytopenia (n=2, 6 mg BID); anemia (n=1, 8 mg QD); and neutropenia (n=1, 6 mg QD). Treatment-related AEs occurred in 24 (86%) pts. Most common (≥20%) treatment-related AEs across all cycles were anemia (43%), thrombocytopenia (32%), dysgeusia, fatigue and nausea (29% each). Grade ≥3 treatment-related AEs included anemia (25%), thrombocytopenia (21%), fatigue, neutropenia and lymphocyte count decreased (4% each). One pt (6mg BID) had Grade 4 treatment-related thrombocytopenia. All cytopenias were dose-dependent and reversible with dose modification. No pts discontinued treatment for treatment-related toxicity. There were no treatment-related deaths. Exposure to PF-06939999 increased with doses in the dose range tested. Plasma SDMA was reduced at steady state (58.4-87.5%), indicating robust PD target inhibition. Two pts had confirmed partial response (HNSCC and NSCLC). 6 mg QD was identified as the recommended monotherapy dose for expansion. Conclusions: PF-06939999 showed dose-dependent and manageable toxicities in this phase 1 dose escalation study. Objective tumor responses were observed in pts with HNSCC and NSCLC. Analysis of archival tissue for the presence of splicing factor mutations and other potential predictive biomarkers is ongoing. Enrollment to part 2 dose expansion is ongoing in pts with NSCLC, HNSCC and urothelial cancer. Clinical trial information: NCT03854227.

Phase II trial of the CDK4/6 inhibitor abemaciclib in patients (pts) with advanced and refractory well‐differentiated gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP NETs)

TPS376

Background: Despite advances in the treatment of advanced GEP NETs, long‐term disease control remains a challenge. Overexpression and altered regulation of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK) 4 and 6 have been observed in multiple subtypes of GEP NETs. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that the CDK 4/6 inhibitor palbociclib reduces growth of pancreatic NET cell lines and levels of phosphorylated retinoblastoma protein in vitro. Moreover, the drug significantly inhibited tumor growth in vivo in pancreatic NET xenograft models. Abemaciclib is a selective small molecule CDK 4/6 inhibitor, approved for the treatment of HR+ HER2– metastatic breast cancer. Clinical activity and central nervous system penetration of the drug have been observed in several tumor types in clinical trials, including partial response in one pt with metastatic small intestinal NET. We have developed a Phase 2 trial of abemaciclib in GEP NETs to evaluate its efficacy and safety in these rare cancers. Methods: This is an investigator-initiated non-randomized phase 2 trial using a two-stage design. Eligible pts have metastatic or locally advanced unresectable well-differentiated grade 1-2 GEP NETs, ECOG PS 0-2, and must have progressed on at least one line of systemic therapy. Prior or concurrent treatment with somatostatin analogs is allowed,. Abemaciclib is administered at a dose of 200 mg orally every 12 hours continuously in 28-day cycles. Dose reductions for toxicities are allowed to level -1 (150 mg) and -2 (100 mg). Primary endpoint is objective response rate (ORR) by RECIST v1.1. Secondary endpoints include progression free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and toxicity. A two‐stage design with 88% power to detect an increase in ORR to 20% with abemaciclib at the 1‐sided 0.05 level would require a total of 37 patients. Stage 1 will include 20 patients, and if one response is seen among these patients, the study will continue to enroll another 17 patients. The trial was activated in January 2020, and 3 patients have been enrolled to date. Available archival tumor tissue and molecular profiling data are collected for future correlative studies including assessment of response biomarkers.

Untangling the Multidisciplinary Care Web: Streamlining Care Through an Immune-Related Adverse Events (IRAE) Tumor Board

Immune-related adverse events (IRAEs) are becoming increasingly common as the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors expands into more tumor types and treatment settings. Although the majority of IRAEs are mild and can be managed in the outpatient setting by the medical oncologist, severe IRAEs can be life threatening and often require complex care coordination among multiple providers. These providers include a variety of non-oncology specialists who have interest and expertise in managing IRAEs. Multiple systems-based solutions have been proposed in the literature, but these need to be tailored to the needs and resources of each practice setting. In this article, we highlight the challenges of IRAE care by presenting an illustrative case from our institution. We then describe the format and structure of the IRAE Tumor Board established at the University of Washington/Seattle Cancer Care Alliance/Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center. Finally, we discuss how this tumor board attempts to address clinical issues related to complex IRAE presentations and provide IRAE education.

Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) by BROCA-HR and survival outcomes after surgery for patients (pts) with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PC): A single institution experience

732

Background: 5-7% of PC pts exhibit deleterious germline mutations (MUT) in HR tumor suppressor genes BRCA1 and BRCA2. BROCA-HR is a targeted capture and massively parallel sequencing assay designed to detect all mutation classes including gene rearrangements, copy number variations, and gene aberrations within the Fanconi Anemia-BRCA HR, non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) DNA repair, and DNA mismatch repair pathways. BROCA-HR has been successfully used in breast and ovarian cancer pts for overall prognosis and prediction of response to platinum-based therapies. While BRCA1/2 MUT may confer survival advantage for PC pts if treated with platinum-chemotherapy, the survival impact of HRD is less well defined. Methods: We retrospectively identified 100 consecutive pts who underwent surgical resection for suspected PC at University of Washington Medical Center between 1999 and 2008. Formalin-fixed paraffin embedded resected tumors were sequenced using BROCA-HR. HRD was grouped based on the following deleterious genetic mutations: 1) BRCA1, BRCA2; 2) core HRD: BARD1, BRIP1, RAD51C, RAD51D, PALB2, CDK12, NBN; 3) non-core HRD: ATM, ATR, ATRX, BAP1, BLM, CHEK1/2, ERCC, FANC A/C/D2/E /F/G/L, MRE11, RAD50/51/51B, RIF1, SLX4; 4) HR proficient. Overall survival (OS) was measured from diagnosis until death or last follow-up. Results: 95 pts had histologically confirmed PC, and 81 pts had adequate tumor DNA for analysis. Six pts (7%) had BRCA1/2 MUT (n = 5), or BRCA1 methylation (n = 1), 1 pt (1%) had non-BRCA core HRD ( PALB2 MUT), 7 pts (9%) had non-core HRD: ERCC (2), CHEK2 (2), ATR, RAD51D, and FANCA MUT (1 each). Median OS was: all pts 1.93 yrs (95% C.I. 1.53, 2.16), BRCA1/2 pts 3.09 yrs (95% CI 0.41, 12.21), all core HRD pts 1.21 yrs (95% CI 0.41, 12.21), all core and non-core HRD pts 1.89 yrs (95% CI 0.57, 4.96), HR proficient pts 1.93 yrs (95% CI 1.51, 2.15). There were no OS differences between pts with HRD vs those HR proficient. Conclusions: HRD is common (17%) but does not affect OS for pts with resected PC. Prospective clinical trials should test neo/adjuvant therapies including platinum chemotherapy and PARP inhibitors for pts with HRD.

Investigating the Impact of Geographic Location on Colorectal Cancer Stage at Diagnosis: A National Study of the SEER Cancer Registry

BACKGROUND

Early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with decreased mortality and potential avoidance of chemotherapy. CRC screening rates are lower in rural communities and patient outcomes are poorer. This study examines the extent to which United States' rural residents present at a more advanced stage of CRC compared to nonrural residents.

METHODS

Using the 2010-2014 Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results Incidence data, 132,277 patients with CRC were stratified using their county of residence and urban influence codes into 5 categories (metro, adjacent micropolitan, nonadjacent micropolitan, small rural, and remote small rural). Logistic regression was used to investigate the relationship between late stage at diagnosis and county-level characteristics including level of rurality, persistent poverty, low education and low employment, and patient characteristics.

RESULTS

In the adjusted analysis the rate of stage 4 CRC at diagnosis differed across geographic classification, with patients living in remote small rural counties having the highest rate of stage 4 disease (range: 19.2% in nonadjacent micropolitan counties to 22.7% in remote small rural counties). Other factors, such as patient characteristics, insurance status, and regional practice variation were also significantly associated with late-stage CRC diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Geographic residence is associated with the rate of stage 4 disease at presentation. Additional patient factors are associated with stage 4 CRC disease at diagnosis. Cancer outcomes are worse for rural patients, and late stage at diagnosis may partially account for this disparity. These differences have persisted over time and suggest areas for further research, patient engagement, and education.

A retrospective analysis of clinical outcomes among patients with infiltrative hepatocellular carcinoma (iHCC): A single institution study

e15667

Background: iHCC is an aggressive disease with poorly characterized treatment outcomes. We sought to describe clinical and radiographic features of iHCC, describe overall survival (OS), and compare outcomes of sorafenib (SOR) use with a cohort of non-infiltrative hepatocellular carcinoma (niHCC) patients. Methods: Radiology reports from the University of Washington with an Li-RADS (LR) assignment, 2013-2017, were reviewed (5037 reports, 1954 patients (pts)) for terms indicative of iHCC. Results: : 102 cases were identified, with 43% arising from known niHCC. iHCC size is difficult to measure but when reported, median was 8cm (interquartile range 5-10cm). Other radiographic features: vascular invasion 72%, R lobe only 62%. Clinical data were obtained via medical record review. The cohort was primarily male (83%), White (65%), age > 55 (88%), HCV (74.5%), heavy alcohol use (67%). At diagnosis: BCLC stage C (76%), ALBI grade 2 (62%) and 3 (21%). Median OS after diagnosis was 5.7 months (m). 38 (37%) pts were too ill to receive therapy. OS for de novo iHCC and for iHCC arising from niHCC did not differ (7.5m vs 5.1m, p = NS). All niHCC pts who received SOR in any line of therapy were identified among pts with a LR 5 lesion in at least one of the aforementioned radiology reports, 2013-2017. Pts who received SOR on trial and/or combined with another agent were excluded. Clinical data for the 83 niHCC pts were abstracted and compared to the 25 iHCC pts who received SOR, any line of therapy. Based on χ2 analyses, the 2 groups did not differ by age, sex, race, BCLC stage at SOR initiation, ECOG status at SOR initiation, HCC etiology, ALBI grade at SOR initiation, or previous locoregional therapy. OS after initiation of SOR was 14.1m for niHCC, 10.5m for iHCC, p = NS. PFS after SOR was 3.7m for niHCC, 7m for iHCC, p = NS. AFP at the time of SOR initiation was higher in iHCC than niHCC (median 1331 vs 48, respectively, p = 0.004), with median %AFP change after 30 days -13% in iHCC and +6% in niHCC, p = NS. Decrease in AFP after 30 days of therapy was associated with improved OS among niHCC (21m versus 7m, p = 0.001) but not among iHCC pts (p = NS). Conclusions: iHCC is a poorly understood subset of HCC with underlying biology not well defined. Compared to niHCC, clinical outcomes with sorafenib do not appear to differ in this cohort. Future characterization of outcomes with Y-90 and immune checkpoint inhibitors is warranted.

Small bowel adenocarcinoma: A single center experience

449

Background: Small bowel adenocarcinoma (SBA) represents only 2% of GI malignancies. There is limited data to guide clinical decisions, largely extrapolated from colorectal cancers (CRC). We evaluated treatment strategies and outcomes in patients (pts) with early and advanced SBA. Methods: We identified 56 pts with SBA diagnosed between 1/2005 - 1/2018 and treated at our institution. Demographics, pathological features, treatments, and molecular data were abstracted via medical record review. Data was analyzed with SAS statistical software. Results: Median age was 61, 54% male, site: duodenum (D 37.5%), duodenal ampula (A 17.9%), jejunum (J 19.6%), ileum (I 12.5 %), unknown (12.5%). Predisposing conditions were: IBD (6), Lynch (2), and Peutz-Jeghers syndromes (1). Stage (stg) at diagnosis was I (5%), II (20%), III (34%) and IV (41%). Primary tumor resection occurred in 33 pts: 21 received adjuvant chemotherapy, mostly FOLFOX; 17 developed metastatic disease. Treatment for metastatic SBA (n = 40) included 5FU-based chemotherapy without or with anti-VEGF (n = 18), or anti-EGFR therapies (n = 9). Median lines of therapy was 2 (range 1-7). For pts with stg I-III SBA, median DFS/OS was 21/38 mos. For stg IV pts, OS was 19.8 mos; 18/35/8/14 mos for D, A, J and I, respectively. Molecular biomarkers with targeted (28) or next generation sequencing (10) were available for 28 metastatic SBA pts: KRAS MUT (8), TP53 MUT (5), ERBB2 MUT (2), MSI-H (2), ERBB2, CCNE1 amplification (1 each), and NRAS, BRAF, CDKN2A, ERBB3, ATM, PIK3CA MUT (1 each). OS was 20 vs 19 mos for pts with KRAS WT vs MUT stg IV SBA, respectively. Among 16 pts with KRAS WT SBA, OS for those treated (9) or not (7) with anti-EGFR antibodies was 25 mos vs 21 mos. One pt with KRAS WT, ERBB2 amplification/ERBB2 V777L activating mutation is alive 5yrs+ from stg IV diagnosis on anti-EGFR plus chemotherapy (best response was 4 mos SD with trastuzumab/pertuzumab). Conclusions: This retrospective study demonstrates heterogeneity among SBA, overall inferior outcomes compared to CRC pts, and emphasizes genomic alterations which could be exploited therapeutically. Randomized studies for KRAS WT SBA pts should test the benefit from anti-EGFR targeted therapies in this rare tumor type.

Phase I study of the anti-α5β1 monoclonal antibody MINT1526A with or without bevacizumab in patients with advanced solid tumors

PURPOSE

MINT1526A is a monoclonal antibody that blocks the interaction of integrin alpha 5 beta 1 (α5β1) with its extracellular matrix ligands. This phase I study evaluated the safety and pharmacokinetics of MINT1526A with or without bevacizumab in patients with advanced solid tumors.

METHODS

MINT1526A was administered every 3 weeks (Q3W) as monotherapy (arm 1) or in combination with bevacizumab 15 mg/kg, Q3W (arm 2). Each arm included a 3 + 3 dose-escalation stage and a dose-expansion stage.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients were enrolled in arm 1 (dose range 2-30 mg/kg) and 30 patients were enrolled in arm 2 (dose range 3-15 mg/kg). Monocyte α5β1 receptor occupancy was saturated at a dose of 15 mg/kg. No dose-limiting toxicities were observed, and the maximum tolerated dose was not reached in either arm. The most common adverse events, regardless of causality, included abdominal pain (25%), diarrhea (25%), nausea (21%), vomiting (21%), and fatigue (21%) in arm 1 and nausea (40%), fatigue (33%), vomiting (30%), dehydration (30%), headache (30%), and hypertension (30%) in arm 2. No grade ≥ 3 bleeding events were observed in either arm. No confirmed partial responses (PR) were observed in arm 1. In arm 2, one patient with thymic carcinoma experienced a confirmed PR and two patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) experienced durable minor radiographic responses.

CONCLUSIONS

MINT1526A, with or without bevacizumab, was well-tolerated. Preliminary evidence of combination efficacy, including in patients with HCC, was observed, but cannot be distinguished from bevacizumab monotherapy in this phase I study.

Targeting the Tumor Stroma: the Biology and Clinical Development of Pegylated Recombinant Human Hyaluronidase (PEGPH20)

The tumor stroma is increasingly recognized as a key player in tumorigenesis through its effects on cell signaling, immune responses, and access of therapeutic agents. A major component of the extracellular matrix is hyaluronic acid (HA), which raises the interstitial gel fluid pressure within tumors and reduces drug delivery to malignant cells, and has been most extensively studied in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDA). Pegylated recombinant human hyaluronidase (PEGPH20) is a novel agent that degrades HA and normalizes IFP to enhance the delivery of cytotoxic agents. It has demonstrated promising preclinical results and early clinical evidence of efficacy in the first-line treatment of metastatic PDA with acceptable tolerability. Moreover, intratumoral HA content appears to be a predictive biomarker of response. Phase 2 and 3 trials of PEGPH20 plus chemotherapy are ongoing in metastatic PDA, and it is also being evaluated in other malignancies and in combination with radiation and immunotherapy.

Biomarker-Driven and Molecular Targeted Therapies for Hepatobiliary Cancers

The recent accumulation of molecular profiling data for primary hepatobiliary malignancies, including hepatocellular carcinoma and biliary tract cancers, has led to a proliferation of promising therapeutic investigations in recent years. Treatment with pathway-specific targeted inhibitors and immunotherapeutic agents have demonstrated promising early clinical results. Key molecular alterations in common hepatobiliary cancers and ongoing interventional clinical trials of molecularly targeted systemic agents focusing on hepatocellular carcinoma and biliary tract cancer are reviewed.

Abstract A24: BRM polymorphisms, part of a novel epigenetic mechanism, are predictive of cancer risk and clinic outcome in multiple cancer types

BRM polymorphisms lie with the promoter region of the anticancer gene and SWI/SNF catalytic subunit, Brahma (SMARCA2). These polymorphisms statistically correlate with loss of BRM expression in both cell lines and primary lung tumors and function as part of an epigenetic mechanism which underlies BRM reversible silencing. Specifically, these polymorphisms function as the binding site of at least two transcription factors (MEF2D and GATA3) and two HDACs (HDAC3 and HDAC9). These proteins form a complex which drives the reversible silencing of the BRM protein. As BRM can serve as an anticancer protein, in part because BRM and SWI/SNF is required for the normal function of TP53 and RB as well as multiple DNA repair mechanisms, the silencing of BRM potentiates cancer development in mice. As such, BRM polymorphisms are predictive of cancer risk for lung cancer (n=600), breast cancer (N=300), head/neck cancer (n=400), colon cancer (N=250) and lymphoma (N=300) with an odds ratio ranging from 1.8 to 2.3. As these polymorphisms occur more frequently in African Americans, the odds ratio (cancer risk) in African Americans for lung cancer (n=250) is higher (3.5-4.5) as compared to that observed in Caucasians (2-2.3) (N=600). Similarly, BRM polymorphisms have a higher predictive value in HPV positive head/neck cancer with an odds ratio of 3.2 compared with an odds ratio of 2.0 in HPV positive head/neck cancer. This is in part due to the fact that BRM along with the HPV E2 protein regulates the expression of the transforming HPV proteins E6/E7. Unlike other polymorphisms which impart cancer risk and are fixed (cannot be changed), the fact that BRM silencing is reversible by compounds such as Flavonoids and certain NSAIDs, the cancer risk imparted by these polymorphisms can, in theory, be reversed or nullified by changes in diet, thereby making these polymorphisms unique in this respect. As BRM polymorphisms and BRM expression is also tied to differentiation and cell adhesion, these polymorphisms are also predictive of a worse clinical outcome with a hazard ratio ranging from 3 to 10 in pancreatic, head/neck, lung, colon and esophageal cancers. Thus, BRM polymorphisms represent a novel factor which is predictive of cancer risk and clinical outcome in multiple cancer types. Furthermore, these polymorphisms can potentially explain the observed health disparities (higher lung cancer occurrence despite lower rate of tobacco usage) which occur in African Americans.

Citation Format: Suhdir Rai, Jennifer Wang, Kit Man Wong, Xiaoping Qiu, Geoff Liu, David Reisman. BRM polymorphisms, part of a novel epigenetic mechanism, are predictive of cancer risk and clinic outcome in multiple cancer types. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Improving Cancer Risk Prediction for Prevention and Early Detection; Nov 16-19, 2016; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2017;26(5 Suppl):Abstract nr A24.

Three-Dimensional Accuracy of Digital Implant Impressions: Effects of Different Scanners and Implant Level

PURPOSE

To compare the three-dimensional (3D) accuracy of conventional direct implant impressions with digital implant impressions from three intraoral scanners, as well as different implant levels-bone level (BL) and tissue level (TL).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two-implant master models were used to simulate a threeunit implant-supported fixed dental prosthesis. Conventional test models were made with direct impression copings and polyether impressions. Scan bodies were hand-tightened onto master models and scanned with the three scanners. This was done for the TL and BL test groups, for a total of eight test groups (n = 5 each). A coordinate measuring machine measured linear distortions (dx, dy, dz), global linear distortion (dR), angular distortions (dθy, dθx), and absolute angular distortions (Absdθy, Absdθx) between the master models, test models, and .stl files of the digital scans.

RESULTS

The mean dR ranged from 35 to 66 μm; mean dθy angular distortions ranged from -0.186 to 0.315 degrees; and mean dθx angular distortions ranged from -0.206 to 0.164 degrees. Two-way analysis of variance showed that the impression type had a significant effect on dx, dz, and Absdθy, and the implant level had a significant effect on dx and Absdθx (P < .05). Among the BL groups, the mean dR of the conventional group was lower than and significantly different from the digital test groups (P = .010), while among the TL groups, there was no statistically significant difference (P = .572).

CONCLUSION

The 3D accuracy of implant impressions varied according to the impression technique and implant level. For BL test groups, the conventional impression group had significantly lower distortion than the digital impression groups. Among the digital test groups, the TR system had comparable mean linear and absolute angular distortions to the other two systems but exhibited the smallest standard deviations.

Factors affecting the gene expression of in vitro cultured human preimplantation embryos

STUDY QUESTION

What is the relative effect of common environmental and biological factors on transcriptome changes during human preimplantation development?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Developmental stage and maternal age had a larger effect on the global gene expression profile of human preimplantation embryos than the culture medium or oxygen concentration used in in vitro culture.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Studies on mouse and bovine embryos have shown that different conditions in the in vitro culture of embryos can lead to changes in transcriptome profiles. For humans, an effect of developmental stage on the transcriptome profile of embryos has been demonstrated, but studies on the effect of maternal age or culture conditions are lacking.

STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION

Donated, good quality, day 4 cryopreserved human preimplantation embryos (N = 89) were randomized to be cultured in one of two culture media (G5 medium or HTF medium) and one of two oxygen concentrations (5% or 20%), with stratification for maternal age. Next to these variables, developmental stage after culture was taken into account in the analysis.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS

Embryos that developed to morula or blastocyst stage during these 2 days whose amplified mRNA passed our quality control criteria for microarray hybridization were individually examined for genome-wide gene expression (N = 37).

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Based on the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), developmental stage (3519 DEGs) and maternal age (1258 DEGs) had a larger effect on the global gene expression profile of human preimplantation embryos than either tested culture medium (596 DEGs) or oxygen concentration (492 DEGs) used during in vitro culture. Interactions between the factors were found, indicating that culture conditions might have a different effect depending on the developmental stage or the maternal age of the embryos. Affected pathways included metabolism, cell cycle processes and oxidative phosphorylation.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

Culture of embryos for only 2 days might have limited the effect on global gene expression by the investigated culture conditions. Earlier stages of development (Day 0 until Day 4) were not analyzed and these embryos might respond differently to the experimental conditions. The freezing and thawing procedures might have had an effect on gene expression. RT-PCR validation was not performed due to scarcity of the material.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

Our results show that when studying gene expression in single human preimplantation embryos under various experimental conditions, one should take into account the confounding effect of biological variables, such as developmental stage and maternal age. This makes these experiments different from gene expression experiments where these variables can be tightly controlled, for example when using cell lines.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS

This study received no external funding and there were no competing interests.

Effects of acoustic trauma on the auditory system of the rat: The role of microglia

Exposure to loud, prolonged sounds (acoustic trauma, AT) leads to the death of both inner and outer hair cells (IHCs and OHCs), death of neurons of the spiral ganglion and degeneration of the auditory nerve. The auditory nerve (8cn) projects to the three subdivisions of the cochlear nuclei (CN), the dorsal cochlear nucleus (DC) and the anterior (VCA) and posterior (VCP) subdivisions of the ventral cochlear nucleus (VCN). There is both anatomical and physiological evidence for plastic reorganization in the denervated CN after AT. Anatomical findings show axonal sprouting and synaptogenesis; physiologically there is an increase in spontaneous activity suggesting reorganization of circuitry. The mechanisms underlying this plasticity are not understood. Recent data suggest that activated microglia may have a role in facilitating plastic reorganization in addition to removing trauma-induced debris. In order to investigate the roles of activated microglia in the CN subsequent to AT we exposed animals to bilateral noise sufficient to cause massive hair cell death. We studied four groups of animals at different survival times: 30 days, 60 days, 6 months and 9 months. We used silver staining to examine the time course and pattern of auditory nerve degeneration, and immunohistochemistry to label activated microglia in the denervated CN. We found both degenerating auditory nerve fibers and activated microglia in the CN at 30 and 60 days and 6 months after AT. There was close geographic overlap between the degenerating fibers and activated microglia, consistent with a scavenger role for activated microglia. At the longest survival time, there were still silver-stained fibers but very little staining of activated microglia in overlapping regions. There were, however, activated microglia in the surrounding brainstem and cerebellar white matter.

The changing landscape of phase I trials in oncology

KEY POINTS

Several aspects of phase I trials have evolved in the current era of molecular targeted agents to adapt to the changing nature of anticancer therapy and to increase the efficiency of drug development.

Current phase I designs are increasingly integrating novel dose-escalation approaches and biomarker-driven selection of patients, as well as expanding study objectives to include the evaluation of efficacy and pharmacodynamics/pharmacokinetics in addition to safety.

Changes to the regulatory approval process have helped to expedite drug development, particularly for novel agents with a strong biologic rationale and proof of concept, validated predictive biomarker, and clear evidence of efficacy in early trials.

As a result of the substantial changes in phase I trial goals and conduct, there is a parallel shift toward multi-institutional trials and central study management by clinical research organizations.

The use of multi-institutional trials has a significant impact on the structure of phase I programs and the experience of investigators, particularly because of limited patient enrollment at each site.

Diagnostic accuracy of the BACs-on-Beads™ assay versus karyotyping for prenatal detection of chromosomal abnormalities: a retrospective consecutive case series

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the BACs-on-Beads(™) (BoBs(™)) assay for prenatal detection of chromosomal abnormalities.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SETTING

Tertiary prenatal diagnosis centre.

POPULATION

Women referred for prenatal diagnosis.

METHODS

We retrieved 2153 archived DNA samples collected between January 2010 and August 2011 for the BoBs(™) assay. These samples had previously been tested by quantitative fluorescence polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR) and karyotyping. In the BoBs(™) assay a sample was defined as normal disomic when the ratio of the fluorescence intensities in a chromosome locus lay within the threshold (mean ratio ± 2SD), and as deleted or duplicated when the ratio was below the lower threshold (0.6-0.8) or above the upper threshold (1.3-1.4), respectively. The BoBs(™) results were further validated by microarray and compared in a blinded manner with the original QF-PCR and karyotyping results.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Concordance of any numerical, structural, and submicroscopic chromosomal abnormalities between the methods.

RESULTS

BACs-on-Beads(™) was similar to karyotyping and QF-PCR in detecting trisomy 13, trisomy 18, trisomy 21, and sex chromosomal aneuploidies, and superior to QF-PCR in detecting major structural abnormalities (53.3 versus 13.3%) and mosaicism (28.6 versus 0%) involving chromosomal abnormalities other than the common aneuploidies. BoBs(™) detected six microdeletion syndromes missed by karyotyping and QF-PCR; however, BoBs(™) missed two cases of triploidy identified by QF-PCR. Therefore, the sensitivity of BoBs(™) is 96.7% (95% CI 92.6-98.7%), and its specificity is 100% (95% CI 99.8-100%).

CONCLUSIONS

BACs-on-Beads(™) can replace QF-PCR for triaging in prenatal diagnosis, and gives a better diagnostic yield than current rapid aneuploidy tests.

Two BRM promoter insertion polymorphisms increase the risk of early-stage upper aerodigestive tract cancers

Brahma (BRM) has a key function in chromatin remodeling. Two germline BRM promoter insertion–deletion polymorphisms, BRM-741 and BRM-1321, have been previously associated with an increased risk of lung cancer in smokers and head and neck cancer. To further evaluate their role in cancer susceptibility particularly in early disease, we conducted a preplanned case–control study to investigate the association between the BRM promoter variants and stage I/II upper aerodigestive tract (UADT) cancers (i.e., lung, esophageal, head and neck), a group of early-stage malignancies in which molecular and genetic etiologic factors are poorly understood. The effects of various clinical factors on this association were also studied. We analyzed 562 cases of early-stage UADT cancers and 993 matched healthy controls. The double homozygous BRM promoter variants were associated with a significantly increased risk of early stage UADT cancers (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.46; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.7–3.8). This association was observed in lung (aOR, 2.61; 95% CI, 1.5–4.9) and head and neck (aOR, 2.75; 95% CI, 1.4–5.6) cancers, but not significantly in esophageal cancer (aOR, 1.66; 95% CI, 0.7–5.8). There was a nonsignificant trend for increased risk in the heterozygotes or single homozygotes. The relationship between the BRM polymorphisms and early-stage UADT cancers was independent of age, sex, smoking status, histology, and clinical stage. These findings suggest that the BRM promoter double insertion homozygotes may be associated with an increased risk of early-stage UADT cancers independent of smoking status and histology, which must be further validated in other populations.

Dissociation of doublecortin expression and neurogenesis in unipolar brush cells in the vestibulocerebellum and dorsal cochlear nucleus of the adult rat

We have previously shown expression of the protein doublecortin (DCX) in unipolar brush cells (UBCs) in the dorsal cochlear nucleus and vestibulocerebellum of the adult rat. We also saw DCX-immunoreactive elements with the appearance of neuroblasts around the fourth ventricle. Expression of DCX is seen in newborn and migrating neurons and hence considered a correlate of neurogenesis. There were two interpretations of the expression of DCX in UBCs. One possibility is that there might be adult neurogenesis of this cell population. Adult neurogenesis is now well-established, but only for the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus and the subventricular zone. The other possibility is that there is prolonged expression of DCX in adult UBCs that may signal a unique role in plasticity of these neurons. We tested the neurogenesis hypothesis by systemic injections of bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU), a thymidine analog, followed by immunohistochemistry to examine the numbers and locations of dividing cells. We used several different injection paradigms, varying the dose of BrdU, the number of injections and the survival time to assess the possibility of neuronal birth and migration. We saw BrdU-labeled cells in the cerebellum and brainstem; cell division in these regions was confirmed by immunohistochemistry for the protein Ki67. However, neither the numbers nor the distribution of labeled nuclei support the idea of adult neurogenesis and migration of UBCs. The function of DCX expression in UBC's in the adult remains to be understood.

BRM promoter insertion/deletion polymorphisms in hepatocellular carcinoma risk and survival

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Background: MEF2D and HDAC9 regulate the expression of BRM, the catalytic subunit of SWI/SNF (chromatin remodeling complex). MEF2D binding sites are created in the BRM promoter by two germline insertion/deletion polymorphisms (BRM-741, BRM-1321), which mediate epigenetic silencing. We recently identified BRM as a potential drug target and a susceptibility gene for lung and head and neck cancers, while others reported its association with HCC risk in Asians. BRM also correlates with prognosis in lung and esophageal cancers (ASCO 2013; abstracts 11057, 4077). In this analysis, we assessed the effects of the BRM promoter variants on risk and overall survival (OS) in HCC from a North American centre (Toronto). Methods: We conducted a case-control study with 266 histologically confirmed HCC cases and 536 age/sex distribution-matched healthy controls. Survival of the cases was obtained from medical records. Association between the BRM polymorphisms and HCC risk was analyzed by multivariate logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, race, smoking and BMI; their impact on OS was evaluated by Cox proportional hazard regression adjusted for age, sex, treatment intent and Hepatitis B status. Results: Median age was 62 years; 83% were male. Hepatitis B and C infections affected 34% and 31% of cases, respectively. 83% of patients were Child Pugh A at diagnosis, and 66% received initial curative therapy (surgical resection rate 32%). There were 13% deaths at a median follow-up of 24.1 months. There was no significant association between BRM polymorphisms and HCC risk: the adjusted risk odds ratios of the homozygous BRM variants, relative to wild-type, were 0.87 (95% CI: 0.53-1.45; BRM-741) and 1.01 (95% CI: 0.78-1.29; BRM-1321), and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.48-1.86) for the double homozygotes vs. double wild-type. The adjusted hazard ratios for OS were 5.77 (95% CI: 2.9-11.5; BRM-741) and 4.09 (95% CI: 2.2-7.5; BRM-1321) for each variant allele; the double homozygotes were also highly associated with OS compared to double wild-type (p<0.0001). Conclusions: Two functional BRM promoter polymorphisms did not increase the risk of HCC. However, they were strongly associated with OS despite short median follow-up. SPC and RH are co-senior authors.

Differences in clinical characteristics and treatment in hepatocellular carcinoma between Asians and non-Asians

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Background: Studies have demonstrated clinical differences in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) between Asians (AS) and non-Asians (NAS). In the US, AS are less likely to undergo liver transplant compared to Caucasians. Despite the large immigrant population in Canada, there has been no prior comparison of HCC in AS and NAS in the context of the Canadian universal health care system. We retrospectively evaluated the ethnic differences in HCC at the largest cancer centre in Canada. Methods: We analyzed 268 patients who enrolled in a Genetic Epidemiology Study of HCC (April 2010 to February 2013), where patients were asked to complete a questionnaire and give a blood sample at their first visit. Relevant clinical data were extracted and analyzed by descriptive statistics, t-test or Chi-square test. Results: The study population had a mean age of 61 years and 83% males. There were 45% AS, 49% Caucasians, and 6% other ethnicities. Etiologies of HCC included: Hepatitis B (HBV) 34%, Hepatitis C (HCV) 32%, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis 15%, alcohol 18%. Compared to NAS, HCC patients of Asian ancestry had significantly higher rates of HBV (60% vs. 12%, p<0.001). At diagnosis, 83% of patients were Child-Pugh A (mean MELD score 9.2). Ethnicity had no impact on Child-Pugh class, multifocal disease or macrovascular invasion. However, MELD scores were lower in AS (p=0.02). Overall, 71% of cases were initially treated with curative intent. Patients underwent various treatment modalities: liver transplant 13%, resection 31%, radiofrequency ablation 39%, transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) 21%, radiation 17%, systemic therapy 27%. AS had higher resection rates (41% vs. 22%, p<0.001), while no differences were observed for other treatments. Duration of response was 11.7 months for TACE (AS 14.2, NAS 10.5), 7.5 months for sorafenib (AS 6.8, NAS 8.1). Rate of intolerance to sorafenib was 24% (AS 27%, NAS 22%, p=0.63). This analysis was limited by inherent bias in the selection of study patients. Conclusions: AS with HCC tend to have HBV and lower MELD scores, and to undergo resection in a public health care setting with no differences in the uptake of other therapies. An analysis of survival based on ethnicity will be reported.

The impact of body mass index on survival in stage 3 and 4 lung cancer

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Background: Obesity is an adverse prognostic factor in several cancers, including colorectal, breast, endometrial and prostate. Studies on body mass index (BMI) and lung cancer outcomes are lacking. Understanding the clinical impact of body weight is important given the high prevalence of obesity globally. We retrospectively evaluated the BMI at diagnosis and its effects on survival in stage 3/4 lung cancer patients. Methods: 1,121 patients with stage 3/4 lung cancer were analyzed. Clinicopathologic data were collected retrospectively. Adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) for overall survival (OS) were generated by Cox regression for each BMI (kg/m2) category (underweight: <18.5, normal: 18.5-24.9, overweight: 25.0-29.9, obese: ≥30), after adjusting for age, gender, Charlson Comorbidity Index, performance status (PS), clinical stage and treatment regimen. Results: In this cohort (n=1,121), the frequencies of stage 3A, 3B and 4 lung cancers were 35%, 32% and 33%, respectively. There were 633 (57%) adenocarcinomas, 238 (21%) squamous cell carcinomas, 38 (3%) small cell lung cancers, and 210 (19%) other histologies. Patients had variable BMI: 82 (7%) underweight, 550 (49%) normal weight, 333 (30%) overweight, 156 (14%) obese. Being overweight/obese was associated with older age (p=0.002) and stage 3A disease (p=0.001); underweight patients were more likely current smokers (p<0.001). OS was significantly decreased with age ≥65, males, PS 2-3, stage 4, and lack of systemic therapy (p<0.001). Median OS in underweight, normal weight, overweight and obese patients were 14, 23, 24 and 26 months, respectively. Compared with BMI≥18.5, being underweight was associated with poorer OS (aHR 1.33, 95% CI 1.01-1.77, p=0.045), but not progression-free survival (aHR 1.12, 95% CI 0.86-1.46, p=0.414). The magnitude of this association was greatest in those aged <65 (aHR 1.57, 95% CI 1.11-2.22, p=0.011). Conclusions: Underweight patients with stage 3/4 lung cancer, especially if aged <65, have significantly poorer OS. Lower BMI was mostly observed in current smokers, while above normal BMI was seen in stage 3A. Unlike other cancers, obesity does not increase mortality in this population. The inverse BMI-survival relationship in lung cancer requires further study.

The effect of two BRM promoter variants on the risk of stage I/II upper aerodigestive tract cancers

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Background: BRM is a key subunit of the chromatin remodeling complex SWI/SNF and a putative tumor suppressor gene that is silenced in 15-20% of many solid tumors (PMID 15722796). Evidence suggests that it is epigenetically regulated, as two BRM promoter insertion variants (BRM-741 and BRM-1321) may lead to gene silencing by recruiting histone deacetylases. The presence of both homozygous BRM-741 and BRM-1321 highly correlate with loss of BRM expression and function in lung tumors, while increasing smoking-related lung cancer by two-fold (PMID 21478907). Also, the pharmacologic reversal of epigenetic changes of BRM offers a potential novel therapeutic approach (PMID 21478905). We assessed whether these BRM variants are associated with the risk of upper aerodigestive tract cancers, focusing on Stage I/II tumors that would most benefit from new screening and prevention strategies. Methods: BRM was genotyped by qPCR using TaqMan probes. 1,008 controls were matched to 595 cases by frequency distribution based on age, gender and smoking status. Multivariate logistic regression generated adjusted odds ratios (aOR). Results: The 595 cases were: 115 esophageal, 278 lung, and 202 head and neck cancers. 51% were adenocarcinomas; 60% were Stage I. The frequency of homozygozity was: BRM-741, 26%; BRM-1321, 23%; both variants, 15%. In the combined analysis, there was significant correlation between malignancy and homozygous BRM-741 (aOR 1.91 (95%CI 1.3-2.4); p=0.001) or BRM-1321 (aOR 1.94 (95%CI 1.4-2.7; p=3x10E-4). Being homozygous for both BRM variants carried an even greater risk (aOR 2.45 (95%CI 1.6-3.9); p=1x10E-5). This correlation was similar for adenocarcinomas (aOR 2.53 (95%CI 1.4-4.2); p=6x10E-4) and squamous cell carcinomas (aOR 2.33 (95%CI 1.3-4.4); p=8x10E-4). The increased cancer risk was also similar between these subgroups: head and neck, esophageal and lung cancers; Stage I and II patients; smokers and non-smokers. Conclusions: The two homozygous BRM variants increase the risk of early stage upper aerodigestive tumors by more than two-fold independent of smoking status. BRM promoter variants and their potential epigenetic effect may be early events in the evolution of these cancers.

Cell survival, DNA damage, and oncogenic transformation after a transient and reversible apoptotic response

Apoptosis serves as a protective mechanism by eliminating damaged cells through programmed cell death. After apoptotic cells pass critical checkpoints, including mitochondrial fragmentation, executioner caspase activation, and DNA damage, it is assumed that cell death inevitably follows. However, this assumption has not been tested directly. Here we report an unexpected reversal of late-stage apoptosis in primary liver and heart cells, macrophages, NIH 3T3 fibroblasts, cervical cancer HeLa cells, and brain cells. After exposure to an inducer of apoptosis, cells exhibited multiple morphological and biochemical hallmarks of late-stage apoptosis, including mitochondrial fragmentation, caspase-3 activation, and DNA damage. Surprisingly, the vast majority of dying cells arrested the apoptotic process and recovered when the inducer was washed away. Of importance, some cells acquired permanent genetic changes and underwent oncogenic transformation at a higher frequency than controls. Global gene expression analysis identified a molecular signature of the reversal process. We propose that reversal of apoptosis is an unanticipated mechanism to rescue cells from crisis and propose to name this mechanism "anastasis" (Greek for "rising to life"). Whereas carcinogenesis represents a harmful side effect, potential benefits of anastasis could include preservation of cells that are difficult to replace and stress-induced genetic diversity.

Incidence and risk factors for early hepatotoxicity and its impact on survival in patients with myelofibrosis undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is commonly associated with hepatic complications. Patients with myelofibrosis (MF) often develop liver dysfunction in the early posttransplantation period; however, this has not yet been studied in a systematic fashion. We retrospectively evaluated 53 patients with MF who underwent HCT to assess the prevalence of acute liver toxicity and risk factors and the impact on survival. We compared the prevalence of acute hepatic complications in that group and a matched control group of 53 patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). In the MF group, during the first 6 weeks after HCT, the incidence of mild (34.2-102.6 μM), moderate (102.6-342 μM), and severe (>342 μM) hyperbilirubinemia was 34%, 40%, and 4%, respectively (normal, <22 μM). The incidence of mild/moderate transaminitis (2-10 times the upper limit of normal) was 23%, and that of severe transaminitis (>10 times the upper limit of normal) was 6%. Veno-occlusive disease as defined by the Baltimore criteria was observed in 19 patients (36%) in the MF group. Compared with MDS, MF was associated with a significantly higher incidence of moderate/severe hyperbilirubinemia (44% versus 21%; P = .02) and veno-occlusive disease (36% versus 19%; P = .05). A history of portal hypertension, biopsy-proven hepatic iron overload, or splanchnic vein thrombosis was a strong predictor of moderate/severe hyperbilirubinemia (P = .02). Acute hepatocellular injury with moderate/severe hyperbilirubinemia or transaminitis was associated with inferior survival at 12 months (P = .02) in the MF group. We conclude that patients with MF are at significant risk of early hepatotoxicity after HCT, which is associated with an adverse impact on survival.

Unraveling the genetics of cancer: genome sequencing and beyond

Advances in next-generation sequencing technology are enabling the systematic analyses of whole cancer genomes, providing insights into the landscape of somatic mutations and the great genetic heterogeneity that defines the unique signature of an individual tumor. Moreover, integrated studies of the genome, epigenome, and transcriptome reveal mechanisms of tumorigenesis at multiple levels. Progress in sequencing technologies and bioinformatics will improve the costs, sensitivity, and accuracy of detecting somatic mutations, while large-scale projects are underway to coordinate cancer genome sequencing at the global level to facilitate the generation and dissemination of high-quality uniform genetic data. These developments will create opportunities for deeper studies of cancer genetics and the clinical application of genome sequencing, and will motivate further research in cancer pathogenesis.

Clinics in diagnostic imaging (136). Chronic Schistosoma japonica infection of the liver

A 37-year-old man from China was initially seen at the urology clinic for symptoms of urinary colic. Plain computed tomography (CT) imaging of the kidneys, ureters and bladder was performed, which (in addition to demonstrating renal calculi) revealed incidental findings of 'turtleback' septal and capsular calcifications, features pathognomonic for schistosomiasis japonica. Other classical features were demonstrated on the triphasic hepatic CT imaging that was subsequently performed. The clinical course, radiological features and complications of schistosomiasis japonica are discussed.

The novel immunoregulatory molecule FGL2: a potential biomarker for severity of chronic hepatitis C virus infection

BACKGROUND & AIMS

This report describes the use of a novel sensitive and specific ELISA for the measurement of human fibrinogen-like protein 2 (FGL2/fibroleukin), a novel effector of natural regulatory T (Treg) cells, to predict the course of chronic hepatitis C viral infection (HCV).

METHODS

Plasma levels of FGL2 were measured in HCV patients and compared to healthy controls and to patients with alcoholic liver disease.

RESULTS

FGL2 levels were significantly higher in HCV patients (84.3+/-89.1 ng/ml, n=80) compared to healthy controls (36.4+/-21.9 ng/ml, n=30, p<0.001), to a subset of patients who cleared HCV following anti-viral treatment (16.6+/-19.7 ng/ml, n=32, p<0.001), and to patients with inactive alcoholic liver disease (18.8+/-17.4 ng/ml, n=24, p<0.001). Among HCV patients, plasma levels of FGL2 correlated significantly with the stage of fibrosis (p=0.001) and were significantly higher in patients with cirrhosis (164.1+121.8 ng/ml, n=60) compared to non-cirrhotics (57.7+/-52.8 ng/ml, n=20, p=0.001). Genotype 1 patients had significantly higher levels of FGL2 (98.1+/-100.3 ng/ml, n=60) compared to patients with genotype 2/3 (41.5+/-38.6 ng/ml, n=20, p=0.0008). Patients with genotype 2/3 had FGL2 levels similar to healthy controls (41.5+/-38.6 vs. 36.41+/-21.9 ng/ml, p=ns). Infiltrating lymphocytes in liver biopsies of HCV patients were positive for either FGL2 or FoxP3 (a marker of Treg cells) or expressed both markers.

CONCLUSIONS

This report documents the development of a sensitive ELISA for measurement of plasma levels of FGL2 an effector Treg cells, which correlates with the severity of HCV infection.

Kisspeptin/Gpr54-independent gonadotrophin-releasing hormone activity in Kiss1 and Gpr54 mutant mice

The kisspeptin/Gpr54 signalling pathway plays a critical role in reproduction by stimulating the secretion of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH), yet mice carrying mutations in Kiss1 (which encodes kisspeptin) or Gpr54 exhibit partial sexual maturation. For example, a proportion of female Kiss1(-/-) and Gpr54(-/-) mice exhibit vaginal oestrus, and some male Kiss1(-/-) and Gpr54(-/-) mice exhibit spermatogenesis. To characterise this partial sexual maturation, we examined the vaginal cytology of female Kiss1(-/-) and Gpr54(-/-) mice over time. Almost all mutant mice eventually enter oestrus, and then spontaneously transition from oestrus to dioestrus and back to oestrus again. These transitions are not associated with ovulation, and the frequency of these transitions increases with age. The oestrus exhibited by female Kiss1(-/-) and Gpr54(-/-) mice was disrupted by the administration of the competitive GnRH antagonist acyline, which also resulted in lower uterine weights and, in Kiss1(-/-) mice, lower serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) concentrations. Similarly, male Kiss1(-/-) and Gpr54(-/-) mice treated with acyline had smaller testicular sizes and an absence of mature sperm. In addition to examining intact Kiss1(-/-) and Gpr54(-/-) mice, we also assessed the effects of acyline on gonadotrophin concentrations in gonadectomised mice. Gonadectomy resulted in a significant increase in serum FSH concentrations in male Gpr54(-/-) and Kiss1(-/-) mice. Acyline administration to gonadectomised Kiss1(-/-) and Gpr54(-/-) male mice lowered serum FSH and LH concentrations significantly. By contrast to males, gonadectomy did not result in significant gonadotrophin changes in female Kiss1(-/-) and Gpr54(-/-) mice, but acyline administration was followed by a decrease in LH concentrations. These results demonstrate that, although kisspeptin signalling is critical for the high levels of GnRH activity required for normal sexual maturation and for ovulation, Kiss1(-/-) and Gpr54(-/-) mice retain some degree of GnRH activity. This GnRH activity is sufficient to produce significant effects on vaginal cytology and uterine weights in female mice and on spermatogenesis and testicular weights in male mice.

The novel CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cell effector molecule fibrinogen-like protein 2 contributes to the outcome of murine fulminant viral hepatitis

Fulminant viral hepatitis (FH) remains an important clinical problem in which the underlying pathogenesis is not well understood. Here, we present insight into the immunological mechanisms involved in FH caused by murine hepatitis virus strain 3 (MHV-3), indicating a critical role for CD4(+)CD25(+) regulatory T cells (Tregs) and production of the novel Treg effector molecule FGL2. Before infection with MHV-3, susceptible BALB/cJ mice had increased numbers of Tregs and expression of fgl2 messenger RNA (mRNA) and FGL2 protein compared with resistant A/J mice. After MHV-3 infection, plasma levels of FGL2 in BALB/cJ mice were significantly increased, correlating with increased percentage of Tregs. Treatment with anti-FGL2 antibody completely inhibited Treg activity and protected susceptible BALB/cJ mice against MHV-3-liver injury and mortality. Adoptive transfer of wild-type Tregs into resistant fgl2(-/-) mice increased their mortality caused by MHV-3 infection, whereas transfer of peritoneal exudate macrophages had no adverse effect.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that FGL2 is an important effector cytokine of Tregs that contributes to susceptibility to MHV-3-induced FH. The results further suggest that targeting FGL2 may lead to the development of novel treatment approaches for acute viral hepatitis infection.

Targeted deletion of fgl2 leads to impaired regulatory T cell activity and development of autoimmune glomerulonephritis

Mice with targeted deletion of fibrinogen-like protein 2 (fgl2) spontaneously developed autoimmune glomerulonephritis with increasing age, as did wild-type recipients reconstituted with fgl2-/- bone marrow. These data implicate FGL2 as an important immunoregulatory molecule and led us to identify the underlying mechanisms. Deficiency of FGL2, produced by CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Treg), resulted in increased T cell proliferation to lectins and alloantigens, Th 1 polarization, and increased numbers of Ab-producing B cells following immunization with T-independent Ags. Dendritic cells were more abundant in fgl2-/- mice and had increased expression of CD80 and MHCII following LPS stimulation. Treg cells were also more abundant in fgl2-/- mice, but their suppressive activity was significantly impaired. Ab to FGL2 completely inhibited Treg cell activity in vitro. FGL2 inhibited dendritic cell maturation and induced apoptosis of B cells through binding to the low-affinity FcgammaRIIB receptor. Collectively, these data suggest that FGL2 contributes to Treg cell activity and inhibits the development of autoimmune disease.

Targeted deletion of fgl2 leads to impaired regulatory T cell activity and development of autoimmune glomerulonephritis

Mice with targeted deletion of fibrinogen-like protein 2 (fgl2) spontaneously developed autoimmune glomerulonephritis with increasing age, as did wild-type recipients reconstituted with fgl2-/- bone marrow. These data implicate FGL2 as an important immunoregulatory molecule and led us to identify the underlying mechanisms. Deficiency of FGL2, produced by CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Treg), resulted in increased T cell proliferation to lectins and alloantigens, Th 1 polarization, and increased numbers of Ab-producing B cells following immunization with T-independent Ags. Dendritic cells were more abundant in fgl2-/- mice and had increased expression of CD80 and MHCII following LPS stimulation. Treg cells were also more abundant in fgl2-/- mice, but their suppressive activity was significantly impaired. Ab to FGL2 completely inhibited Treg cell activity in vitro. FGL2 inhibited dendritic cell maturation and induced apoptosis of B cells through binding to the low-affinity FcgammaRIIB receptor. Collectively, these data suggest that FGL2 contributes to Treg cell activity and inhibits the development of autoimmune disease.

Dynamic overload control for distributed call processors using the neural network method

Overload control of call processors in telecom networks is used to protect the network of call processing computers from excessive load during traffic peaks, and involves techniques of predictive control with limited local information. Here we propose a neural-network algorithm, in which a group of neural controllers are trained using examples generated by a globally optimal control method. Simulations show that the neural controllers have better performance than local control algorithms in both the throughput and the response to traffic upsurges. Compared with the centralized control algorithm, the neural control significantly decreases the computational time for making decisions and can be implemented in real time.

Impaired heart contractility in Apelin gene-deficient mice associated with aging and pressure overload

Apelin constitutes a novel endogenous peptide system suggested to be involved in a broad range of physiological functions, including cardiovascular function, heart development, control of fluid homeostasis, and obesity. Apelin is also a catalytic substrate for angiotensin-converting enzyme 2, the key severe acute respiratory syndrome receptor. The in vivo physiological role of Apelin is still elusive. Here we report the generation of Apelin gene-targeted mice. Apelin mutant mice are viable and fertile, appear healthy, and exhibit normal body weight, water and food intake, heart rates, and heart morphology. Intriguingly, aged Apelin knockout mice developed progressive impairment of cardiac contractility associated with systolic dysfunction in the absence of histological abnormalities. We also report that pressure overload induces upregulation of Apelin expression in the heart. Importantly, in pressure overload-induced heart failure, loss of Apelin did not significantly affect the hypertrophy response, but Apelin mutant mice developed progressive heart failure. Global gene expression arrays and hierarchical clustering of differentially expressed genes in hearts of banded Apelin(-/y) and Apelin(+/y) mice showed concerted upregulation of genes involved in extracellular matrix remodeling and muscle contraction. These genetic data show that the endogenous peptide Apelin is crucial to maintain cardiac contractility in pressure overload and aging.

Declines in tobacco brand recognition and ever-smoking rates among young children following restrictions on tobacco advertisements in Hong Kong

BACKGROUND

We compared the recognition of tobacco brands and ever-smoking rates in young children before (1991) and after (2001) the implementation of cigarette advertising restrictions in Hong Kong and identified continuing sources of tobacco promotion exposure.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey of 824 primary school children aged from 8 to 11 (Primary classes 3-4) living in two Hong Kong districts was carried out using self-completed questionnaires examining smoking behaviour and recognition of names and logos from 18 tobacco, food, drink and other brands common in Hong Kong.

RESULTS

Ever-smoking prevalence in 2001 was 3.8 per cent (1991, 7.8 per cent). Tobacco brand recognition rates ranged from 5.3 per cent (Viceroy name) to 72.8 per cent (Viceroy logo). Compared with 1991, in 2001 never-smoker children recognized fewer tobacco brand names and logos: Marlboro logo recognition rate fell by 55.3 per cent. Similar declines were also seen in ever-smoker children, with recognition of the Marlboro logo decreasing 48 per cent. Recognition rates declined amongst both boys and girls. Children from non-smoking families constituted 51 per cent (426) of the sample, whereas 34.5 per cent (284), 8.5 per cent (70), 1.7 per cent (14) and 4.4 per cent (36) of the children had one, two, three or more than three smoking family members at home, respectively. Tobacco brand recognition rates and ever-smoking prevalence were significantly higher among children with smoking family members compared with those without. Among 12 possible sources of exposure to cigarette brand names and logos, retail stalls (75.5 per cent; 622), indirect advertisements (71.5 per cent; 589) and magazines (65.3 per cent; 538) were ranked the most common.

CONCLUSION

Advertising restrictions in Hong Kong have effectively decreased primary-age children's recognition of tobacco branding. However, these children remain vulnerable to branding, mostly through exposure from family smokers, point-of-sale tobacco advertisement and occasional promotions. Action to curb these is now required.

Corticosteroid therapy in a Chinese patient with nephropathy associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection

A 52-year-old man with 6 years' history of human immunodeficiency virus infection who was receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy presented with acute renal failure and nephrotic syndrome. Renal biopsy revealed features consistent with nephropathy associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection. Treatment consisted of intravenous methylprednisolone followed by oral prednisolone. The patient's renal function improved, although proteinuria persisted. Human immunodeficiency virus-associated nephropathy is very rare in Asian populations and is more common among blacks. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first documented case of nephropathy associated with human immunodeficiency virus infection occurring in Hong Kong.