Genetically driven predisposition leads to an unusually genomic unstable renal cell carcinoma

Renal cell carcinoma originates from the lining of the proximal convoluted renal tubule and represents the most common type of kidney cancer. Risk factors and comorbidities might be associated to renal cell carcinoma, while a small fraction of 2-3% emerges from patients with predisposing cancer syndromes, typically associated to hereditary mutations in VHL, folliculin, fumarate hydratase or MET genes. Here, we report a case of renal cell carcinoma in patient with concurrent germline mutations in BRCA1 and RAD51 genes. This case displays an unusual high mutational burden and chromosomal aberrations compared to the typical profile of renal cell carcinoma. Mutational analysis on whole genome sequencing revealed an enrichment of the MMR2 mutational signature, which is indicative of impaired DNA repair capacity. Overall, the tumor displayed a profile of unusual high genomic instability which suggests a possible origin from germline predisposing mutations in the DNA repair genes BRCA1 and RAD51. While BRCA1 and RAD51 germline mutations are well-characterised in breast and ovarian cancer, their role in renal cell carcinoma is still largely unexplored. The genomic instability detected in this case of renal cell carcinoma, along with the presence of unusual mutations, might offer support to clinicians for the development of patient-tailored therapies.

Completion total mesorectal excision after neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy and local excision for rectal cancer

AIM

Local excision (LE) in selected cases after neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy (RCT) for locally advanced rectal cancer in clinically complete or major responders has been recently reported as an alternative to standard radical resection. Completion total mesorectal excision (cTME) is generally performed when high-risk pathological features are found in LE surgical specimens. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence of residual tumour and lymph node metastases after cTME in patients previously treated by RCT + LE. The secondary aims were to quantify the rate of postoperative morbidity and mortality and to evaluate the long-term oncological outcome of this group of patients.

METHODS

All patients treated from 2007 to 2020 by LE for locally advanced rectal cancer with a clinically complete or major response to RCT who had a subsequent cTME for high-risk pathological factors (ypT >1 and/or TRG >2 and/or positive margins) were included in this multicentre retrospective study. Pathological data, postoperative short-term morbidity (classified according to Clavien-Dindo) and mortality and oncological long-term outcome after cTME were recorded in a database. Statistical analysis was performed using Wizard for iOS version 1.9.31.

RESULTS

A total of 47 patients were included in the study. The rate of R0 resection was 95.7%, and a sphincter-saving procedure was performed in 37 patients (78.7%), with a protective stoma rate of 78.4%. In 28 cases (59.6%), it was possible to perform a minimally invasive approach. A residual tumour (pT and/or pN) on cTME specimens was found in 21 cases (44.7%). The rate of lymph node metastases was 12.8%. The overall short-term (within 30 days) postoperative morbidity was 34%, but grade >2 postoperative complications occurred in only nine patients (19.1%), with a reoperation rate of 6.4%. No short-term postoperative deaths occurred. At a median follow-up of 57 months (range: 21-174), the long-term stoma-free rate was 70.2%, and the actuarial 5-year overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS) and local control (LC) were 86.7%, 88.9% and 95.7%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

When patients exhibit high-risk pathological factors after RCT + LE, cTME should be suggested due to the high risk of residual tumour or lymph node involvement (44.7%). The results after cTME in terms of the rate of R0 resection, sphincter-saving procedure, postoperative morbidity and mortality and long-term oncological outcome seem to be acceptable and do not represent a contraindication to use LE as a first-step treatment in patients with major or complete clinical response after RCT.

Abdominal drainage after elective colorectal surgery: propensity score-matched retrospective analysis of an Italian cohort

BACKGROUND

In Italy, surgeons continue to drain the abdominal cavity in more than 50 per cent of patients after colorectal resection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of abdominal drain placement on early adverse events in patients undergoing elective colorectal surgery.

METHODS

A database was retrospectively analysed through a 1:1 propensity score-matching model including 21 covariates. The primary endpoint was the postoperative duration of stay, and the secondary endpoints were surgical site infections, infectious morbidity rate defined as surgical site infections plus pulmonary infections plus urinary infections, anastomotic leakage, overall morbidity rate, major morbidity rate, reoperation and mortality rates. The results of multiple logistic regression analyses were presented as odds ratios (OR) and 95 per cent c.i.

RESULTS

A total of 6157 patients were analysed to produce two well-balanced groups of 1802 patients: group (A), no abdominal drain(s) and group (B), abdominal drain(s). Group A versus group B showed a significantly lower risk of postoperative duration of stay >6 days (OR 0.60; 95 per cent c.i. 0.51-0.70; P < 0.001). A mean postoperative duration of stay difference of 0.86 days was detected between groups. No difference was recorded between the two groups for all the other endpoints.

CONCLUSION

This study confirms that placement of abdominal drain(s) after elective colorectal surgery is associated with a non-clinically significant longer (0.86 days) postoperative duration of stay but has no impact on any other secondary outcomes, confirming that abdominal drains should not be used routinely in colorectal surgery.

Evaluation of a quality improvement intervention to reduce anastomotic leak following right colectomy (EAGLE): pragmatic, batched stepped-wedge, cluster-randomized trial in 64 countries

BACKGROUND

Anastomotic leak affects 8 per cent of patients after right colectomy with a 10-fold increased risk of postoperative death. The EAGLE study aimed to develop and test whether an international, standardized quality improvement intervention could reduce anastomotic leaks.

METHODS

The internationally intended protocol, iteratively co-developed by a multistage Delphi process, comprised an online educational module introducing risk stratification, an intraoperative checklist, and harmonized surgical techniques. Clusters (hospital teams) were randomized to one of three arms with varied sequences of intervention/data collection by a derived stepped-wedge batch design (at least 18 hospital teams per batch). Patients were blinded to the study allocation. Low- and middle-income country enrolment was encouraged. The primary outcome (assessed by intention to treat) was anastomotic leak rate, and subgroup analyses by module completion (at least 80 per cent of surgeons, high engagement; less than 50 per cent, low engagement) were preplanned.

RESULTS

A total 355 hospital teams registered, with 332 from 64 countries (39.2 per cent low and middle income) included in the final analysis. The online modules were completed by half of the surgeons (2143 of 4411). The primary analysis included 3039 of the 3268 patients recruited (206 patients had no anastomosis and 23 were lost to follow-up), with anastomotic leaks arising before and after the intervention in 10.1 and 9.6 per cent respectively (adjusted OR 0.87, 95 per cent c.i. 0.59 to 1.30; P = 0.498). The proportion of surgeons completing the educational modules was an influence: the leak rate decreased from 12.2 per cent (61 of 500) before intervention to 5.1 per cent (24 of 473) after intervention in high-engagement centres (adjusted OR 0.36, 0.20 to 0.64; P < 0.001), but this was not observed in low-engagement hospitals (8.3 per cent (59 of 714) and 13.8 per cent (61 of 443) respectively; adjusted OR 2.09, 1.31 to 3.31).

CONCLUSION

Completion of globally available digital training by engaged teams can alter anastomotic leak rates. Registration number: NCT04270721 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Mechanical bowel preparation in elective colorectal surgery: a propensity score-matched analysis of the Italian colorectal anastomotic leakage (iCral) study group prospective cohorts

Retrospective evaluation of the effects of mechanical bowel preparation (MBP) on data derived from two prospective open-label observational multicenter studies in Italy regarding elective colorectal surgery. MBP for elective colorectal surgery remains a controversial issue with contrasting recommendations in current guidelines. The Italian ColoRectal Anastomotic Leakage (iCral) study group, therefore, decided to estimate the effects of no MBP (treatment variable) versus MBP for elective colorectal surgery. A total of 8359 patients who underwent colorectal resection with anastomosis were enrolled in two consecutive prospective studies in 78 surgical centers in Italy from January 2019 to September 2021. A retrospective PSMA was performed on 5455 (65.3%) cases after the application of explicit exclusion criteria to eliminate confounders. The primary endpoints were anastomotic leakage (AL) and surgical site infections (SSI) rates; the secondary endpoints included SSI subgroups, overall and major morbidity, reoperation, and mortality rates. Overall length of postoperative hospital stay (LOS) was also considered. Two well-balanced groups of 1125 patients each were generated: group A (No MBP, true population of interest), and group B (MBP, control population), performing a PSMA considering 21 covariates. Group A vs. group B resulted significantly associated with a lower risk of AL [42 (3.5%) vs. 73 (6.0%) events; OR 0.57; 95% CI 0.38-0.84; p = 0.005]. No difference was recorded between the two groups for SSI [73 (6.0%) vs. 85 (7.0%) events; OR 0.88; 95% CI 0.63-1.22; p = 0.441]. Regarding the secondary endpoints, no MBP resulted significantly associated with a lower risk of reoperation and LOS > 6 days. This study confirms that no MBP before elective colorectal surgery is significantly associated with a lower risk of AL, reoperation rate, and LOS < 6 days when compared with MBP.

Macrophage polarization and metabolism in atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the accumulation of fatty deposits in the inner walls of vessels. These plaques restrict blood flow and lead to complications such as heart attack or stroke. The development of atherosclerosis is influenced by a variety of factors, including age, genetics, lifestyle, and underlying health conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Atherosclerotic plaques in stable form are characterized by slow growth, which leads to luminal stenosis, with low embolic potential or in unstable form, which contributes to high risk for thrombotic and embolic complications with rapid clinical onset. In this complex scenario of atherosclerosis, macrophages participate in the whole process, including the initiation, growth and eventually rupture and wound healing stages of artery plaque formation. Macrophages in plaques exhibit high heterogeneity and plasticity, which affect the evolving plaque microenvironment, e.g., leading to excessive lipid accumulation, cytokine hyperactivation, hypoxia, apoptosis and necroptosis. The metabolic and functional transitions of plaque macrophages in response to plaque microenvironmental factors not only influence ongoing and imminent inflammatory responses within the lesions but also directly dictate atherosclerotic progression or regression. In this review, we discuss the origin of macrophages within plaques, their phenotypic diversity, metabolic shifts, and fate and the roles they play in the dynamic progression of atherosclerosis. It also describes how macrophages interact with other plaque cells, particularly T cells. Ultimately, targeting pathways involved in macrophage polarization may lead to innovative and promising approaches for precision medicine. Further insights into the landscape and biological features of macrophages within atherosclerotic plaques may offer valuable information for optimizing future clinical treatment for atherosclerosis by targeting macrophages.

HIF2α, Hepcidin and their crosstalk as tumour-promoting signalling

Not all aspects of the disruption of iron homeostasis in cancer have been fully elucidated. Iron accumulation in cancer cells is frequent for many solid tumours, and this is often accompanied by the contemporary rise of two key iron regulators, HIF2α and Hepcidin. This scenario is different from what happens under physiological conditions, where Hepcidin parallels systemic iron concentrations while HIF2α levels are inversely associated to Hepcidin. The present review highlights the increasing body of evidence for the pro-tumoral effect of HIF2α and Hepcidin, discusses the possible imbalance in HIF2α, Hepcidin and iron homeostasis during cancer, and explores therapeutic options relying on these pathways as anticancer strategies.

Aged mesenchymal stem cells and inflammation: from pathology to potential therapeutic strategies

Natural ageing of organisms and corresponding age-related diseases result mainly from stem cell ageing and "inflammaging". Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) exhibit very high immune-regulating capacity and are promising candidates for immune-related disease treatment. However, the effect of MSC application is not satisfactory for some patients, especially in elderly individuals. With ageing, MSCs undergo many changes, including altered cell population reduction and differentiation ability, reduced migratory and homing capacity and, most important, defective immunosuppression. It is necessary to explore the relationship between the "inflammaging" and aged MSCs to prevent age-related diseases and increase the therapeutic effects of MSCs. In this review, we discuss changes in naturally ageing MSCs mainly from an inflammation perspective and propose some ideas for rejuvenating aged MSCs in future treatments.

Reducing the environmental impact of surgery on a global scale: systematic review and co-prioritization with healthcare workers in 132 countries

BACKGROUND

Healthcare cannot achieve net-zero carbon without addressing operating theatres. The aim of this study was to prioritize feasible interventions to reduce the environmental impact of operating theatres.

METHODS

This study adopted a four-phase Delphi consensus co-prioritization methodology. In phase 1, a systematic review of published interventions and global consultation of perioperative healthcare professionals were used to longlist interventions. In phase 2, iterative thematic analysis consolidated comparable interventions into a shortlist. In phase 3, the shortlist was co-prioritized based on patient and clinician views on acceptability, feasibility, and safety. In phase 4, ranked lists of interventions were presented by their relevance to high-income countries and low-middle-income countries.

RESULTS

In phase 1, 43 interventions were identified, which had low uptake in practice according to 3042 professionals globally. In phase 2, a shortlist of 15 intervention domains was generated. In phase 3, interventions were deemed acceptable for more than 90 per cent of patients except for reducing general anaesthesia (84 per cent) and re-sterilization of 'single-use' consumables (86 per cent). In phase 4, the top three shortlisted interventions for high-income countries were: introducing recycling; reducing use of anaesthetic gases; and appropriate clinical waste processing. In phase 4, the top three shortlisted interventions for low-middle-income countries were: introducing reusable surgical devices; reducing use of consumables; and reducing the use of general anaesthesia.

CONCLUSION

This is a step toward environmentally sustainable operating environments with actionable interventions applicable to both high- and low-middle-income countries.

A novel tumour enhancer function of Insulin-like growth factor II mRNA-binding protein 3 in colorectal cancer

CRC cells evolve a variety of strategies to limit or circumvent apoptosis cell death. RNA binding proteins (RBPs) regulate many of the molecular mechanisms that underlie the development of cancer. The insulin-like growth factor II mRNA-binding proteins (IMP) family are oncofoetal RBPs, consisting of IMP1, IMP2 and IMP3, which have an important role in RNA metabolism. IMP3 is highly expressed in colorectal cancer (CRC) tissue, where its expression often correlates with poor prognosis. However, the role of IMP3 in CRC is not fully understood. IMP3 expression was analysed using a public database and by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry in human colon samples derived from patients with sporadic CRC and healthy subjects. To address whether IMP3 controls cancer cell survival, we analysed cell death pathways in in vitro and in vivo experiments after IMP3 downregulation by siRNA or an antisense oligonucleotide. IMP3 was highly expressed in CRC samples compared to normal control tissues. The knockdown of IMP3 enhanced a caspase-independent cell death in CRC cell lines. Furthermore, the treatment of CRC cells with IMP3 siRNA did not alter the expression of GSDMD, GPX-4 and the activated form of RIP3, three key molecules that govern pyroptosis, ferroptosis and necroptosis, respectively. Abrogation of IMP3 in CRC significantly reduced Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL mRNA and was associated with an altered mitochondrial membrane potential that allowed the nuclear migration of the apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF). Moreover, specific immunoprecipitation experiments on CRC human cell lines indicated that IMP3 binds Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL mRNA, suggesting that IMP3 acts as a regulator of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway through the surveillance of anti-apoptotic Bcl mRNA metabolism. Finally, we showed that IMP3 block inhibited the growth of CRC cell lines in vivo after transplantation into immunodeficient mice. Altogether, these data support a novel role for IMP3 in controlling the intrinsic caspase-independent apoptotic pathway in CRC.

Smad7 Sustains Stat3 Expression and Signaling in Colon Cancer Cells

Simple Summary

Colorectal cancer (CRC) cells contain elevated levels of Stat3 and Smad7, two proteins involved in the growth and survival of neoplastic cells. This study was aimed at examining whether Smad7 positively controls the expression of Stat3 in CRC cells. By employing antisense technology, which specifically inhibits Smad7 expression in selected cells, we hereby show that the reduction of Smad7 in CRC cells is paralleled by the marked suppression of the levels of Stat3 and of Stat3-related genes. Finally, we provide evidence that in human CRC tissue samples, there is a positive correlation between Smad7 expression and Stat3 content. Overall, these findings delineate a novel positive feedback loop that sustains CRC cell behavior and suggest that Smad7 is a target for therapeutic intervention in patients with such a disease.

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) cells contain elevated levels of active signal transducer and the activator of transcription (Stat)-3, which exerts proliferative and anti-apoptotic effects. Various molecules produced in the CRC tissue can activate Stat3, but the mechanisms that amplify such an activation are yet to be determined. In this paper, we assessed whether Smad7, an inhibitor of Transforiming Growth Factor (TGF)-β1 activity, sustains Stat3 expression/activation in CRC cells. Both Smad7 and phosphorylated (p)/activated-Stat3 were more expressed in the tumoral areas of CRC patients, compared to the normal adjacent colonic mucosa of the same patients, and were co-localized in primary CRC cells and CRC cell lines. The knockdown of Smad7 with a Smad7 antisense oligonucleotide (AS) reduced p-Stat3 in both unstimulated and interleukin (IL)-6- and IL-22-stimulated DLD-1 and HCT116 cells. Consistently, reduced levels of BCL-xL and survivin, two downstream signaling targets of Stat3 activation, were seen in Smad7 AS-treated cells. An analysis of the mechanisms underlying Smad7 AS-induced Stat3 inactivation revealed that Smad7 AS reduced Stat3 RNA and protein expression. A chromatin immunoprecipitation assay showed the direct regulatory effect of Smad7 on the Stat3 promoter. RNA-sequencing data from the Tumor, Normal and Metastatic (TNM) plot database showed a positive correlation between Smad7 and Stat3 in 1450 CRC samples. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence supporting the theory that Smad7 positively regulates Stat3 function in CRC.

ERas and COLorectal endoscopic surgery: an Italian society for endoscopic surgery and new technologies (SICE) national report

Background

Several reports demonstrated a strong association between the level of adherence to the protocol and improved clinical outcomes after surgery. However, it is difficult to obtain full adherence to the protocol into clinical practice and has still not been identified the threshold beyond which improved functional results can be reached.

Methods

The ERCOLE (ERas and COLorectal Endoscopic surgery) study was as a cohort, prospective, multi-centre national study evaluating the association between adherence to ERAS items and clinical outcomes after minimally invasive colorectal surgery. The primary endpoint was to associate the percentage of ERAS adherence to functional recovery after minimally invasive colorectal cancer surgery. The secondary endpoints of the study was to validate safety of the ERAS programme evaluating complications’ occurrence according to Clavien-Dindo classification and to evaluate the compliance of the Italian surgeons to each ERAS item.

Results

1138 patients were included. Adherence to the ERAS protocol was full only in 101 patients (8.9%), > 75% of the ERAS items in 736 (64.7%) and > 50% in 1127 (99%). Adherence to > 75% was associated with a better functional recovery with 90.2 ± 98.8 vs 95.9 ± 33.4 h (p = 0.003). At difference, full adherence to the ERAS components 91.7 ± 22.1 vs 92.2 ± 31.6 h (p = 0.8) was not associated with better recovery.

Conclusions

Our results were encouraging to affirm that adherence to the ERAS program up to 75% could be considered satisfactory to get the goal. Our study could be considered a call to simplify the ERAS protocol facilitating its penetrance into clinical practice.

ERAS program adherence-institutionalization, major morbidity and anastomotic leakage after elective colorectal surgery: the iCral2 multicenter prospective study

BACKGROUND

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) programs influence morbidity rates and length of stay after colorectal surgery (CRS), and may also impact major complications and anastomotic leakage rates. A prospective multicenter observational study to investigate the interactions between ERAS program adherence and early outcomes after elective CRS was carried out.

METHODS

Prospective enrolment of patients submitted to elective CRS with anastomosis in 18 months. Adherence to 21 items of ERAS program was measured upon explicit criteria in every case. After univariate analysis, independent predictors of primary endpoints [major morbidity (MM) and anastomotic leakage (AL) rates] were identified through logistic regression analyses including all significant variables, presenting odds ratios (OR).

RESULTS

Institutional ERAS protocol was declared by 27 out of 38 (71.0%) participating centers. Median overall adherence to ERAS program items was 71.4%. Among 3830 patients included in the study, MM and AL rates were 4.7% and 4.2%, respectively. MM rates were independently influenced by intra- and/or postoperative blood transfusions (OR 7.79, 95% CI 5.46-11.10; p < 0.0001) and standard anesthesia protocol (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.48-0.96; p = 0.028). AL rates were independently influenced by male gender (OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.06-2.07; p = 0.021), intra- and/or postoperative blood transfusions (OR 4.29, 95% CI 2.93-6.50; p < 0.0001) and non-standard resections (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.01-2.22; p = 0.049).

CONCLUSIONS

This study disclosed wide room for improvement in compliance to several ERAS program items. It failed to detect any significant association between institutionalization and/or adherence rates to ERAS program with primary endpoints. These outcomes were independently influenced by gender, intra- and postoperative blood transfusions, non-standard resections, and standard anesthesia protocol.

Diagnostic role of internal mammary lymph node involvement in tuberculous pleurisy: a multicenter study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Diagnosis of tuberculous pleurisy (TP) may be challenging and it often requires pleural biopsy. A tool able to increase pre-test probability of TP may be helpful to guide diagnostic work-up and enlargement of internal mammary lymph node (IMLN) has been suggested to play a potential role. The aim of the present investigation was to assess role of IMLN involvement in TP in a multi-centric case-control study, by comparing its prevalence and test performance to those observed in patients with infectious, non-tuberculous pleurisy (NTIP), and in controls free from respiratory diseases (CP).

METHODS

A total of 419 patients, from 14 Pulmonology Units across Italy were enrolled (127 patients affected by TP, 163 affected by NTIP and 129 CP). Prevalence, accuracy and predictive values of ipsilateral IMLN involvement between cases and control groups were assessed, as well as concordance between chest computed tomography (CT scan) and thoracic ultrasound (TUS) measurements.

RESULTS

The prevalence of ipsilateral IMLN involvement in TP was significantly higher than that observed in NTIP and CP groups (respectively 77.2%, 39.3% and 14.7%). Results on test performance, stratified by age, revealed a high positive predictive value in patients aged ≤50 years, while a high negative predictive value in patients aged >50 years. The comparison between CT scan and ultrasound showed moderate agreement (Kappa=0.502).

CONCLUSIONS

Evaluation of IMLN involvement plays a relevant role in assessing the pre-test probability of TP. Considering the increasing global prevalence of mycobacterial infections, a tool able to guide diagnostic work-up of suspected TP is crucial, especially where local sources are limited.

High complication rate in Crohn's disease surgery following percutaneous drainage of intra-abdominal abscess: a multicentre study

INTRODUCTION

Intra-abdominal abscesses complicating Crohn's disease (CD) present an additional challenge as their presence can contraindicate immunosuppressive treatment whilst emergency surgery is associated with high stoma rate and complications. Treatment options include a conservative approach, percutaneous drainage, and surgical intervention. The current multicentre study audited the short-term outcomes of patients who underwent preoperative radiological drainage of intra-abdominal abscesses up to 6 weeks prior to surgery for ileocolonic CD.

METHODS

This is a retrospective, multicentre, observational study promoted by the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR), including all adults undergoing ileocolic resection for primary or recurrent CD from June 2018 to May 2019. The outcomes of patients who underwent radiological guided drainage prior to ileocolonic resection were compared to the patients who did not require preoperative drainage. Postoperative morbidity within 30 days of surgery was the primary endpoint. Postoperative length of hospital stay (LOS) and anastomotic leak rate were the secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Amongst a group of 575 included patients who had an ileocolic resection for CD, there were 36 patients (6.2%) who underwent abscess drainage prior to surgery. Postoperative morbidity (44.4%) and anastomotic leak (11.1%) were significantly higher in the group of patients who underwent preoperative drainage.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with Crohn's disease who require preoperative radiological guided drainage of intra-abdominal abscesses are at increased risk of postoperative morbidity and septic complications following ileocaecal or re-do ileocolic resection.

Global mapping of cancers: The Cancer Genome Atlas and beyond

Cancer genomes have been explored from the early 2000s through massive exome sequencing efforts, leading to the publication of The Cancer Genome Atlas in 2013. Sequencing techniques have been developed alongside this project and have allowed scientists to bypass the limitation of costs for whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of single specimens by developing more accurate and extensive cancer sequencing projects, such as deep sequencing of whole genomes and transcriptomic analysis. The Pan-Cancer Analysis of Whole Genomes recently published WGS data from more than 2600 human cancers together with almost 1200 related transcriptomes. The application of WGS on a large database allowed, for the first time in history, a global analysis of features such as molecular signatures, large structural variations and noncoding regions of the genome, as well as the evaluation of RNA alterations in the absence of underlying DNA mutations. The vast amount of data generated still needs to be thoroughly deciphered, and the advent of machine-learning approaches will be the next step towards the generation of personalized approaches for cancer medicine. The present manuscript wants to give a broad perspective on some of the biological evidence derived from the largest sequencing attempts on human cancers so far, discussing advantages and limitations of this approach and its power in the era of machine learning.

Mature tertiary lymphoid structures in lung adenocarcinoma are associated with better progression free survival

Introduction/Objective

The presence of inducible lymphoid structures known as tertiary lymphoid structures in the tumor microenvironment has been shown to correlate with positive clinical outcome. However, the maturation states of lymphoid aggregates in lung adenocarcinoma are not completely understood.

Methods/Case Report

Seventy tumor samples from 69 patients diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma (Stages I to III) between 2013 and 2015 were included in the study. The presence and maturation states of the lymphoid structures within the tumors were evaluated by conventional and 26 samples were further analyzed by multiplexed immunohistochemistry of formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissues and then quantified. Mature lymphoid follicles containing germinal centers were identified by the presence of CD21+ and BCL-6+ cells in an organized configuration within tight clusters of T and B cells.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

Samples with fully mature lymphoid structures (germinal centers) had larger tumors and higher disease stage. The number of mature lymphoid structures correlated with the total number of lymphoid aggregates present in the tumor microenvironment. Additionally, tumor samples with ≥10 mature lymphoid structures had more primary follicles. While there was no difference in overall survival, progression free survival was significantly longer in patients who had ≥10 mature lymphoid structures in comparison with patients who had &lt;10 mature structures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a spectrum of lymphoid aggregates in different stages of maturation are present in lung adenocarcinoma. An increase in the number of mature lymphoid structures may be associated with progression free survival in patients with lung adenocarcinoma.

The Italian version of the LARS score: cross-cultural adaptation and validation. An Italian Society of Surgical Oncology-Colorectal Cancer Network (SICO-CCN) collaborative study

PURPOSE

The LARS score is an internationally well-accepted questionnaire to assess low anterior resection syndrome, but currently there is no formally validated Italian version. The purpose of this study was to test the reliability and validity of the Italian version among Italian patients submitted to sphincter-sparing surgery for rectal cancer.

METHODS

The English version of the LARS score was translated into Italian following the forward-and-back translation process. A total of 147 patients filled out our version. Among them, 40 patients answered the questionnaire twice for the test-retest reliability phase. The validity of the LARS score was tested using convergent and discriminant validity indicators by correlating the EORTC QLQ-C30 and QLQ-CR29 questionnaires. The LARS score capability to differentiate groups of patients with different demographic or clinical features was also assessed.

RESULTS

The test-retest reliability was excellent in 87.5% of patients, remained in the same LARS category in both tests. The convergent validity phase showed a relevant relationship of the LARS score with the EORTC domains, which was significant for 7 of 15 EORTC QLQ-C30 subscales, and for 14 of 29 EORTC QLQ-CR29 subscales. The LARS score was able to discriminate patients who received radiotherapy (p = 0.0026), TME vs. PME (p = 0.0060), tumour site at < 10 cm from the anal verge (p = 0.0030) and history of protective stoma (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The Italian version of the LARS score is a valid and reliable tool for measuring LARS in Italian patients after SSS for rectal cancer.

Clinical care pathway program versus open-access system: a study on appropriateness, quality, and efficiency in the delivery of colonoscopy in the colorectal cancer

Open-access colonoscopy (OAC), whereby the colonoscopy is performed without a prior office visit with a gastroenterologist, is affected by inappropriateness which leads to overprescription and reduced availability of the procedure in case of alarming symptoms. The clinical care pathway (CCP) is a healthcare management tool promoted by national health systems to organize work-up of various morbidities. Recently, we started a CCP dedicated to colorectal cancer (CRC), including a colonoscopy session for CRC diagnosis and prevention. We aimed to evaluate the appropriateness, the quality, and the efficiency in the delivery of colonoscopy with the open-access system and a CCP program in the CRC. Quality indicators for colonoscopy in subjects in the CCP were compared to referrals by general practitioners (OAC) or by non-gastroenterologist physicians (non-gastroenterologist physician colonoscopy, NGPC). Attendance rate to colonoscopy was greater in the CCP group and NGPC group than in the OAC group (99%, 99%, and 86%, respectively). Waiting time in the CCP group was shorter than in the OAC group (3.88 ± 2.27 vs. 32 ± 22.31 weeks, respectively). Appropriateness of colonoscopy prescription was better in the CCP group than in the OAC group (92 vs. 50%, respectively). OAC is affected by the lack of timeliness and low appropriateness of prescription. A CCP reduces the number of inappropriate colonoscopies, especially for post-polypectomy surveillance, and improves the delivery of colonoscopy in patients requiring a fast-track examination. The high rate of inappropriate OAC suggests that this modality of healthcare should be widely reviewed.

Effectiveness and Safety of A Nutraceutical Formulation for the Treatment of Functional Dyspepsia in Primary Care

BACKGROUND

Although FD may affect up to 10% of the general population, the therapy for FD is not standard. Recently, ginger-based food supplements have been proposed in order to restore FD symptoms. Our aim was to assess the efficacy of a new nutraceutical formulation containing extract of gingerol and thymus as a possible natural treatment in managing the symptoms of functional dyspepsia (FD).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed the efficacy and safety profiles of a nutraceutical formulation containing Zingiber officinalis root extract and a standardized Thymus extract. It was administered as 1 ml/day twice a day for 90 days. Patients were assessed at baseline and after 1, 2 and 3 months of treatment, following a month of pharmacological washout by completing a questionnaire reporting the trend of the following symptoms: epigastric pain, epigastric heaviness, early satiety, belching, and regurgitation. Every symptom was assessed by a Visual Analogic Scale (VAS), ranging from 0= absence to 10= maximal severity.

RESULTS

We enrolled 272 patients (99 males and 173 females; median IQR age 49.5, 36-64 yrs). Obesity (BMI>30) was present in 28 (12.5%) patients; smokers were 83 (30.5%); and comorbidities were present in 107 (39.3%) patients. Improvement of symptom scores during treatment and one month after its suspension was extremely significant (p<0.000).

CONCLUSION

This large study found that nutraceutical formulation could be one of the tools for an empirical approach to treat patients with FD, especially when a non-conventional drug treatment is preferable for the patient and considered suitable by the physician.

FISSIT (Fistula Surgery in Italy) study: A retrospective survey on the surgical management of anal fistulas in Italy over the last 15 years

BACKGROUND

Surgical treatment of anal fistulas is still a challenge. The aims of this study were to evaluate the adoption and healing rates for the different surgical techniques used in Italy over the past 15 years.

METHODS

This was a multicenter retrospective observational study of patients affected by simple and complex anal fistulas of cryptoglandular origin who were surgically treated in the period 2003-2017. Surgical techniques were grouped as sphincter-cutting or sphincter-sparing and as technology-assisted or techno-free. All patients included in the study were followed for at least 12 months.

RESULTS

A total of 9,536 patients (5,520 simple; 4,016 complex fistulas) entered the study. For simple fistulas, fistulotomy was the most frequently used procedure, although its adoption significantly decreased over the years (P < .0005), with an increase in sphincter-sparing approaches; the overall healing rate in simple fistulas was 81.1%, with a significant difference between sphincter-cutting (91.9%) and sphincter-sparing (65.1%) techniques (P = .001). For complex fistulas, the adoption of sphincter-cutting approaches decreased, while sphincter-sparing techniques were mildly preferred (P < .0005). Moreover, there was a significant trend toward the use of technology-assisted procedures. The overall healing rate for complex fistulas was 69.0%, with a measurable difference between sphincter-cutting (81.1%) and sphincter-sparing (61.4%; P = .001) techniques and between techno-free and technology-assisted techniques (72.5% and 55.0%, respectively; P = .001).

CONCLUSION

Surgical treatment of anal fistulas has changed, with a trend toward the use of sphincter-sparing techniques. The overall cure rate has remained stable, even if the most innovative procedures have achieved a lower success rate.

ICG fluorescence imaging in colorectal surgery: a snapshot from the ICRAL study group

Background

Fluorescence-guided visualization is a recently proposed technology in colorectal surgery. Possible uses include evaluating perfusion, navigating lymph nodes and searching for hepatic metastases and peritoneal spread. Despite the absence of high-level evidence, this technique has gained considerable popularity among colorectal surgeons due to its significant reliability, safety, ease of use and relatively low cost. However, the actual use of this technique in daily clinical practice has not been reported to date.

Methods

This survey was conducted on April 2020 among 44 centers dealing with colorectal diseases and participating in the Italian ColoRectal Anastomotic Leakage (iCral) study group. Surgeons were approximately equally divided based on geographical criteria from multiple Italian regions, with a large proportion based in public (89.1%) and nonacademic (75.7%) centers. They were invited to answer an online survey to snapshot their current behaviors regarding the use of fluorescence-guided visualization in colorectal surgery. Questions regarding technological availability, indications and techniques, personal approaches and feelings were collected in a 23-item questionnaire.

Results

Questionnaire replies were received from 37 institutions and partially answered by 8, as this latter group of centers do not implement fluorescence technology (21.6%). Out of the remaining 29 centers (78,4%), fluorescence is utilized in all laparoscopic colorectal resections by 72.4% of surgeons and only for selected cases by the remaining 27.6%, while 62.1% of respondents do not use fluorescence in open surgery (unless the perfusion is macroscopically uncertain with the naked eye, in which case 41.4% of them do). The survey also suggests that there is no agreement on dilution, dosing and timing, as many different practices are adopted based on personal judgment. Only approximately half of the surgeons reported a reduced leak rate with fluorescence perfusion assessment, but 65.5% of them strongly believe that this technique will become a minimum requirement for colorectal surgery in the future.

Conclusion

The survey confirms that fluorescence is becoming a widely used technique in colorectal surgery. However, both the indications and methods still vary considerably; furthermore, the surgeons' perceptions of the results are insufficient to consider this technology essential. This survey emphasizes the need for further research to reach recommendations based on solid scientific evidence.

Anastomosis configuration and technique following ileocaecal resection for Crohn's disease: a multicentre study

A limited ileocaecal resection is the most frequently performed procedure for ileocaecal CD and different anastomotic configurations and techniques have been described. This manuscript audited the different anastomotic techniques used in a national study and evaluated their influence on postoperative outcomes following ileocaecal resection for primary CD. This is a retrospective, multicentre, observational study promoted by the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR), including all adults undergoing elective ileocaecal resection for primary CD from June 2018 May 2019. Postoperative morbidity within 30 days of surgery was the primary endpoint. Postoperative length of hospital stay (LOS) and anastomotic leak rate were the secondary outcomes. 427 patients were included. The side to side anastomosis was the chosen configuration in 380 patients (89%). The stapled anastomotic (n = 286; 67%), techniques were preferred to hand-sewn (n = 141; 33%). Postoperative morbidity was 20.3% and anastomotic leak 3.7%. Anastomotic leak was independent of the type of anastomosis performed, while was associated with an ASA grade ≥ 3, presence of perianal disease and ileocolonic localization of disease. Four predictors of LOS were identified after multivariate analysis. The laparoscopic approach was the only associated with a reduced LOS (p = 0.017), while age, ASA grade ≥ 3 or administration of preoperative TPN were associated with increased LOS. The side to side was the most commonly used anastomotic configuration for ileocolic reconstruction following primary CD resection. There was no difference in postoperative morbidity according to anastomotic technique and configuration. Anastomotic leak was associated with ASA grade ≥ 3, a penetrating phenotype of disease and ileo-colonic distribution of CD.

Segmental Colectomy for Ulcerative Colitis: Is There a Place in Selected Patients Without Active Colitis? An International Multicentric Retrospective Study in 72 Patients

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The aim of this study was to report a multicentric experience of segmental colectomy [SC] in ulcerative colitis [UC] patients without active colitis, in order to assess if SC can or cannot represent an alternative to ileal pouch-anal anastomosis [IPAA].

METHODS

All UC patients undergoing SC were included. Postoperative complications according to ClavienDindo's classification, long term results, and risk factors for postoperative colitis and reoperation for colitis on the remnant colon, were assessed.

RESULTS: A TOTAL OF

72 UC patients underwent: sigmoidectomy [n = 28], right colectomy [n = 24], proctectomy [n = 11], or left colectomy [n = 9] for colonic cancer [n = 27], 'diverticulitis' [n = 17], colonic stenosis [n = 5], dysplasia or polyps [n = 8], and miscellaneous [n = 15]. Three patients died postoperatively and 5/69 patients [7%] developed early flare of UC within 3 months after SC. After a median followup of 40 months, 24/69 patients [35%] were reoperated after a median delay after SC of 19 months [range, 2-158 months]: 22/24 [92%] underwent total colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis [n = 9] or total coloproctectomy [TCP] [n = 13] and 2/24 [8%] an additional SC. Reasons for reoperation were: colitis [n = 14; 20%], cancer [n = 3] or dysplasia [n = 3], colonic stenosis [n = 1], and unknown reasons [n = 3]. Endoscopic score of colitis before SC was Mayo 23 in 5/5 [100%] patients with early flare vs 15/42 without early flare [36%; p = 0.0101] and in 9/12 [75%] patients with reoperation for colitis vs 11/35 without reoperation [31%; p = 0.016].

CONCLUSIONS

After segmental colectomy in UC patients, postoperative early colitis is rare [7%]. Segmental colectomy could possibly represent an alternative to IPAA in selected UC patients without active colitis.

Liquid biopsies and cancer omics

The development of the sequencing technologies allowed the generation of huge amounts of molecular data from a single cancer specimen, allowing the clinical oncology to enter the era of the precision medicine. This massive amount of data is highlighting new details on cancer pathogenesis but still relies on tissue biopsies, which are unable to capture the dynamic nature of cancer through its evolution. This assumption led to the exploration of non-tissue sources of tumoral material opening the field of liquid biopsies. Blood, together with body fluids such as urines, or stool, from cancer patients, are analyzed applying the techniques used for the generation of omics data. With blood, this approach would allow to take into account tumor heterogeneity (since the circulating components such as CTCs, ctDNA, or ECVs derive from each cancer clone) in a time dependent manner, resulting in a somehow "real-time" understanding of cancer evolution. Liquid biopsies are beginning nowdays to be applied in many cancer contexts and are at the basis of many clinical trials in oncology.

Cancer predictive studies

The identification of individual or clusters of predictive genetic alterations might help in defining the outcome of cancer treatment, allowing for the stratification of patients into distinct cohorts for selective therapeutic protocols. Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial childhood tumour, clinically defined in five distinct stages (1–4 & 4S), where stages 3–4 define chemotherapy-resistant, highly aggressive disease phases. NB is a model for geneticists and molecular biologists to classify genetic abnormalities and identify causative disease genes. Despite highly intensive basic research, improvements on clinical outcome have been predominantly observed for less aggressive cancers, that is stages 1,2 and 4S. Therefore, stages 3–4 NB are still complicated at the therapeutic level and require more intense fundamental research. Using neuroblastoma as a model system, here we herein outline how cancer prediction studies can help at steering preclinical and clinical research toward the identification and exploitation of specific genetic landscape. This might result in maximising the therapeutic success and minimizing harmful effects in cancer patients.

Correction to: Inflammatory bowel disease position statement of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR): Crohn's disease

The affiliation of the author Silvio Danese has been incorrectly published in the original publication.

Colorectal surgery in Italy during the Covid19 outbreak: a survey from the iCral study group

BACKGROUND

The COVID19 pandemic had a deep impact on healthcare facilities in Italy, with profound reorganization of surgical activities. The Italian ColoRectal Anastomotic Leakage (iCral) study group collecting 43 Italian surgical centers experienced in colorectal surgery from multiple regions performed a quick survey to make a snapshot of the current situation.

METHODS

A 25-items questionnaire was sent to the 43 principal investigators of the iCral study group, with questions regarding qualitative and quantitative aspects of the surgical activity before and after the COVID19 outbreak.

RESULTS

Two-thirds of the centers were involved in the treatment of COVID19 cases. Intensive care units (ICU) beds were partially or totally reallocated for the treatment of COVID19 cases in 72% of the hospitals. Elective colorectal surgery for malignancy was stopped or delayed in nearly 30% of the centers, with less than 20% of them still scheduling elective colorectal resections for frail and comorbid patients needing postoperative ICU care. A significant reduction of the number of colorectal resections during the time span from January to March 2020 was recorded, with significant delay in treatment in more than 50% of the centers.

DISCUSSION

Our survey confirms that COVID19 outbreak is severely affecting the activity of colorectal surgery centers participating to iCral study group. This could impact the activity of surgical centers for many months after the end of the emergency.

Inflammatory bowel disease position statement of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR): Crohn's disease

The Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR) promoted the project reported here, which consists of a position statement of Italian colorectal surgeons to address the surgical aspects of Crohn's disease management. Members of the society were invited to express their opinions on several items proposed by the writing committee, based on evidence available in the literature. The results are presented, focusing on relevant points. The present paper is not an alternative to available guidelines; rather, it offers a snapshot of the attitudes of SICCR surgeons about the surgical treatment of Crohn's disease. The committee was able to identify some points of major disagreement and suggested strategies to improve quality of available data and acceptance of guidelines.

Inflammatory bowel disease position statement of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR): ulcerative colitis

The Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR) promoted the project reported here, which consists of a Position Statement of Italian colorectal surgeons to address the surgical aspects of ulcerative colitis management. Members of the society were invited to express their opinions on several items proposed by the writing committee, based on evidence available in the literature. The results are presented, focusing on relevant points. The present paper is not an alternative to available guidelines; rather, it offers a snapshot of the attitudes of SICCR surgeons about the surgical treatment of ulcerative colitis. The committee was able to identify some points of major disagreement and suggested strategies to improve the quality of available data and acceptance of guidelines.

Adenosquamous carcinoma of the right colon with diffuse signet-ring mucinous component

Colorectal carcinoma is one of the most frequent human malignant neoplasms. Besides the most common histological types, colorectal adenosquamous carcinoma is very rare, being microscopically constituted by tumoural glandular and squamous components. The diagnosis of primary colon adenosquamous carcinoma requires the exclusion of a metastatic squamous cell carcinoma and the extension of a primary squamous cell carcinoma from the anal-rectum junction. We report a case of primary adenosquamous carcinoma of the ascending colon in a 62-year-old Caucasian man affected by long-standing ulcerative colitis. Peritumoural lymph nodes and distant metastasis were present. We reported also a diffuse signet-ring mucinous component, which has not been previously observed. Moreover, we investigated microsatellite and all-RAS/B-RAF status, p16 and p53 protein expression, and the molecular presence of human papillomavirus DNA in all the morphologically distinct components, in order to suggest pathogenetic factors influencing the aggressive prognosis of colon adenosquamous carcinoma.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) position statement of the Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR): general principles of IBD management

The Italian Society of Colorectal Surgery (SICCR) promoted the project reported here, which consists of a Position Statement of Italian colorectal surgeons to address the surgical aspects of inflammatory bowel disease management. Members of the society were invited to express their opinions on several items proposed by the writing committee, based on evidence available in the literature. The results are presented, focusing on relevant points. The present paper is not an alternative to available guidelines; rather, it offers a snapshot of the attitudes of SICCR surgeons about the general principles of surgical treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. The committee was able to identify some points of major disagreement and suggested strategies to improve quality of available data and acceptance of guidelines.

NPD-0414-2 and NPD-0414-24, Two Chemical Entities Designed as Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) Ligands, Inhibit Gut Inflammatory Signals

Defects in counterregulatory mechanisms contribute to amplify the detrimental inflammatory response leading to the pathologic process occurring in the gut of patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), the major inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), in human beings. One such mechanism involves aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), a transcription factor activated by natural and synthetic ligands, which induces the production of interleukin (IL)-22 and down-regulates inflammatory signals. In IBD, AhR expression is down-regulated and its activation by natural ligands promotes clinical and endoscopic benefit. Since the use of AhR natural ligands can associate with serious adverse events, we developed new chemical ligands of AhR and assessed their regulatory effects. Among these derivatives, we selected the compounds NPD-0414-2 and NPD-0414-24, as they displayed the more pronounced capacity to induce IL-22. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells and lamina propria mononuclear cells (LPMC) were isolated from CD and UC patients. Cells were treated in vitro with Ficz, AhR ligands, and AhR antagonist and then cytokines’ expression was evaluated by real-time PCR and flow cytometry. After the induction of TNBS colitis, Ficz and AhR ligands were injected intra-peritoneally to wild type and AhR knock-out mice. After 4 days, mice were sacrificed and colonic tissues were collected for histologic examination and real-time PCR analysis. Treatment of IBD LPMC with NPD-0414-2 and NPD-0414-24 reduced IFN-γ and increased IL-22 transcripts, and these effects were abrogated by CH223191, a specific inhibitor of AhR interaction with its ligands. Mice given NPD-0414-2 and NPD-0414-24 developed a significantly less severe form of TNBS colitis and exhibited reduced expression of IFN-γ and increased expression of IL-22. The therapeutic effect of NPD-0414-2 and NPD-0414-24 on the ongoing colitis was abrogated in AhR-deficient mice. Collectively, these data show that NPD-0414-2 and NPD-0414-24 exert Ahr-dependent regulatory effects in the gut.

Feasibility of Hyperfunctioning Parathyroid Gland Localization Using [18F]fluciclovine PET/CT

PURPOSE

To evaluate the ability of anti-1-amino-3-anti-1-amino-3-[¹⁸F]fluorocyclobutane-1-carboxylic acid ([¹⁸F]fluciclovine) positron emission tomography/X-ray computed tomography (PET/CT) in comparison to Technetium-99m 2-methoxy isobutyl isonitrile ([^99mTc]sestamibi) single-photon emission computed tomography/CT (SPECT/CT) for the localization of hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands in patients with hyperparathyroidism.

PROCEDURES

Four patients with hyperparathyroidism underwent 60-minutes sequential neck and thorax PET/CT after [¹⁸F]fluciclovine (352 ± 28 MBq) injection. Lesion uptake and target-to-background ratios (TBR) were compared with [^99mTc]sestamibi (798 ± 27 MBq) SPECT/CT in the same patient.

RESULTS

Both techniques detected 4/5 hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands identified at surgery. The highest [¹⁸F]fluciclovine uptake and TBRs were at 5-9 min with rapid washout. [^99mTc]sestamibi had significantly higher TBRs compared with [¹⁸F]fluciclovine (5-9 min) for blood pool (10.9 ± 4.7 vs 1.3 ± 0.6; p < 0.01) and reference muscle backgrounds (5.8 ± 3.0 vs 1.7 ± 0.6; p < 0.01), with non-significant trend for thyroid tissue background (1.3 ± 0.5 vs 1.1 ± 0.5; p = 0.73).

CONCLUSION

Hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands can be detected on [¹⁸F]fluciclovine PET/CT at early imaging, but conspicuity (TBR) is better with [^99mTc]sestamibi. [¹⁸F]fluciclovine PET/CT does not seem promising in the detection of hyperfunctioning parathyroid glands.

Hemoglobin level and XRCC1 polymorphisms to select patients with locally advanced rectal cancer candidate for neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy with concurrent capecitabine and a platinum salt

A platinum salt (oxaliplatin or cisplatin) is widely used to enhance chemoradation (CRT) response. The potential of cisplatin in neoadjuvant CRT for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) has not been fully investigated. Consecutive patients with histologically confirmed LARC were treated with standard pelvic radiotherapy and concurrent cisplatin plus capecitabine (CisCape CRT). Surgery and eight cycles of adjuvant FOLFOX4 were offered to all patients after CRT. Common biochemical variables and key germline genetic polymorphisms were analyzed as predictors of pathological complete response (pCR). Fifty-one patients were enrolled. pCR (regression AJCC grade 0) was documented in 7 patients (14%), nearly complete response (AJCC grade 1) in 10 pts. There was a strong association between disease-free survival and AJCC grade (p 0.0047). Grade 3-4 toxicities (mainly diarrhea) was observed in 41% of patients. Among all analyzed variables, baseline hemoglobin (Hb) was significantly associated with AJCC grade 0-1 response (p 0.027). As for the pharmacogenetic analysis, XRCC1 rs25487 polymorphism was significantly associated with AJCC grade 0-1, Odds Ratio 25.8, p 0.049. AJCC grade 0-1 response rate for patients with high Hb and/or XRCC1 rs25487 G/G genotype was as high as 57%. Baseline Hb and XRCC1 polymorphisms are valuable selection criteria for the CisCape CRT regimen, given its otherwise meaningful toxicity.

Interleukin-34 sustains pro-tumorigenic signals in colon cancer tissue

Interleukin-34 (IL-34), a cytokine produced by a wide range of cells, binds to the macrophage colony-stimulating factor receptor (M-CSFR-1) and receptor-type protein-tyrosine phosphatase zeta (PTP-z) and controls myeloid cell differentiation, proliferation and survival. various types of cancers over-express IL-34 but the role of the cytokine in colorectal cancer (CRC) remains unknown. We here investigated the expression and functional role of IL-34 in CRC. A more pronounced expression of IL-34 was seen in CRC samples as compared to matched normal/benign colonic samples and this occurred at both RNA and protein level. Immunohistochemical analysis of CRC tissue samples showed that both cancer cells and lamina propria mononuclear cells over-expressed IL-34. Additionally, CRC cells expressed both M-CSFR-1 and PTP-z, thus suggesting that CRC cells can be responsive to IL-34. Indeed, stimulation of DLD-1 cancer cells with IL-34, but not with MSCF1, enhanced the cell proliferation and cell invasion without affecting cell survival. Analysis of intracellular signals underlying the mitogenic effect of IL-34 revealed that the cytokine enhanced activation of ERK1/2 and pharmacologic inhibition of ERK1/2 abrogated IL-34-driven cell proliferation. Consistently, IL-34 knockdown in HT-29 cells with a specific IL-34 antisense oligonucleotide reduced ERK1/2 activation, cell proliferation and enhanced the susceptibility of cells to Oxaliplatin-induced death. This is the first study showing up-regulation of IL-34 in CRC and suggesting a role for this cytokine in colon tumorigenesis.

Smart biomaterials: Surfaces functionalized with proteolytically stable osteoblast-adhesive peptides

Engineered scaffolds for bone tissue regeneration are designed to promote cell adhesion, growth, proliferation and differentiation. Recently, covalent and selective functionalization of glass and titanium surfaces with an adhesive peptide (HVP) mapped on [351-359] sequence of human Vitronectin allowed to selectively increase osteoblast attachment and adhesion strength in in vitro assays, and to promote osseointegration in in vivo studies. For the first time to our knowledge, in this study we investigated the resistance of adhesion sequences to proteolytic digestion: HVP was completely cleaved after 5 h. In order to overcome the enzymatic degradation of the native peptide under physiological conditions we synthetized three analogues of HVP sequence. A retro-inverted peptide D-2HVP, composed of D amino acids, was completely stable in serum-containing medium. In addition, glass surfaces functionalized with D-2HVP increased human osteoblast adhesion as compared to the native peptide and maintained deposition of calcium. Interestingly, D-2HVP increased expression of IBSP, VTN and SPP1 genes as compared to HVP functionalized surfaces. Total internal reflection fluorescence microscope analysis showed cells with numerous filopodia spread on D-2HVP-functionalized surfaces. Therefore, the D-2HVP sequence is proposed as new osteoblast adhesive peptide with increased bioactivity and high proteolytic resistance.

Combined liver transplantation and sleeve gastrectomy for end-stage liver disease in a bariatric patient: First European case-report

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Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis is the 3rd indication for liver transplantation.

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Obese transplanted patients have higher morbidity and mortality rates.

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Bariatric surgery decreases morbidity and mortality in obese patients.

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Combined liver transplant and sleeve gastrectomy can be safely performed.

Introduction

Obesity is a contributor to the global burden of chronic diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). NASH cirrhosis is becoming a leading indication for liver transplant (LT). Obese transplanted patients have higher morbidity and mortality rates. One strategy, to improve the outcomes in these patients, includes bariatric surgery at the time of LT. Herein we report the first European combined LT and sleeve gastrectomy (SG).

Case presentation

A 53 years old woman with Hepatocellular carcinoma and Hepatitis C virus related cirrhosis, was referred to our unit. She also presented with severe morbid obesity (BMI 40 kg/m²) and insulin-dependent diabetes. Once listed for LT, she was assessed by the bariatric surgery team to undergo a combined LT/SG. At the time of transplantation the patient had a model for end-stage liver disease calculated score of 14 and a BMI of 38 kg/m².

The LT was performed using a deceased donor. An experienced bariatric surgeon, following completion of the LT, performed the SG. Operation time was 8 h and 50 min. The patient had an uneventful recovery and is currently alive, 5 months after the combined procedure, with normal allograft function, significant weight loss (BMI = 29 kg/m²), and diabetes resolution.

Conclusion

Despite the ideal approach to the management of the obese LT patients remains unknown, we strongly support the combined procedure during LT in selected patients, offering advantages in terms of allograft and patient survival, maintenance of weigh loss that will ultimately reduce obese related co-morbidities.

Smad7 Knockdown Restores Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor-mediated Protective Signals in the Gut

BACKGROUND AND AIM

In Crohn's disease [CD], the pathological process is driven by an excessive immune response that is poorly counterbalanced by regulatory mechanisms. One such a mechanism involves aryl hydrocarbon receptor [AhR], a transcription factor that delivers protective signals in the gut. Expression of AhR is reduced in CD lamina propria mononuclear cells [LPMC] even though factors accounting for such a defect remain unknown. Since CD LPMC express elevated levels of Smad7, an inhibitor of transforming growth factor beta 1 [TGF-β1] activity, and TGF-β1 regulates AhR in other systems, we examined the link between AhR and Smad7 in the gut.

METHODS

AhR and interleukin [IL]-22 were evaluated in normal LPMC stimulated with TGF-β1 and 6-formylindolo[3,2-b]carbazole [Ficz], an activator of AhR, and in CD LPMC incubated with a Smad7 antisense oligonucleotide and then stimulated with Ficz and TGF-β1. AhR and IL-22 expression was evaluated in LPMC of Smad7-transgenic mice. Finally, we evaluated the protective effect of Ficz on colitis in RAG1 mice injected with naïve or Smad7-overexpressing T cells.

RESULTS

In normal LPMC, TGF-β1 induced AhR and this event was associated with increased production of IL-22 following stimulation with Ficz. Treatment of CD LPMC with Smad7 antisense oligonucleotide enabled TGF-β1 to enhance AhR expression. Consistently, AhR expression and Ficz-induced IL-22 production were markedly reduced in T cells of Smad7-transgenic mice. In RAG1 mice, Ficz ameliorated colitis induced by wild type T cells but did not affect colitis induced by transfer of Smad7-overexpressing T cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The inverse correlation between Smad7 and AhR expression helps to propagate inflammatory signals in the gut.

Quantification of the effects of audible rattle and source type on the human response to environmental vibration

The present research quantifies the influence of source type and the presence of audible vibration-induced rattle on annoyance caused by vibration in residential environments. The sources of vibration considered are railway and the construction of a light rail system. Data were measured in the United Kingdom using a socio-vibration survey (N = 1281). These data are analyzed using ordinal logit models to produce exposure-response relationships describing community annoyance as a function of vibration exposure. The influence of source type and the presence of audible vibration-induced rattle on annoyance are investigated using dummy variable analysis, and quantified using odds-ratios and community tolerance levels. It is concluded that the sample population is more likely to express higher levels of annoyance if the vibration source is construction compared to railway, and if vibration-induced rattle is audible.

Interleukin-34 Induces Cc-chemokine Ligand 20 in Gut Epithelial Cells

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Production of chemokines by intestinal epithelial cells is a key step in the amplification of the destructive immune-inflammatory response in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases [IBD]. In this study, we examined whether intestinal epithelial cells express macrophage colony-stimulating factor receptor 1 [M-CSFR-1], the functional receptor of interleukin-34 [IL-34], a cytokine that is over-produced in IBD and supposed to sustain inflammatory pathways.

METHODS

M-CSFR-1 expression was evaluated in intestinal samples of IBD patients, controls, and colon epithelial cell lines by real-time polymerase chain reaction [PCR], immunohistochemistry, and western blotting. DLD-1 cells were stimulated with IL-34 in the presence or absence of MAP kinase inhibitors, chemokine induction was assessed by real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay [ELISA], and mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase activation was monitored by western blotting. The effect of a neutralising IL-34 antibody on CC chemokine ligand (CCL) 20 synthesis was tested in ex vivo organ cultures of IBD mucosal explants.

RESULTS

Enhanced expression of M-CSFR-1 RNA transcripts was seen in inflamed mucosa of IBD patients as compared with controls. Immunohistochemical analysis confirmed up-regulation of M-CSFR-1 in IBD and showed that both epithelial and lamina propria mononuclear cells expressed this receptor. Stimulation of DLD-1 with IL-34 increased CCL20 production through an ERK1/2-dependent mechanism. Consistently, treatment of IBD explants with anti-IL-34 reduced CCL20 production.

CONCLUSIONS

These data show that intestinal epithelial cells are a target of IL-34 and suggest that this cytokine contributes to mediating the cross-talk between epithelial cells and immune cells in IBD.

Familial colorectal cancer screening: When and what to do?

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of death worldwide and represents a clinical challenge. Family members of patients affected by CRC have an increased risk of CRC development. In these individuals, screening is strongly recommended and should be started earlier than in the population with average risk, in order to detect neoplastic precursors, such as adenoma, advanced adenoma, and nonpolypoid adenomatous lesions of the colon. Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is a non invasive, widespread screening method that can reduce CRC-related mortality. Sigmoidoscopy, alone or in addition to FOBT, represents another screening strategy that reduces CRC mortality. Colonoscopy is the best choice for screening high-risk populations, as it allows simultaneous detection and removal of preneoplastic lesions. The choice of test depends on local health policy and varies among countries.