X-Ray Microcomputed Tomography in Additive Manufacturing: A Review of the Current Technology and Applications

3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing, Ahead of Print.


https://ift.tt/2Khfwma

Spread of Activity Following TMS is related to Intrinsic Resting Connectivity to the Salience Network: A Concurrent TMS-fMRI study

Publication date: Available online 30 July 2018

Source: Cortex

Author(s): Colin Hawco, Aristotle Voineskos, Jennifer K.E. Steeves, Erin W. Dickie, Joseph D. Viviano, Jonathan Downar, Daniel M. Blumberger, Zafiris J. Daskalakis

Abstract

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) modulates activity at local and regions distal to the site of simulation. TMS has also been found to modulate brain networks, and it has been hypothesized that functional connectivity may predict the neuronal changes at local and distal sites in response to a TMS pulse. However, a direct relationship between resting connectivity and change in TMS-induced brain activation has yet to be demonstrated. Concurrent TMS-fMRI is a technique to directly measure this spread activity following TMS in real time. In twenty-two participants, resting-state fMRI scans were acquired, followed by four ten minute sessions of concurrent TMS-fMRI over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Seed-based functional connectivity to the individualized TMS target was examined using the baseline resting fMRI scan data, and the change of activity resulting from TMS was determined using a general linear model (High vs Low intensity TMS). While at the group level the spatial pattern of resting connectivity related to the pattern of TMS-induced cortical changes, there was substantial variability across individuals. This variability was further probed by examining individual's connectivity from the TMS target to six resting state networks. Only connectivity between the salience network and the TMS target site correlated with the RSC-TMS score. This suggests that resting state connectivity is correlated with TMS-induced changes in activity following DLPFC stimulation, particularly when the DLPFC target interacts with the salience network. These results highlight the importance of examining such relationships at the individual level and may help to guide individual treatment in clinical populations.

https://ift.tt/2LN83QJ

Laugier–Hunziker syndrome in endocrine clinical practice

Summary

Laugier–Hunziker syndrome (LHS) is a rare, benign and acquired disorder characterized by hyperpigmentation of the oral cavity and lips along with longitudinal melanonychia. No underlying systemic abnormalities or malignant predisposition is associated with it. In everyday clinical practice, an endocrinologist encounters certain endocrine conditions (e.g. Addison's disease, McCune–Albright syndrome) that present with, inter alia, mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation. Even though LHS is easily distinguished from endocrine entities mentioned earlier, diagnostic evaluation usually requires skilled and thorough practitioner. Since it is the diagnosis of exclusion, a number of systemic conditions must be ruled out prior to making the final diagnosis. However, its major differential diagnosis is primarily Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, which carries an increased risk of cancer. Here, we report a case of a young woman who was referred to the endocrinologist for diagnostic evaluation of dark-colored lesions of the oral cavity and nails. All performed laboratory tests were within reference range. Endoscopic gastrointestinal evaluation did not reveal neoplastic formations. Owing to an adult-onset, asymptomatic clinical course and negative diagnostic findings, we made a final diagnosis. In this case, target diagnostic evaluation notably reduced the need for additional expensive and invasive procedures and treatments.

Learning points:

Laugier–Hunziker syndrome is a rare, acquired cause of asymptomatic, benign mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation.

Prior to making a final diagnosis, certain medical entities with overlapping clinical features must be excluded.

Endocrine conditions that usually present with the hyperpigmentation of the skin and mucous membranes (e.g. Addison's disease, McCune–Albright syndrome) can be easily ruled out based on clinical and laboratory findings.

Its major differential diagnosis, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome is characterized by melanotic macules of the face and mouth, intestinal polyposis and significantly increased risk of different types of cancer, especially gastrointestinal.

Anamnesis, physical examination and target diagnostic evaluation reduce the need for additional invasive and expensive procedures and treatment.

https://ift.tt/2LNQiRq

Synthesis of stabilized hydroxyapatite nanosuspensions for enamel caries remineralization

Australian Dental Journal, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2M4GZcz

The Effect of Gluten-Free Diet on Thyroid Autoimmunity in Drug-Naïve Women with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: A Pilot Study

Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes
DOI: 10.1055/a-0653-7108

Background Autoimmune thyroid disease is often accompanied by celiac disease. Objective The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a gluten-free diet affects thyroid autoimmunity, hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis activity and thyroid function tests in women with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and incidentally found positive anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies. Methods The study included 34 women with autoimmune thyroiditis divided into two group. The patients belonging to the first one (group A, n=16) complied with the gluten-free diet for 6 months, while the remaining patients (group B, n=18) remained without any dietary treatment. Serum titers of thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin antibodies, as well as serum levels of thyrotropin, free thyroid hormones and 25-hydroxyvitamin D were measured at the beginning of the study and 6 months later. Based on thyrotropin and free thyroid hormone levels, Jostel's thyrotropin index, the SPINA-GT index and the SPINA-GD index were calculated. Results All patients completed the study protocol. In group B, serum thyrotropin and free thyroid hormones levels, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels as well as the calculated indices remained at the similar levels. The gluten-free diet reduced thyroid antibody titers, as well as slightly increased 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and the SPINA-GT index. In group A, the impact on TPOAb and TgAb titers correlated with the changes in the SPINA-GT index, whereas the impact on TPOAb with the changes in 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels. Conclusions The obtained results suggest that the gluten-free diet may bring clinical benefits to women with autoimmune thyroid disease.
[...]

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Article in Thieme eJournals:
Table of contents  |  Abstract  |  Full text

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Furazolidone‐containing triple and quadruple eradication therapy for initial treatment for Helicobacter pylori infection: A multicenter randomized controlled trial in China

Helicobacter, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2v84wTJ

Treatment of Sweet's syndrome in pregnancy

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2v28KMj

Mohs micrographic surgery combined local flaps in treatment of EMPD: A retrospective case

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2K7bYTD

Brimonidine tartrate gel plus topical steroid for the prevention of laser therapy‐related postinflammatory hyperpigmentation

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LQFa6i

Focal multimodality radiation therapy: A promising treatment for recalcitrant Darier disease

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2K7bzAB

21st Chinese Society of Dermatology Annual Meeting, Hefei, Anhui, China

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2v2UjYC

An enlightening tripartite event in Hanoi: Third Indochina Academy of Dermatology Conference, World Health Academy Dermatology Summit, and the Vietnamese Society of Dermatology Annual Meeting

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2Kb25UR

A cost‐effective treatment model in dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa with congenital absence of skin

Dermatologic Therapy, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LRuqo0

12th World Congress on Neurohypophysial Hormones Mangaratiba, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – July 26th‐29th, 2017

Journal of Neuroendocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2Os1f9P

Central apelin administration and restraint stress induce hypothalamic cholecystokinin release through APJ receptor

Journal of Neuroendocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2vlV6mH

Analysis of prolactin receptor expression in the murine brain using a novel prolactin receptor reporter mouse

Journal of Neuroendocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2Os1dPf

Panniculitis in a patient with pathologic complete response to talimogene laherparepvec treatment for recurrent, intransit melanoma

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2K7qTgA

Gallbladder adenocarcinoma diagnosed from cutaneous metastases occurring along the tract of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2mUr3i3

In regard to “a tale of two clones: caldesmon staining in the differentiation of cutaneous spindle cell neoplasms”

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2K7qomI

Pediatric Cutaneous T‐Cell Post‐Transplant Lymphoproliferative Disorder: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2mSM1Ou

Evidence behind the use of molecular tests in melanocytic lesions and practice patterns of these tests by dermatopathologists

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2KajEVh

Seronegative Dermatomyositis Presenting with Features of Anti‐MDA5 Subtype

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2mWHZ7P

Clinical and histopathologic manifestations of solid organ transplantation‐associated graft‐versus‐host disease involving the skin: A single‐center retrospective study

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2KcagjE

Association between thyroid hormone levels, body composition, and insulin resistance in euthyroid subjects with normal thyroid ultrasound: The Kangbuk Samsung Health Study

Clinical Endocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2v3i2HX

Effect of low‐dose dexamethasone on patients with elevated early follicular phase progesterone level and pregnancy outcomes in IVF‐ET treatment: a randomized controlled clinical trial

Clinical Endocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2M0d3OK

The cortisol stress response induced by surgery: a systematic review and meta‐analysis

Clinical Endocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2v1UcMD

Nonfunctioning adrenal incidentaloma: A novel predictive factor for metabolic syndrome

Clinical Endocrinology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2M4zPFl

Diagnostic utility of skin autofluorescence when patch test results are doubtful

Skin Research and Technology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2M2UXMd

Revisiting, in vivo, the hair regreasing process by the Sebuprint method

Skin Research and Technology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2v1Q1QX

Detecting and quantifying activity/inflammation in localized scleroderma with thermal imaging

Skin Research and Technology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2M1IFmZ

The role of high‐frequency ultrasound in diagnosing myiasis: Report of a case and review of the literature

Skin Research and Technology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2v2IHou

Topographic approach to the long‐term effect of solar exposure on facial skin of Korean automobile commuters

Skin Research and Technology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2NY4QeG

Recent advancement in the early detection of melanoma using computerized tools: An image analysis perspective

Skin Research and Technology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2v2IAt4

Noninvasive profiling of sweat‐derived lipid mediators for cutaneous research

Skin Research and Technology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2NXOKBK

Transepidermal water loss, stratum corneum hydration, and skin surface pH of female African and Caucasian nursing students

Skin Research and Technology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LPa4vH

In situ and invasive melanoma in a high‐risk, New Zealand, population: A population‐based study

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2v2EiSp

A novel dermoscopic pattern observed in furuncular myiasis

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2KftYeq

The use of an innovative film‐forming topical gel in preventing Striae Gravidarum and treating Striae Distensae

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LOkHPm

Multiple perianal ulcers due to suppositories

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2M7k3tq

Progress of an isolated collagenoma during pregnancy

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LOkwDG

Unexpected positron emission tomography/computed tomography uptake in benign dermal naevus

Australasian Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2Kftll4

Tissue changes over time after polydioxanone thread insertion: An animal study with pigs

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2Ou5CRu

Topography of the dorsal nasal artery and its clinical implications for augmentation of the dorsum of the nose

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2Asp12o

A red pumpkin seed extract reduces melanosome transfer to keratinocytes by activation of Nrf2 signaling

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2mWdGy5

Applications and efficacy of platelet‐rich plasma in dermatology: A clinical review

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2AwngBs

Perspectives in cosmetic dermatology: What is in front of the mirror?

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2mUvzx3

Assessment of the moisturizing properties of a magnetic mask containing iron oxide particles

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2ArH0Gg

Comparison of three strip harvesting technqiues (Haber's, Pathomvanich's and Ahmad's techniques)

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2OvuCrI

Identification and integrated analysis of microRNA expression profiles in keloid

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2AwmZyq

Lipoma removal using a high‐frequency ultrasound‐guided injection of a Class III CE‐marked device—Empirical findings

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2mXoqw8

Antiaging efficacy of a retinaldehyde‐based cream compared with glycolic acid peel sessions: A randomized controlled study

Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2Ar13oa

Keratin‐based particles for protection and restoration of hair properties

International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2LQ1MDR

Predicting Lipstick Sensory Properties with Lab Tests

International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2NWVQGB

An Updated Review of Clinical Methods in the Assessment of Aging Skin ‐ New Perspectives and Evaluation for Claims Support

International Journal of Cosmetic Science, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2v2CBV8

Clinical Thyroidology®High-Impact Articles

FREE ACCESS through August 13, 2018.
Read Now:

Higher Preconception Maternal Iodine Intakes Are Associated with Higher Child IQ
Elizabeth N. Pearce 

Some Advanced Thyroid Cancer Patients Have a Prolonged Response to Lenvatinib
Brian W. Kim

Analysis of Clinical Factors 1 Year After Surgery for Thyroid Cancer Enables Prediction of Treatment-free Survival
Jerome M. Hershman 

New Genomic Sequencing Classifier in Cytologically Indeterminate Thyroid Nodules Shows Improved Results
Stephanie Fish

 

 

The post Clinical Thyroidology^®High-Impact Articles appeared first on American Thyroid Association.

https://ift.tt/2KaH4db

Relapse rates in patients with unilesional primary cutaneous B‐cell lymphoma treated with radiation therapy: a single‐institution experience

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2vm7yCT

Anthropometric factors and Breslow thickness: prospective data on 2570 cases of cutaneous melanoma in the population‐based Janus Cohort

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LAkGPQ

Patient preferences for topical treatment of actinic keratoses: a discrete‐choice experiment

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2vkBTSt

Impact of anti‐interleukin‐17 treatment on cutaneous and genital human papillomavirus infection

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LAkFeK

Relapse of porphyria cutanea tarda after treatment with phlebotomy or 4‐aminoquinoline antimalarials: a meta‐analysis

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2vlbZOn

The widespread use of topical antimicrobials enriches for resistance in Staphylococcus aureus isolated from patients with atopic dermatitis

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LyIe7A

Cumulative exposure to biological therapy and risk of cancer in patients with psoriasis: a meta‐analysis of Psonet studies from Israel, Italy, Spain, the U.K. and Republic of Ireland

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2vk2PSi

Is melanoma mortality declining in Spain? Analysis of trends from 1975 to 2016

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LEpxiO

Pembrolizumab‐associated mucous membrane pemphigoid in a patient with Merkel cell carcinoma

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2vrk3xh

Evaluation of the reliability and validity of the Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus Disease Area and Severity Index (CLASI) in pediatric cutaneous lupus among pediatric dermatologists and rheumatologists

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2Ou2xko

Efficacy and safety of ixekizumab in a randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled phase IIIb study of patients with moderate‐to‐severe genital psoriasis

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2vevMiq

Risk of skin cancer in people with vitiligo: a systematic review and meta‐analysis

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2Ou2mWg

International Initiative for outcomes (INFO) for vitiligo: Workshops with vitiligo patients on repigmentation

British Journal of Dermatology, Volume 0, Issue ja, -Not available-.


https://ift.tt/2vlbWCb

Correlation of psoriasis activity with socioeconomic status: cross‐sectional analysis of patients enrolled in the Psoriasis Longitudinal Assessment and Registry (PSOLAR)

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LBgWgY

Polysensitivity in delayed cutaneous adverse drug reactions to macrolides, clindamycin and pristinamycin: clinical history and patch testing

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2vevfNs

Effective sirolimus treatment for refractory spindle cell haemangioma

British Journal of Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LAcTBr

Oral ulcers as a presentation of secondary syphilis

Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, EarlyView.


https://ift.tt/2LCQN1q

Performance of 111 In-labelled PSMA ligand in patients with nodal metastatic prostate cancer: correlation between tracer uptake and histopathology from lymphadenectomy

Abstract

Purpose

Intraoperative identification of lymph node (LN) metastases (LNM) detected on preoperative PSMA PET/CT may be facilitated by PSMA radioguided surgery with the use of a gamma probe. We evaluated the uptake of ¹¹¹In-labelled PSMA ligand DKFZ-617 (referred to as ¹¹¹In-PSMA-617) in unaffected LN and LNM at the level of single LN.

Methods

Six patients with prostate cancer (PCa) with suspicion of LNM on preoperative PSMA PET/CT underwent ¹¹¹In-PSMA-617-guided lymphadenectomy (LA; four salvage LA and two primary LA). ¹¹¹In-PSMA-617 (109 ± 5 MBq). was injected Intravenously 48 h prior to surgery Template LAs were performed in small subregions: common, external, obturator and internal iliac vessels, and presacral and retroperitoneal subregions (n = 4). Samples from each subregion were isolated aiming at the level of single LN. Uptake was measured ex situ using a germanium detector. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed based on ¹¹¹In-PSMA-617 uptake expressed as standardized uptake values normalized to lean body mass (SUL).

Results

Overall 310 LN (mean 52 ± 19.7) were removed from 74 subregions (mean 12 ± 3.7). Of the 310 LN, 35 turned out to be LNM on histopathology. Separation of the samples from all subregions resulted in 318 single specimens: 182 PCa-negative LN samples with 275 LN, 35 single LNM samples, 3 non-nodal PCa tissue samples and 98 fibrofatty tissue samples. The median SULs of nonaffected LN (0.16) and affected LN (13.2) were significantly different (p < 0.0001). Based on 38 tumour-containing and 182 tumour-free specimens, ROC analysis revealed an area under the curve of 0.976 (95% CI 0.95–1.00, p < 0.0001). Using a SUL cut-off value of 1.136, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and accuracy in discriminating affected from nonaffected LN were 92.1% (35/38), 98.9% (180/182), 94.6% (35/37), 98.4% (180/183) and 97.7% (215/220), respectively.

Conclusion

Ex situ analysis at the level of single LN showed that ¹¹¹In-PSMA-617 had excellent ability to discriminate between affected and nonaffected LN in our patients with PCa. This tracer characteristic is a prerequisite for in vivo real-time measurements during surgery.

https://ift.tt/2AsgOv6

The role of radiation therapy in the treatment of metastatic cancer

Abstract

Radiation therapy continues to play an important role in the management of cancer. In this review, we discuss the use of radiation therapy to target and control micrometastatic disease (adjuvant use of radiation), or using stereotactic radiation therapy to address small volumes of gross disease, such as oligometastases, and finally the use of radiation therapy in the era of immunotherapy. Radiation therapy is commonly used to treat nodal basins suspected of harboring microscopic disease. More recently, computer and technical innovations have allowed radiation oncologists to treat small volumes of gross disease within the brain and also in the body with great success, adding to the cancer armamentarium. This modality of cancer treatment that began shortly after the discovery of X-rays by William Roentgen continues to evolve and finds new clinical applications which minimize toxicity while increasing effectiveness. The newly discovered interactions of high dose/fraction radiation (stereotactic radiosurgery) with immune check point inhibitors in melanoma is the latest example of how synergism can be achieved between two different modalities thus increasing the therapeutic ratio to control metastatic cancer.

https://ift.tt/2viyxiG

GP Induction Chemotherapy us TPF Adjuvant Chemotherapy Combined With DDP Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy in the Treatment of Locally Advanced NPC

Condition:   Locally Advanced Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Interventions:   Drug: GP+CCRT;   Drug: TPF+CCRT
Sponsor:   Guiyang Medical University
Recruiting

https://ift.tt/2veIX31

Carboplatin, Paclitaxel and Radiation Therapy With or Without Nivolumab and Ipilimumab in Treating Participants With Esophageal and Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma

Conditions:   Clinical Stage I Esophageal Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Clinical Stage I Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Clinical Stage II Esophageal Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Clinical Stage II Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Clinical Stage IIA Esophageal Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Clinical Stage IIA Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Clinical Stage IIB Esophageal Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Clinical Stage IIB Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Clinical Stage III Esophageal Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Clinical Stage III Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Esophageal Adenocarcinoma;   Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma;   Pathologic Stage IB Esophageal Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Pathologic Stage IB Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Pathologic Stage IC Esophageal Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Pathologic Stage IC Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Pathologic Stage II Esophageal Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Pathologic Stage II Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Pathologic Stage IIA Esophageal Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Pathologic Stage IIA Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Pathologic Stage IIB Esophageal Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Pathologic Stage IIB Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Pathologic Stage III Gastroesophageal Junction Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8;   Pathologic Stage IIIA Esophageal Adenocarcinoma AJCC v8
Interventions:   Drug: Carboplatin;   Biological: Ipilimumab;   Biological: Nivolumab;   Drug: Paclitaxel;   Radiation: Radiation Therapy
Sponsor:   National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2LxWpd8

Are NSAIDs Effective Enough for Postoperative Pain Control After Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery and Septoplasty

Condition:   Pain Control After Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery and Septoplasty
Interventions:   Drug: diclofenac;   Drug: Norco
Sponsor:   The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Not yet recruiting

https://ift.tt/2vji4uL

Postoperative serum thyroglobulin and neck ultrasound to drive decisions about iodine-131 therapy in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma: an evidence-based strategy?

https://ift.tt/2NTbSkI

CT Texture Analysis of Ductal Adenocarcinoma Downstaged After Chemotherapy

Background/Aim: Re-staging of ductal adenocarcinoma using computed tomography (CT) scan can be problematic so new imaging techniques and evaluation parameters are required. The aim of the study was to evaluate the added value of CT texture analysis in estimation of tissue changes in ductal adenocarcinoma downsized and resected after chemotherapy. Materials and Methods: Patients with ductal adenocarcinoma downstaged after neoadjuvant treatment, and resected, were included. A pre- and post-treatment CT was obtained. In comparison, patients with disease progression were included for texture analysis evaluation at CT pre- and post-treatment. CT texture analysis results were compared. Results: A total of 17 patients affected by un-resectable or borderline ductal adenocarcinoma reached the resectable stage after treatment. The comparison between Kurtosis pre- and Kurtosis post-treatment showed a statistically significant difference. On the contrary, in the comparison group composed of 14 patients with disease progression there was no statistical difference regarding this parameter. Conclusion: This evaluation may represent an added value in tumor tissue changes judgment and can be extremely useful to diagnose downstaging in those cases with no evident downsizing after chemotherapy.

https://ift.tt/2LLSf0K

Chemoradiotherapy-induced Changes in Mucinous Components in Rectal Cancer Tissue: Evaluation on High Iron Diamine-alcian Blue and Mucin 1 Staining

Background/Aim: The standard treatment for rectal cancer is neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) followed by surgery. Mucinous carcinoma responds poorly to nCRT. In some patients, mucin lakes (MLs) are induced by nCRT. Identifying whether MLs are induced or originally present would be of great importance. Patients and Methods: We studied 20 patients with MLs (CRT-MC group) among 205 patients who received nCRT. Among 88 patients who did not receive nCRT, we studied 9 patients with mucinous carcinoma (non-CRT-MC group) and 18 patients with MLs in differentiated adenocarcinoma (non-CRT-AC group). Tumors were stained with high iron diamine-Alcian blue (HID-AB) and MUC1 staining. Results: Rate of AB>HID staining of cancer cells was significantly higher in the CRT-MC group than in non-CRT-MC group (p=0.0004). Rate of MUC1 staining in MLs was significantly higher in the CRT-MC group (p=0.0254). Conclusion: nCRT can induce qualitative changes in mucinous components, however, other methods are required to distinguish induced components from originally existing components.

https://ift.tt/2M16hbH

4-HPR Is an Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Aggravator and Sensitizes Breast Cancer Cells Resistant to TRAIL/Apo2L

Background/Aim: N-(4-hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (4-HPR) is a synthetic retinoid, less toxic than the parent all-trans retinoic acid (RA). Unlike RA, 4-HPR induces apoptosis in tumor cells. Because 4-HPR can hydrolyze to liberate RA, a potent human teratogen, the unhydrolyzable ketone analog of 4-HPR, 4-hydroxybenzylretinone (4-HBR) has been prepared and has been found to cause apoptosis in tumor cells and shrink carcinogen-induced rat mammary tumors as 4-HPR does. Herein, we examined the mechanism whereby 4-HPR and 4-HBR induce apoptosis and death in breast cancer cells. Materials and Methods: Gene expression profiling was conducted in MCF-7 cells over a 1.5- to 6-h time course and changes were validated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Growth arrest and DNA damage-inducible protein 153 (GADD153 or C/EBP homologous protein, CHOP) was knocked down and the effect on 4-HPR-induced cell death and gene expression was assessed. 4-HPR synergy with tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL or Apo2 ligand) was also examined. Results: Drug treatment induced increased expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-related and pro-apoptotic genes. Gene expression changes were verified by qPCR in three invasive ductal breast carcinoma cell lines (MCF-7, T-47D, MDA-MB-231). GADD153 showed the largest increase in the microarray experiment; however, knockdown of GADD153 did not abrogate apoptosis and death. Genes related to the extrinsic pathway of apoptosis including a receptor for TRAIL, death receptor 5 (DR5), were up-regulated by drug treatment. A dose of 4-HPR that alone is ineffective in killing TRAIL-resistant MCF-7 cells, synergized with recombinant TRAIL to induce breast cancer cell death. Conclusion: 4-HPR and analogs might be useful in sensitizing tumor cells to death receptor agonists.

https://ift.tt/2LLm6WY

Clinical Characteristics of Liver Metastasis in Nivolumab-treated Patients with Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

Background: Recent studies have revealed that liver metastasis is associated with poor outcomes after treatment using immune checkpoint inhibitors, although the cause remains unclear. Patients and Methods: We retrospectively identified 201 patients at three Japanese Centers who received nivolumab for advanced non-small cell lung cancer between December 2015 and July 2016. The patients' baseline clinical characteristics and subsequent outcomes were compared according to liver metastasis status. Results: Liver metastasis was associated with inferior progression-free survival (PFS) and a lower response rate. Additionally, liver metastasis was significantly associated with younger age, poorer Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS), and more metastatic sites. Multivariate analyses revealed that poor PFS was independently associated with poor baseline ECOG PS (p=0.039) and high number of metastatic sites (p=0.007), although liver metastasis (p=0.2) was not. Conclusion: Baseline clinical characteristics were a strong predictor of outcome in nivolumab-treated patients with liver metastasis.

https://ift.tt/2NWvyEm

Color-coded Imaging Distinguishes Cancer Cells, Stromal Cells, and Recombinant Cancer-stromal Cells in the Tumor Microenvironment During Metastasis

Background/Aim: Our laboratory pioneered color-coded imaging of the tumor microenvironment (TME). We observed recruitment of cancer and stromal cells to the TME and recombination between cancer and stromal cells. The aim of the present study was to observe the dynamics of the TME by color-coded imaging during metastasis and in the formation of a pre-metastatic niche. Materials and Methods: Red-fluorescent protein (RFP-expressing) mouse colon-cancer 26 cells were initially injected subcutaneously in green-fluorescent protein (GFP) nude mice. The resulting subcutaneous tumors were harvested and cultured. The cultured subcutaneous tumors contained RFP colon cancer cells, GFP stromal cells and recombinant cancer-stromal cells expressing yellow fluorescence. After 14 days culture, the cells were injected into the spleen. Results: After splenic injection, colon-cancer 26 metastases were observed in the liver, ascites, and bone marrow. Using the Olympus FV1000 confocal microscope, the cells cultured from tumors and metastasis in each site were visualized. RFP colon-cancer cells, GFP stromal cells derived from host GFP nude mice, and recombinant yellow-fluorescent cells were observed in each organ. In addition, in the liver, areas with only GFP stromal cells were observed and assumed to be a pre-metastatic niche. Conclusion: Color-coded imaging demonstrated the dynamics of colon cancer and stromal cells at different metastatic sites including the formation of recombinant cancer-stromal cells.

https://ift.tt/2v37xV0

Platinum-based Agent and Fluorouracil in Metastatic Breast Cancer: A Retrospective Monocentric Study with a Review of the Literature

Background: The combination of platinum with 5-fluorouracil has scarcely been studied in metastatic breast cancer. As this combination does not lead to significant hepatic metabolism, in some clinical situations it may prove useful, especially in cases with liver dysfunction and an urgent clinical need for rapid tumor shrinkage. A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the combination of cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil in patients with metastatic breast cancer with significant alterations of biochemistry. Patients and Methods: A total of 109 patients with metastatic breast cancer and liver dysfunction were treated; time-to-progression, overall survival and trends in liver function were evaluated. Results: The median time-to-progression was 3.4 months, and median overall survival was 7.8 months. About 50% of patients obtained a complete, partial or stable biochemical response and 24 patients were subsequently able to receive additional therapies. Conclusion: Our results show that this therapeutic doublet represents a clinically effective, safe and well-tolerated treatment option for patients with metastatic breast cancer and liver dysfunction.

https://ift.tt/2NWvhRQ

Synthesis and Structure-Activity Relationships of Tetrahydro-{beta}-carboline Derivatives as Anticancer and Cancer-chemopreventive Agents

Background/Aim: There is an unmet clinical need to develop new anticancer and chemopreventive agents. The aim of the present study was to identify β-carboline derivatives with cancer chemopreventive and therapeutic potential. Materials and Methods: Forty-eight tetrahydro-β-carboline derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their anticancer and chemopreventive activities, through induction of quinone reductase 1 (QR1), aromatase inhibition, as well as inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production. Results: 2-((1-Bromonaphthalen-2-yl)methyl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[3,4-b]indole demonstrated the most potent activity in the QR1 induction assay with an induction ratio value of 3.2 (CD=1.3 μM). The R-isomer of the amide derivative (2-((1-bromonaphthalen-2-yl)methyl)-2,3,4,9-tetrahydro-1H-pyrido[3,4-b]indol-3-yl)(4-methylpiperazin-1-yl)methanone was the most potent inhibitor of NO production with a 50% inhibitory concentration, IC₅₀=6.54 μM and had a low cytotoxic effect (IC₅₀=17.98 μM) on RAW 264.7 cells. Subsequent computational docking study revealed that this compound binds to the active site of inducible nitric oxide synthase with favorable interactions. Conclusion: our results provided promising β-carboline leads for further optimization and development with therapeutic potential as new chemopreventive and chemotherapy agents.

https://ift.tt/2v37j06

Comparison of Feeding Jejunostomy via Gastric Tube Versus Jejunum After Esophageal Cancer Surgery

Background: Jejunostomy is an essential route for nutritional support after esophageal cancer surgery. However, catheter-related complications may occur. This study compared the complications of feeding jejunostomy between gastric tube and jejunum after esophageal cancer surgery. Patients and Methods: The records of 215 patients with esophageal cancer who underwent radical esophagectomy with retrosternal gastric tube reconstruction between January 2010 and November 2016 were examined. One hundred and thirty-three patients underwent feeding jejunostomy via gastric tube and 82 patients underwent the procedure via the jejunum, and their records were reviewed for catheter-related complications. Results: Catheter-related complications occurred in five patients in the gastric tube group and 12 in the jejunum group (3.8% vs. 14.6%, p=0.005). Mechanical bowel obstruction requiring surgical therapy occurred in three patients in the jejunum group, but in none in the gastric tube group (p=0.026). Conclusion: Feeding jejunostomy reconstruction via gastric tube appears to be a safe and useful procedure.

https://ift.tt/2M5pvwV

Mutant GATA3 Actively Promotes the Growth of Normal and Malignant Mammary Cells

Background/Aim: GATA3, a transcription factor expressed in luminal breast epithelial cells, is required for mammary gland development. Heterozygous GATA3 mutations occur in up to 15% of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive breast tumors and have been proposed to be null alleles resulting in haploinsufficiency; however, the mutation spectrum of GATA3 in breast cancer is in sharp contrast to that found in HDR syndrome, a true GATA3 haploinsufficiency disease. Materials and Methods: Transgenic mice, 3D cultures and xenografts were used to examine the effect of mutant GATA3 expression on mammary cell proliferation. Results: Mutant GATA3 accelerated tumor growth of ZR751 cell xenografts and promoted precocious lobuloalveolar development in transgenic mouse mammary glands. Conclusion: GATA3 mutations, recently observed in breast cancer, encode active transcription factors, which elicit proliferative phenotypes in normal mammary epithelium and promote the growth of ER-positive breast cancer cell lines.

https://ift.tt/2uZFAxz

Chitinase-3-like Protein 1 (YKL-40) Expression in Squamous Cell Skin Cancer

Background/Aim: YKL-40 plays a role in proliferation and differentiation of malignant cells. The aim of this study was to examine whether YKL-40 is expressed in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Materials and Methods: The study was based on histologically-confirmed biopsies of cutaneous SCCs obtained from 38 patients. The tissue expression of YKL-40 was assessed using an immunohisto-chemical method. The percentage of cells showing a positive reaction as well as the intensity of the IHC reaction was assessed using the immunoreactive score developed by Remmele and Stegner. Results: All samples of cutaneous SCCs showed cytoplasmic expression of YKL-40. The intensity of YKL-40 expression varied between 1 and 8 points, according to the applied scale. In the majority of cancers about 10-80% of tumor cells were positive for YKL-40. The intensity of the reaction was low (20 samples, 52.6%) or medium (18 samples, 47.4%). Conclusion: YKL-40 is expressed in cutaneous SCC. Further research is needed to establish the value of YKL-40 for diagnosis and monitoring of SCC.

https://ift.tt/2LZtbjr

CD133 Expression as a Helicobacter pylori-independent Biomarker of Gastric Cancer Progression

Background/Aim: Gastric adenocarcinoma is the fourth most common cancer worldwide. While gastric cancer prevalence varies globally and incidence rates are decreasing in the West, many cases continue to be diagnosed at an advanced stage and the 5-year survival rate still falls below 30%. Early treatment of gastric cancer by endoscopic and/or surgical therapy may decrease mortality; yet reliable, universally applicable biomarkers for early detection of gastric cancer have still not been established. Materials and Methods: The present work compares the expression of CD133 (prominin-1), a potential biomarker of disease progression in gastric cancer, between independent cohorts of H. pylori (+) and H. pylori (–) patients at each respective stage of carcinogenesis. H. pylori (–) patients (N=45) who underwent gastric biopsy at the Moffitt Cancer Center (MCC) in Tampa, Florida, and H. pylori (+) patients (N=59) who underwent gastric biopsy at the Instituto de Patologia Mejia Jimenez (IPMJ) in Cali, Colombia were evaluated and immunostained for CD133. Results: A statistically significant increase in CD133 expression (in terms of the Allred score) was observed between all stages of progression (normal mucosa, inflammation/metaplasia, low-grade dysplasia and gastric adenocarcinoma) for each respective patient cohort. No statistically significant difference in CD133 expression at each respective stage of disease was observed between the H. pylori-positive and negative-cohorts. Conclusion: The observation of distinct stepwise increases in CD133 expression in both patient cohorts, and the lack of any significant difference between groups, suggests that CD133 expression may serve as a biomarker for early detection of gastric cancer independent of bacterial status and strain, and corresponding differences in disease histomorphology and classification. This warrants further validation on larger independent cohorts across multiple geographic regions and incorporating multiple bacterial strain types.

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Preoperative Evaluation of Myometrial Invasion in Endometrial Carcinoma: Prospective Intra-individual Comparison of Magnetic Resonance Volumetry, Diffusion-weighted and Dynamic Contrast-enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Aim: The purpose of this prospective study was to compare the diagnostic performance of diffusion-weighted (DWI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging (DCE) and volumetric analyses in the preoperative assessment of myometrial invasion in patients with endometrial carcinoma. Materials and Methods: Thirty-five patients with endometrial cancer underwent preoperative magnetic resonance imaging including DWI and DCE for evaluation of the depth of myometrial invasion and volumetric analyses [tumor volume (TV), uterine volume (UV), tumor to volume ratio (TVR=(TV/TU)x100)]. The results of the evaluations were compared to the histopathological examinations. Results: DWI and DCE showed a sensitivity and specificity in evaluating the depth of myometrial invasion of 92% and 96% and 92% and 86%, respectively, while volumetric analyses showed a sensitivity and specificity of 85% and 86% (TVR cut-off=10%) and 69% and 100% (TVR cut-off=25%), respectively. Conclusion: DWI and DCE are both good diagnostic tools for the preoperative assessment of myometrial invasion. From our results and literature research, there is potential for omitting gadolinium-based contrast agents given the high diagnostic value of DWI. In our patient collective, the predictive power of volumetric analyses was lower than that of DWI.

https://ift.tt/2M0MDfE

Quantitative Structure-Cytotoxicity Relationship of Pyrano[4,3-b]chromones

Background/Aim: 4H-1-Benzopyran-4-one (chromone) provides a backbone structure for the chemical synthesis of potent anticancer drugs. Since studies of the biological activity of pyrano[4,3-b]chromones are limited, we investigated a total of 20 pyrano[4,3-b]chromones (10 sets of diastereomers) for their cytotoxicity against four human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) cell lines and human normal oral cells, and then carried out a quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) analysis. Materials and Methods: Cytotoxicity was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide method. Tumor-specificity (TS) was evaluated by the ratio of mean 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC₅₀) against normal oral cells to that against human OSCC cell lines. Potency-selectivity expression (PSE) value was calculated by dividing the TS value by the CC₅₀ against tumor cells. Apoptosis induction was evaluated by morphological observation, western blot analysis and cell-cycle analysis. For QSAR analysis, a total of 3,072 physicochemical, structural and quantum chemical features were calculated from the most stabilized structure optimized using CORINA. Results: 8-Chloro-4,4a-dihydro-3-methoxy-3-methyl-3H,10H-pyrano[4,3-b][1]benzopyran-10-one (16) and 3-ethoxy-4,4a-dihydro-8-methoxy-3H,10H-pyrano[4,3-b][1]benzopyran-10-one (17) had the highest TS, higher than that of 5-flurouracil and melphalan, without induction of apoptosis. Compound 16 induced cytostatic growth inhibition and much lower cytotoxicity against human normal oral keratinocytes compared to doxorubicin. TS of 20 pyrano[4,3-b]chromones was correlated with 3D structure, polarity, ionic potential and electric state. Conclusion: Chemical modification of 16 may be a potential choice for designing a new type of anticancer drug.

https://ift.tt/2LKCAhZ

Preoperative CA-125 Value as a Predictive Factor for Postoperative Outcome in First Relapse of Platinum-sensitive Serous Ovarian Cancer

Aim: The purpose of the study was to evaluate whether preoperative cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) levels predict outcome of secondary cytoreductive surgery (SCS) in patients with serous recurrent ovarian cancer and whether this could be used as a prognostic factor for progression-free (PFS) and overall (OS) survival. Patients and Methods: A cohort of 111 patients with first recurrence of platinum-sensitive serous ovarian cancer, who had undergone SCS at the Department of Gynecology and Oncological Surgery, Charité, Campus Virchow Clinic was analyzed in correlation with the preoperative CA-125 value. Results: The median preoperative CA-125 level was 164 U/ml. Complete tumor resection was achieved in 58.6% of the patients. PFS and OS for patients with preoperative CA-125 of less than 164.5 U/ml was significantly better than those with preoperative CA-125 ≥164.5 U/ml (p=0.025 and p<0.001, respectively). Conclusion: Preoperative CA-125 is not a statistically significant predictive factor for complete tumor resection after SCS. Preoperative CA-125 <164.5 U/ml can predict significantly better PFS and OS for patients with first recurrence of platinum-sensitive ovarian cancer.

https://ift.tt/2NVHupX

Quantitative Structure-Cytotoxicity Relationship of 3-(N-Cyclicamino)chromone Derivatives

Background/Aim: 4H-1-Benzopyran-4-ones (chromones) provide a backbone structure for the chemical synthesis of potent anticancer drugs. In contrast to 2-(N-cyclicamino)chromones, the biological activity of 3-(N-cyclicamino)chromones has not been reported. In this study, cytotoxicity of 15 3-(N-cyclicamino)chromone derivatives was investigated and subjected to quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) analysis. Materials and Methods: Cytotoxicity against four human oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines and three oral normal mesenchymal cells was determined by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. Tumor-specificity (TS) was evaluated as the ratio of mean 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC₅₀) against normal oral cells to that against human oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines. Potency-selectivity expression (PSE) value was calculated by dividing the TS value by the CC₅₀ against tumor cells. Apoptosis induction was evaluated by morphological observation, western blot analysis and cell-cycle analysis. For QSAR analysis, a total of 3,096 physicochemical, structural and quantum chemical features were calculated from the most stabilized structure optimized using CORINA. Results: 3-(4-phenyl-1-piperazinyl)-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one (3a) had the highest tumor specificity, comparable with that of melphalan, without induction of apoptosis. Compound 3a caused cytostatic growth inhibition and had much lower cytotoxicity against human oral keratinocytes compared to doxorubicin. TS of the 15 3-(N-cyclicamino)chromones was correlated with 3D structure and lipophilicity. Conclusion: Chemical modification of 3a may be a potential choice for designing a new type of anticancer drug.

https://ift.tt/2LLm41i

Long-term Response to First-line Pazopanib Therapy in mRCC Patients: A Multicenter Italian Experience

Background/Aim: The specific characteristics of patients who are most likely to benefit from pazopanib therapy are still uncertain. We report on the results of an Italian multicenter, retrospective analysis investigating the factors associated with longer response to first-line pazopanib in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma. Patients and Methods: Adult patients were considered if they had received treatment with pazopanib (800 mg/day) for >12 months in the first-line setting. Results: In total, 112 patients were evaluated. Median duration of pazopanib treatment was 22.6 months (IQR 17.8 months). Median PFS was 22.6 months (95%CI= 20.2-25.0). Eighty-three patients (74.1%) had a PFS ≥18 months. Median OS was 32.9 months (95%CI=30.2-35.6). At statistical analysis, only PS score (1+ vs. 0) was significantly associated with PFS (HR=1.76; 95%CI=1.02-3.05; p=0.04). Conclusion: Pazopanib therapy may be suitable for all patients with mRCC, and especially in those with PS 0.

https://ift.tt/2NVHlCV

Antineoplastic Actions of Cinnamic Acids and Their Dimers in Breast Cancer Cells: A Comparative Study

Background/Aim: Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in US, which necessitates constant research for medications with minimal adverse effects. The aim of the study was to determine if certain cinnamic acid dimers (CADs) exhibit higher cytotoxicity in breast cancer cells than against non-tumorigenic cells. Materials and Methods: These dimers have not been explored, so far, due to their complex stereochemistry; cavitand-mediated photodimerization (CMP) method was used to produce several CADs, which were tested for cytotoxicity, apoptosis and cell cycle inhibition. Results: CADs such as ferulic acid dimer, 3-fluoro CAD, and 3, 4-difluoro CAD, were found to be more cytotoxic than their parent monomers. The most potent compound, 3-fluoro CAD caused apoptosis and 'S' phase cell cycle arrest in cancer cells. Conclusion: This study indicates an avenue for research for developing a novel class of antineoplastic compounds that can be synthesized using an easy, economical method.

https://ift.tt/2LJOE2Z

Relationship Between Metabolic Disorders and Breast Cancer Incidence and Outcomes. Is There a Preventive and Therapeutic Role for Berberine?

The association between obesity/overweight and carcinogenesis is a recognized highly complex and still partially unknown process. Nevertheless, these conditions are frequently related with several pathological states such as chronic inflammation, presence of dyslipidemia and insulin-resistance (metabolic disorders) which are now accepted features contributing to the increased hormonal-dependent cancer risk. Breast cancer incidence and outcome is strictly related to metabolic disorders. Thus, managing these emerging risk factors, should be a new and optimal strategy in breast cancer prevention and therapy. Unfortunately, the agents able to interfere with metabolic disorders, produce often light or serious side-effects and consequently their compliance and efficacy are weak. Some nutraceutical compounds seem to be an ideal option with the same activity and effectiveness to ordinary agents but with minor side effects. Berberine, an extraordinary medicinal herb, has been proven to have many clinical pharmacological effects, including lowering of blood glucose, increasing insulin sensitivity, and correcting lipid metabolism disorders. It has a comparable therapeutic effect to common drugs. It acts contemporarily on hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia and insulin resistance without their related side effects and could be a real alternative in healthy high risk or affected breast cancer patients with metabolic disorders. This commentary examines the pathophysiology of metabolic disorders and its relationship to breast cancer. Moreover, it evaluates the possible role of berberine in the clinical practice.

https://ift.tt/2M49DdM

Alpha-Santalol, a Component of Sandalwood Oil Inhibits Migration of Breast Cancer Cells by Targeting the {beta}-catenin Pathway

Background/Aim: Alpha-santalol, a terpenoid found in sandalwood oil has been shown to inhibit breast cancer cell growth in vitro by inducing apoptosis, but the mechanisms underlying the growth inhibitory effects of alpha-santalol are not fully understood. In this study, we demonstrate that α-santalol treatment targets Wnt/β-catenin pathway to inhibit migration of cultured breast cancer cells. Materials and Methods: Migration assays, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence were used to examine the mechanism of action of a-santalol in breast cancer cells. Results: Exposure of MDA-MB 231 and MCF-7 cells to α-santalol resulted in a significant reduction in their migratory potential and wound healing ability. In addition, α-santalol affected the localization of β-catenin from cytosol to nucleus in MDA-MB 231 cells. Conclusion: Alpha-santalol inhibited migration of breast cancer cells may be mediated, in part, by targeting Wnt//β-catenin pathway. β-catenin represents an important target of α-santalol's response for future pre-clinical studies.

https://ift.tt/2v2IC3T

Preoperative Prognostic Nutritional Index Predicts Long-term Outcome in Gastric Cancer: A Propensity Score-matched Analysis

Background/Aim: Recent evidence suggests that preoperative malnutrition may lead to poor survival in cancer patients. This study aimed to determine the ability of the prognostic nutritional index (PNI) to predict survival in gastric cancer patients. Patients and Methods: Two hundred and eighteen patients who had undergone laparoscopic gastrectomy were retrospectively reviewed via propensity score-matched analysis. Results: In multivariate analysis of overall patients, pTNM stage, carcinoembryonic antigen, and PNI were independent predictors of overall survival (OS), and pTNM stage and PNI were independent predictors of cancer-specific survival (CSS). Among the 92 non-elderly patients, pTNM stage and PNI were independent predictors of OS, and pTNM stage, PNI, and adjuvant chemotherapy were independent predictors of CSS in multivariate analysis. On the other hand, among the 126 elderly patients, low PNI value was identified as a significant predictor of shorter OS in univariate analysis. Conclusion: PNI is associated with OS and CSS in gastric cancer patients, especially non-elderly patients.

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Assessment of the Impact of Perioral Rejuvenation With Hyaluronic Acid Filler on Projected First Impressions and Mood Perceptions

BACKGROUND Small-particle hyaluronic acid filler is approved for lip augmentation and correction of perioral rhytides. Treatment with this product may improve facial aesthetics, projected first impression, and self-perception of mood. OBJECTIVE To determine the effect of perioral rejuvenation with hyaluronic acid on patient perception of mood and projected first impression. MATERIALS AND METHODS Seventeen subjects underwent perioral rejuvenation treatment with small-particle hyaluronic acid filler. Each subject underwent photography and completed 2 surveys measuring self-perception of mood before treatment and after achieving an optimal cosmetic result. Aesthetic improvement with treatment was assessed using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale and the Oral Commissure Severity and Perioral Line Severity scales. Seventeen hundred blinded evaluators rated pre-treatment and post-treatment photographs of the subjects using a First Impressions Questionnaire. RESULTS Perioral filler treatment significantly improved pre-treatment and post-treatment scores for happiness within the Happiness Measures Scale. This treatment was found to significantly improve projected first impression across all categories. CONCLUSION Small-particle hyaluronic acid filler treatment for perioral rejuvenation is an effective method for improving physical appearance as well as first impressions. Larger studies are necessary to verify whether perioral rejuvenation with hyaluronic acid offers enhanced self-perception of mood. Address correspondence and reprint requests to: Steven H. Dayan, MD, FACS, DeNova Research, 845 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 923E, Chicago, IL 60611, or e-mail: sdayan@drdayan.com Supplemental digital content is available for this article. Direct URL citations appear in the printed text and are provided in the HTML and PDF versions of this article on the journal's Web site (https://ift.tt/2bw6lgr). Supported by a grant from Galderma Laboratories, L.P. to S.H. Dayan. S.H. Dayan received equipment, materials, and medications for this study, and received funding to support research for this article. The authors have indicated no significant interest with commercial supporters. This study was an investigator-initiated trial in which Galderma laboratories, L.P. did not create the design or conduct the study; Galderma laboratories, L.P. was not involved in the collection management, analysis, and interpretation of the data; Galderma laboratories L.P. did participate in the preparation of this manuscript following the draft by reviewing content for scientific accuracy of their products and approval of the manuscript; Galderma laboratories, L.P. was involved in the decision to submit this manuscript for publication. S.H. Dayan had full access to all the data in the study and takes responsibility for the integrity of the data and the accuracy of the data analysis. A. Kalbag is affiliated with DeNova Research and is responsible for the data analysis. © 2018 by the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, Inc. Published by Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) for peritoneal metastases of pancreas and biliary tract cancer

Abstract

Data on the effectivness of PIPAC in patients with peritoneal metastases of pancreaticobiliary origin is scarce. We here present further proof of treatment efficacy in this subset of patients. Repetitive PIPAC treatment with low-dose cisplatin 7.5 mg/m² and doxorubicin 1.5 mg/m² body surface area every 6 weeks and prospective data collection. Documentation included microscopic histological regression, median overall survival and treatment-related adverse events. Twelve patients with a median age of 57 years (range 43–78 years) were included. Six patients suffered from pertioneal metastases of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and six patients from cholangiocarcinoma (CC). In total 23 cycles of PIPAC were adminstered with the median number of PIPAC cycles being two (range 1–4). Complete tumor regression was found in four patients and major regression in one patient. Median overall survival after the first PIPAC cycle was 12.7 months for PDAC patients and 15.1 months for CC patients. 11 of the 12 patients are still alive after a median follow-up of 438 days. There were no CTCAE Grade 3 or 4 complications. PIPAC is an innovative and attractive treatment option in the salvage situation for patients with peritoneal metastases of pancreaticobiliary tumors after failure of systemic chemotherapy. In 40% of the patients histological regression can be induced. Further studies are warranted to further elucidate treatment efficacy.

https://ift.tt/2Ot7g60