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Reenaers C, Cremer A, Dewit O, De Vroey B, Van Moerkercke W, Bossuyt P, Muls V, Imschoot J, Block S, Hantson A, Van Hootegem P. Effectiveness and persistence of Vedolizumab in patients with inflammatory bowel disease : results from the Belgian REal-LIfe study with VEdolizumab (Be-RELIVE). Acta Gastroenterol Belg 2020; 83:15-23. [PMID: 32233267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Vedolizumab (VDZ) is a gutselective integrin inhibitor used to treat Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). This retrospective study assessed effectiveness and treatment persistence of VDZ in a Belgian reallife cohort of CD and UC patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS CD and UC patients from 15 Belgian centers, who started VDZ between 01/09/2015 and 31/06/2016 and attended ≥1 visit after the first VDZ infusion, were included. Data were collected before first infusion, at week (W)10, W14 (CD patients only), month (M)6 and last follow-up. Treatment response and remission rates (changes in disease activity scores) and treatment persistence (Kaplan-Meier analysis) were assessed. RESULTS Of the 348 patients receiving at least one dose of VDZ, 325 (202 CD, 45 biologic-naïve; and 123 UC, 42 biologic-naïve) patients were included in data analyses. At M6, 87.6% (176/201) of CD and 86.1% (105/122) of UC patients were still on VDZ treatment, 75.6% (34/45) and 83.9% (26/31) achieved clinical response, and 66.7% (44/66) and 42.9% (15/35) were in remission. At M6 remission rates was significantly higher while response rates tended to be higher among biologic-naïve versus biologic-failure CD patients. CONCLUSIONS VDZ offers an effective treatment option in real-life settings and treatment effectiveness appears higher in biologic-naïve versus biologic-failure CD patients. (Acta gastroenterol. belg., 2020, 83, 15-23).
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Affiliation(s)
- C Reenaers
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Liège, Avenue de l'Hôpital 1, 4000 Liège, Belgium
| | - A Cremer
- Cliniques Universitaires de Bruxelles, Hôpital Erasme, Brussels, Belgium
| | - O Dewit
- Clinique Universitaire Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - B De Vroey
- Clinique Universitaire Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
- Centre Hospitalier Jolimont, Haine-Saint-Paul, Belgium
| | | | - P Bossuyt
- Imelda GI Clinical Research Centre, Bonheiden, Belgium
| | - V Muls
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Saint-Pierre, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - S Block
- Takeda Belgium, Zaventem, Belgium
| | | | - P Van Hootegem
- Algemeen Ziekenhuis Sint-Lucas Brugge vzw, Brugge, Belgium
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Landry ZC, Vergin K, Mannenbach C, Block S, Yang Q, Blainey P, Carlson C, Giovannoni S. Optofluidic Single-Cell Genome Amplification of Sub-micron Bacteria in the Ocean Subsurface. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:1152. [PMID: 29937754 PMCID: PMC6003095 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.01152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Optofluidic single-cell genome amplification was used to obtain genome sequences from sub-micron cells collected from the euphotic and mesopelagic zones of the northwestern Sargasso Sea. Plankton cells were visually selected and manually sorted with an optical trap, yielding 20 partial genome sequences representing seven bacterial phyla. Two organisms, E01-9C-26 (Gammaproteobacteria), represented by four single cell genomes, and Opi.OSU.00C, an uncharacterized Verrucomicrobia, were the first of their types retrieved by single cell genome sequencing and were studied in detail. Metagenomic data showed that E01-9C-26 is found throughout the dark ocean, while Opi.OSU.00C was observed to bloom transiently in the nutrient-depleted euphotic zone of the late spring and early summer. The E01-9C-26 genomes had an estimated size of 4.76-5.05 Mbps, and contained "O" and "W"-type monooxygenase genes related to methane and ammonium monooxygenases that were previously reported from ocean metagenomes. Metabolic reconstruction indicated E01-9C-26 are likely versatile methylotrophs capable of scavenging C1 compounds, methylated compounds, reduced sulfur compounds, and a wide range of amines, including D-amino acids. The genome sequences identified E01-9C-26 as a source of "O" and "W"-type monooxygenase genes related to methane and ammonium monooxygenases that were previously reported from ocean metagenomes, but are of unknown function. In contrast, Opi.OSU.00C genomes encode genes for catabolizing carbohydrate compounds normally associated with eukaryotic phytoplankton. This exploration of optofluidics showed that it was effective for retrieving diverse single-cell bacterioplankton genomes and has potential advantages in microbiology applications that require working with small sample volumes or targeting cells by their morphology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary C. Landry
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Institut für Umweltingenieurwissenschaften, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Kevin Vergin
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | | | - Stephen Block
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Qiao Yang
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- East China Sea Fisheries Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Paul Blainey
- Department of Biological Engineering, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Craig Carlson
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Marine Biology, University of California, Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA, United States
| | - Stephen Giovannoni
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
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Nowak B, Kaiser HJ, Block S, Koch KC, Dahl JV, Büll U, Schäfer WM. An approach for comparative quantification of myocardial blood flow (0-15-H2O-PET), perfusion (Tc-99m-tetrofosmin-SPECT), and metabolism (F 18-FDG-PET). Nuklearmedizin 2018. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1623882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Summary
Aim: In the present study a new approach has been developed for comparative quantification of absolute myocardial blood flow (MBF), myocardial perfusion, and myocardial metabolism in short-axis slices. Methods: 42 patients with severe CAD, referred for myocardial viability diagnostics, were studied consecutively with 0-15-H2O PET (H2O-PET) (twice), Tc-99m-Tetrofosmin 5PECT (TT-SPECT) and F-18-FDG PET (FDG-PET). All dato sets were reconstructed using attenuation correction and reoriented into short axis slices. Each heart was divided into three representative slices (base, rnidventricular, apex) and 18 ROIs were defined on the FDG PET images and transferred to the corresponding H2O-PET and TT-SPECT slices. TT-SPECT and FDG-PET data were normalized to the ROI showing maximum perfusion. MBF was calculated for all left-ventricular ROIs using a single-compartment-model fitting the dynamic H2O-PET studies. Microsphere equivalent MBF (MBF_micr) was calculated by multiplying MBF and tissue-fraction, a parameter which was obtained by fitting the dynamic H2O-PET studies. To reduce influence of viability only well perfused areas (>70% TT-SPECT) were used for comparative quantification. Results: First and second mean global MBF values were 0.85 ml × min-1 × g-1 and 0.84 ml × min-1 × g1, respectively, with a repeatability coefficient of 0.30 ml ÷ min-1 × gl. After sectorization mean MBF_micr was between 0.58 ml × min1 ÷ ml"1 and 0.68 ml × min-1 × ml"1 in well perfused areas. Corresponding TT-SPECT values ranged from 83 % to 91 %, and FDG-PET values from 91 % to 103%. All procedures yielded higher values for the lateral than the septal regions. Conclusion: Comparative quantification of MBF, MBF_micr, TT-SPECT perfusion and FDG-PET metabolism can be done with the introduced method in short axis slices. The obtained values agree well with experimentally validated values of MBF and MBF_micr.
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Zimny M, Schreckenberger M, Reinartz P, Nowak B, Ostwald E, Schäfer W, Block S, Setam K, Büll U, Sabri O. Characterization of radioiodine therapy failures in Graves’ disease. Nuklearmedizin 2018. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0038-1623985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Summary
Aim of this study was a characterization of radioiodine therapy (RIT) failures in Graves’ disease without simultaneous Carbimazole. Method: 226 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of Graves’ disease received 686.8 ± 376.4 MBq of iodine-131 orally for thyroid ablation. Target dose was 250 Gy. All patients were followed up for 6 months. Therapy failures were compared with successes regarding possible influencing variables initial thyroid volume, thyroid function, immune activity (TRAb), 1-131 uptake, effective half-life, absorbed energy dose, age and gender. Results: 212 of 226 patients (93.8%) were treated successfully, 14 (6.2%) showed a hyperthyroidism relapse within 6 months which required a second radioiodine therapy. A success rate of 92.5% (62/67) could also be achieved with 67 patients who were hyperthyroid at the time of RIT. Compared to the therapy successes, the 14 failures achieved significantly lower absorbed doses (223.8 ±76.6 Gyvs. 285.2 ±82.1 Gy, ρ <0.005), but with no significant differences regarding age, thyroid volume, function or TRAb (all ρ >0.2). Of the 14 failures, η = 8 reached an absorbed dose <200 Gy and η = 1 a dose <250 Gy, although 5 of the failures reached an absorbed dose of >250 Gy. Stepwise logistic regression revealed only absorbed energy dose as a variable significantly influencing therapy success (p <0.005), but no influence of initial thyroid volume, function, TRAb value, age (all ρ >0.2) or gender (p = 0.13). Two-tailed Fisher’s exact test showed no significant influence of gender on success rates (failures/successes: male 1 /36, female 13/176, ρ = 0.48). Conclusions: Except for the absorbed energy dose, no other significant variable influencing the outcome of radioiodine therapy in Graves’ disease without simultaneous Carbimazole could be found. It should be noted, though, that 5 therapy failures (2.2%) reached an absorbed energy dose of >250 Gy.
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McGlinchey T, Mason S, Roberts A, Coackley A, Maguire M, Maloney F, Sanders J, Paladino J, Block S, Ellershaw J, Kirkbride P. Communication between clinicians and patients with advanced cancer: assessing the ‘face validity’ and acceptability of a serious illness care guide to improve clinical communication. Eur J Cancer 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/s0959-8049(17)30508-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Brandt S, Krauel K, Gottschalk KE, Renné T, Helm CA, Greinacher A, Block S. Characterisation of the conformational changes in platelet factor 4 induced by polyanions: towards in vitro prediction of antigenicity. Thromb Haemost 2014; 112:53-64. [PMID: 24671506 DOI: 10.1160/th13-08-0634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2013] [Accepted: 01/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is the most frequent drug-induced immune reaction affecting blood cells. Its antigen is formed when the chemokine platelet factor 4 (PF4) complexes with polyanions. By assessing polyanions of varying length and degree of sulfation using immunoassay and circular dichroism (CD)-spectroscopy, we show that PF4 structural changes resulting in antiparallel β-sheet content >30% make PF4/polyanion complexes antigenic. Further, we found that polyphosphates (polyP-55) induce antigenic changes on PF4, whereas fondaparinux does not. We provide a model suggesting that conformational changes exposing antigens on PF4/polyanion complexes occur in the hairpin involving AA 32-38, which form together with C-terminal AA (66-70) of the adjacent PF4 monomer a continuous patch on the PF4 tetramer surface, explaining why only tetrameric PF4 molecules express "HIT antigens". The correlation of antibody binding in immunoassays with PF4 structural changes provides the intriguing possibility that CD-spectroscopy could become the first antibody-independent, in vitro method to predict potential immunogenicity of drugs. CD-spectroscopy could identify compounds during preclinical drug development that induce PF4 structural changes correlated with antigenicity. The clinical relevance can then be specifically addressed during clinical trials. Whether these findings can be transferred to other endogenous proteins requires further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - A Greinacher
- Prof. Dr. med. Andreas Greinacher, Institut für Immunologie und Transfusionsmedizin, Sauerbruchstrasse, 17475 Greifswald, Germany, Tel.: +49 3834 865482, Fax: +49 3834 865489, E-mail:
| | - S Block
- Stephan Block, PhD, Applied Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, Fysikgränd 3, S-412 96 Gothenburg, Sweden, E-mail: ,
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Trevino KM, Fasciano K, Block S, Prigerson HG. Correlates of social support in young adults with advanced cancer. Support Care Cancer 2013; 21:421-9. [PMID: 22790223 PMCID: PMC3613786 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-012-1536-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2012] [Accepted: 06/25/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined the relationship between perceived social support, quality of life (QoL), and grief in young adults with advanced cancer. METHODS Seventy-one young adults (20-40 years) with advanced cancer were administered measures of social support, QoL, and grief. Regression analyses examined the relationship between social support and QoL and grief. RESULTS Higher levels of total social support were associated with better psychological and existential QoL and less severe grief. Availability of someone to talk to about problems was also associated with better psychological and existential QoL and less severe grief. Tangible support was associated with better psychological and existential QoL. Availability of someone to engage in activities with was only associated with better existential QoL. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest that enhancing social support may improve psychological well-being in this population. In addition, specific types of social support may be particularly relevant to the psychological well-being of young adults with advanced cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- K. M. Trevino
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Dana 1134, Boston, MA 02215, USA, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - K. Fasciano
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Dana 1134, Boston, MA 02215, USA, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - S. Block
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Dana 1134, Boston, MA 02215, USA, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - H. G. Prigerson
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute, 450 Brookline Avenue, Dana 1134, Boston, MA 02215, USA, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
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Trevino KM, Fasciano K, Partridge AH, Maciejewski P, Kacel E, Jimenez R, Block S, Prigerson HG. Understanding the psychosocial needs of young adults with cancer: Identifying targets for clinical intervention. J Clin Oncol 2011. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2011.29.15_suppl.9068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Russell TP, Miller PJ, Piermarini GJ, Block S. Pressure/Temperature/Reaction Phase Diagrams for Several Nitramine Compounds. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.1557/proc-296-199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AbstractPressure/temperature/reaction phase diagrams for several nitramine compounds, including hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane (HNIW), 1,3,5-trinitrohexahydro-l,3,5-triazine (RDX), ammonium dinitramide (ADN), and p-nitroaniline (PNA) are presented. A diamond anvil cell was used in conjunction with optical polarizing light microscopy (OPLM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), energy dispersive X-ray diffraction (EDXD), and micro FT-Raman spectroscopy to determine these diagrams. A description is given of the diamond anvil cell and the associated techniques employed.
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Abstract
By means of a precession camera incorporating a diamond-anvil high-pressure cell, x-ray diffraction data can be obtained from single crystals of ice VI produced and maintained under high pressures. The cell constants for ice VI at room temperature and approximately 9 kilobars are: a = 8.38 A, b = 6.17 A, c = 8.90 A. The unit cell is orthogonal and the space-group aspect is compatible with P**a. These data for single crystals agree with previously reported unindexed data obtained for polycrystalline ice VI, within the limits of experimental error. The single crystals of ice VI were grown in a diamond-anvil pressure cell, distilled water and a metal gasket being used.
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Abstract
Crystals of a high-pressure form of benzene (benzene 11) were grown in the diamond-anvil pressure cell at elevated temperature and pressure from the transition of solid I to solid II. X-ray precession data were obtained from a single-crystal in the high-pressure cell. At 21 degrees C and about 25 kilobars, benzene II crystallizes in the monoclinic system with a = 5.417 +/- 0.005 angstroms (S.D.), b = 5.376 +/- 0.019 angstroms, c = 7.532 +/- 0.007 angstroms, beta = 110.00 degrees +/- 0.08 degrees , space group P2(1)/ c, Pc= 1.26 grams per cubic centimeter. The crystal structure was solved by generating all possible molecular packing configurations and calculating structure factors, reliability factors, and packing energies for each configuration. This procedure produced a unique solution for the molecular packing of benzene II.
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Balboni TA, Paulk ME, Balboni MJ, Phelps AC, Vanderweele T, Wright AA, Block S, Prigerson HG. Contrasting effects of religious/spiritual support from religious communities versus medical teams on advanced cancer patient end-of-life care. J Clin Oncol 2010. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2010.28.15_suppl.9012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Affiliation(s)
- I A Mirsky
- The May Institute for Medical Research, The Jewish Hospital, Cincinnati
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Block S, Flamini G, Brkic D, Morelli I, Quetin-Leclercq J. Analysis of the essential oil from leaves ofCroton zambesicus Muell. Arg. growing in Benin. FLAVOUR FRAG J 2006. [DOI: 10.1002/ffj.1558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Temel J, Jackson V, Bilings A, Dahlin C, Fidias P, Buss M, Block S, Ostler P, Kornblith A, Lynch T. P-847 Early palliative care (EPC) in patients with advanced non-smallcell lung cancer (NSCLC) is feasible. Lung Cancer 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/s0169-5002(05)81340-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Block S, Gerkens P, Peulen O, Jolois O, Mingeot-Leclercq MP, De Pauw-Gillet MC, Quetin-Leclercq J. Induction of apoptosis in human promyelocytic leukemia cells by a natural trachylobane diterpene. Anticancer Res 2005; 25:363-8. [PMID: 15816559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trachylobane diterpenes are secondary metabolites, quite rare in nature, and their bioactivities are poorly understood. Recently, we have described the cytotoxic activity of ent-trachyloban-3beta-ol isolated from the leaves of Croton zambesicus, a plant used in African folk medicine. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cell viability on several cell lines, cell morphology, DNA laddering, annexin Vand caspase-3 activation experiments were undertaken in order to analyse the cytotoxicty of trachylobane diterpene and to determine if this compound is able to induce apoptosis. RESULTS ent-Trachyloban-3beta-ol exerts a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect, which varies between cell lines. Induction of apoptosis in HL-60 cells could be detected at a concentration of 50 microM after 24-h treatment. CONCLUSION We show here, for the first time, that a trachylobane diterpene is able to induce apoptosis in human promyelocytic leukemia cells via caspase-3 activation in a concentration-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Block
- Laboratoire de Pharmacognosie, Université Catholique de Louvain, UCL 72.30-CHAM, 1200 Bruxelles, Belgium
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Cohen SB, Moreland LW, Cush JJ, Greenwald MW, Block S, Shergy WJ, Hanrahan PS, Kraishi MM, Patel A, Sun G, Bear MB. A multicentre, double blind, randomised, placebo controlled trial of anakinra (Kineret), a recombinant interleukin 1 receptor antagonist, in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with background methotrexate. Ann Rheum Dis 2004; 63:1062-8. [PMID: 15082469 PMCID: PMC1755108 DOI: 10.1136/ard.2003.016014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the efficacy and safety of 100 mg daily anakinra (Kineret), a recombinant form of the naturally occurring interleukin 1 receptor antagonist, plus methotrexate (MTX) in reducing the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). METHODS Patients with active RA (n = 506) despite current treatment with MTX were enrolled in this multicentre, double blind, randomised, placebo controlled study. Patients received subcutaneous injections of anakinra 100 mg/day or placebo. They were assessed monthly for 6 months for improvement in signs and symptoms of RA and for adverse events. The primary efficacy measure was the percentage of patients attaining ACR20 response at week 24. RESULTS Significantly greater proportions of patients treated with anakinra compared with placebo achieved ACR20 (38% v 22%; p<0.001), ACR50 (17% v 8%; p<0.01), and ACR70 (6% v 2%; p<0.05) responses. The response to anakinra was rapid; the proportion of patients with an ACR20 response at the first study assessment (4 weeks) was twice as high with anakinra as with placebo (p<0.005). Clinically meaningful and statistically significant responses were also seen in individual components of the ACR response (for example, Health Assessment Questionnaire, pain, C reactive protein levels, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate). Anakinra was well tolerated, with a safety profile, similar to that of placebo with one exception: mild to moderate injection site reactions were more common with anakinra than with placebo (65% v 24%). CONCLUSIONS This study confirms previous observations from a dose-ranging study showing that anakinra, in combination with MTX, is an effective and safe treatment for patients with RA who have inadequate responses to MTX alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- S B Cohen
- Department of Rheumatology, St Paul Medical Center, Dallas, Texas 75235, USA.
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Desmettre T, Block S. [Photodynamic therapy: facilitating dose calculation]. J Fr Ophtalmol 2003; 26:208-9. [PMID: 12660600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- T Desmettre
- Centre d'Imagerie, Laser, et Réadaptation Basse Vision, Lambersart.
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Stévigny C, Block S, De Pauw-Gillet MC, de Hoffmann E, Llabrès G, Adjakidjé V, Quetin-Leclercq J. Cytotoxic aporphine alkaloids from Cassytha filiformis. Planta Med 2002; 68:1042-1044. [PMID: 12451500 DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-35651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Purification of a cytotoxic crude alkaloid extract of Cassytha filiformis led to the isolation of four known aporphine alkaloids: neolitsine, dicentrine, cassythine (= cassyfiline) and actinodaphnine. Their structures were determined by analysis of spectroscopic data. All isolated alkaloids were tested for their cytotoxic activities on cancer and non-cancer cell lines in vitro. Neolitsine was the most active against HeLa and 3T3 cells (IC 50 :21.6 microM, and 21.4 microM, respectively). Cassythine and actinodaphnine showed the highest activity against Mel-5 (IC 50 : 24.3 microM and 25.7 microM, respectively) and HL-60 (IC 50 : 19.9 microM and 15.4 microM, respectively). This is the first report on the cytotoxic activity of C. filiformis extract and of neolitsine and cassythine. Furthermore, the complete NMR data of cassythine and actinodaphnine are given here for the first time.
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Block S, Stévigny C, De Pauw-Gillet MC, de Hoffmann E, Llabrès G, Adjakidjé V, Quetin-Leclercq J. ent-trachyloban-3beta-ol, a new cytotoxic diterpene from Croton zambesicus. Planta Med 2002; 68:647-649. [PMID: 12143003 DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-32903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The dichloromethane extract of leaves of Croton zambesicus (Euphorbiaceae) showing in vitro cytotoxicity against human cervix carcinoma cells was investigated in order to identify its active compounds. A bio-guided fractionation by HSCCC followed by MPLC led us to isolate a trachylobane diterpene, ent-trachyloban-3beta-ol, with cytotoxic properties (IC50 on HeLa cells = 7.3 microg/ml). This is the first report on the cytotoxicity of a trachylobane diterpene.
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Russell TP, Miller PJ, Piermarini GJ, Block S. High-pressure phase transition in .gamma.-hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.1021/j100192a060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Piermarini GJ, Block S, Miller PJ. Effects of pressure on the thermal decomposition kinetics and chemical reactivity of nitromethane. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.1021/j100338a087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Schäfer WM, Nowak B, Kaiser HJ, Block S, Koch KC, vom Dahl J, Büll U. [An approach for comparative quantification of myocardial blood flow (O-15-H2O-PET), perfusion (Tc-99m-tetrofosmin-SPECT) and metabolism (F-18-FDG-PET)]. Nuklearmedizin 2001; 40:164-71. [PMID: 11727629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
AIM In the present study a new approach has been developed for comparative quantification of absolute myocardial blood flow (MBF), myocardial perfusion, and myocardial metabolism in short-axis slices. METHODS 42 patients with severe CAD, referred for myocardial viability diagnostics, were studied consecutively with 0-15-H2O PET (H2O-PET) (twice), Tc-99m-Tetrofosmin SPECT (TT-SPECT) and F-18-FDG PET (FDG-PET). All data sets were reconstructed using attenuation correction and reoriented into short axis slices. Each heart was divided into three representative slices (base, midventricular, apex) and 18 ROIs were defined on the FDG PET images and transferred to the corresponding H2O-PET and TT-SPECT slices. TT-SPECT and FDG-PET data were normalized to the ROI showing maximum perfusion. MBF was calculated for all left-ventricular ROIs using a single-compartment-model fitting the dynamic H2O-PET studies. Microsphere equivalent MBF (MBF_micr) was calculated by multiplying MBF and tissue-fraction, a parameter which was obtained by fitting the dynamic H2O-PET studies. To reduce influence of viability only well perfused areas (> 70% TT-SPECT) were used for comparative quantification. RESULTS First and second mean global MBF values were 0.85 ml x min-1 x g-1 and 0.84 ml x min-1 x g-1, respectively, with a repeatability coefficient of 0.30 ml x min-1 x g-1. After sectorization mean MBF_micr was between 0.58 ml x min-1 x ml-1 and 0.68 ml x min-1 x ml-1 in well perfused areas. Corresponding TT-SPECT values ranged from 83% to 91%, and FDG-PET values from 91% to 103%. All procedures yielded higher values for the lateral than the septal regions. CONCLUSION Comparative quantification of MBF, MBF_micr, TT-SPECT perfusion and FDG-PET metabolism can be done with the introduced method in short axis slices. The obtained values agree well with experimentally validated values of MBF and MBF_micr.
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Affiliation(s)
- W M Schäfer
- Klinik für Nuklearmedizin, Universitätsklinikum der RWTH Aachen, Germany.
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Nowak B, Meyer JM, Goergen T, Fluehs D, Block S, Guenther RW, Hoecker H, Buell U. Dosimetry of a 188rhenium-labeled self-expanding stent for endovascular brachytherapy in peripheral arteries. Cardiovasc Radiat Med 2001; 2:246-53. [PMID: 12160767 DOI: 10.1016/s1522-1865(02)00131-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Radioactive stents have been proposed as endovascular irradiation device to prevent in-stent restenosis by inhibiting neointimal proliferation. 32P-stents have been used in several studies so far, but require large-scale labeling procedures and endovascular barotrauma for stent expansion supporting the development of edge restenosis. Purpose of this study was to establish dosimetry of a self-expanding nitinol stent for peripheral vascular disease, which was radiolabeled with 188rhenium (188Re) by a dip coating technique. METHODS AND MATERIALS The surface of nitinol Memotherm FLEXX stents was polymer-coated providing functional NH(2) groups for diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) binding, providing the ligand for the complexation of 188Re onto the stent surface. Stability of radiolabeling was tested over 48 h using an in vitro blood circulation (Chandler Loop). Radial and longitudinal dose distributions of a radiolabeled stent were obtained with a plastic scintillator dosimetry system. RESULTS Stents with a length of 30 mm and a diameter of 8 mm were labeled with up to 33 MBq 188Re. A total of 69+/-4% of the labeled 188Re remained stable on the stent surface after 48 h. Ninety-five percent of the infinitely accumulated dose was supplied to the target tissue within 72 h. Including correction for radioactivity washout from the stent, the infinitely accumulated dose at 1 mm radial distance from the stent surface was 1.85+/-0.19 Gy/MBq 188Re/cm stent length. CONCLUSIONS We developed a technique for radiolabeling of self-expanding nitinol stents with 188Re by dip coating and formation of 188Re chelate complexes. We provide dosimetry data useful for application of this beta-emitting stent for endovascular brachytherapy in peripheral vascular occlusive disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Nowak
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Aachen University of Technology, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074 Aachen, Germany.
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Sabri O, Zimny M, Schreckenberger M, Reinartz P, Nowak B, Ostwald E, Schäfer W, Block S, Setani K, Büll U. [Characterization of therapy failures in radioiodine therapy of Graves' disease without simultaneous antithyroid agents]. Nuklearmedizin 2001; 40:1-6. [PMID: 11373933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Aim of this study was a characterization of radioiodine therapy (RIT) failures in Graves' disease without simultaneous carbimazole. METHOD 226 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of Graves' disease received 686.8 +/- 376.4 MBq of iodine-131 orally for thyroid ablation. Target dose was 250 Gy. All patients were followed up for 6 months. Therapy failures were compared with successes regarding possible influencing variables initial thyroid volume, thyroid function, immune activity (TRAb), I-131 uptake, effective half-life, absorbed energy dose, age and gender. RESULTS 212 of 226 patients (93.8%) were treated successfully, 14 (6.2%) showed a hyperthyroidism relapse within 6 months which required a second radioiodine therapy. A success rate of 92.5% (62/67) could also be achieved with 67 patients who were hyperthyroid at the time of RIT. Compared to the therapy successes, the 14 failures achieved significantly lower absorbed doses (223.8 +/- 76.6 Gy vs. 285.2 +/- 82.1 Gy, p < 0.005), but with no significant differences regarding age, thyroid volume, function or TRAb (all p > 0.2). Of the 14 failures, n = 8 reached an absorbed dose < 200 Gy and n = 1 a dose < 250 Gy, although 5 of the failures reached an absorbed dose of > 250 Gy. Stepwise logistic regression revealed only absorbed energy dose as a variable significantly influencing therapy success (p < 0.005), but no influence of initial thyroid volume, function, TRAb value, age (all p > 0.2) or gender (p = 0.13). Two-tailed Fisher's exact test showed no significant influence of gender on success rates (failures/successes: male 1/36, female 13/176, p = 0.48). CONCLUSIONS Except for the absorbed energy dose, no other significant variable influencing the outcome of radioiodine therapy in Graves' disease without simultaneous carbimazole could be found. It should be noted, though, that 5 therapy failures (2.2%) reached an absorbed energy dose of > 250 Gy.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Sabri
- Klinik für Nuklearmedizin der RWTH Aachen, Deutschland
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Block S. Index of suspicion. Case #1. Diagnosis: Nongroup A poststreptococcal reactive arthritis. Pediatr Rev 2000; 21:354-7. [PMID: 11041668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S Block
- Kentucky Pediatric Research, Bardstown, KY, USA
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Abstract
The objective of this investigation was to perform magnetic resonance (MR) imaging safety and artifact testing of an implantable spinal fusion stimulator. Magnetic field interactions, artifacts, and operational aspects of an implantable spinal fusion stimulator were evaluated in association with a 1.5 T MR system. Magnetic field-related translational attraction was measured using the deflection angle test. A special test apparatus was used to determine torque at 4.7 T. Artifacts were characterized using fast multiplanar spoiled gradient-echo, T1-weighted spin-echo, and T1-weighted fast spin-echo sequences. Operational aspects of the implantable spinal fusion stimulator before and after exposure to MR imaging at 1.5 T were assessed. In addition, nine patients (six lumbar spine and three cervical spine) with implantable spinal fusion stimulators underwent MR imaging. The findings indicated that magnetic field interactions were relatively minor, artifacts were well characterized and should not create diagnostic problems, and there were no changes in the operation of the spinal fusion stimulator. The nine patients underwent MR procedures without substantial adverse events or complaints. Based on the results of this investigation and in consideration of the findings from previous studies of MR imaging safety for the implantable spinal fusion stimulator, MR imaging may be performed safely in patients using MR systems operating at 1.5 T or less following specific recommendations and precautions.
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Affiliation(s)
- F G Shellock
- Department of Radiology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles 90045, USA. MRIsafety.com
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Abstract
HISTORY AND ADMISSION FINDINGS A 66-year-old woman, known for 4 years to have a space-occupying lesion in the liver thought to be a lipoma, was admitted because the increasing size of the mass. She was hypertensive and had recurrent supraventricular tachycardia, but was otherwise asymptomatic and physical examination was unremarkable. INVESTIGATIONS Laboratory tests were within normal limits. Abdominal ultrasound demonstrated a well-circumscribed, echodense space-occupying lesion. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a hyperintense encapsulated tumour with contrast-medium enhancement. DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT Because the imaging tests were equivocal, a segmental liver resection was performed to exclude malignancy. Histological examination revealed an angiomyolipoma of the liver. CONCLUSION Angiolipoma is a benign mixed-cell tumour that very rarely affects the liver but must be included in the differential diagnosis of hepatic space-occupying lesions. Its manifestations may be highly variable and histological examination is required if there is any uncertainty about possible malignancy. If the biopsy is diagnostic of a benign lesion, expectant observation with regular monitoring is indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Block
- Medizinische Klinik II, Städtisches Klinikum Pforzheim
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Fliser D, Bischoff I, Hanses A, Block S, Joest M, Ritz E, Mutschler E. Renal handling of drugs in the healthy elderly. Creatinine clearance underestimates renal function and pharmacokinetics remain virtually unchanged. Eur J Clin Pharmacol 1999; 55:205-11. [PMID: 10379636 DOI: 10.1007/s002280050619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE It is commonly assumed that renal function, and in parallel the excretion of drugs, is considerably reduced in the elderly. Endogenous creatinine clearance or indirect estimates of this parameter are generally recommended for adapting drug dosage. The present study evaluates the validity of both assumptions. METHODS We compared pharmacokinetics (and pharmacodynamics) of 50 mg atenolol, 800 mg piracetam and 25 mg hydrochlorothiazide plus 50 mg triamterene in ten healthy young [25 (2) years] and 11 healthy elderly subjects [68 (5) years]. Inulin (Cin) and para-aminohippurate [PAH (CPAH)] clearance (infusion clearance technique), endogenous (C(Cr)) and calculated (Cockroft-Gault) creatinine clearance, analysis of drugs and their metabolites (HPLC), were performed. Renal haemodynamics and the pharmacokinetics of beta-adrenergic blocking agent, diuretics and the nootropic agent piracetam, respectively, were measured on separate days. RESULTS Cin was significantly (P < 0.01) lower in the healthy elderly subjects [104 (12) vs 120 (14) ml x min(-2) x 1.73 m(-2) in the young], but remained within the normal range (> 90 ml x min(-2) x 1.73 m(-2)). In contrast, C(Cr) was even lower in healthy elderly subjects [95 (24) vs 121 (20) ml x min(-1) in the young], and the Cockroft-Gault clearance underestimated true glomerular filtration rate (GFR) even more seriously [74 (17) vs 122 (16) ml min(-1)]. For atenolol the mean area under the curve (AUC) was similar in both groups [3.16 (0.48) microg x h(-1) x ml(-1) in the elderly vs 3.01 (0.30) in the young], as was the mean maximal plasma concentration [0.42 (0.07) vs 0.44 (0.06) microg x ml(-1)], but the proportion of the drug excreted in urine was marginally (P < 0.025) lower in the elderly. Similar results were obtained for hydrochlorothiazide, whereas no marked differences between the groups were found for triamterene and its metabolite. Furthermore, the pharmacodynamic action of diuretics was not significantly altered in the elderly. CONCLUSIONS The true GFR of the healthy elderly remains within the normal range and is underestimated by creatinine clearance and more so by its surrogate (Cockroft-Gault clearance). In parallel, pharmacokinetics of renally excreted drugs are not affected in the healthy elderly to a clinically significant extent. For drugs with a narrow therapeutic window, indirect estimates of GFR appear to be an unreliable means for calculating correct dosage in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Fliser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ruperto-Carola University, Heidelberg, Germany
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Abstract
After many years of neglect by the medical establishment, the discipline of palliative medicine is finally moving into academic health centers (AHCs). While hospice programs have cared for dying patients in the community for years with little input from mainstream medicine, palliative care is gaining a foothold in AHCs, challenging these centers to integrate the hospice approach with biomedicine. The discipline of palliative care promises to be a rich source of learning and growth for physicians-in-training. Teaching about palliative care affirms two essential but vulnerable dimensions of the practice of medicine--the importance of relationship-centered care and the value of doctoring as a source of meaning and growth for physicians. In addition to fostering fundamental humanistic learning, palliative medicine is an excellent vehicle for teaching basic but often neglected clinical competencies, including pain and symptom control, communication, and working as part of a health care team. Because palliative care settings offer extraordinary learning opportunities, the authors recommend that clinical experiences in palliative care be integrated into the core curricula of all medical schools as well as appropriate residency programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Block
- Department of Ambulatory Care and Prevention, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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Huc P, Block S, Carlier D, Darloy F, Bonneterre ME, Bleuse JP, Fournier C, Bonneterre J. [Granisetron (per os) compared with ondansetron (per os) in the prevention of nausea and vomiting induced by mildly emetogenic chemotherapies. Groupe de Recherches en Cancerologie du Nord]. Bull Cancer 1998; 85:562-8. [PMID: 9752283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
It is a randomised cross-over multicenter study comparing the efficacy and the tolerance of granisetron (Gra) 1 mg and ondansetron (Ond) 8 mg, oral, given during two consecutive cycles to 188 naive patients scheduled to receive a moderately emetogenic chemotherapy. The antiemetic treatment is given one day per course, 1 hour before chemotherapy and the second administration from 8 to 12 hours after the beginning, during each of the two cycles; alternatively according to the randomisation. Five criteria are assessed; nausea (ordinal and visual analogic scales), emeric episodes (vomiting orland retching), complete response (minor or no nausea, no emetic episode and no rescue treatment), patient preference and tolerance. The intent to treat analysis showed no significant difference at cycle 1 between Gra and Ond; at cycle 2, there is no significant difference in the number of emetic episodes; for the prevention of nausea, the ordinal scale shows a significant difference (p = 0.028 in favour of Gra at day 1 (D1) but not from D2 to D5. Gra induced more complete response than Ond at D1 (p = 0.028), but not from D2 to D5. The cross-over study did not show any period or order effect, whereas a treatment effect on Ond was significant in favour of Gra (p = 0.01). There is no significant patients preference in favour of Gra or Ond. In conclusion, Gra was more efficient in preventing nausea and obtaining complete response on the first day of treatment, significantly at the second cycle. Both Gra and Ond had a good antiemetic activity for moderately emetogenic chemotherapy with complete response rates always over 50% on day 1; delayed emesis remain less weli controlled.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Huc
- Département d'oncologie médicale, Centre Oscar-Lambret, Lille
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Block S, Duffy S. A passport for improving services to individuals with developmental disabilities. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation 1998. [DOI: 10.3233/jvr-1998-11208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Block
- Denver Options, Inc., Denver, CO 80246 USA
- University of Colorado, Graduate School of Public Affairs, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Simon Duffy
- Inclusion Glasgow Crowngate Business Centre, Bridgeton, Glasgow, G40 3AP, UK
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Daum RS, Hogerman D, Rennels MB, Bewley K, Malinoski F, Rothstein E, Reisinger K, Block S, Keyserling H, Steinhoff M. Infant immunization with pneumococcal CRM197 vaccines: effect of saccharide size on immunogenicity and interactions with simultaneously administered vaccines. J Infect Dis 1997; 176:445-55. [PMID: 9237711 DOI: 10.1086/514063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Six pentavalent pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (Pn-CRM197) were evaluated among 400 infants. The vaccines differed in saccharide chain length (oligosaccharide [OS] or polysaccharide [PS]) and saccharide quantity (0.5, 2, or 5 microg). Subjects were randomized into groups 1-6 (Pn-CRM197 recipients) or 7 (controls) for immunization at 2, 4, and 6 months of age. Pn-CRM197 were well tolerated and elicited mean antibody concentrations that exceeded those in controls for all 5 capsular serotypes. PS formulations were generally more immunogenic than their OS counterparts. For PS vaccines, a dose-response was documented (5 microg > 2 microg > 0.5 microg), but the differences between the 5- and 2-microg formulations were insignificant. The mean anti-PRP antibody concentration was significantly higher among Pn-CRM197 recipients. It is concluded that PS vaccines are more immunogenic than OS vaccines. The improved immunogenicity from Haemophilus type b oligosaccharide conjugate (HbOC) vaccine when given with Pn-CRM197 suggests that a decreased dose of HbOC vaccine may be sufficient to elicit protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Daum
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Block S. Ibuprofen and/or acetaminophen: what price for "euthermia"? J Pediatr 1997; 131:332-3. [PMID: 9290630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Abstract
In senescence renal function is thought to decline markedly even in the absence of renal disease. It has also been proposed that the changes in renal function with age are not uniform and that confounding factors such as hypertension or atherosclerosis may play a role. We performed a comprehensive study to compare several aspects of renal function in four groups: (i) young healthy normotensive subjects (N = 24; 13 males; mean age 26 +/- 3 years); (ii) elderly healthy normotensive subjects (elderly NT; N = 29; 13 males; 68 +/- 7 years); (iii) elderly treated and untreated hypertensive patients (elderly HT; N = 25; 13 males; 70 +/- 6 years); and (iv) elderly patients with compensated mild to moderate heart failure (elderly HF; N = 14; 6 males; 69 +/- 6 years). Compared to young subjects mean GFR (C(In)) and ERPF (C(PAH)) were significantly lower in the elderly, despite similar mean plasma creatinine levels (young, 121 +/- 11, 650 +/- 85 ml/min/1.73 m2; elderly NT, 103 +/- 11, 486 +/- 102; elderly HT, 103 +/- 13, 427 +/- 55; elderly HF, 92 +/- 14, 377 +/- 103). Nevertheless, GFR was within the normal range in the majority of elderly NT and HT, but not in elderly HF. ERPF was significantly lower in elderly HT as compared with elderly NT, and still lower in elderly HF. Mean renovascular resistance and filtration fraction were significantly higher in the elderly, particularly in elderly HT and HF as compared with the young. Mean fractional excretion of Na+ was similar in all groups studied, but the lithium clearance was significantly lower in the elderly, suggesting a greater proximal and less distal sodium reabsorption in senescence. In the elderly, mean PTH concentration and urinary excretion of pyridoline cross-links were significantly higher and mean 25-(OH)D3, calcitriol and phosphate concentrations significantly lower; the correlation between PTH and GFR was significant (r = -0.432, P < 0.001). The results document that the decrease in renal hemodynamics with senescence is less marked than suggested by some studies using less stringent methodology and inclusion criteria. Comorbid conditions confound renal function in the elderly. Age-associated changes in renal hemodynamics are accompanied by significant alterations of renal hormones and of renal sodium handling.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Fliser
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ruperto-Carola University, Heidelberg, Germany
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Hoberman A, Paradise JL, Block S, Burch DJ, Jacobs MR, Balanescu MI. Efficacy of amoxicillin/clavulanate for acute otitis media: relation to Streptococcus pneumoniae susceptibility. Pediatr Infect Dis J 1996; 15:955-62. [PMID: 8895940 DOI: 10.1097/00006454-199610000-00034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A Hoberman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA, USA. alejo+@pitt.edu
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Affiliation(s)
- T. P. Russell
- Naval Research Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Code 6110, Washington, D.C. 20375-5320
| | - G. J. Piermarini
- Materials Science and Engineering Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899
| | - S. Block
- Materials Science and Engineering Laboratory, National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, Maryland 20899
| | - P. J. Miller
- Naval Surface Warfare Center, Silver Spring, Maryland 20901
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Bosner MS, Stenson W, Turnbough P, Block S, Kobayashi L, Schweizer A, Ostlund RE. Percent cholesterol absorption in normal human subjects by negative ion gas chromatography mass spectrometry. J Am Coll Cardiol 1996. [DOI: 10.1016/s0735-1097(96)82592-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Block S, Hedrick J, Hammerschlag MR, Cassell GH, Craft JC. Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia pneumoniae in pediatric community-acquired pneumonia: comparative efficacy and safety of clarithromycin vs. erythromycin ethylsuccinate. Pediatr Infect Dis J 1995; 14:471-7. [PMID: 7667050 DOI: 10.1097/00006454-199506000-00002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 257] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated 260 previously healthy children ages 3 through 12 years who had clinical signs and symptoms of pneumonia, radiographically confirmed. Patients were randomized 1:1 to a 10-day course of either clarithromycin suspension 15 mg/kg/day divided twice a day or erythromycin suspension 40 mg/kg/day divided twice a day or three times a day. Evidence of infection with Chlamydia pneumoniae was detected in 28% (74) of patients: 13% (34) by nasopharyngeal culture and 18% (48) by serology with the microimmunofluorescence assay. Evidence of infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae was detected in 27% (69) of patients: 20% (53) by nasopharyngeal culture or polymerase chain reaction and 17% (44) by serology with the use of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serologic confirmation of infection was observed in 23% (8) and 53% (28) of patients with bacteriologically detected C. pneumoniae and M. pneumoniae, respectively. Treatment with clarithromycin vs. erythromycin, respectively, yielded the following outcomes: clinical success 98% (121 of 124) vs. 95% (105 of 110); radiologic success 98% (109 of 111) vs. 94% (92 of 110); and eradication by pathogen, C. pneumoniae 79% (15 of 19) vs. 86% (12 of 14) and M. pneumoniae 100% (9 of 9) vs. 100% (4 of 4). Adverse events were primarily gastrointestinal occurring in almost one-fourth of patients in both groups, and were mild to moderate in severity. Clarithromycin and erythromycin were similarly effective and safe for the treatment of radiographically proved, community-acquired pneumonia in children older than 2 years old.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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Affiliation(s)
- S Block
- Kentucky Pediatric Research, Inc., Bardstown 40004, USA
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Weinblatt ME, Kaplan H, Germain BF, Block S, Solomon SD, Merriman RC, Wolfe F, Wall B, Anderson L, Gall E. Methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis. A five-year prospective multicenter study. Arthritis Rheum 1994; 37:1492-8. [PMID: 7945475 DOI: 10.1002/art.1780371013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of oral methotrexate (MTX) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a long-term prospective trial. METHODS One hundred twenty-three patients with RA who completed a 9-month multicenter randomized trial comparing MTX and auranofin enrolled in this 5-year prospective study of MTX. RESULTS Significant (P = 0.0001) improvement compared with baseline was noted in all clinical disease variables, functional status, and the Westergren erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR). "Marked improvement" occurred in 87 (71%) and 85 (69%) of the patients, respectively, in the joint pain/tenderness index and the joint swelling index at the last evaluable visit. Forty-four patients (36%) withdrew during the study. Eight (7%) withdrew due to lack of efficacy, and 8 (7%) due to adverse experiences, including 1 patient with cirrhosis. At 5 years, 64% of patients were still taking MTX and completed the study. CONCLUSION This large prospective study of long-term MTX treatment demonstrates sustained clinical response and improvement in the Westergren ESR and functional assessment scores, with an acceptable toxicity profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Weinblatt
- Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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Abstract
The Harvard Community Health Plan commissioned a cross-functional project team to improve the accuracy of the members' data base because inaccurate patient phone numbers and addresses were a major obstacle for clinicians seeking to provide high-quality service to patients. Accurate demographic information is essential to enable clinicians to contact patients quickly regarding lab results or follow-up care. The team members applied a quality improvement problem-solving methodology that required them to focus on the few vital problems and to test problems using data analysis. As a result, the team saw firsthand that staff members were not to blame for the inaccurate demographic information; the problem was in the automated system that obtains, updates, and maintains the records.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Baumstein
- Kenmore Center of Harvard Community Health Plan, Boston, MA
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Block S, Suhrke M, Wilke S, Menschig A, Schweizer H, Grützmacher D. Anomalous magnetoresistance peak in quantum wires: Evidence for boundary-scattering mechanisms. Phys Rev B Condens Matter 1993; 47:6524-6528. [PMID: 10004620 DOI: 10.1103/physrevb.47.6524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
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Piermarini GJ, Block S, Iyer S, Damavarapu R. Pressure-Temperature Phase Diagram of 1,4-Dinitrocubane. Propellants Explos Pyrotech 1993. [DOI: 10.1002/prep.19930180108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Nalin D, Brown L, Kuter B, Patterson C, McGuire B, Werzberger A, Santosham M, Block S, Reisinger K, Watson B. Inactivated hepatitis A vaccine in childhood: implications for disease control. Vaccine 1993; 11 Suppl 1:S15-7. [PMID: 8383388 DOI: 10.1016/0264-410x(93)90152-n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The experience to date with the Merck inactivated hepatitis A vaccine in healthy children 2-16 years old is reviewed. Comparison of response to increasing doses indicates that an intramuscular dose of 25 units results in seroconversion of 99% of children by week 4 following a single dose. Antibody persistence rate is nearly 100% six months later, whether or not a second priming dose is given at week 8. This vaccine has proven highly immunogenic in children and has a favourable safety/tolerability profile. It should be useful for pre-exposure prophylaxis and control of hepatitis A, and should eventually replace immune globulin (Ig) for this indication.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Nalin
- Merck Research Laboratories, West Point, PA
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Abstract
The role of steroid hormones has been suggested in the growth of malignant melanoma, and since aromatase activity has been found in melanoma tissue, we carried out a phase II study of aminoglutethimide, an aromatase inhibitor in malignant melanoma patients. Fifteen heavily pretreated patients entered the study. No response was observed--the treatment was well tolerated. We concluded that aminoglutethimide is very unlikely to be useful in melanoma patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Block
- Centre Oscar Lambret, BP 307-59020 Lille, France
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