Analysis of body responses to an accelerating platform by the largest-Lyapunov-exponent method

Various disciplines have benefited from the advent of high-performance computing in achieving practical solutions to their problems, and the area of health care is no exception to this. Non-linear signal-processing tools have been developed to understand the hidden complexity of the time series, and these will help clinicians in diagnosis and treatment. Postural study helps the elderly and people with a balancing problem due to various pathological conditions. In elderly subjects, falls are common and may result in injury. Correct postural balance is basic to well-being and it influences our daily life significantly. These postural signals are non-stationary; they may appear to be random in the time scale and it is difficult to observe the subtle changes for the human observer. Hence, more hidden information can be obtained from the signal using non-linear parameters. In this paper, ten young normal subjects are subjected to the balancing platform whose acceleration is gradually increased from 1 m/s2 to 5 m/s2 to study the postural response. The ankle front-back acceleration and ankle pitch angular velocity sensor data were studied using the largest Lyapunov exponent (LLE). The results show that for higher acceleration of the platform the ankle movement follows a particular rhythm, resulting in a lower Lyapunov exponent. During lower acceleration of the balancing platform, this value is higher because of the random movement of the ankle. In this work, the pattern of the body response was studied using LLE values for different accelerations using ankle data as the base signal for the normal subjects.

A novel HER2 inhibitor TAK-285 overcomes trastuzumab resistance of HER2-over-expressing breast cancer

Abstract #3143

Background: The anti-HER2 antibody trastuzumab has been proven highly effective in the treatment of HER2-expressing breast cancers clinically. However, the continuous administration often leads to drug resistance, the mechanism of which is not well understood. Here we present a new mechanism for trastuzumab-resistance. We also show TAK-285, a novel small molecule HER2/EGFR kinase inhibitor under clinical evaluation, overcomes the resistance to trastuzumab.
 Methods: A trastuzumab-resistant sub-clone (BT-474TR) of the HER2-positive human breast cancer line, BT-474, was established in house by serial passage in the presence of 5 μg/mL trastuzumab for over 5 months. Gene expression profiles of the clones were assessed using Affymetrix HG-U133 plus 2.0 human gene arrays and confirmed by real-time PCR. Target genes were depleted by siRNA-mediated knockdown and confirmed by real time-PCR and immunoblot. Effects on cell growth were assessed by the CellTiter-Glo luminescent cell viability assay (Promega).
 Results: BT-474TR cells exhibited modified expression of several genes including cofilin, compared to the parental BT-474 cells. Although immunoblotting using anti-cofilin antibody revealed no clear change in protein level, BT-474TR displayed significant increase in phosphorylation of cofilin. Gene-specific knockdown of cofilin-1 led to re-sensitization of BT-474TR to trastuzumab, though the cofilin-2 knockdown did not. Likewise, knockdown of either LIMK1 or PAK1, known to regulate cofilin-phosphorylation, resulted in similar re-sensitization of BT-474TR to trastuzumab. BT-474TR also exhibited increase in phosphorylation of both LIMK1 and PAK1. TAK-285 showed almost equivalent inhibitory activity against both BT-474 and BT-474TR proliferation in cell culture and in xenograft study, while trastuzumab did not affect the proliferation of BT-474TR in either condition
 Conclusions: These data suggest that activation of cofilin signaling pathway is a probable mechanism of trastuzumab resistance. PAK1/LIMK1/cofilin-1 inhibitors might therefore be useful in preventing or reversing trastuzumab resistance. The phosphorylation status of PAK1/LIMK1/cofilin might also serve as a biomarker of Trastuzumab-sensitivity. Moreover a novel HER2 inhibitor, TAK-285, might show benefit in the treatment of trastuzumab-resistant HER2-expressing breast cancers.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 3143.

The relationship of the magnetic properties of M (M = Mn, Fe, Co)-doped ZnO single crystals and their electronic structures

The electronic density of states and magnetic properties were investigated by tunneling spectroscopy and SQUID, respectively, for a series of 3d transition-metal (Mn, Fe, Co)-doped ZnO. By tunneling spectroscopy an additional density of states was observed in Mn- and Co-doped ZnO adjacent to the top of the valence band of the host ZnO. Instead, in the Fe-doped sample, a band of density of states was observed across the Fermi level in the mid-gap. The magnetization curve (M versus H) obtained by SQUID showed a ferromagnetic hysteresis at room temperature for the Fe-doped sample, whereas for the Mn- and Co-doped samples, the M versus H curve showed only a linear characteristic without hysteresis. From the comparison of the density of states and the magnetization characteristics, it is strongly suggested that the ferromagnetism in Fe-doped ZnO at room temperature originates from the half-filled Fe 3d band in the mid-gap of the host ZnO.

Characterization of adipose tissue-derived cells isolated with the Celution system

BACKGROUND

The therapeutic potential of using stem cells is tremendous. Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) have now been isolated in various tissues including bone marrow (BM), muscle, skin and adipose tissue. Among them, adipose tissue could be one of the most suitable cell sources for cell therapy, because of its easy accessibility, minimal morbidity and abundance of stem cells. The large numbers of stem cells in adipose tissue means that clinically relevant stem cell numbers could be extracted from the tissue, potentially eliminating the need for in vitro expansion. To utilize these characteristics of adipose tissue fully, Cytori Therapeutics Inc. has developed a closed system called Celution to isolate and concentrate stem cells and regenerative cells automatically from adipose tissue.

METHODS

Adipose tissue-derived cells were isolated using the Celution system. The output from the Celution was characterized using multicolor FACS analysis with CD31, CD34, CD45, CD90, CD105 and CD146. The multidifferentiation potential of the cells was analyzed using adipogenic and osteogenic media.

RESULTS

Our results showed that cells from the Celution are composed of heterogeneous cell populations including adipose-derived stem cells (ASC) (CD31- CD34+ CD45- CD90+ CD105- CD146-), endothelial (progenitor) cells (CD31+ CD34+ CD45- CD90+ CD105- CD146+) and vascular smooth muscle cells (CD31- CD34+ CD45- CD90+ CD105- CD146+). We also confirmed the output contains cells able to differentiate into adipogenic and osteogenic phenotypes. Our results show that cells isolated with the Celution and manually are equivalent.

DISCUSSION

Cells from adipose tissue can be processed by Celution within the time frame of a single surgical procedure. This system could provide a 'real-time' treatment setting that is cost-effective and safe.

Two-dimensional microarray of HepG2 spheroids using collagen/polyethylene glycol micropatterned chip

A new cell chip technology in the form of a two-dimensional microarray of HepG2 spheroids was developed by using the microcontact printing technique. The chip consisted of several collagen spots in a triangular arrangement within a 100-mm2 area at the center of a glass plate (24 x 24 mm), which served as the cell adhesion area; the region excluding the collagen spots that was modified with polyethylene glycol (PEG) served as the non-adhesion area. HepG2 cells inoculated onto the chip gradually formed spheroids with smooth surfaces and high circularity on each collagen spot due to cell proliferation; the spheroid diameters remained constant after 10 days of culture. Such a two-dimensional microarray configuration of HepG2 spheroids could be maintained for at least 2 weeks. The spheroid diameter was directly proportional to the pitch between the collagen spots on the chip. This indicates that we can factitiously control the spheroid diameter. In addition, albumin secretion activity of HepG2 spheroids increased with the increase of spheroid diameter. This chip technology may be applicable as a cellular platform for developing two-dimensional spheroid microarrays.

Inhibition of Abl tyrosine kinase enhances nerve growth factor-mediated signaling in Bcr-Abl transformed cells via the alteration of signaling complex and the receptor turnover

Receptor tyrosine kinase-mediated signaling is tightly regulated by a number of cytoplasmic signaling molecules. In this report, we show that Bcr-Abl transformed chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) cell lines, K562 and Meg-01, express the receptor for nerve growth factor (NGF), TrkA, on the cell surface; however, the NGF-mediated signal is not particularly strong. Treatment with imatinib, a potent inhibitor of Bcr-Abl tyrosine kinase, downmodulates phosphorylation of downstream molecules. Upon stimulation with NGF, Erk and Akt are phosphorylated to a much greater degree in imatinib-treated cells than in untreated cells. Knockdown of expression of Bcr-Abl using small interfering RNA technique also enhanced NGF-mediated Akt phosphorylation, indicating that Bcr-Abl kinase modifies NGF signaling directly. Imatinib treatment also enhanced NGF signaling in rat adrenal pheochromocytoma cell line PC12 that expresses TrkA and c-Abl, suggesting that it is not only restoration of responsiveness to NGF after blocking oncoprotein activity, but also c-Abl tyrosine kinase per se may be a negative regulator of growth factor signaling. Furthermore, inhibition of Abl tyrosine kinase enhanced clearance of surface TrkA after NGF treatment and simultaneously enhanced NGF-mediated signaling, suggesting that as in neuronal cells 'signaling endosomes' are formed in hematopoietic cells. To examine the role of TrkA in CML cells, we studied cell growth or colony formation in the presence or absence of imatinib with or without NGF. We found that NGF treatment induces cell survival in imatinib-treated CML cell lines, as well as colony formation of primary CD34+ CML cells, strongly suggesting that NGF/TrkA signaling contributes to aberrant signaling in CML.

A new non-invasive method for measuring blood glucose using instantaneous differential near infrared spectrophotometry

We describe further development of a novel method for non-invasive measurement of blood glucose concentration (BGL), named Pulse Glucometry, based on differential near infrared spectrophotometry. Sequential temporal differences of infrared transmittance spectra from the radiation intensity (I(lambda)) emerging from a fingertip containing an arterial pulse component (DeltaI(lambda)) are analysed. To perform the measurements we developed a new high-speed spectrophotometer, covering the wavelength range from 900 to 1700 nm, scanning at a maximum spectral rate of 1800 spectra/s, with a minimum exposure time of 20 micros. Spectra related only to the pulsatile blood component are derived, thus minimising influences of basal components such as resting blood volume, skin, muscle and bone. We have now improved the performance of the spectrophotometer and in the present paper we describe new in vivo measurements carried out in 23 healthy volunteers undergoing glucose tolerance tests. Blood samples were collected from the cephalic vein simultaneously with radiation intensity measurements in the fingertip every 10 min before and after oral administration of glucose solution for 120 min. BGL values were then predicted using a PLS calibration model and compared with blood values determined by colorimetric assay. The precision and accuracy of the non-invasive determinations are encouraging.

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound accelerates periodontal wound healing after flap surgery

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound on wound healing in periodontal tissues after mucoperiosteal flap surgery.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Bony defects were surgically produced bilaterally at the mesial roots of the mandibular fourth premolars in four beagle dogs. The flaps were repositioned to cover the defects and sutured after scaling and planing of the root surface to remove cementum. The affected area in the experimental group was exposed to low-intensity pulsed ultrasound, daily for 20 min, for a period of 4 wk from postoperative day 1 using a probe, 13 mm in diameter. On the control side, no ultrasound was emitted from the probe placed contralaterally. After the experiment, tissue samples were dissected out and fixed in 10% formalin for histological and immunohistochemical analyses.

RESULTS

The experimental group showed that the processes in regeneration of both cementum and mandibular bone were accelerated by low-intensity pulsed ultrasound compared with the control group. In addition, the expression level of heat shock protein 70 was higher in the gingival epithelial cells of the low-intensity pulsed ultrasound-treated tooth.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that osteoblasts, as well as cells in periodontal ligament and gingival epithelium, respond to mechanical stress loaded by low-intensity pulsed ultrasound, and that ultrasound accelerates periodontal wound healing and bone repair.

Randomised phase II trial of irinotecan plus cisplatin vs irinotecan, cisplatin plus etoposide repeated every 3 weeks in patients with extensive-disease small-cell lung cancer

Patients with previously untreated extensive-disease small-cell lung cancer were treated with irinotecan 60 mg m(-2) on days 1 and 8 and cisplatin 60 mg m(-2) on day 1 with (n=55) or without (n=54) etoposide 50 mg m(-2) on days 1-3 with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor support repeated every 3 weeks for four cycles. The triplet regimen was too toxic to be considered for further studies.

Easily installable wireless behavioral monitoring system with electric field sensor for ordinary houses

This paper describes an indoor behavioral monitoring system for improving the quality of life in ordinary houses. It employs a device that uses weak radio waves for transmitting the obtained data and it is designed such that it can be installed by a user without requiring any technical knowledge or extra constructions. This study focuses on determining the usage statistics of home electric appliances by using an electromagnetic field sensor as a detection device. The usage of the home appliances is determined by measuring the electromagnetic field that can be observed in an area near the appliance. It is assumed that these usage statistics could provide information regarding the indoor behavior of a subject. Since the sensor is not direction sensitive and does not require precise positioning and wiring, it can be easily installed in ordinary houses by the end users. For evaluating the practicability of the sensor unit, several simple tests have been performed. The results indicate that the proposed system could be useful for collecting the usage statistics of home appliances.

New computer-based cognitive function test for the elderly

We developed a modified trail-making test using a PC and touch panel and compared it with the mini mental state examination (MMSE). The test consisted of a series of numbers from 1 to 36, randomly arranged across the display. The object of the test was for the subject to touch the numbers in order, beginning with 1 and ending with 36, in as little time as possible. The system consisted of a PC and a liquid crystal display (LCD) touch-panel screen. One hundred and thirty-four patients with dementia performed the test. Sixty of the 134 patients (15 male, 45 female; average age, 81.1 +/- 7 years) were diagnosed as having Alzheimer's disease and the others had cerebrovascular dementia. Sixty-two of 134 patients (23 male, 39 female; average age, 77.6 +/- 8 years; MMSE score, 21.5 +/- 5.6 points) completed the test. The correlation coefficient between test performance time and MMSE score was -0.534. This test may also be a useful indicator of focal frontal lesions and can be used as an early screening test for Alzheimer's disease.

The relationship between pemetrexed exposure (AUC) and clinical outcome in Japanese NSCLC patients

18041

Background: The efficacy of pemetrexed (PEM) 500 mg/m2 administered with vitamin B12 and folic acid (FS) has been established in previously treated NSCLC. The 500 mg/m2 dose is based on the MTD determined for PEM without FS. Recently completed phase I studies have shown the recommended dose of PEM single agent with FS to be 900–1,000 mg/m2. A randomized phase II study conducted in Japan (ASCO 2007) showed PEM 500 mg/m2 and 1,000 mg/m2 with FS to have similar efficacy for patients with 2nd and 3rd line NSCLC. PEM is renally excreted and a PK model characterizing the relationship between CrCL and PEM AUC has been previously established. The exposure response relationships (ERRs) between AUC and progression free survival (PFS), individual patient’ tumor response, and toxicity were explored in these analyses. Methods: Eligible patients had a histologic or cytologic diagnosis of NSCLC, had been previously treated by 1 or 2 chemotherapy regimens, and were randomized to 500 mg/m2 (N = 108 pts) or 1,000 mg/m2 (N = 108 pts) of PEM once every 3 weeks. A previously established PK model was used to estimate AUC based on patient CrCL and dose administered. AUCs were linked to clinical outcome to identify ERRs. Efficacy models assumed a distribution of events with hazard dependent on prognostic factors and mean AUC at cycle over the treatment period. The AE model assumed probability of toxicity as a function of AUC at each cycle. Results: Median CrCL for patients in 500 mg/m2 and 1,000 mg/m2 groups were 85 ml/min (42–167) and 83 ml/min (38–146), respectively; median estimated PEM AUCs were 158 mg.h/L (107–221) and 318 mg.h/L (215–468). The relationship between model-estimated AUC and PFS was not significant. This is consistent with the clinical findings: PFS for the 500 mg/m2 and 1,000 mg/m2 groups of 3.0 months and 2.4 months, respectively; overall response rate (RR) of 18.5% and 14.8%, respectively. ERR analyses for individual patient tumor response, neutropenia and thrombocytopenia are ongoing at this time. Conclusions: Estimated PEM AUCs, based on CrCL, does not correlate with PFS for pretreated NSCLC at 500 mg/m2 and 1,000 mg/m2. The ERRs for individual tumor response and toxicity are ongoing and will be presented at the meeting.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A randomized trial of intrapericardial (ip) bleomycin (BLM) after drainage for management of malignant pericardial effusion (MPE) in lung cancer patients (pts): Report of a Japan Clinical Oncology Group trial (JCOG 9811)

7710

Background: This trial was aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of ip BLM instillation as compared to pericardial drainage alone in pts with MPE. Methods: Pts ≤ 75 y.o. with pathologically documented lung cancer, who had received pericardial drainage for clinical MPE within 72 hours of the enrollment, were eligible. Pts with chemo-naïve small cell cancer, major organ failure, or severe co-morbidity were excluded. Signed consent form was obtained. Pts were randomized to either Arm A: observation alone after drainage, or Arm B: ip BLM of 15mg, followed by additional ip BLM 10mg q48hours. Drainage tube was removed when daily drainage was ≤20mL; the protocol therapy was judged as primary failure, with no regulations on post-therapy, if this criteria could not be met after 7 days from enrollment. MPE was followed at 1,2,4,6 and 12 months by echocardiography. The primary endpoint was survival with MPE control (effusion failure-free survival, EFFS) at 2 months, assumed to be 60% vs. 30%. The trial was designed to provide 80% power with 5% one-sided alpha, with 80 cases. Results: From Aug./99 to Jan./06, 80 pts were enrolled, with 79 eligible. M:F=51:29, median age 60 y.o. (range: 39–75), 75 nonsmall histology, 53 with prior chemotherapy, and 20 with prior radiotherapy. Median drainage volume was 600 mL (range: 130–1930). Cytology of the effusion was positive in 58/76 examined. EFFS ( table ) tended to favor Arm B, with hazard ratio of 0.64 (one-sided p=0.030 by logrank test, 95% C.I. 0.40–1.03). No additional acute toxicities or complications were observed for Arm B. There were 2 cases with late constrictive complications in Arm B, but none was severe. The median survival was 79 days (A) and 119 days (B) (not significant). Conclusions: Although the difference of EFFS at 2 months was not statistically significant, BLM ip after pericardial drainage appears to be safe and effective in allover for management of MPE.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

[Table: see text]

Results of a randomized phase III study to compare the overall survival of gefitinib (IRESSA) versus docetaxel in Japanese patients with non-small cell lung cancer who failed one or two chemotherapy regimens

LBA7509

Background: This phase III study (V-15–32) compared gefitinib vs docetaxel on overall survival (OS) in Japanese patients (pts) with pretreated advanced NSCLC. Methods: Pts with advanced or metastatic (Stage IIIb or IV) NSCLC who failed 1 or 2 chemotherapy regimens were randomized to gefitinib (250 mg/day) or docetaxel (60 mg/m2 every 3 weeks). Non-inferiority of the primary endpoint, OS, was assessed by the confidence interval (CI) of the hazard ratio (HR; gefitinib/docetaxel) derived from an unadjusted Cox proportional hazard model. Results: 489 eligible pts were recruited. Non-inferiority in OS was not achieved (HR 1.12; 95.24% CI 0.89, 1.40) according to predefined criterion (upper CI limit for HR <1.25); however, no significant difference in OS (p=0.330) or PFS (p=0.335) was apparent between treatments. Post study, 36% of gefitinib-treated pts received subsequent docetaxel and 40% received no other therapy apart from gefitinib; 53% of docetaxel-treated pts received subsequent gefitinib and 26% received no other therapy apart from docetaxel. Gefitinib significantly improved ORR (22.5% vs 12.8%; p=0.009), TTF (HR 0.63; 95% CI 0.51, 0.77; p<0.001), and QoL (FACT-L trial outcome index 20.5% vs 8.7%; p=0.002; FACT-L 23.4% vs 13.9%; p=0.023), vs docetaxel. Additional subgroup analyses will be presented. Grade 3/4 AEs occurred in 40.6% (gefitinib) and 81.6% (docetaxel) of pts. Incidence of interstitial lung disease (ILD) was 5.7% (n=14) and 2.9% (n=7), respectively. There were 4 deaths due to AEs in the gefitinib arm (3 possibly treatment-related due to ILD; 1 due to pneumonia that was not considered treatment-related) and none in the docetaxel arm. Conclusions: Whilst non-inferiority in OS between gefitinib and docetaxel was not demonstrated according to predefined criteria, there was no statistically significant difference in survival between the two arms. Secondary endpoints largely unaffected by subsequent therapy provide further evidence of clinical efficacy of gefitinib in these pts. AEs were consistent with those previously observed for both treatments.

[Table: see text]

Appropriate schedule of oral tegafur / uracil (UFT) in combination with irinotecan (CPT-11) and bolus 5-FU / l-leucovorin (LV) in patients (pts) with metastatic colorectal cancer (MCRC): A phase I study

14538

Background: FOLFIRI is one of the standard regimens for MCRC. Considering the burden of continuous 5-FU administration, oral fluoropyrimidine-based therapy has been proposed in several clinical trials; however, gastrointestinal toxicity makes it difficult to perform successive oral chemotherapy. Therefore, no previous study could confirm whether to replace FOLFIRI with oral regimen. In order to find an appropriate schedule of oral fluoropyrimidine with safety and efficacy instead of continuous infusion of 5-FU, clinical trial using CPT-11, bolus 5-FU / l-LV and oral UFT / LV was conducted in pts with MCRC. Methods: Pts with MCRC, age > 18 years, ECOG PS 0–2, adequate organ function, and no or 1 prior chemotherapy were eligible. Pts received CPT-11 (100mg/m2) / 5-FU (500mg/m2) / l-LV (15mg/m2) i.v. on day 1 and UFT (300mg/m2) / LV (75mg/body) p.o. on days 1–5 (level 1), days 1–7 (level 2), or days 1–10 (level 3). Each course was repeated every 14 days. After determining feasible UFT / LV schedule, CPT-11 was dose-escalated (level 4: 125 mg/m2; level 5: 150mg/m2). Results: Nineteen pts were enrolled. A dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) of grade 4 neutropenia lasting for > 4 days was observed in 1 pt at level 2. Additional 3 pts at this level showed no toxicity of grade 3 or 4. A DLT of treatment delay (>8 days) was observed in 1 pt at level 3 because of prolonged neutropenia. Other 2 pts at level 3 refused to continue treatment within 4 cycles because of prolonged grade 2 anorexia. Obvious difference in toxicity was observed between level 2 and level 3. Therefore, 7-day-administration of UFT / LV was recommended. No DLT was observed at level 4 and 5, and the recommended dose of CPT-11 was 150mg/m2. The overall response rate was 66.7%. The median time to disease progression was 8.0 months. Conclusions: This oral fluoropyrimidine-based regimen is considered feasible and effective. The treatment schedule of UFT might be a key to prevent an early dropout due to gastrointestinal toxicity. Further study will be needed to confirm toxicity and efficacy of this regimen compared to FOLFIRI profile.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Favorable genetic polymorphisms predictive of clinical outcome of chemoradiotherapy for stage II/III esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in Japanese

15088

Background: A 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)/cisplatin (CDDP)-based chemoradiotherapy (CRT) was proposed for esophageal cancer patients. Currently, there is an urgent need to establish a methodology to decide which is preferable for a patient, i.e., surgical treatment or CRT, especially for Stage II to III tumors defined as resectable. This study was performed to find the genetic factors predictive of clinical outcome to a 5-FU/ CDDP-based CRT in Japanese patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Methods: Thirty-one patients with Stage I-IVa ESCC (I/II/III/IVa = 7/7/14/3) were enrolled in this study. One course of treatment consisted of protracted venous infusions of 5-FU (400 mg/m2/24 h for day 1–5 and 8–12), CDDP (40 mg/m2/3 h on day 1 and 8) and radiation (2 Gy/day on day 1–5, 8–12 and 15–19), and a 2nd course was successively repeated after a 2-week interval. A total of 8 measurements of the plasma concentration of 5-FU were made using high performance liquid chromatography. Genetic polymorphisms examined herein included those in the genes coding thymidylate synthase (TS), glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1) and multi-drug resistant transporter MDR1/P-glycoprotein. Results: The complete response rate depended on Stage (p = 0.001), but the analysis was not sufficiently powered to reach a level of statistical significance for the 2-year survival rate (p = 0.061). For Stage II/III patients, to have 2 or 3 polymorphisms of 3R/3R of 5’-TSER, a 6bp of 3’-TSUTR, and GSTP1-Leu105Val resulted in an extensively longer survival (p =0.0197), although no difference was found between 2 groups, with respect to the plasma concentrations of 5-FU and clinical or pathological characteristics. Conclusions: The genetic prognostic index may allow predictions of the clinical outcome of a 5- FU/CDDP-based CRT in Stage II/III ESCC patients. Now, we are analyzing the contribution of genetic polymorphisms of cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor a.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A randomized phase II study of 500 mg/m2 and 1,000 mg/m2 of pemetrexed in patients (pts) with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who had prior chemotherapy

7590

Background: Pemetrexed (Pem) 500 mg/m2 (Pem 500) is currently the standard treatment for pts with locally advanced or metastatic NSCLC who had prior chemotherapy. In a recent Japanese phase I study with full vitamin supplementation, 1,000 mg/m2 was determined as the recommended dose. This study was to determine if Pem 1,000 mg/m2 (Pem 1,000) could lead to a better treatment outcome with an acceptable toxicity profile compared with Pem 500 in pts with NSCLC in a 2nd or 3rd line setting. Methods: Pts with PS 0–2, measurable, Stage III/IV NSCLC, who had previously received 1 or 2 chemotherapy regimens, were randomized to receive either Pem 500 or Pem 1,000 on day 1 of a 21-day cycle. The primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR) based on the RECIST. Secondary endpoints included progression-free survival (PFS), duration of response (DR) and toxicity profile. The planned total sample size for the study was 214 pts. Results: From October 2004 to March 2006, 244 pts were enrolled at 28 centers, 226 pts were randomized and treated, and 216 pts were evaluable for efficacy. Baseline patient characteristics (Pem 500/Pem 1,000: 108/108) were: Males 63%/64%; median age 62/62 years (total range: 26–74); PS 0–1 94%/94%; Stage IV 81%/80%. The median number of treatment cycles completed on both arms was 3 (range 1–20+ for Pem 500 and 1–15+ for Pem 1,000). 11% of the Pem 500 pts and 6% of the Pem 1,000 pts completed at least 10 cycles. ORRs were 18.5% (90% CI: 12.6%-25.8%) for Pem 500 and 14.8% (90% CI: 9.5%- 21.6%) for Pem 1,000, and the respective disease control (PR+SD) rates were 55.6% and 46.3%. Median PFS with Pem 500 and Pem 1,000 was 3.0 and 2.4 months and median DR was 4.7 and 3.8 months, respectively. Grade 4 toxicities observed in more than 1% of pts were neutropenia (3.5% with Pem 500, 3.6% with Pem 1,000) and decreased lymphocyte count (2.6%, 1.8%). One drug related death for interstitial lung disease was reported with Pem 500. Conclusions: Pem 1,000 as well as Pem 500 showed remarkable efficacy outcomes with tolerable toxicity. Since Pem 1,000 showed treatment outcomes similar to Pem 500, this study supports the use of Pem 500 for Japanese pts with NSCLC in a 2nd or 3rd line setting.

[Table: see text]

The significant influence of smoking status and gender on the clinical outcome in the patients with non-small cell lung cancer: The large cohort based study

7587

Background: To determine retrospectively whether smoking status and gender affect the treatment outcome and survival for the Japanese patients with non-small cell lung cancer. Methods: Using the database from the lung cancer registry of the National Hospital Study Group for Lung Cancer between 1987 and 2002, detailed demographic and survival information were obtained. A total of 18,346 (70%) documented smokers including the former and the current and 7,755 (30%) documented never smokers with non-small cell lung cancer were studied. A minimal follow-up period was two years. Among them, the 2,546 patients with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma were studied to examine the relationship between the smoking status or the gender and the chemotherapy effect. Multivariate analysis was performed using the Cox regression method. Results: There was an increased percentage of female subjects (72%) in the never smokers, and an increased percentage of male subjects (90%) in the smokers. The never smokers had lower performance status (PS) and lower clinical stage than the smokers (p<0.001). There was an increased percentage of adenocarcinoma (83%) in the never smokers. Multivariate analysis for all the patients demonstrated that the lower clinical stage, the lower PS, younger age, female and never smoking was an independent good prognostic factor The hazard ratio (HR) and its 95% CI was 3.73 (3.58–3.88), 2.69 (2.59–2.79), 1.21 (1.17–1.25), 1.15 (1.09–1.20), and 1.08 (1.04–1.14), respectively. Multivariate analysis for the stage IV adenocarcinoma also showed that the lower PS, female and never smoking was an independent good prognostic factor. The HR and its 95% CI was 2.37 (2.15–2.61), 1.35 (1.19–1.52) and 1.17 (1.04–1.32) respectively. In the treatment of chemotherapy for the stage IV adenocarcinoma patients, the never smokers had higher disease control rates (CR+PR+SD) than the smokers (p=0.08) and the females had higher response rates (CR+PR) than the males (p=0.02). Conclusions: The never smokers and females with non-small cell lung cancer were found to have a distinct and improved clinical outcome.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Cisplatin (Cis)/etoposide (VP16) compared to cis/irinotecan (CPT11) in extensive-stage small cell lung cancer (E-SCLC): Pharmacogenomic (PG) and comparative toxicity analysis of JCOG 9511 and SWOG 0124

7524

Introduction: J9511 demonstrated a significant survival benefit for Cis/CPT11 over Cis/VP16 in Japanese patients (pts) with E-SCLC (Noda, et al. NEJM 2002). S0124 is the confirmatory North American phase III trial (accrual completed) using the identical J9511 protocol. We hypothesized that toxicities would differ between North American & Japanese pts due in part to differences in the distribution of genetic polymorphisms involved in chemotherapy metabolism. Methods: Toxicity data were compared among 706 pts enrolled in J9511 & S0124 receiving common treatment using a logistic model adjusted for age, sex, and performance status (PS). Select polymorphisms of the UGT1A1, ABCB1, & OATP genes in genomic DNA were evaluated in 142 pts in S0124 only (67 Cis/CPT11; 75 Cis/VP16). Associations between toxicity & genotype within each arm were assessed using logistic regression. Results: Pt demographics for J9511 & S0124 respectively: Mean age − 61 & 62 years; Male sex − 131 (86%) & 315 (57%); PS 0 − 19 (13%) & 173 (31%); PS>0 − 133 (87%) & 372 (68%). Comparative toxicities (≥ grade 3) are summarized ( table ). PG analysis in S0124 pts: ABCB1 (C3435T) T/T was associated with an increased risk of CPT11 grade 3+ diarrhea (p=0.04) versus C/C and C/T. UGT1A1 (G3156A) A/A was associated with increased risk of CPT11 neutropenia (p=0.009) & leukopenia (p=0.05). UGT1A1*28 TA7, typically associated with increased CPT11 toxicity, was seen in only 4 pts (2 Cis/CPT11; 2 Cis/VP16); thus no correlation was done. No gene tested was associated with VP16 toxicity. Conclusions: Significant differences in treatment-related myelosuppression exist between J9511 and S0124 pt populations. Certain polymorphisms in genes involved in CPT11 metabolism are significantly associated with CPT11 toxicities in S0124. Additional analyses are ongoing. These results support the hypothesis that toxicities may be associated with distribution of genetic polymorphisms.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

[Table: see text]

Randomized controlled trial comparing docetaxel (D)-cisplatin (P) combination with D alone in elderly patients (pts) with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC): JCOG0207

7629

Background: Platinum-based chemotherapy is currently recommended as the standard approach for pts with advanced NSCLC. However prospective clinical trials specifically designed for elderly pts demonstrating the P benefit are still lacking. Therefore, we conducted a phase III trial to determine whether the addition of P to single agent-chemotherapy for elderly NSCLC pts could improve survival. Methods: Eligibility criteria included; chemotherapy-naive; stage III/IV NSCLC; age=70 and PS 0–1. Pts were randomized to receive either DP or D with minimization method balancing site, age (=74/=75) and stage (III/IV), and both regimens were given every 4 weeks. DP comprised D (20 mg/m2) and P (25 mg/m2) iv on days 1, 8, 15. D comprised D (25 mg/m2) iv on the same schedule. Primary endpoint was overall survival (OS). The planned sample size was 115 pts in each arm to provide 80% power to detect 0.667 hazard ratio for DP to D in OS and 2.5% one-sided alpha. Results: Between Apr 2003 and Apr 2006, 126 pts were randomized (D/DP: 63/63). The second planned interim analysis was performed on 112 assessable pts (D/DP:56/56, median age 76, =74/=75: 39/61%, male/female: 77/23%, PS 0/1: 39/61%, III/IV: 30/70%). Maturity of information, defined proportion of interim events to the planned events, was 26% (=49/191). As the one-sided p-value(p=0.00515) of the stratified log-rank test by age and stage was not lower than the critical value for the interim analysis, the formal criterion for stopping the trial failed to meet. However the Data and Safety Monitoring Board recommended study termination and disclosure of the results based on the strong interaction (two-sided p=0.077, hazard ratios [95% C.I.] for =74/=75: 0.23 [0.09–0.62]/0.72 [0.35- 1.49]) that DP may be beneficial for subgroup of age between 70- 74. Major Grade 3–4 toxicities were (%D/DP): neutropenia 4.9/13.1, anemia 1.6/16.4, anorexia 8.3/24.2, infection 11.7/8.1, pneumonitis 1.7/1.6. TRD occurred in 1 pt in DP arm. Conclusions: The interpretation of study results is limited due to early stopping and resultant loss of statistical power. But these data indicated that =74 young elderly have no more need to evaluate tolerability and efficacy of P.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A phase I and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic study of vorinostat (suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid, SAHA) in Japanese patients with solid tumor

14015

Background: Vorinostat (Zolinza™), a potent inhibitor of histone deacetylase (HDAC), induces tumor growth inhibition, differentiation, and apoptosis in vitro. Increasing evidence has revealed clinical activity of vorinostat in patients (pts) with various types of cancer including cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Methods: Japanese pts with solid tumor who failed standard therapy were enrolled in a single institution, National Cancer Center hospital, Phase I study. Pts were dosed with vorinostat BID for 14 consecutive days followed by 7 day-rest starting at 100 mg and escalated by 100 mg BID until MTD was established. Subsequently single daily dosing was tested at 400 and 500 mg. PK was measured at total of 41 timepoints. Response was also evaluated according to the international workshop criteria. Results: MTD was established as 200 mg BID and 500 mg QD for 14 consecutive days followed by a 7 day-rest. All 18 enrolled pts were assessed for safety and PK. Median age was 58 yrs [25–72]. Ten of 18 pts had lung cancer. Two of 6 pts receiving 200 mg BID experienced DLTs: Grade 4 thrombocytopenia, and Grade 4 thrombocytopenia and Grade 3 anorexia. None of 3 pts receiving 400 mg QD experienced DLT. One of 6 pts receiving 500 mg QD experienced Grade 3 anorexia and fatigue. AUC of vorinostat increased generally proportional to dose in the range of 100–500 mg. PK was not greatly affected by multiple doses. Intact drug was hardly excreted in urine (<1% of dose). PK profile is similar to that established in US pts. As of Dec 2006, 1 pt with invasive thymoma received 200 mg BID for 1 yr. Nine pts achieved SD as best response. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the safety of vorinostat 200 mg BID and 500 mg QD for 14 consecutive days followed by 7 day-rest. These would be the RD for Phase II studies on this schedule.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Phase I dose escalation study of E7080, a novel anti-angiogenic multikinase inhibitor, in Japanese patients with advanced solid tumors

14099

Background: E7080 selectively inhibits receptor phosphorylation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet- derived growth factor (PDGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and suppresses tumor angiogenesis and growth in preclinical studies. Methods: E7080 was orally administered to Japanese patients with advanced solid tumors twice daily by a 2 week-on 1 week-off schedule. The primary objectives were to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) and the recommended dose for further study. The secondary objectives were to evaluate pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacogenomics, and efficacy. Results: Twelve patients have been enrolled into cohorts of 1, 2, 4 or 8 mg/day. Major toxicities were hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Thus far, no DLTs or severe toxicities were reported. PK analysis in cohorts of 1, 2 and 4 mg/day showed the dose-proportional increase of Cmax and AUC. Three patients in cohorts of 1 and 2 mg/day experienced long stable disease (SD) for 18 weeks or longer. One patient with colorectal cancer in 4 mg/day cohort showed significant tumor shrinkage of multiple pulmonary metastasis. Biomarkers such as plasma angiogenic proteins and cytokines, circulating endothelial cells and circulating endothelial progenitor cells are exploratively evaluated. Conclusions: E7080 is well tolerated at doses up to 8 mg/day by a 2 week-on 1 week-off schedule. Some patients experienced clinical benefit without severe toxicity. MTD has not been reached and enrollment is ongoing.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Randomised phase III trial of carboplatin plus etoposide vs split doses of cisplatin plus etoposide in elderly or poor-risk patients with extensive disease small-cell lung cancer: JCOG 9702

We compared the efficacy and the safety of a carboplatin plus etoposide regimen (CE) vs split doses of cisplatin plus etoposide (SPE) in elderly or poor-risk patients with extensive disease small-cell lung cancer (ED-SCLC). Eligibility criteria included: untreated ED-SCLC; age ⩾70 and performance status 0–2, or age <70 and PS 3. The CE arm received carboplatin area under the curve of five intravenously (IV) on day 1 and etoposide 80 mg m⁻² IV on days 1–3. The SPE arm received cisplatin 25 mg m⁻² IV on days 1–3 and etoposide 80 mg m⁻² IV on days 1–3. Both regimens were given with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor support in a 21–28 day cycle for four courses. A total of 220 patients were randomised. Median age was 74 years and 74% had a PS of 0 or 1. Major grade 3–4 toxicities were (%CE/%SPE): leucopenia 54/51, neutropenia 95/90, thrombocytopenia 56/16, infection 7/6. There was no significant difference (CE/SPE) in the response rate (73/73%) and overall survival (median 10.6/9.9 mo; P=0.54). Palliation scores were very similar between the arms. Although the SPE regimen is still considered to be the standard treatment in elderly or poor-risk patients with ED-SCLC, the CE regimen can be an alternative for this population considering the risk–benefit balance.

Olopatadine hydrochloride accelerates the recovery of skin barrier function in mice

BACKGROUND

The skin barrier function in patients with atopic dermatitis is disrupted and prolonged topical steroid therapy produces epidermal barrier disturbance. Olopatadine hydrochloride (olopatadine; Allelock; Kyowa Hakko Kogyo Co., Ltd, Shizuoka, Japan) is an antiallergic drug with histamine H(1) receptor antagonistic action. This drug alleviates skin inflammation and decreases the number of scratching episodes in a murine model of chronic contact dermatitis.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effects of olopatadine and a steroid on the recovery of skin barrier function after barrier disruption in mice.

METHODS

The skin barrier of the ears of mice was disrupted by tape stripping. The recovery of skin barrier function was monitored by measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) after barrier disruption. Epidermal hyperplasia was induced by repeated tape stripping for 7 days. Olopatadine was administered orally once daily from 3 days before the first barrier disruption. Betamethasone 17-valerate (betamethasone) was applied topically once daily from 3 days before barrier disruption.

RESULTS

Tape stripping led to a significant increase in TEWL. TEWL decreased with time after tape stripping and the skin barrier function recovered by over 60% within 9 h after tape stripping. The recovery of skin barrier in olopatadine-treated mice was significantly accelerated, compared with that in vehicle-treated mice. In contrast, the skin barrier recovery in mice treated with topical betamethasone was significantly delayed, compared with that in vehicle-treated mice. Combined treatment with olopatadine and betamethasone ameliorated the delay in barrier recovery induced by topical treatment with betamethasone. In addition, olopatadine significantly prevented the increase in epidermal thickness induced by prolonged barrier disruption.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that systemic administration of olopatadine accelerates the recovery of skin barrier function and ameliorates the adverse effects of topical steroids on skin barrier recovery.